1. Walk Around Le Marais

Le Marais is one of Paris’ oldest districts and for that reason alone, holds many gems worth discovering. Le Marais, translated to “The Swamp” in English, was once home to French culture and business but fell into disrepair during The French Revolution of 1789. It wasn’t until the 1960’s that local politicians and community leaders made an effort to preserve and maintain the rich history of the area. Today, Le Marais is one of Paris’ most bustling areas and is home to Paris’ Jewish community among others. Stroll the small crooked lanes while taking in the French Medieval architecture. Be sure to visit Place Des Vosges, one of Paris’ oldest squares dating back to the 1600’s. If it’s warm, join the likely sea of Parisians and bathe in the sunlight. If you build up an appetite doing all of that tanning, head to Marché Des Enfants Rouges for a great mix of ethnic food to choose from. From Moroccan to Japanese, they have every different type of country’s food you can imagine. For dessert, you can never go wrong with a French pastry item. If nightlife is more your cup of tea (or beer), Le Marais is known for that. From old to new, the area has a lot to see.

2. Musée National D’Art Moderne

Just outside of Le Marais’ district boundaries lies one of the best museums in Paris. We know, it’s a bold statement to say that in a city with 100’s of different kinds of museums such as the Louvre or Musée D’Orsay, but to each their own. Housed in Centre Pompidou, the Musée National D’Art Moderne (National Modern Art Museum) has one of the best modern art collections found anywhere in the world. It has works from artists such as Matisse, Frida Kahlo, and Max Ernst. It’s a great place to go on a rainy day, which depending on the season, can happen often in Paris. While not as hyped up as many museums in the City Of Lights, the museum is definitely a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

3. Eiffel Tower…At Night

Yes, the Eiffel Tower makes the list of best places to see because when it is lit up at night and putting on a show, it is one of the most beautiful sights you can see. The light show happens every hour on the hour from sunset to 1 AM. Of course, that means that you have more chances to see the show in winter than summer. The show lasts around 5 minutes and is dramatic, to say the least. They save the best show for last offering an intense display of rapidly moving lights. There’s plenty of good spots to see the show from, but our next place is the best.

4. Sunset Cruise On The Seine

Seeing the light show from a sunset cruise on the Seine River is the cherry on top for a great visit to Paris. The four-hour tour I recommend is specifically designed to see the lights and will only set you back about $100, very good value for getting a great overview of the city. The tour takes you past such sites as Notre Dame, Place Vendome, Place De La Concorde, and the Champs-Elysées. The guide will explain the history and events behind each building and area that you visit. The big finale is, of course, the Eiffel Tower light show that you view from the second story outdoor deck. Not a bad first date idea…

5. Catacombs

Have you ever had a nightmare that you walked into a room surrounded by 6 million skulls and other human bones? Well, your nightmare just became reality at the Catacombs. The Catacombs is an underground ossuary that was created to eliminate the need for Paris’ overcrowded cemeteries. Talk about gross! There are over 6 million people buried below Paris’ streets and today, you can visit them. During the tour, a guide leads you 1.5 KM through tunnels lasting about 45 minutes. The Catacombs might actually be a refreshing place to visit on a hot, summer day considering the temperature is a cool 14 degrees Celsius. Be warned, however, the Catacombs is not a place for those with respiratory issues or those that get panic attacks since the tunnels are cramped and there’s not much air movement.

6. Montmartre

Located in Paris 18th Arrondissement, Montmartre (Mountain Of Martyrs) is a can’t miss destination when visiting the city, once home to painters with names such as Picasso and Van Gogh. Be warned now that walking up and around Montmartre is very steep so make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. At the heart of Montmartre is the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The basilica is a symbol of Paris and stands guard on a hill overlooking the entire city. On the way up to visit the basilica, explore the small, windy streets that lead to the top. There are numerous bakeries and cafés that are perfect for sitting outside, watching the world go by, and sipping on an espresso. After you make it off the hill, check out Boulevard De Clichy. The street is best known for being the home of Moulin Rouge, the famous burlesque club. Getting your picture taken in front of its iconic windmill while posing is almost mandatory.

A snippet of a Sunday morning Mass at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Montmartre.

Suggested next reading from this series:

1. 6 Must-See Places You Absolutely Have To Experience In London
2. 6 Must-See Places You Absolutely Have To Experience In New York

The post 6 Must-See Places You Absolutely Have To Experience In Paris appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Each one of these 10 National Parks I’ve chosen offers an awful lot: scenery, peace, wildlife, history, and cool places to see. I’d heartily recommend visiting any one of them if you’re in the UK.

So, here are my top 10 UK National Parks!

1. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Closest City: Glasgow, Scotland
Size: 1,865km² / 721mi²
Website: lochlomond-trossachs.org

If there’s one thing Scotland does well its mountains. And whiskey. And actually shortbread. But also mountains…and that’s the first thing we’ll talk about today.

In fact, they have so many they had to coin a term for those higher than 3000 feet. Munros can be found all over Scotland but there are 21 in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs alone.

Joining them are 22 large lochs and 50 rivers and streams, meaning that both walkers, climbers and boat lovers alike can all find a brilliant way to pass the time here.

What To See, Do Or Eat

• Now let’s get back to that whiskey. It goes without saying that a trip to Scotland should include a small tipple. So make sure to stop off at a friendly local distillery and try Scotland’s golden nectar.

2. Peak District

Closest City: Sheffield, England
Size: 1,438km² / 555mi²
Website: peakdistrict.gov.uk

As a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, you’d be hard pushed to find better climbing, walking or wildlife watching anywhere else in the UK.

This National Park is split in two; The Dark Peak characterized by gritstone and the White Peak made up of dramatic limestone. The former perfect for some serious climbing, the later providing beautiful panoramic views and distinctive, natural stone structures.

As an inspiration to Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte and Daniel Defoe to name a few, it’s a must-see for any National Park enthusiast.

What To See, Do Or Eat

• Visit Chatsworth House to see the inspiration for Pemberley in Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”.
• Pop down to the road to Bakewell to try an authentic Bakewell Pudding. Although you’ll have to choose between the two bakeries who both claim to have the original recipe.

3. Lake District

Location: Cumbria, England
Size: 2,362km² / 912mi²
Website: lakedistrict.gov.uk

If you like the idea of the Peak District but wish it included a bit more water, may we suggest traveling a bit further North and exploring the Lake District.

Home to 16 lakes and numerous tarns (or small lakes) this really is the place for any watersport lover. Have you really gone wild swimming if you’ve not done it beside a high fell and within a deep glacial lake?

If that sounds a bit too nippy, you can always join in the fun on a boat, canoe or other watery modes of transport and enjoy the breath-taking scenery whilst staying dry.

It’s easy to see why it’s the most visited park in the United Kingdom but as the second largest, there’s more than enough room for everyone.

What To See, Do Or Eat

• Complete one of the famous 214 fell walks categorized by Alan Wainwright. Beware though, all but one of them involve scaling over a 1000ft peak.
• After all that climbing, you’ll be needing a few calories. Head over to the small village of Grasmere where a small shop has been making Grasmere gingerbread since 1854. It’s so good they literally named the village after it.

4. Snowdonia

Location: Northwest Wales
Size: 2,142km² / 827mi²
Website: eryri.llyw.cymru

Famous for containing Snowdon (the highest mountain in Wales), there are plenty of other attractions in this beautiful area to tempt all. And by “all” we mean the over 4-million tourists who visit Snowdonia each year.

