#best trip itinerary planner

[wenttherelovedthat]

WentThereLovedThat is one of the best trip itinerary planners for people who love visiting new places. With us, you'll get a complete itinerary of the best attractions, cuisines, nightlife, and experiences in different cities. Explore our website now to plan your dream vacation. 

[travelreportai]

Discover the Ultimate Italy Travel Itinerary for 2024: Your Guide to Unforgettable Experiences

Italy is a dream destination for many travelers, renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, world-class cuisine, and vibrant culture. Planning a trip to this beautiful country can be overwhelming, given the myriad of cities, attractions, and activities to choose from. To help you navigate your Italian adventure, we've crafted the ultimate travel itinerary for 2024, ensuring that you experience the best that Italy has to offer. Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or an art enthusiast, this itinerary promises unforgettable experiences.

Day 1-3: Rome - The Eternal City

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Rome

Arrive in Rome and check into your hotel. Spend your first evening strolling through the historic center. Begin at the Spanish Steps, and then head to Piazza Navona for dinner at a local trattoria. Savor authentic Italian pasta and gelato while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the square.

Day 2: Ancient Rome and Vatican City

Start your day at the Colosseum, one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome. Consider booking a guided tour to skip the long lines and delve into the fascinating history of the gladiators. Afterward, visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for a glimpse into ancient Roman life.

In the afternoon, head to Vatican City. Visit St. Peter's Basilica and climb to the dome for breathtaking views of the city. Don’t miss the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, where you can admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling.

Day 3: Trastevere and the Borghese Gallery

Spend your morning exploring the charming neighborhood of Trastevere. Wander its narrow streets, visit the Santa Maria in Trastevere church, and enjoy lunch at a local pizzeria. In the afternoon, head to the Borghese Gallery, home to an incredible collection of art, including works by Caravaggio and Bernini. Reserve your tickets in advance to ensure entry.

Day 4-5: Florence - The Cradle of the Renaissance

Day 4: Travel to Florence and Explore the City

Take a train from Rome to Florence (about 1.5 hours). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and start exploring the city. Visit the Duomo, a stunning cathedral with a distinctive dome designed by Brunelleschi. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Florence.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Arno River and cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Florentine steakhouse and savor a Bistecca alla Fiorentina.

Day 5: Art and Culture

Dedicate your day to art. Start at the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world. Admire works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Afterward, visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo's David.

In the afternoon, explore the Piazza della Signoria and relax at Boboli Gardens. In the evening, enjoy a wine tasting experience in the Chianti region, where you can savor local wines and delicious Tuscan dishes.

Day 6-7: Venice - The City of Canals

Day 6: Arrival in Venice

Take a train from Florence to Venice (about 2.5 hours). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take your first walk through this enchanting city. Head to St. Mark's Square and visit St. Mark's Basilica, famous for its stunning mosaics.

In the evening, take a gondola ride through the canals, enjoying the romantic atmosphere as you glide past historic buildings. End your day with dinner at a seafood restaurant, sampling fresh Venetian cuisine.

Day 7: Murano and Burano Islands

Dedicating your day to exploring the nearby islands of Murano and Burano. In Murano, visit a glassblowing factory to see artisans at work and learn about the art of glassmaking. In Burano, famous for its colorful houses and lace-making tradition, wander the picturesque streets and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria.

Return to Venice in the evening and consider catching a classical music concert at a historic venue for a unique cultural experience.

Day 8-9: Cinque Terre - The Coastal Paradise

Day 8: Travel to Cinque Terre

Take a train from Venice to La Spezia (about 4 hours) and then transfer to Cinque Terre. Check into your accommodation and spend the afternoon exploring Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five villages. Relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning coastal views.

Day 9: Hiking and Exploring the Villages

Spend the day hiking the scenic trails between the villages. Start at Monterosso and hike to Vernazza, known for its picturesque harbor. Continue to Corniglia, perched on a cliff, before heading to Manarola and finally Riomaggiore. Each village has its charm, offering beautiful views and opportunities for swimming.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, sampling local specialties like pesto and fresh seafood.

Day 10-11: Milan - The Fashion Capital

Day 10: Travel to Milan

Take a train from Cinque Terre to Milan (about 3 hours). After checking into your hotel, head to the Duomo di Milano, an architectural masterpiece. Climb to the rooftop for stunning views of the city skyline.

In the evening, visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a beautiful shopping arcade filled with high-end boutiques. Treat yourself to dinner in the Brera District, known for its trendy restaurants and art galleries.

Day 11: Art and Culture

Dedicate your day to art. Visit The Last Supper, Leonardo da Vinci's iconic mural, located at the Santa Maria delle Grazie. Ensure you book your tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly.

Afterward, explore the Pinacoteca di Brera, home to an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art. In the evening, enjoy a performance at La Scala, one of the world’s most prestigious opera houses.

