The more color the better at these diverse festivals found all around the world! From food fights to festive fetes, these are some of the liveliest parties happening throughout the year in countries around the world.
Europe
Sami People: The Oldest Indigenous Tribe in Europe
Nestled within the Arctic Circle lies a land of breathtaking beauty and cultural richness — northern Scandinavia including Finnish and Swedish Lapland, Norway and Russia — home to Europe’s oldest Indigenous tribe, the Sami people.
Helsinki to Lapland Train: the Real-Life Polar Express
If you’re looking for real-life Polar Express experience, look no further than the train to Lapland. With multiple daily journeys year-round from Helsinki all the way to the Arctic Circle, the train is one of the most scenic and enjoyable ways to get around Finland in every season.
The Ultimate Northern Lights Trip to Finnish Lapland
When my husband and I arrived in Finland, we had only one expectation: to see the Northern Lights. Spoiler: we did NOT see the Aurora. (Well…not technically. More on that later.) But after a week in Finland and five of those days spent in Finnish Lapland, we returned home with newfound appreciation of Finns, Indigenous Sami culture, and the wilderness they call home.
Experience the Magic of Winter in Val Gardena
In Val Gardena, winter extends beyond the excitement of outdoor activities, inviting visitors to unwind and immerse themselves in the region’s wellness centers and delicious restaurants. Soak in the alpine culture of the Ladin people, who have created a distinctive community in the Dolomite region that blends Swiss, Tyrolean (Austrian), and Italian mountain lifestyles.
Family-Friendly Winter Vacation in the Dolomites
Take your family-friendly ski trip to new heights in the winter wonderland of the Italian Alps at the 3 Zinnen Dolomites resort. We’ve included everything you need to know, from getting there to things to do, as well as why the Dolomites are in a league of their own when it comes to winter vacations.
Extraordinary Winter Activities at One of Europe’s Best Ski Resorts
Bright sunshine reflects off the snow, crisp air fills your lungs, and sound is muted except for the satisfying crunch of fresh powder underfoot. There’s nothing quite like a ski trip, especially one to the 3 Zinnen Dolomites, where resort visitors can find the perfect pairing of ski season favorites and fun for the whole family.
Poland: Home of the Best European Christmas Markets
Every year, annual traditions take over Poland as buildings and houses are decked in decor while colorful and cobblestone streets are flooded with twinkling lights. Massive Christmas trees take over charming squares as horse drawn carriages become the town Uber. The fatty and fried oil smell of delicious pierogi dances through the air coupled with people using mulled wine as a source to stay warm, physically and mentally. The colorful buildings of famous and historical streets lead you through town during the day, at the same time becoming engulfed in Christmas illumination by night. Throw a little snow into the mix to create a real life snow-globe and winter wonderland masterpiece.
The Best Food in Puglia, Italy
In an extremely diverse country of landscape, culture, history and food, Italy’s shining attribute is the use of simple and seasonal ingredients. One of the most charming and fascinating aspects of Italian cuisine is the unique differences between the 20 regions. The South of Italy in general has influenced the gastronomical scene across the globe, thanks in large part to “Cucina Povera”, or peasant food. Although it may be defined as the food of the poor, these are some of the best dishes of Italy. The simplicity is what makes them so special and shows that you don’t always need some extravagant and expensive recipe to enjoy an incredible experience. However, travelers to Italy often miss out on exploring the region of Puglia while instead going to the tourist hotspots of Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence and Napoli, whereas this region may be one of the best for any foodie out there.
7 Day Southern Italy Itinerary
Southern Italy is home to the stunning region of Puglia, one of the country’s most underrated areas and best-kept secrets. It’s slowly gaining in popularity, but you can still enjoy quieter times in the off-season. Keep reading for an epic seven day itinerary through southern Italy with a special focus on Puglia.
Puglia, Italy: the Ultimate Guide
Seabirds and swallows sing overhead, dancing in the golden light reflections upon historical buildings of white limestone as the sun begins to set. Sounds of waves crashing against rocks below echo through town, as the sweet and refreshing smell of salt from the vibrant blue-green Adriatic Sea penetrates your nostrils. Travelers navigate through narrow cobblestone streets, adorned in twinkling lights as the ambience of glasses clinking upon one another sets up an evening to remember. Platefuls of handmade pasta, tossed with seasonal ingredients accompanied by the freshest and creamiest local cheeses play the protagonist at every table. Puglia, Italy, occupying the “Heel of the Boot”, is one of the country’s best regions and the gem of the Adriatic.
Hidden Gems of Andalucia, Spain: Vejer de la Frontera, Carmona, and Antequera
Andalucia, Spain, is unlike any other region in southern Europe. Imagine sun-drenched days in an epic landscape that includes pristine beaches and impressive mountain ranges. Charming white-walled towns speckle the region and the dining is unparalleled. Cultural influences range from Moorish to Mediterranean, and Flamenco is a way of life. This is Andalucia.