Woods, valleys, moorlands and historic castles all smatter the countryside adding variety to beauty. Or if none of those tickle your fancy, just pop down to the coastline to be greeted by 23 miles of beautiful, sandy beaches.

What To See, Do Or Eat

• Fly through the air above a gorgeous quarry lake, when you visit Zip World Velocity 2. Although this might seem like a man-made way of enjoying the natural beauty of the park, as the fastest zip line in the world and the longest in Europe, you’ll be having too much fun to care.
• Visit an authentic Welsh castle. Built by Edward I between 1283 and 1289, Conwy Castle was one of the most expensive castles built in its time. Go check it out and see if it was worth the money.

5. Cairngorms

Location: Northeast Scotland
Size: 4,528km² / 1,748mi²
Website: cairngorms.co.uk

Now to Britain’s largest National Park up in the snowy hills of Scotland. The Cairngorms boast ancient Caledonian Pine forests, astoundingly beautiful mountain landscapes reflected in crystal clean rivers and lochs.

If you’re a fan of winter sports, then head high into the hills for a spot of skiing in some of the most dramatic landscapes in Britain.

If you’re more of a history buff, then there are a plethora of castles, small villages, Highland estates and other suitably old attractions to tempt your fancy.

All this can be finished off with a glass of Scotland’s finest whiskey, preferably in front of a roaring fire.

What To See, Do Or Eat

• For the adventurous among you, why not take in a spot of whitewater rafting. It may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of Scotland, but despite that, there is excellent rafting to be had here. Just remember to wrap up warm. Those Scottish rivers can be chilly.

6. Dartmoor

Location: Devon, England
Size: 956km² / 369mi²
Website: dartmoor.gov.uk

Moving now to the South of England, Dartmoor National Park is located in the county of Devon, not too far from the city of Plymouth.

Dartmoor features wild ponies, medieval villages, stone circles and important archaeological points of interest. Used as a training area for troops landing on D-Day during WW2, the place also has a rich war history.

Dartmoor is also the only National Park in England that lets people camp in its wilderness.

What To See, Do Or Eat

• Visit Castle Drogo, the last castle ever built in England (constructed ended in 1930) and located near Drewsteignton.
• Check out the village of Lustleigh which has authentic tearooms, a 13^th Century Church, and lots of beautiful thatched cottages.

7. Exmoor

Location: North Devon, England
Size: 693km² / 268mi²
Website: exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk

Located again in Devon, Exmoor National Park is about an hours drive north of Dartmoor National Park and touches the coastline that overlooks South Wales.

Like, Dartmoor, Exmoor National Park features quaint villages, wild ponies, stone circles and other similar places of interest. Though where Dartmoor is more dramatic, Exmoor is calmer and prettier with its rolling hills and North Somerset coastline.

What really makes Exmoor stand out is its Wild Red Deer and the fact that it is an International Dark Sky reserve. This means that, at night, the heavens are clearer and more spectacular than in places that suffer from light pollution.

So whether you visit during the day or night, Exmoor National Park is sure to impress!

What To See, Do Or Eat

• Visit the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway. This is the World’s highest and steepest water powered railway. Amazingly this railway has been running since 1888 and judging by what we’ve seen, it’s still going strong.

8. Brecon Beacons

Closest City: Cardiff, Swansea, Hereford or Newport
Size: 1,351km² / 522mi²
Website: beacons-npa.gov.uk

Back to Wales now and less than an hour away from the busy city of Cardiff is the peace and tranquillity of the Brecon Beacons.

There are more ponies to be found here but this time it’s Welsh Mountain Ponies that might cross your path, whilst above them soar beautiful red kites on the lookout for dinner.

Everything you want from a National Park can be found here; amazing walks, stunning scenery, historical castles and as the Brecon Beacons have been chosen as a Global Geopark, you know there are some amazing sights to be seen.

What To See, Do Or Eat

• The beauty doesn’t stop when you go underground. At Dan-yr-Ogof National Showcaves, visitors get an introduction to the otherworldly beauty of Welsh caves.
• Eat a Welsh cake. Available all over Wales, these griddle cakes have been around since the late 19^th Century. Immensely popular and perfect after a long day exploring the Welsh countryside.

9. Yorkshire Dales

Location: Northern England
Size: 2,178km² / 841mi²
Website: yorkshiredales.org.uk

If you’re a fan of a dry-stone wall, then you will really love the Yorkshire Dales. These unique structures have stood the test of time and create a very distinctive landscape amongst the green, rolling Yorkshire hills.

The Yorkshire Dales is a haven for walkers who may choose to scale one of the famous three peaks, Ingleborough, Whernside and Pen-y-ghent. Or they may choose to strike their own path and walk the hills that inspired so many Bronte Sisters novels.

What To See, Do Or Eat

• Yorkshire folk take their cheese very seriously and it has had delicious results. Birthplace of Wensleydale cheese, you can also get a cracking bit of cheddar cheese around these parts. Eat your cheese with a bite of apple or a slice of rich Christmas cake in December…either way you’re in for a treat!

10. New Forest

Closet City: Southampton
Size: 566km² / 219mi²
Website: newforestnpa.gov.uk

New Forest National Park is a dreamy place filled with magnificent landscapes graced with wild horses and ponies. There is a huge range of rare animals and plants here to give the park the rather pompous title of the “World Capital for Wildlife”.

Perfect for runners or cyclists, there are many fantastic routes on offer that will help you stay fit while escaping into nature. The park is great all year round and is just as popular with people as it is with animals—though it’s not overcrowded.

This gem in the South of England is definitely worth a visit (or two!)

What To See, Do Or Eat

• Visit The Greenwood Tree after a lovely walk for hot food & drink with a friendly atmosphere that is also good for kids.
• Car enthusiasts should check out the National Motor Museum details the fascinating motoring history of Britain as well as housing cars from James Bond films, and cars created by Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May.

What did you think of my selection of top 10 UK National Parks? What would make your top 10 list of National Parks in the UK? Feel free to comment below.

PS. I’d like to send my condolences to the 5 unlucky National Park losers who only narrowly missed this list: Pembrokeshire Coast, Northumberland, North York Moors, The Broads, and South Downs. All great National Parks in their own right and they each offer something unique!

Suggested next reading: Faith Hidden Among The Rocks: Lud’s Church In The Peak District, England

The post Top 10 UK National Parks You Need To Visit appeared first on Modern Trekker.

But let’s just be clear, Ireland is an expensive country. Though as I’ve said, it is indeed very possible to enjoy your time in Ireland on a budget. In fact, I think you can even stick to a travel budget of 40 Euros a day.

With a good amount of trip planning and willingness to sacrifice comfort for saving some money, it is possible to make Ireland affordable. Luckily, we’ve gone ahead and done the homework for you. So sit back, relax, and take notes on how to travel Ireland on a budget.

Transportation

Ireland is not a massive country like the US or Russia so it is possible to drive from one end of the country to the other in one day.

I recommend renting the smallest, most affordable yet dependable car possible. Book well in advance to ensure you get the best pricing for your rental car. This is where traveling with a friend or partner comes in handy because you can split the cost of the car and make it even cheaper.

Like anything else, the longer you have the car, the further the daily rate goes down so if you do choose to rent a car, try to have it for at least 5 days or a week.

The second option I’d recommend for transportation would be to cycle across Ireland. This option is considerably cheaper, but definitely more of an adventure and you must have much more time to travel around Ireland.

The final option which is definitely the cheapest way to travel around Ireland is using your own two feet and walking! I know this sound crazy, but according to Google Maps, if you walk from Dublin to Galway, it would only take you 42 hours. You could realistically walk the country in one week.