Day 12-14: Amalfi Coast - A Mediterranean Dream

Day 12: Travel to the Amalfi Coast

Take a train from Milan to Naples (about 4 hours) and then transfer to the Amalfi Coast. Check into your hotel in Positano or Amalfi. Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach and enjoying the stunning coastal views.

Day 13: Explore the Amalfi Coast

Spend the day exploring the picturesque towns along the coast. Visit Amalfi to see the stunning Amalfi Cathedral, then head to Ravello, known for its breathtaking gardens and views. Don’t miss Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone for their stunning landscapes.

In the evening, enjoy dinner with a view of the Mediterranean Sea. Taste local delicacies like sfogliatella and limoncello.

Day 14: Capri Day Trip

Take a ferry to the island of Capri. Visit the famous Blue Grotto, and take a chairlift to Mount Solaro for panoramic views. Explore the charming town of Anacapri and indulge in some shopping at the boutique shops.

Return to your base on the Amalfi Coast in the evening and enjoy a farewell dinner, reminiscing about your unforgettable Italian journey.

Conclusion: Your Travel Report and Tips for 2024

As you reflect on your Italian adventure, consider the following tips to enhance your experience in 2024:

Book in Advance: Popular attractions and accommodations can fill up quickly, especially during the summer months. Secure your tickets and reservations in advance to avoid disappointment.

Traveling Between Cities: Utilize Italy's efficient train system to move between cities easily. Consider purchasing a rail pass for flexibility and savings.

Culinary Experiences: Embrace local cuisine by taking cooking classes or food tours. Each region offers unique dishes that reflect its culture and history.

Cultural Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with Italian customs and etiquette. Simple gestures like greeting with "Buongiorno" and understanding dining customs can enhance your interactions.

Flexible Itinerary: While this itinerary provides a comprehensive guide, allow room for spontaneity. Some of the best experiences come from exploring off the beaten path and discovering hidden gems.

By following this ultimate Italy travel itinerary for 2024, you're set for a journey filled with unforgettable experiences. Italy's charm, beauty, and warmth will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression, making you yearn for your next visit. Safe travels!

[tripcounselors]

Kerala: God's own Country

Visitors should not miss Kerala, a delightful place in South India. Kerala trip provides you with an amazing experience. It is well known for the turquoise color of the Arabian Sea, its lush backwaters, its lush tea gardens, and its charming hill stations. Kerala boasts a diverse range of landscapes, making each region particularly appealing. For instance, the elaborate wood carvings at the historic sites of Wayanad and Kozhikode in North Kerala transport you to the Neolithic Era and a bygone era of splendor. Munnar, in Central Kerala, is one of the best hill stations in Kerala. It offers you a documentary about the importance of tea, as well as mountain streams and a unique tea museum. While Thekkady boasts the largest Tiger Reserve in the world and Kumarakom offers stunning backwater boat tours, the southern cities of Alleppey and Thiruvananthapuram are renowned for their temples and houseboats. These must-see locations in Kerala showcase the state's breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and friendly atmosphere. Whether you're traveling to Kerala for a single trip, family holiday, or honeymoon, these spots provide you with amazing photo opportunities and breathtaking vistas.

For more information please visit our website: Trip Counselors

[genieife]

Top 15 Summer Getaways: Sun, Sand, and Adventure

Summers in India can be unpleasant, making it uncomfortable to move around and battle the heat. Thankfully, India has a plethora of destinations to escape the soaring temperatures, ranging from mountains, hills, beaches, dense forests and much more. So, escape the scorching heat as we bring to you some of the top places to visit in summer in India with Geniefie Trip planner app.

1. Spiti

Looking for a break from city life? Say hello to Spiti! With pristine views, lush meadows, pine forests, and snow-capped mountains, it is the ideal escape to relax and rejuvenate. Oh! And the age-old monasteries make for a soulful visit that stays with you long after the trip is over.

2. Coorg Unwind in the lap of nature in Coorg where aromatic coffee and spice plantations, lush green hills, cascading waterfalls and a distinct old-world charm sooth the senses.

3. Almora Almora is serene place, located in the Kumaon Hills. It is famous for its cultural heritage, cuisines, prominent Shiva temples, handicraft market. From a distance it appears like horse saddle shaped hillock.

4. Dalhousie Located in the lush green surroundings of Chamba district in Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie is a serene town that still has its natural beauty well preserved.

5. Shimla

The erstwhile British ‘Summer Capital’ is packed with colonial-era architectural marvels, picturesque hilly hotspots, and a toy train tagged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6. Gangtok Dotted with sacred Buddhist monasteries, the largest town in Sikkim, Gangtok, impresses with crystalline glacial lakes and dense forests and stunning views of the Himalayan mountains.

7. Manali 

Nestled on the banks of River Beas, Manali will take your breath away with its snow-kissed peaks, lush valleys and heart-pumping adventure experiences in the heart of Himalayas.