Of course, this is assuming that you are doing this walk in summer. Along the way, you can discover the charming Irish countryside and stay in smaller towns.

Accommodations

Speaking of where to stay, there are various budget-friendly options you should know about as you’re planning your own trip to Ireland.

The first is to bring your own camping gear and stay in camping sites. This low-cost option involves more planning to make sure you have all of the right equipment but can be extremely rewarding waking up in Ireland’s lush, green hills. There are plenty of camping sites that are specifically designed for travelers with all of the amenities you need including showers.

Be wary of camping outside of these sites, as it is considered illegal. Make sure you get the express consent of landowners before pitching your tent somewhere.

The next option for budget travelers is to stay in hostels. While in major cities such as Dublin, you will pay a premium, outside of these cities, hostels get considerably cheaper. You can expect to pay 15 Euros a night with many including breakfast in the price. A nice bonus part about hostels is that it is easy to meet fellow travelers and maybe you can even hitch a ride to the next town.

Dining

As a traveler that does plenty of sports when I travel, I struggle the most with not spending a fortune on eating out. Luckily, I have found some methods that work anywhere in the world to save some money on food.

The best way for eating in Ireland on a budget is to determine how much you are willing to spend daily on food. For example, maybe you only want to spend 15 Euros a day on food, you have to do your research and look for any restaurant specials you can find.

Something that has helped me tremendously, however, is not eating out at restaurants. I always try to find local markets or grocery stores. In Ireland, large supermarkets such as Tesco, Dunnes, Asda, or Sainsbury’s offer the most affordable food.

I look for any discounts, coupons, or specials that the store currently has. I usually stick to basics such as protein, vegetables, and fruit. I never regularly buy sweets or sodas that don’t add any nutritional value to my meals and just add costs to my budget.

The final piece of advice that I would recommend is to try to cook your own meals whenever possible. Besides being healthier for you, you can save a lot of money by buying the raw ingredients yourself and cooking a nice meal.

If you are traveling with friends or your partner, you can split the costs of the meal to further reduce how much you are spending. If you are staying at a hostel, invite others to have dinner with you and most are more than willing to return the favor the next night.

Sightseeing

Of course, you traveled to Ireland to see the country and there are a ton of places to see! Like many countries, tourism is a massive industry in Ireland and they charge a premium for this service. Have no fear though, if you come prepared and plan ahead, you’ll be able to see everything you want to see without spending a fortune on admission.

One of the best-kept secrets in Ireland’s tourism industry is called the Heritage Card. It costs 90 Euros for two adults and is well worth the cost if you plan on seeing more than 7 historical sites across Ireland. You can easily stop by 8-10 historical sites in a week and each site costs about 13 Euros so the card starts paying for itself quite quickly.

The card works throughout Ireland and looks like a credit card. With the Heritage Card, you’ll have access to over 97 sites within the country. However, be aware that the Cliffs Of Moher is not included on the card and it charges its own rate.

Another little-known piece of advice to take advantage of is that most sites have Wednesdays when entry is free. On these days, each historical site becomes extremely crowded so if you want to go, I’d recommend that you go at the opening of the site to make sure you get in without any problems.

Know any other tips to travel Ireland on a budget? Please feel free to share them below in the comments section!

Suggested next reading: 15 Gorgeous Towns In Ireland You Need To See

The post The Perfect Guide On How To Travel Ireland On A Budget appeared first on Modern Trekker.

If you love nature, hiking, taking photos, and spontaneous road tripping amongst various and unreal landscapes, then Iceland is perfect for your dream vacay. You’ve likely seen some #icelandroadtrip breathtaking pics on the interwebs, but nothing compares to seeing Iceland’s nature in person. You need to touch it, smell it, drive it, and hike it all for yourself!

Be it solo travel, with friends, or with that random stranger you meet while buying discounted booze at the duty-free shop in the airport, an Iceland road trip will offer an ultimate adventure to remember!

I was fortunate enough to venture solo on an Iceland road trip. I didn’t have much planned besides driving around and winging it. It was a breeze to run into random sights and go to places I had read about all while jamming to 90’s CDs in my cute little blue car. When the sun finally dipped down for a few hours each evening, I snoozed in campground parking lots to refresh myself for the following day’s adventures. It was perfect!

But looking for things to do? Here are 7 reasons to hop out of your car during your Iceland road trip:

1. Walk around Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city, will remind you of a 500 piece puzzle you put together at your grandmother’s house as a child. It is an adorable picturesque town where one-third of the 330,000 Icelandic residents live. It’s a perfect place to relax and wander about for a couple of days as you put together the final touches on your Iceland road trip itinerary.

You’ll find the small town of Reykjavik easy to navigate. Even if you don’t stay in the city center, it’s easy to get around by foot or pop into your car for a quick drive.

One of the first things you should do upon arrival is sign up for the free walking tour to learn a bit about Iceland’s history and culture. This tour will be guided by a vibrant local whose name will have too many syllables to remember. Make sure to ask your guide about Icelandic name culture! The tour is also a great way to meet other travelers and snag a new friend who wants to join in and split the cost of fuel on your Iceland road trip.

You can also head into the gorgeous glass convention center on the water, go for a pricey brew—because you deserve one—at one of the many pubs, and pop into a tourist office if you need any last minute advice for your Iceland road trip.

2. Save $$ and camp

With many campgrounds speckled around Iceland, it’s a breeze to find a place to sleep. You will find camping to be very efficient and affordable compared to snagging a dorm bed or guesthouse.

In Reykjavik you can either rent a tent, camper van, or sleep in your car. Camping across Iceland makes it easy to decide on the spot where you want to get your beauty rest or scout out the northern lights. Although the weather can be unpredictable, camping is a common way for road trippers to see the country. If weather conditions worry you, opt for a camper van rather than a tent to make sure you have a comfortable experience.

Depending on if you are in a national park or not will determine the cost of camping. I stayed for both free and very low prices while sleeping in my car with an extra warm sleeping bag.

3. Bathe in the many hot springs

The natural pools around Iceland, which will warm you up amongst the chilly weather, are perfect for any season. Iceland, being a bit of a colder vacay destination, makes sure to keep everyone happy by offering beautiful warm pools.

Less than an hour from Reykjavik is the famous Blue Lagoon. It’s worth a look if you’re ok with paying loads of cash and getting the same selfies everyone else already has. Not to say you shouldn’t go; but there are many more options that are actually affordable or free!

Seljavallalaug Pool is located in the south amongst a gorgeous backdrop of mountains. Although it can get busy, it’s a perfect place to relax, soak in the tubs, and wonder if this entire trip is all real life.

Reykjadalur hot springs take you on a mild hour-long hike up into a hillside valley. The hike may take longer as you’ll want to snap pics the whole way. Once you make it to the river, you’ll see pop up decks and changing areas and be able to soak in the mountains.

As we can go on for pages and pages raving about Iceland’s hot springs, you’ll have to check out the best ones for yourself! With over 250 geothermal areas across the country, you’ll have to go out of your way to not stumble upon a few of them.

4. Go hiking

What better way to see the beauty of Iceland by foot? Although your cozy car will give you stellar views, you will need to get out and stretch every now and then. Beware the weather and pack layers!

Whether you’re in areas just off of the ring road such as Skaftafell National Park, weaving your way up through Fjaðrárgljúfur, or completely lost in nature near Westfjords Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, you can find a hike right up your alley. You don’t have to be a pro hiker to enjoy Iceland’s nature by foot.