8. Auli

Dotted with snowy peaks and oak-fringed slopes, Auli is a charming hill station nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. A haven for ski lovers, it offers jaw-dropping vistas of Nanda Devi, Kamet and Dunagiri peaks.

9. Mount Abu

The only hill station in Rajasthan and the former summer capital of Rajputana rulers, Mount Abu affords a stunning landscape complemented by great weather at an altitude of 1220 metres.

10. Nanital

Located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Nainital is a tourist-favourite hill station with beautiful lakes, towering peaks and pleasing climate.

11. Kalimpong

The ‘land of the kings’, Kalimpong is a precious gem in northeastern India with views of the spectacular Kanchenjunga range, roaring Teesta River and emerald green Rangeet Valley.

12. Ooty

Officially called Ootacamund, the hill-town is better known by its nickname–Ooty. It is loved by Bollywood directors, honeymooners, families, and even backpackers, for its mountains, lakes, gardens, and waterfalls.

13. Pahalgam

A favourite with the filmmakers for its picturesque setting against the backdrop of Lidder River, Pahalgam’s lush valleys, colourful meadows and snow-kissed mountains look like a scene straight out of a beautiful painting.

14. Dharamshala

Nestled in the mystic hills of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala and Mcleodganj captivate tourists with their picturesque natural beauty and a unique blend of Tibetan, British and Himachali cultures.

15. Havelock Island

Also known as Swaraj Island, Havelock Island is a part of Ritchie’s Archipelago in the Andamans. Its dazzling white sand beaches and fascinating coral reefs are admired by nature lovers from around the world.

Say bye to the blistering summer and set out on an adventure. Choose from a wide range of destinations, be it from snow-capped mountains in the East, to aromatic tea plantations in the South.

Unwind in the lap of nature and treat your senses with the aromatic scent of coffee and spice plantation at Coorg, set out on a rafting adventure at Rishikesh with your friends, chill by the swaying palms of Havelock, or spend time in quietude inside a Victorian style accommodation in Darjeeling. Make the most of your summer and embark on a travel adventure with trip planner app!

[traveleva0]

Start planning your dream vacation with our vacation planner. Explore destinations, create itineraries, and book accommodations—all in one place!

[matesaway]

Welcome to a new era of travel planning with Mates Away, where innovation meets convenience to redefine how you explore the world. Our cutting-edge Travel Planner App harnesses the power of AI and user-driven insights to deliver personalized travel itineraries tailored to your preferences and interests. Say goodbye to cookie-cutter trips and hello to bespoke adventures crafted just for you. With Mates Away, discover hidden gems, uncover unique experiences, and forge connections with fellow travelers who share your passion for exploration. From spontaneous getaways to meticulously planned expeditions, our Travel Planner App empowers you to embrace the spontaneity of travel while ensuring a seamless journey from start to finish. Join the revolution in travel planning with Mates Away and embark on a journey where every moment is an adventure waiting to unfold. Download the Trip Planner App now and let the exploration begin!

[starlingflight]

15 questions for 15 mutuals!

Thank you for the tag @themaraudershavethephonebox 🥰

1. Are you named after anyone? This story is going to tell you everything you need to know about my parents: my maiden name is Scottish and begins 'Mc' - my parents couldn't think of anything to go with it until Die Hard randomly came on the TV and they decided that 'Holly McClane' had a ring to it, and that's how I was named Holly.

2. When was the last time I cried? Two weeks ago my husband and I had a fight, and I, as an only child, obviously can't handle conflict and started crying in the car lol

3. Do you have kids? No, I'm a grown woman who cries in the car

4. Do you use sarcasm a lot? Me? No, never

5. What sports do you play/have you played? I was never into team sports. I swam as a kid and I did ballet and tap dance into my mid-teens! Now, most of my exercise is in the form of dog walking

6. What's the first thing you notice about other people? Hair - you can tell a lot about a person's vibe from their hair imo

7. Scary movies or happy endings? Scary movies with happy endings! My favourite film franchise is scream (current terrible decisions not included)

8. Any special talents? I'm a qualified lifeguard, so I can save your life, if required, does that count?

9. Where were you born? Yorkshire, England

10. What are your hobbies? Writing (obviously), I'm also trying to learn embroidery but I'm bad at it lol

11. Do you have any pets? 3 dogs & a cat

12. All time favourite piece of media? The Haunting of Hill House - it's a masterpiece from start to finish

13. Fave subject in school? I have a degree in history, hands down my favourite!

14. Dream job? Literally everyone tells me to quit my job and become a travel agent/planner. I love planning trips, if you tell me you want to go on holiday, I will drop everything to find you the best deals and make you an itinerary. Sadly, my current job pays better 🥲

15. Eye colour? - Brown, which I hated as a kid but if it's good enough for Ginny Weasley, it's good enough for me 😂

Tagging: @lanaturnergetup @solongdaisymayy @merlinsbudgiesmugglers @artemisia-black @ginnyw-potter @sophie-hatter-jenkins @thelighthousestale @my-patronus-is-a-champagne-glass @corneliastreet28 @corneliastreet28 @ashotofogdensoldfirewhiskey @pitchblackveins @takearisk-x @fizzyginfizz @pocket-lilacs

[bunnysnuff]

Paris with Imogen Heaney would include:

Pairing: Imogen Heaney x gn!reader.