But make sure to pack correctly, leave no trace, and to get out of the car every now and then to truly immerse yourself into nature.

My favorite hike in Iceland was during a late afternoon near the southern town of Vik. If you look just north of the city, you see towering plateaus and a church on the hillside. Behind the church is a trail that extends vertically onto what seems to be the top of the mountain.

I was interested in seeing where it would take me. I ended up traversing the cliff sides as the sun was setting. There was not a soul in sight for the duration of my five-hour hike.

I spied on the town below and the views from the top were mindblowing. The sea to the south and neverending valleys and glaciers to the north. The serenity and peacefulness on that hike was a feeling that everyone needs to experience while traveling.

5. Snap some photos of the waterfalls

As you’re driving, you’ll be gazing at the hillsides and see waterfalls every few minutes. “Look there! Look there!” You’ll catch yourself saying out loud. Iceland promises gorgeous waterfalls all over the country. In fact, more than 10,000 waterfalls drip from the high mountains—you can’t miss them.

It’s definitely worth stepping out of your car and take advantage of that photo op. There is no selfie shame while in Iceland!

While some of those amazing waterfalls, like Gullfoss, Skogafoss, and Seljalandsfoss are busy with tons of tourists year round, you can also find many others along your trip that are worth a look.

6. Picnic at the beaches

You may not be sunbathing amongst the warm seas, but that doesn’t mean you should pass up Iceland’s beaches. With summer weather peaking at a possible high of 70 degrees (25°C), you may get just a teeny glimpse of possible swimwear weather. However, the array of the unique nature of the beaches makes them perfect for visiting even in the winter. Beaches in the tropics don’t compare to the unique beaches in Iceland.

The Black Sand beach near Vik has columns of basalt rock formations. Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon are both Insta-worthy. There’s also the remote Red Sands beach in the Westfjords that will not be overrun with partying tourists. Regardless of your itinerary, beaches will be with you the whole way.

“But I really wanted to surf!” Guess what; you can! Surfing the crisp waters surrounding Iceland may not be everyone’s dream, but if you’ve got the chance, go for it!

7. To top off your Iceland road trip: binge on hot dogs

Iceland is not well known for its delectable cuisine. Honestly, the most efficient way to stay fueled during your Iceland road trip is to BYO-stuff. If you can load up your bag with granola bars, trail mix, dried fruit, and snacks, you’re set. The food in Iceland is fairly expensive.

If you are on a budget, you should stop at the mini stops where you will fuel up and chomp on Icelandic hot dogs. “Wait what?!” You ask. Well, Iceland’s hot dogs are a thing! Everyone loves them and can afford to buy them. Those cheap, free-range, grass-fed, organic, lamb-meat, delicious hot dogs will sustain you throughout your Iceland road trip.

“Will those sustain you for breakfast, lunch, AND dinner?” you ask. Welp, worked for me! Now give it a shot.

Pack your hiking boots, swimsuit, and jacket because it’s time to book that ticket for your ultimate Iceland road trip! The drive alone will offer various dashboard views of glaciers, sunsets, fjords, and greenery you’ve never seen before. You can read all about it and scroll all of the pics online, but it truly is worth visiting in person and taking it in yourself.

The country is easily accessible if you have a car or are brave enough to hitchhike. It’s safe, fun, friendly, relaxing, and great for those who need some adventure.

Suggested next reading: 10 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Going To Iceland

The post 7 Ways To Make Your Iceland Road Trip A Truly Magical Experience appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Wondering how many castles in Scotland there are? Estimates range from 2,000-4,000, but here are 12 of the best Scottish castles!

The 12 Best Castles To Visit In Scotland Are:

1. Slains Castle
2. Dunnottar Castle
3. Edinburgh Castle
4. Dunrobin Castle
5. Fyvie Castle
6. Kilchurn Castle
7. Castle Fraser
8. Blackness Castle
9. Duart Castle
10. Stirling Castle
11. Eilean Donan Castle
12. Castle Stalker

1. Slains Castle

Situated in Cruden Bay, the castle remains of Slains Castle are available to visit all year round. As it sits on a clifftop, the castle makes for picturesque views and a lovely walk.

There is no fee to see the castle, and dogs are welcome (just clean up after them and keep them on a lead as there are steep cliffs nearby).

In terms of accessibility, there is a car park in Cruden Bay that allows you a walk to the castle, or you can take your car up to the castle—although I don’t recommend this as there is limited space.

2. Dunnottar Castle

TripAdvisor’s second-best castle in Scotland for 2017, Dunnottar Castle sits about 3 km south of the harbor town Stonehaven. Often described as a ruined medieval fortress, the castle is on a rocky headland and, although there is a small fee to get on the grounds, it is 100% worth it.

Once again, dogs are welcome, but there are no bins on the castle grounds, so bring bags for poops. There is a small car park, but it is recommended that you park your car in Stonehaven and walk due to limited space.

3. Edinburgh Castle

If one was to inquire about famous Scottish castles, then Edinburgh Castle should immediately be mentioned. This castle remains TripAdvisor’s best castle to visit in Scotland for 2017.

It’s fairly central in Edinburgh and you can explore the grounds with guided tours or by yourself. Edinburgh Castle is great because they have what is basically a museum within the castle to teach you about the history of the castle and Edinburgh. This is one of the castles that actually has an inbuilt restaurant as well. Great for kids and adults alike.

There is no parking at the castle, so it would be worth finding a nearby parking space before heading there.

4. Dunrobin Castle

A stately home based in Sutherland, it’s been the home to Earls and Dukes of Sutherland since the 13^th Century, making it Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited home, so there is a lot of history surrounding the home. The castle itself resembles a French Chateau boasting spires and turrets.

You can visit all the inside of the castle, the tea room, shop and the gardens. The entry prices to the castle includes a Falconry display which is so worth the price.

5. Fyvie Castle

Based in Fyvie, near Turriff, Fyvie Castle is famous for being a bit spooky and even appeared on Most Haunted Season 6.

One of the famous stories is that, back in 1920, when the castle was being renovated, the skeletal remains of a woman were found behind one of the bedroom walls. On that very day the castles residents started to be plagued by strange noises and unexplained happenings. After this, the Laird of the castle put the skeleton back, and the haunting ceased.

The castle is open to the public over the summer months and has ample parking for guests.

6. Kilchurn Castle

A ruined structure on a rocky peninsula in Argyll and Bute. Kilchurn castle opens to the public between April 1 to September 30 between 9:30am – 5:30pm every day. It’s free to visit and has a lot of interesting history based around it due to it originally being built in the 1400’s.

It was a fortress, a residence, and a garrison stronghold and currently contains the oldest surviving barracks on the British mainland. It’s recommended that you wear strong footwear when visiting due to the terrain and sorry, but no dogs are allowed.

7. Castle Fraser

One of the largest tower houses in Scotland, Castle Fraser lies 4 miles north of Dunecht and only 16 miles outside of Aberdeen. Castle Fraser offers a wide range of things to do including guided tours, nature spotting, walks and play areas for children and even has a café to grab a drink or bite to eat.

There is parking available and dogs are welcome, although it is requested that they are kept on leads in certain areas of the grounds. This is one of the rare castles to visit in Scotland that can accommodate disabled parking and has parts of the castle that are wheelchair accessible.

8. Blackness Castle

Based near the village of Blackness in Linlithgow, Blackness Castle is a 15^th Century castle that was once a prison and, at one point, a garrison fortress. Built by one of the most powerful families, The Crichtons, it’s often referred to as “the ship that never sailed” due to its stone ship appearance.