Trigger warning: none.

Excited Planner: Imogen would be absolutely thrilled about going to Paris and would plan everything to make sure you both have the perfect trip. Expect her to research all the best spots, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, and she’ll have an itinerary ready to go.

Obsessed with the Eiffel Tower: Imogen wouldn’t be able to contain her excitement the moment she spots the Eiffel Tower. She’d insist on visiting it both during the day and at night when it’s sparkling. Prepare for lots of selfies with her beaming beside you in front of it.

Café-Hopping: Imogen would love experiencing French cafes. You’d spend mornings sipping on coffee, sharing croissants, and just watching the world go by. She’d be all about trying different pastries, especially anything with chocolate.

Fashion Moments: Imogen would go all out with her outfits, wanting to embrace Parisian chic. You’d see her in berets, stylish dresses, and scarves. She might even drag you to some trendy boutiques to pick out the perfect “Paris look” for the day.

Museum Exploration: She’d want to hit all the famous museums, especially the Louvre. Imogen would be excited about seeing the Mona Lisa and might geek out over it a little. She’d also want to take cute, artsy photos with you in front of the exhibits.

Romantic Boat Ride on the Seine: Imogen would suggest a sunset boat ride along the Seine, pointing out all the famous bridges and landmarks as the city lights up. She’d hold your hand the entire time and tell you how magical it all feels.

Cute Picnic in the Park: She’d plan a classic Parisian picnic in a park like Jardin des Tuileries or under the Eiffel Tower. With a baguette, cheese, fruit, and wine, it’d be one of those simple yet unforgettable moments. She’d take photos of everything, making sure to capture the two of you enjoying the moment.

Getting Lost in Montmartre: Imogen would love wandering around the artsy Montmartre district. She’d suggest getting your portrait drawn by a street artist, even if it turns out a bit exaggerated, and she’d laugh about it for the rest of the trip.

Shopping on the Champs-Élysées: Imogen would definitely want to stroll along the famous Champs-Élysées, popping into luxury stores just to see what’s inside. She might buy something small to remember the trip or encourage you both to get matching bracelets or rings.

Trying New Foods: Imogen would be adventurous with food, wanting to try escargot or duck confit just for the experience. She’d encourage you to be brave too, but she’d also make sure to find some familiar comfort foods in case it’s not your thing.

Photoshoots Everywhere: Every spot in Paris would be a perfect backdrop for Imogen. She’d constantly stop to take photos of the two of you, ensuring you have a collection of memories from the trip. You’d have to remind her to live in the moment too, not just capture it!

Late Night Strolls: Imogen would love nighttime strolls through the city, enjoying the way everything feels more romantic after dark. She’d want to walk hand-in-hand, talking about everything under the stars.

Constantly Saying "This is So Romantic": Throughout the trip, Imogen would keep gushing about how romantic everything is. Whether it’s a simple street corner, a sunset, or a moment between the two of you, she’d be in awe of how magical Paris makes everything feel.

Souvenir Collector: Imogen would be all about collecting souvenirs, whether it’s postcards, keychains, or little trinkets to remember the trip. She’d definitely buy you something as a keepsake to always remember Paris together.

Spontaneous Adventures: Although she’d have a plan, Imogen would love being spontaneous too. She might suggest an impromptu ride on a carousel, visiting an unexpected café, or exploring a random side street that catches her eye.

Emotional Departure: When it’s time to leave, Imogen would be a little emotional, probably tearing up a bit. She’d talk about how perfect the trip was and how much she can’t wait to come back one day, hopefully with you again by her side.

[stoopid-turtle]

made-up mbti types for dd and gg

So the GQ event that dd attended recently (you know, the one with the love hat) was supposedly gonna share his MBTI type with us. I don't think they ever did, probably because dd just didn't do the test thing. I'm not surprised we never got to see his mbti type, but I did have my own guess as to what he'd score, so I figured I'd share here.

(As a note, MBTI is pretty much junk science but it's fun. Just don't take it too seriously. I used to be really into it in a fannish sense and it's the closest I get to woo-stuff. If you don't know what MBTI is, here have fun.)

Cut to the chase: I'd guess dd is ISFP. My reasoning below the cut.

Introvert - The best way I've found to describe the difference is that introverts recharge by being alone. That is, a weekend full of social engagements is something they need some alone-time after. For an extrovert, social events, themselves, recharge them. Being alone is what's exhausting and what they try to avoid.

DD's probably rarely fully alone, given his busy schedule and the life of a celebrity. But introverts have ways to introverting, even among a bunch of people. I think sometimes people conflate "introvert" to mean "shy", but they're not the same. I don't think dd is particularly shy. It's just all about where your energy comes from.

Sensing - This one is about how you process information.

As an illustration, my bff and I were on a road trip once. She's the type who liked to literally pull over a smell the freaking flowers. And she could name every single flower/plant/tree she came across. Her eye for detail and ability to describe things with precision is always boggling to me, because to me, the most I can say is something like "It was sunny and the trees are green". Very vague. All about the overall impression rather than the details.

In MBTI terms, my bff would be Sensing while I'm Intuition (this is the N. Just go with it). Intuition folks are thought of as the big picture, abstract thinkers while Sensing is about the details and about the Facts of the World.

I mentioned before that dd strikes me as a pretty literal thinker, and that type of thinking overlaps with Sensing more than Intuition.

Feeling - People get confused by this one. It's not about whether the person expresses emotions or anything like that. It's about decision-making. When making a choice, does this person weigh the pros and cons? Try to come to a reasonable and sound decision? Or do they go by gut, following their emotions like animes tell them to?

This is hard to assess because we don't know much about how dd goes about making the decisions he makes. We don't know what went into his decision to go into idol training, say, or why he put his hat in the ring for The Untamed.

I'm making a guess that he's more driven by emotion than thinking. This isn't to say he acts blindly without any thought or that he never makes rational decisions, but he weighs his feelings highly. He'll pursue a gay romantic relationship with another celebrity, despite the risks, because he's in love and, you know, he follows his heart. His decision to submit his headshot for The Untamed, especially, strikes me as being Feeling-driven. Given his career at the time, acting in a BL adaptation was off the beaten path and risky. He lost fans because of it.

I think both gg and dd make a feelings-based decision to drop candies for turtles. There's no rational business case to do so. It's simply because they value having a group of fans who recognize them as a couple and they want to keep those fans with them.

Perceiving - This one's about how you plan or organize your time (or don't).

Judgers are the type to have a planner with a set schedule a routine. They have trouble adapting when their schedule gets disrupted. Perceivers are more go with the flow, able to take things as they come. When taking vacays, they would rather not have a packed itinerary bc they want the freedom to go where the moment takes them.

This is also something I don't feel I have a lot of insight on. DD's schedule is heavily managed and heavily packed, and he spends most of his time diligently following along with that schedule. That's part of his job, though. On his own, would he be inclined to keep to a schedule? I kinda don't think so.

I'm just going based on his...um...general chaotic energy. That and his tendency to do his KPI social media posts all at the last minute. Classic Perceiver move.

***

So, ISFP. In truth, each of these traits is a spectrum and people show examples all along the different traits at different times (for instance, dd's decision-making in SDC is typically strategic rather than based on feelings). Most things are based on context. But this feels right to me, overall.

For gg, I haven't watched near as much of him as I have of dd, but a guess would be INFJ.

Feel free to share your own ideas. Or squee about the love hat. Whatever. 🐢🐢🐢

[thedreamytrek]

Atlantic Road Norway: Epic Road Trip 🌊🚗

The total distance for the Atlantic Road Norway from Kristiansund to Molde is approximately 135 kilometers (84 miles).

The estimated travel time for the entire journey would be approximately 2 to 3 hours, excluding stops for sightseeing and breaks.

1. Kristiansund 🏘️⚓

Highlights: Known for its colorful houses and rich maritime heritage.

Things to Do:

Klippfisk Museum

Grip Stave Church

Vågen Bay

Sundbåten

2. Averøy 🌉🏝️

Starting Point: The Atlantic Road begins at Kårvåg in Averøy.

Highlights: Famous for the scenic Atlantic Road and historical sites.

Things to Do:

Kvernes Stave Church

Håholmen

3. Vevang 🌅

Highlights: Known for its picturesque coastal views.

Things to Do:

Eldhusøya

4. Eide 🌳🎣

Highlights: Surrounded by natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Things to Do:

Fishing and Hiking

Eide Church

Explore Local Farms

5. Hustad 🌊🏞️

Highlights: A rural area with scenic landscapes.

Things to Do:

Farstadstranda Beach

Hiking

6. Bud 🐟🏰

Highlights: A charming fishing village with rich history and stunning views.

Things to Do:

Ergan Coastal Fort

Bud Museum

Coastal Walks

Bud Church

Seafood Restaurants

7. Molde 🌹🎶

Highlights: Known as the "Town of Roses," famous for its stunning views

Things to Do:

Varden Viewpoint

Molde Cathedral

Romsdalsmuseet

Molde Panorama

Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) or Autumn (September to October)

Driving Conditions: Be cautious during winter (November to March) as roads can be icy and windy. Always check weather conditions before traveling.