Unfortunately, the castle isn’t wheelchair friendly due to its location. The castle has been used in many TV shows and films, including “Ivanhoe”, “Doomsday”, and “Outlander”.

9. Duart Castle

In The Isle Of Mull sits Duart Castle, it dates back to the 13^th Century and is the seat of Clan MacLean. When in the castle you can find an exhibition dedicated to the history of the Chiefs of the Clan MacLean through the ages.

This castle has also starred in many TV shows and films including “Entrapment”, “When Eight Bells Toll”, and “I Know Where I’m Going”. Duart Castle even offers up the opportunity to have a wedding there, which just sounds like an absolute fairytale.

10. Stirling Castle

Located in Stirling, this is one of the largest and most important castles to visit in Scotland, both architecturally and historically. A lot of the main buildings in the castle date back to the 15^th and 16^th Centuries, but there are also a few structures left from the 14^th Century. There have been at least 8 sieges of Stirling Castle, many during the wars of Scottish Independence.

There is parking at Stirling castle, with a limited number of disabled spaces available.

11. Eilean Donan Castle

One of the most picture postcard castles to visit in Scotland, this fully restored 13^th Century castle is situated on an island near Dornie where three lochs meet and is surrounded by some majestic and gorgeous scenery. It has featured in many films, including “Highlander”, “James Bond – The World Is Not Enough”, and “Bonnie Prince Charlie”.

When there you can take advantage of the visitor center which includes a coffee shop and gift shop.

The castle provides ample parking, but unfortunately, they don’t have wheelchair access to the castle.

12. Castle Stalker

Known to Monty Python fans as the “Castle of Aaaaarrrrrrggghhh”, Castle Stalker is four-story keep on Loch Laich about 1.5 miles away from Appin in the Northwest of Scotland.

Picturesque and beautiful, this castle was built by Sir John Stewart sometime in the middle of the 15^th Century. More about its intriguing history can be found here.

But it was only when featuring in 1975s “Monty Python’ and the Holy Grail” that Castle Stalker became so well-known and recognizable.

There are some excellent tours of Castle Stalker that are highly recommended (check available dates here). Cost is £20 for adults and £10 for children 16 and under. A virtual tour can also be done here.

Suggested next reading: 8 Magical Places You Need To See In Scotland or Malbork Castle In Poland: The Largest Castle In The World

The post 12 Best Castles To Visit In Scotland That Ooze History appeared first on Modern Trekker.

So you pack your best beret, scroll through your phrasebook and gather up your Euros. But it’s always worth remembering that real life does get in the way sometimes and occasionally, just occasionally, things may not turn out exactly as you expected. It doesn’t mean you won’t have a great time though—especially if you prepare yourself by reading our real life vs expectation in Paris list.

1. Speaking French

Expectation:

You have always wanted to learn another language and now you have a wonderful chance to practice all those phrases you learned in school.

“One baguette please, sir”

“It is lovely weather today!”

“Where is the swimming pool?”

It never really leaves you. Soon you’ll be lounging on a wicker chair on a cobbled street, sipping coffee and conversing with the locals as you wave to ladies riding past on bicycles.

Reality:

Despite your best efforts, everyone speaks better English than you speak French. This crushing realization happens when you ask something in French and once again get an answer in English. Paris is used to visitors and most people are ready and willing to speak your language to help you out.

2. Eat amazing food

Expectations:

The French are known around the world for their delectable cuisine. The wine, the cheese, the meat. There’s a reason why everyone who visits France comes back with a much heavier suitcase than when they arrived. A much rounder girth too, but it is your holiday after all.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Reality:

After the millionth rich, creamy and indulgent meal, your belly starts to revolt and your heart starts to burn. All you want is something plain, simple and ashamedly unfussy. You finally admit this yourself as you search for a Subway sandwich shop. You’re just not practiced enough in this rich food….yet.

3. Have a romantic night out

Expectation:

The city of love, Paris is known for its romantic atmosphere. The city of love is a well-earned nickname and when staying there it’s hard not to get swept up in the emotions and feel yourself wanting to go with the flow. So grab another oyster, a small glass of champagne and settle in for a good time.

Reality:

Realistically, how romantic can you feel after a full days sightseeing and a stomach full of indulgent food? Maybe that last macaron was a mistake, but it went so well after the slice of chocolate gateaux that realistically, what else could you have done?

Luckily France is also an excellent place to have a quiet lie down and possibly…very possibly…a small cuddle. Aww.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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4. Embrace the continental greeting

Expectation:

How free and laid back the French are will undoubtedly rub off on you. Kissing strangers to greet them immediately breaks down barriers and you feel at one with the country and its people.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Reality:

Is it one kiss or two? Is it different for men and women? Gaah, don’t get it wrong. The repercussions could be toe itchingly awkward. What’s wrong with a good old-fashioned handshake anyway?

5. Be a fashionista

Expectation:

France equals fashion. As host to Paris fashion week and birthplace of Coco Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and Christian Dior (to name but a few), this is the place to see and be seen. Finally, you can wear your highest end, trendiest and most fashionable outfits and be appreciated for the fashionista superstar you’ve always known you are.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Reality:

Most French people wear the same as everyone else in the world but annoyingly have an air of grace that makes them carry it off all the better. Even in your best outfit, you still quite can’t get that “Je Ne Sais Quoi” that is born into the people of this fine nation. Nevermind, you still look cute.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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6. Appreciate French art

Expectation:

Once again France leads the way and boasts a wonderful heritage of world-famous artists. Duchamp, Matisse, Cezanne, Monet. All outstanding visionaries who changed the face of the art world and are celebrated to this day. As a result, it’s capital is brimming with art galleries and famous works.

This means that now is the time to put on those thick-rimmed spectacles, don your best turtleneck sweater and prepare to feed your artistic mind.

Reality:

Turns out lots of visitors go to Paris for the art and you realize this as you stand behind a crowd of people and cameras and peek a quick glimpse at the Mona Lisa. Nevermind, you can always drink a tipple of absinthe at the local bar and relive the experience of many a starving artiste instead.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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7. Explore Parisian Parks

Expectation:

When people think of Paris they probably think mainly of the architecture, the Lourve, the Arc de Troimphe. All the exciting urban landscapes…

But if they do, they’re missing a trick because tucked away, Paris also has some of the most beautiful parks around. The formal glory of the Jardin Des Tuileries, the flowers at the Parc Floral de Paris. It’s largest, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont even has waterfalls and cliffs to admire. Is there a better way to spend a sunny day?

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Reality:

These parks may be beautiful, but the local wildlife thinks so too, and you realize that as you reach for another spray of the insect repellent. Still, there aren’t that many more aesthetically pleasing places to get bitten by bugs.

8. Visit the best museums

Expectation:

France is cosmopolitan, cultural, historical and full of learned people. As a result, it prizes it’s museums very highly and it shows. A plethora of learning is available to you, especially in its esteemed capital. What a perfect opportunity to introduce the little ones to the idea that learning can be fun. They’ll be tiny intellectuals before you know it.

Reality:

Turns out children are just as bored by foreign museums as they are by ones at home. Still, all the moaning, running around and stamping of their feet should tire them out nicely and leave you some quiet time to enjoy a nice glass of French wine before bed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Despite any slight differences between expectation and reality, you will undoubtedly still have an amazing time in France. We challenge anyone to visit and not fall in love with its cities, parks, people and ethos. Have you ever been? Tell us about your experiences below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Can you think of any more real life vs expectation in Paris we should add to our list? Feel free to comment below!