‼️COMMENT “planner” and I’ll send you my FREE sample 1-day Paris itinerary. 🛫

Discover the world hassle-free - get started with us!

FOLLOW @thedreamytrek for more

[oflights]

Hello! How about drarry on vacations? Or even planning vacations/breaks? :)

hi, thank you!! okay i am answering this one on a plane, which feels appropriate haha

1. okay, draco is the planner; he maps out crazily detailed itineraries that harry then has to coax him away from because he likes to be spontaneous (and draco almost winds up loving whatever harry drags him into last minute the most)

2. draco is also just the more experienced traveler, though, and he loves to play tour guide. harry loves tour guide draco for sure, but he also likes to come up with vacation ideas that are new to both of them so they can make brand new memories together.

3. harry idealizes the idea of like a long car trip somewhere (ignoring that he’s not actually the best driver). draco goes along with this plan just long enough to realize he’s 1. terrified of cars and 2. gets carsick

4. their compromise is a long trip by sea, whether on a muggle cruise or some sort of magical ship.

5. they like to mix relaxing vacations with adventurous trips. harry is a beach guy for sure, while draco would rather go to like a remote spa in the mountains but he also likes how harry looks in his bathing suit so. he’ll make sacrifices.

[thisismeracing]

how much of a planner is mick schumacher ? like is he gonna be the person who gets the itenerary and books the flights and the hotels and makes an excel spreadsheet and everything ? ( that’s kind of attractive to me for some reason 🫣)

mmhmmm I think he’s a 8/10 planner guy. Like, he’s used to it because he doesn’t get a lot of free time to explore cities especially during racing weeks, so he has to have everything he wants to do set and ready for when he’s free. Mick would definitely take this to his personal life too, which means whenever you travel together he’s the one to buy the tickets, choose the hotel (considering location and so on), track all the good things you have to do and send you a list on messanger.

It’s kind of automatic, you mention Florida and he has an open browser with the search: best places in Florida to visit on a two days trip.

It’s always great to be with him, and sometimes you guys will skip the itinerary for some alone and romantically spontaneous time 😋

(I think this is attractive as well, but then again, everything about the millie-mick — the imagine of mick I have lol— is attractive to me 😩)

Send me thots

[tripcounselors]

Less Crowded Honeymoon Destinations

Are you having trouble deciding on a single honeymoon destination? This is where your search stops! There are a lot of fascinating hidden gems in your country that can make you reconsider your plans to travel elsewhere. India is a large country with a diverse population, which contributes to its wealth of natural beauty. Even though well-known honeymoon spots in India like Manali, Shimla, Ooty, and Jaipur get a lot of visitors, there are undiscovered and lesser-known places that provide a private, intimate experience and are breathtakingly beautiful.

Please visit our website Trip Counselors for more information.

[wildwood-faun]

I've been trying out wanderlog to plan my trip and it's really cool! It's a neat way of getting an overview of a trip and you can forward booking confirmations to them to get flight and accommodation info added automatically.

They have functionality for planning group trips as well which is something I'll definitely keep in mind next time I'm travelling together with someone.

Oh and there's guides you can use for inspiration!

[umichenginabroad]

Madrid Week 12: I got got (Morocco, part 1)

Hola a todxs! Niko back here with week 12/13/14 of studying abroad in Madrid! Don’t fear, I will not be going on any esoteric rants about time or something this time (except for the fact that I have 45 days left in Madrid, damn). Instead, I wanted to take this blog to write about the experience I had visiting northern Morocco this weekend with a tour group. Spoiler alert, it was awesome, and I’ve had a ton to reflect on. Moroccan culture is unlike any that I’ve experienced in my life (which makes sense, as I’ve only ever traveled in Europe, the Caribbean, and the Americas), and I had the pleasure of being immersed in it while simultaneously meeting new people. Since there’s so much to unpack, I decided to split this blog up into two parts, for the two legs of this trip. Let’s dive in!

Smart on the inside

This trip has definitely been a highlight of my travels thus far, and looking back, I really got the best of both worlds. I went on this trip with a tour group from a company called Smart Insiders, which helps young people in Madrid (especially those coming from abroad) find housing, get involved in community activities, and most importantly, travel. I would not recommend Smart Insiders, or any tour group for that matter, if you’re a serial planner when it comes to travel and need to fit in every item on your bucket list — or someone who prefers to wander a city, choosing what to explore based on vibes alone.

With that being said, I would highly recommend Smart Insiders — or tour group experiences in general — if you fall somewhere in between those two extremes. Traveling with a tour group means that there’s a pretty rigid schedule to every day, but if you don’t mind letting go of the reins and can just ride the flow set by the tour guides, you can have as amazing of an experience as I did (given that the tour company is good. Smart Insiders was).

A month or two back, I signed up for the trip alone. A friend had recommended it based on a trip he took to Spain’s Basque country. When I saw that they had a trip to Morocco, I immediately resolved to sign up. I had wanted to experience traveling in a tour group again after my first time in Buenos Aires (where I met Gaia, my italian friend I visited and wrote about many weeks back!), and Morocco was a bucket list travel destination for me. Given that the culture was so distinct from what I was used to, I figured that it might be nice to have the whole trip planned out for me ahead of time. 

So, I paid a reasonably low price for the group (~200 euros for 3 days of travel, tours, housing, etc), bought the plane tickets fro Air Arabia, and forgot about it until last weekend. Flash forward a month or two, and I was immediately buffeted by an arid wind as I stepped off Plane that had just landed in Tangier. Once we were through customs, I was greeted by a Moroccan man named Saied and a large congregation of around twenty familiar faces from the flight over, mostly 20-something year-old Americans with some Canadians, French, and a Belgian sprinkled into the mix (majority of which were English teachers). Smart Insiders collaborated with a Moroccan tour company to put together this trip, for which the entire itinerary had already been laid out.

We piled onto our little tour bus and started getting to know each other. As we departed towards our first destination, Asilah, I was flashed with deja vu from the bus scene on the way to Iguazu Falls, Argentina. A highlight of that trip was the people I met, and I stepped away from it with one key takeaway: people who like to travel are, almost by definition, open to new experiences. That attitude extends towards their interactions with others. Consequently, I knew that I would meet interesting people this weekend, and if not, I was assured that I could always keep myself company — especially with an entirely new landscape and culture to explore.

Both Worlds

Which two worlds was I referring to in the section above, you may ask? Solo and group traveling.

I came alone on this trip, which meant that I had no allegiances or obligations to anyone but myself and the schedule set by the tour leader. During our blocks of free time on the trip, I could choose where to go, what to do, and who to do it with — and to be honest, I spent most of my free time in Morocco wandering around by myself. Call me fascist or impatient, but I don’t really like the democracy (and associated waiting) that comes along with traveling in a large group of people — especially if they don’t know each other well. 

When I travel alone, I can do whatever I feel like, at my own pace, which was a luxury in the ultra-dense Souks in Morocco. I’ve found that my self confidence in new environments has really blossomed this semester simply because of the amount of weird cultural situations I’ve had to navigate by myself. Without this, I would have never had the confidence to break away from the group, and I’m proud of myself for getting to the point that I could do so comfortably. 

“But wait Niko,” you may ask, “Didn’t you just say last week that traveling with close friends is always better”. Why yes, my friend, I did (might I add, very conveniently, and actually not on purpose). Seeing the world with close friends gives new depth and meaning to the things we experience while traveling. 

I chose to be alone a fair amount on this trip, true. However, the majority of my time spent was with the group. Together, we went on guided tours, shared meals, spent many hours on the bus chatting (and sleeping), rode camels, and more. I can’t say for certain if I’ll meet up with anyone on this trip again in the future (shoutout Gaia again :) ), but I learned something from everyone I met (especially the two french girls on the trip! merci!) that I’ll take with me now for the rest of my life. By the time we rolled up to the airport together on Sunday, I felt that we had all really bonded. I knew almost everyone’s names, and relished in the feeling of being part of the tiny temporal community we had formed — a community which would never exist again, which made it all the more special. If you have the opportunity sometime, join a tour group and go somewhere cool for the weekend! It’s a unique adventure that I think everyone should experience at least once (and it’s soft on the bank account, too ;) ).

Hell-o Morocc-o!

So, now about Morocco itself, the focal point of the trip, which was one I’ve been looking forward to for the entire semester. As I mentioned, this trip would be my first time in Africa, and my first time experiencing a non-western culture. I certainly was not disappointed (sorry about the lame title of this section. I’m embarrassed).

Moroccan culture is a mix of Arab, Berber, African, and European cultures, but to an outsider like myself, the Islamic/Arabic influence came across most strongly. We visited Asilah, Tangier, and Chefchaouen, all of which are located in the northernmost tip of Morocco, bordering the strait of Gibraltar. Consequently, Spanish is a very common second language to Moroccans, after their native dialect of Arabic. More often than not, Moroccans would start interactions with our tour group in Spanish (and oftentimes, we would respond back to them in Spanish, too B) ). French and English are also very commonly spoken, and an impressive number of people I interacted with were fluent in all three.

We started the trip in Asilah, a small town on the west coast of Morocco’s northern tip, known for its quiet beauty and art scene. It was very calm and incredibly peaceful. One of our local tour guides, Hasan, led us on a short route through the city where we took our first look at a Moroccan city. We had lunch (freshly caught swordfish) and departed, spending the rest of the day hopping around different sites in the region: the caves of Hercules, the Cap Spartel lighthouse, and a beach on the side of the highway where we all took our turn to ride on a camel (which I wasn’t a big fan of — more info in the picture description). 