Suggested next reading: Italy On Instagram Vs Italy In Real Life

The post Real Life Vs Expectation In Paris appeared first on Modern Trekker.

A lot of these have become beloved attractions for tourists and locals allowing the public to visit and learn about the rich history. Hundreds of castles still stand in England, but here are the best castles to visit in England:

1. Corfe Castle

Standing on a natural hill in Dorset guarding the main route through the Purbeck Hills you will find Corfe Castle.

It’s had quite a colorful history too; it’s thought that the original castle buildings would have been built with wood, it’s in this version of the castle that King Edward was murdered by his step-mother in 979 so that her son, Ethelred the Unready could become king.

It wasn’t upgraded to stone until the latter half of the 11^th Century by William the Conqueror. For six hundred years, after it was converted to stone, it was used as a royal fortress for the monarchs of England.

Around 1572 the castle was sold by Queen Elizabeth I to Sir Christopher Hatton, but was later bought by Sir John Bankes, the Lord Chief Justice at the time, in 1635 to use as a private residence. It remained in possession of the Bankes family until 1982 when Mr H.J.R Bankes signed it over to be part of the Kingston Lacy and Corfe Castle Estate with the National Trust.  

2. Leeds Castle

Despite its name, this castle is actually situated in Kent, just 5 miles Southeast of Maidstone. There has been a castle on the site since 1086, with the first stone castle being built by a Norman Baron during the reign of William the Conqueror’s son Henry I in 1119.

King Edward I owned the castle in the 13^th Century and it became a favorite residence of his, and in the 16^th Century, Henry VIII used it as a dwelling for his first wife, Catherine of Aragon.

The current castle’s remains date mostly from the 19^th Century and it has been open to the public since 1976. There is a lot of history to discover when you visit the castle and they often host events there, so keep an eye out for anything fun. When you’re there you can also visit the maze, which is one of Kent’s most famous, and see falconry on the grounds.

3. Warkworth Castle

A ruined medieval building in Warkworth. The date of the castle’s foundations remain unknown, but it’s thought that there was probably a residence on the foundation that belonged to the Anglo-Saxon Earls of Northumbria before the Norman Conquest of 1066.

However, the first written record of the castle didn’t occur until around 1157 in a charter where Henry II granted the castle and manor to Roger Fitz Eustace. From the late 13^th Century, Warkworth Castle and others similar castles played an important role in the war between England and Scotland, this means that royal funds were put into the upkeep of the castle. Despite the defenses of the castle improving in 1323, it was besieged by the Scots in 1327.

In 1332 the castle was passed to Henry Percy, 2^nd Lord Percy, as granted by Edward III. It stayed property of the Percy’s until the 1600’s when the 9^th Earl, Henry Percy, was arrested and imprisoned for his involvement in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.

It was declared a scheduled ancient monument in 1915. This is definitely one of the more historically-rich castles to visit in England!

4. Warwick Castle

Another medieval building, Warwick Castle was originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068, and it was rebuilt in stone in the 12^th Century.

It was used as a stronghold until it was granted to Sir Fulke Greville by James I in 1604, he converted it into a country house and it stayed in his family until 1978 when the Tussauds group bought it over.

Now, Merlin Entertainments operates in the castle on a renewable lease. This makes it great for kids as they often run events depicting the history of the castle in interactive ways, including war reenactments, jousting etc. This is probably the most commercialized of all the castles to visit in England, but it is still worth a visit—especially with kids.

5. Bodiam Castle

A 14^th Century moated castle in East Sussex, built by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge in 1385 with the permission of Richard II. It was built to defend the area against the French invasion during the Hundred Years War.

The castle has no keep, but does have various chambers built around the outer defensive. The Dalyngrigge family owned the castle until their line became extinct and was then passed by marriage on to the Lewknor family.

During The War of The Roses there were orders from Richard III to besiege the castle, it’s unrecorded whether it all went ahead, but it’s thought that the castle was surrendered with little confrontation.

The Lewknors took back ownership of the castle until at least the 16^th Century because, by 1641, it was in the possession of Lord Thanet, but he later sold it due to debts and it was in ruins, the castle was partially restored when it was sold to George Cubitt and even more so when Lord Curzon took it over.

It has belonged to The National Trust since 1925. 

6. Dover Castle

Another medieval castle in Dover, Kent and boasts being the largest of all castles to visit in England.

Often called the “key to England” due to its defensive significance throughout history. It’s thought that the grounds were originally fortified with earthworks during the Iron age due to the weird patterns of the earthworks which isn’t a perfect fit for a castle.

King Henry II began building the present castle in the 1180s and, over 800 years, all of its buildings and defenses were adapted to fit the needs of the times in terms of weapons and warfare.

In the 18^th Century, England was facing the threat of invasion from France so they built a network of tunnels in Dover Castle to house the huge number of troops needed to man the castle. These tunnels were used in WWII, hosting a command center that controlled Navy Operations in the Channel, it was here that Admiral Bertram Ramsay organized the evacuation of British troops from Dunkirk.

They were also used during the Cold War as a secret location of one of Britain’s Regional Seats of Government.

Suggested next reading: 11 Of The Best Castles To Visit In Scotland That Simply Ooze History or Malbork Castle In Poland: The Largest Castle In The World

The post 6 Of The Best Castles To Visit In England That Have Incredible History appeared first on Modern Trekker.

So if you’re planning a visit to the UK and want to see a little bit more than just London town, here is a list of easily reachable and definitely worthwhile day trips from London.

1. Brighton—for fans of the alternative

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Bohemian, laid-back, alternative and all this right on the seafront. Although Brighton and London are both thriving, buzzing cities, they also have stark differences that you’ll need to see to believe. For example, Brighton is famous for its beautiful pebble beaches, quaint little shopping lanes and vibrant nightlife.

There’s also a lot of unique sights, such as the oldest aquarium in the world (built in 1872) or the Royal Pavilion, a Grade 1 listed palace that might make you question whether you’re in England or India.

So if you fancy some fish and chips on a grade II listed pier in one of the friendliest places in the South, then Brighton is one of those “must-do” day trips from London.

How to get there:

Trains from London are quick and frequent. Leave from London Victoria station and you can be on the beach in under an hour.

2. Oxford—for fans of Harry Potter

When you picture a University life in England, you may well be picturing Oxford. The old buildings, the libraries, the academics strolling around in their robes. It all still happens in Oxford. As a result, this small but perfectly formed city is a wonderful place to spend a day punting on the river Cherwell, strolling about the Covered Market and having a pint in a local pub.

The City of Dreaming Spires has been featured in many a literary tale but is recently most famous as the inspiration and filming location for Harry Potter. If you’re a Potter fan you can choose to go on a walking tour of the city or download the audio guide here.

Just make sure to see the Great Hall at Christchurch. As its design and architecture were copied for the Dining Hall at Hogwarts, it really will be like stepping into a magical world.

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How to get there:

Catch a train from Paddington station which should be easy as they leave every 5 to 10 minutes. With a journey time of just over an hour until you’re in some beautiful Oxfordshire countryside.

3. Windsor—for fans of the Royal Family

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One of the best day trips from London for people who love English royalty. Known for its royal connections, Windsor is a small but picturesque town just West of London. It claims to fame is the opulent Windsor Castle, which is the largest inhabited castle in the world and still used as a residence by the Royal Family.