We finished at Tangier, where we checked into our hotel and departed for a group dinner at a traditional restaurant. The food was delicious, and we got a little surprise too. I finished the night drinking some mint tea and eating some flatbread at a little bar in a square. Yum.

In general, the food in Morocco was amazing. I’m a big fan of the Mediterranean/Arabic spice palate (and mint tea, although it was a little sweet to my liking), and that’s all we ate the whole weekend. One mini takeaway that I realized: I think food in America has trained my palate to desire more salt than is used in other countries. In Morocco (and Spain, Italy, at times) I often found the a bit undersalted. There’s nothing inherently wrong with this (or maybe not… nearly 90% of Americans consume sodium at levels which exceed amounts recommended by the 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans), but it’s interesting to be aware of.

We spent the next day exploring Tangier’s Medina (historic city center). The streets were narrow, the architecture was beautiful, and the shopping was plentiful and diverse. The shopping district had a vibe that was completely distinct to any I’ve visited before, people were bustling, things were colorful, and every few steps we’d get a whiff of some heavenly spicy soapy or incense-y smell.

We visited a pharmacy (where I picked up authentic Moroccan Argan oil), a textile shop (I got an epic cotton-cashmere scarf), and various shops selling artisan goods and souvenirs (a sick black woven belt, some postcards). Shopping in Morocco has a distinct vibe for one very special reason: none of the items have set prices.

Dance battle in the souk

If you weren’t aware, if an item has no price tag in a Moroccan shop in the Souk (market area), you have to bargain/haggle to get a good price. Crudely and metaphorically, haggling is somewhat like a dance battle, with each dancer attempting to gracefully undercut the other’s bluff with their words, body language, and actions. You can’t make a starting offer that’s too low, because then you’ll risk the vendor laughing in your face (consequently relinquishing all your power). You can’t show too much interest in the product because then the vendor knows that you would be willing to pay a higher price. But you can’t show too little, or you’ll hit a stalemate and they won’t be willing to negotiate further. Maybe it’s like judo or something, using the opponent’s body weight against them, something like that.

Having watched a few youtube videos about haggling strategy on the plane ride over, I was ready to roll when I stepped into a huge artisan shop. Every action was intentional. I found a woven leather belt that I really fancied — but focused my attention towards other items until I was ready to make an offer. The vendor gave me a starting offer of 350 Dirham (Moroccan currency, ~35 euros). I countered with 100 (seems low, I know. you’re supposed to counter with ⅓ of the original price and go from there). After a good amount of back and forth (trying desperately to hide my steadily rising heartbeat and sweaty palms from showing on my face or in my voice while a few other shopkeepers and another member of the tour group watched the battle ensue), we reached a stalemate. I pulled out my ultimate trump card: I started to leave, to show that I I didn’t care that much (I totally did, this belt was sick). He called me back to make me a cheaper offer to keep me around, around 200 Dirham. I said 150, take it or leave it. Deal made. Boom. Great success, and now that belt holds a little more meaning that it would have if I had just picked it off a shelf.

My biggest fail? In a shop shelling scarves. The vendor was hyping me up, saying I must be so smart if I speak so much Arabic (I knew like 4 phrases), where am I from, what languages do you speak, etc. etc. Then I found a scarf. He offered me 100 dirham for a Pashmina scarf (which was not handmade, but beautiful nonetheless), I countered with 30. The vendor pulled out the “he’s not like other vendors” tactic, said that he prefers not to start with a crazy high price, and thus doesn’t have much room to go down. He was a really nice guy, I believed him. We settled on two scarves for 170 Dirham, and I left happy. I proceeded to walk through the Souk, seeing  scarves of the same maker hanging up at a nearby shop. I asked how much for one, he told me 80 dirham. Damn, I got got. The other guy was intentional with every action, he knew what he was doing. Well played bro. 

Haggling like this was exciting, it let me practice a skill I didn’t have, it was totally new. I felt culturally immersed, and got some cool things out of it that I’ll have as a memory. Although at times it was stressful, I kind of wish more people did business like this in the USA. It would be fun.

But simultaneously, I felt a good amount of resistance when I first started practicing the skill. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was being incredibly cheap offering a third of their asking price, especially when in theory, I could have afforded it. There’s a lot of nuance with this surrounding the privilege I carry with me when I travel — more on that in the next blog. 

Overall, Tangier has a good vibe. Downtown is very modern, which is in stark contrast to the old-town artsy vibe of the Medina. We left in the late afternoon to Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl”, which was my favorite leg of the trip… more on that in the next blog, along with some important commentary/reflection…. Stay tuned!

As always, thanks so much for reading :). Check out the image descriptions for more details, and I’ll see y’all in the next post!! You can read it here.

Salam,

Niko Economos

Aerospace Engineering

Universidad Carlos III de Madrid

Madrid, Spain

economos@umich.edu