Hint: If the Royal Standard is flying, it means the Queen is at home and definitely wants you to pop in for a cup of tea and a biscuit.

If her majesty is not at home, you can still take a tour of the house and watch the Changing of the Guard at 11am most Mondays to Saturdays. Or you can head away from the Castle into the beautiful Windsor Great Park for some serious picnicking and red deer spotting. Of course, there is always the option for souvenir shopping in one of the many central shops.

No matter how you look at it, you’re guaranteed a lovely day out!

How to get there:

Direct trains run from London Waterloo or Paddington station to Windsor and Eton Central and take about 30 minutes.

4. Guildford/Godalming—for fans of the quaint

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There are a rich plethora of “commuter towns” around London and for the most part, they are convenient more than they are interesting. Guildford is a little different in that it is definitely used by many of its residents to travel to London each day, but it is also an interesting and vibrant place in its own right.

Dating back to Saxon times, this busy little market town is peppered with old buildings, delicious restaurants, riverside walks and to top it all off, a castle said to be built sometime around 1066. It’s much quieter than some of the larger cities and towns on this list and so can be an excellent snapshot of English life in a southern town.

Its close location to the nature spots like Pewley Down or Newlands Corner, mean you are on the doorstep of some truly outstanding English countryside.

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How to get there:

35 minutes on the train from London Waterloo and it’s just a 5-minute walk from the station to the cobbled high street.

5. Winchester—for fans of King Arthur

On the edge of the South Downs National Park, Winchester is a seething hotbed of historical landmarks. Not only does it boast one of the most beautiful Cathedrals, but it also has a 17^th Century Library, the ruins of Wolvesey Castle and a working 18^th Century Corn Mill.

But it’s Winchester Castle which might get most history buffs interested, as within it’s great hall can be found what is reported to be King Arthur’s Round Table. That’s right, proudly displayed in the 13^th Century aisled hall, is a living piece of medieval mythology. And only 10 minutes away from Winchester station.

Even if you’re not a history buff, you can still spend a happy day pottering around Winchester’s many boutique shops and enjoying a tea or tipple in one of its many cafés and restaurants. It’s many international eateries showcase a modern city in a historic setting. A little bit of everything for everyone.

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How to get there:

Trains to Winchester run from London Waterloo and take around an hour on average. It’s worth noting that the station is about 10-minute walk to the center but it’s a beautiful walk which is well worth the effort.

What do you think of our day trips from London? Can you think of any more great ones? Feel free to comment below!

Suggested next reading: 6 Of The Best Castles To Visit In England That Have Incredible History

The post 5 Brilliant & Easily Reachable Day Trips From London appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Firstly, because I was born there and secondly because it’s absolutely awesome. Historical, cultural, architectural and totally loveable, Bath is a brilliant day out and an even better weekend stay.

But don’t take my word for it, here are, in my opinion, the best things to do in Bath!

1. Roman Baths

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Slap bang in the heart of Bath sits its most famous attraction. As Britain’s only hot spring, the site of the Baths has always been a popular place to be. But it was when the Romans built a temple and bathhouse around the bubbling water, that the springs were really put on the map.

The water in the baths may look a suspicious shade of green but it’s all very innocent. In Roman times the baths would have been covered by a large roof which would have kept the sunlight off the water. However without this cover algae flourishes and turns the pool a dramatic shade of green. All the better for atmosphere and Instagram, but not so much for interaction.

Nowadays you’re not advised to touch, drink or even swim in the pool. But you can try a glass of cleaned spa water for 50p in the Pump Room restaurant next door.

Tips, tricks and tidbits:

• London coach tours arrive around midday so go early to avoid queues.
• Alternatively, head in late and go by torchlight. (Torches are lit at around 4pm in winter and 9pm in summer.)

2. Thermae Bath Spa

If you’re slightly disappointed you’re not able to get into the mineral-rich, health improving waters then be assured that all is not lost. You can always head to the Thermae Bath Spa which uses the same beautiful spa water but cleanses it so it’s safe for soaking in.

Choose from the open-air rooftop pool or the indoor Minerva Bath. Either way, you’ll be echoing the experiences of Romans and Celts of over 2000 years ago. Only they probably didn’t have their choice of spa treatments to indulge in afterward.

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3. Bath Abbey

Just across the street from the Roman Baths stands the still working and rather beautiful, Bath Abbey. Founded in the 7^th Century, it’s has a slightly arduous history and has had to been rebuilt and reorganized several times. Once in the 10^th, once in the 12^th and finally again in the 16^th Century.

However, you wouldn’t tell by looking at this magnificent building today. You can take a tour of the abbey for a small fee (tours run daily 10am to 4pm). Or you can climb it’s 212 steps and look at the rooftops of Bath from the Abbey’s tower. You can also have a little sit inside its clock face, if that takes your fancy.

Tips, tricks and tidbits:

• Be aware that as a working abbey, it has to shut occasionally for services. Just check the door for details of when it reopens and take advantage of its central location to potter around the local shops to pass the time.

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4. Pulteney Bridge

You may not have heard of Pulteney Bridge but you’ve probably seen a photo of it. Instantly recognizable with its horse-shoe shaped weir, the bridge was built in 1769 by Robert Adam.

Originally designed as a toll bridge between parishes, it is now one of only four bridges in the world that has shops lined up on both its sides. It really is the perfect place for a bit of chilled out retail therapy, or even to just stop and admire the scenery from one of its cafés or restaurants.

Tips, tricks and tidbits:

• Budding photographers are advised to stroll across the bridge at sunrise or sunset in order to get truly breathtaking shots.
• Or see the bridge from the water by popping on a boat ride right by the weir. Boats leave regularly throughout the day.

5. Bath Skyline Walk

One of the best things to do in Bath for the more active type, the Bath Skyline Walk is a 6-mile circular walk that allows you to view the rooftops of Bath without having to climb to dizzying heights.

It really says a lot about the beauty of Bath that such stunning countryside is a very short walk away. The pathway is well signposted and is peppered with wildflowers and historic sites along the way.

Tips, tricks and tidbits:

• You should leave about 3 hours for this moderate walk. But if you want the views but don’t have a lot of time, you can always try the shorter version. At 1 ½ hours you can retrace the steps of Georgian high society and get a little glimpse of the countryside at practically no exertion. Details can be found at the National Trust Website.

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6. Have your cake and eat it too

What could be better than going somewhere new and trying the local sweet treat? That’s right, trying two! Bath is famous for its Bath Bun and Sally Lunn, both of which are round, bread roll like in appearance and served alongside a good cup of tea.

So what’s the difference? Well, a Bath Bun is small, sweet and sticky on top with sugar and fruit.

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And Sally Lunn is a much bigger and simpler brioche style bun. Excellent toasted and served with sweet or savory accompaniments.

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Both also have a rich historical beginning with the Sally Lunn being invented by Huguenot refugee, Solange Luyon, or Sally Lunn as she later became known. Whilst the Bath Bun was created by Cornish doctor, William Oliver who originally used to feed it to his patients until they started putting on too much weight as a result.

Obviously the question you’re now thinking is which one is better? Scholars and chefs have battled with this query for many a year and as yet no decisive answer has been found. Therefore the only thing you can really do is try both and find out for yourself.

Tips, tricks and tidbits:

• If you choose to eat a Sally Lunn at the sit-down café onsite, be aware that the gigantic buns are served in halves. Usually, they serve a top half for a sweet topping and a bottom for savory but let them know if you have a preference either way.

These were, in my opinion, the 6 best things to do in Bath, what about you? What else would you like to do here? Feel free to comment below!

Suggested next reading: 6 Of The Best Castles To Visit In England That Have Incredible History

The post 6 Best Things To Do In Bath From A Local’s Perspective appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Below is a list of 15 of them. Some of them are absolutely amazing and, should you visit Ireland, these towns provide a great chance to discover something unique, authentic and rich in Irish culture.

This side of Ireland simply should not be missed if you want an unforgettable trip. So, let’s go boyo!  Here’s our list of 15 gorgeous towns in Ireland you need to see:

1. Adare

16 km south-west of Limerick, Adare has the reputation of being one of Ireland’s prettiest villages. This is primarily due to the quaint thatched cottages that will make you feel like you’ve gone back in time.

Nearby, in the middle of a park, stands the superb neo-Gothic castle of Adare Manor. For two centuries it was the residence of the Counts of Dunraven, but today it functions as a hotel.

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2. Dingle

Dingle is a small fishing village in the county of Kerry in the south of the country, where you can experience the most authentic Irish pubs and tales of sailors just landed on land.

It is worth exploring both the town and the marvelous surrounding peninsula of rolling green hills—in Ireland there are 40 shades of green—and ruins of ancient castles adding extra sparkle to this enchanting land.

Nearby to Dingle, Conor Pass, one of the highest Irish mountain passes that actually has a road going through it, would be a great addition to any Ireland road trip.

3. Lahinch

If you like surfing then Lahinch is for you. With its own surf schools, seaside atmosphere and hearty local bars, Lahinch will make for an ideal adventurous weekend filled with both relaxation and fun.

Once you’ve come off the waves and dried down there are plenty of great bars (such as O’Looney’s Bar & Restaurant) for a warm evening meal and a great pint of beer. Highly recommended also comes Flanagans Bar.

You’re also only a 15-minute drive away from the Cliffs of Moher—a truly world-famous place of natural beauty located so close to one of the most gorgeous towns in Ireland…how convenient!

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4. Kilkenny

Kilkenny, a medieval town in the southeast of Ireland, is famous all over the world for the production of its exquisite Kilkenny beer.

The marvelous medieval castle and the artisan shops that produce wool, leather and fine wooden artifacts only make the place extra charming.

5. Galway

Although technically a city rather than a town, Galway is the youngest and liveliest city in Ireland—and it deserves a wee mention here.

Consisting of many pubs and traditional Irish music festivals, one can experience the most enjoyable atmosphere.

But if fun in the city is not your sort of thing, then the idyllic county that surrounds the city offers awesome countryside adventures.

You may even want to check out Connemara National Park, a place filled with lakes, mountains and heathland—while it may be around 1.5 hours away by car, it’d make for a great day trip if you want some fresh air and stunning views.

6. Westport

Westport is one of those Irish towns that will remain in your heart: with its steep uphill streets with small pretty squares, the Georgian facades of shops that make up a colorful kaleidoscope, the gurgling river with stone bridges adorned with flowers, the many cozy pubs, and the calm and peaceful atmosphere that will make you feel at home.

Stop by at night to witness Westport’s strong love for traditional music in one of its many pubs, while during the day enjoy its subtler charm as it soothes your soul with the bright colors that adorn many of its humble lodgings.

7. Dalkey

Dalkey is actually one of the most wealthy suburbs in Dublin. Alright, so perhaps you’re wondering why I’ve just mentioned Dublin in this list—hardly a hidden gem, right?

While that might be true, in reality, there are lots of hidden gems around and within Dublin, and Dalkey is just one shining example.

Dalkey was founded as a Viking settlement along (repeat: LONG) time ago and became a lively port during the Medieval era. As a result, it is steeped in history and features, for example, a 10^th Century church and 2 Norman castles.

Located near the sea, Dalkey is extremely picturesque. Is it any wonder why Bono, Enya and Van Morrison all live nearby? You’ll know what we mean if you visit it for yourself.

8. Carlingford

An ancient and picturesque fishing village located between the Cooley Peninsula mountains and the Carlingford Lough, Carlingford is a place rich in history. It still retains its medieval charm despite recently developing an exclusive holiday resort.

Carlingford, truly one of the more gorgeous towns in Ireland with its narrow lanes and small streets, has lots of things to see such as King John’s Castle, its Dominican Friary, and The Mint.

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9. Lismore

A small town on the Blackwater River at the foot of the Knockmealdown Mountains, Lismore is dominated by Lismore Castle, which has been the residence of the Dukes of Devonshire since 1753 and whose gardens are open to the public.

Worth seeing is Saint Laryore Cathedral, Lismore Castle Gardens, Lismore Heritage Center, Lady Louisa’s Walk and Town Walk.

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10. Clonakilty

A pleasant town in the western county of the county, Clonakilty can be taken as a base to explore the peninsulas and beautiful beaches to the south.

The town is distinguished by the traditional music played in many of its clubs and is perhaps best known for being the birthplace of the Republican leader Michael Collins, the remains of whose house are still visible.

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11. Ardmore

One of the most gorgeous towns in Ireland and a famous seaside resort, Ardmore offers a beautiful beach and some interesting buildings, as well as lively pubs and opportunities for long walks in the hills. On the hill next to the village is a monastery founded in the 5^th Century by St Declan.

(We’re 99% sure the image below is Photoshopped, but nonetheless, we thought this was pretty cool when we searched for “Ardmore” on Instagram!)

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12. Cobh

A port town 23 km south-east of Cork, Cobh is located on an island in Cork Bay. Its colorful 19^th Century houses evoke the ancient prosperity of what was the great port of the transoceanic line of Cork.

It is here that many emigrants embarked under painful conditions to escape famine and find their fortune in America.

Right here the Titanic made its last stop on April 11, 1912, before the unfortunate inaugural cruise in the Atlantic Ocean: the town boarded 113 passengers that day, while one passenger, John Coffey (who had boarded in Southampton, England) decided to leave the ship and thus narrowly escaped death.

13. Carrick-on-Shannon

A small county town of Leitrim, Carrick-on-Shannon is situated in a pretty spot, on a narrow loop of the River Shannon. The town owes much to its ideal geographic position which contributed to its industrial and tourist development.

An important nautical center, Carrick has further benefited from the reopening of the Shannon-Erne Waterway, the waterway connecting it to Northern Ireland.

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14. Howth

A village and outer suburb of Dublin, Howth was where movies such as Sing Street and The Last of the High Kings were filmed. Thanks to Howth Castle, Howth can also claim to have the oldest occupied building in all of Ireland.

Located near the sea (which, of course, offers stunning views) and being so close to Dublin, Howth is a must-see.

15. Kenmare

A medium-sized town located within a fjord, Kenmare is one of the most popular tourist destinations along the Ring of Kerry.

Founded in 1670 by Cromwell’s inspector, William Petty, today it is a lively seaside resort, famous for its handmade lace, the packaging of which dates back to the period of the Great Famine when the nuns of Poor Clare Convent introduced the processing of lace to provide work for women and girls.

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The best thing about all of these gorgeous towns in Ireland is that each one of them has their own history, culture and vibrancy. While visiting these towns, you’ll catch glimpses of the real soul of Ireland in a much more authentic way than if you’d just visited the main tourist areas.

Know of any more gorgeous towns in Ireland not listed here? Please comment below and we will add it to the list!

Suggested next reading: 20 Amazing Places That’ll Make You Want To Visit Ireland

The post 15 Gorgeous Towns In Ireland You Need To See appeared first on Modern Trekker.