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]]>Uffizi Gallery
Step into the Uffizi Gallery, the original home of Renaissance celebs like Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. It’s more than just a gallery – it’s an art time machine where every piece has a story to tell.
Accademia Gallery
Here, you can see Michelangelo’s most famous work, the David sculpture, face to face. Other than flexing impressive muscles, this statue is a demonstration of artistic genius. And it’s far from being the only interesting piece of art in this gallery.
Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens
The Palazzo Pitti is a Renaissance castle filled with amazing art treasures. After you pay it a visit, you can continue for a stroll in the Boboli Gardens, where fabulous sculptures meet lush greenery.
Florence Cathedral (Duomo)
The Florence Cathedral, built over the course of 140 years, is the real deal and a must-see spot in the city. It’s not just a fancy dome or one of the biggest churches in Italy, but also a canvas filled with diverse frescoes and sculptures.
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]]>Airline Programs
If you’re a frequent flyer, then it’s worth checking if your program offers any discounts. For example, in 2023, Delta Air Lines announced a new SkyMiles partnership with Hertz, providing you with plenty of money-saving opportunities.
Check Out Car Sharing
If regular car rental prices seem steep, then a car-sharing alternative may be a better option. Getaround and Turo are two options that allow you to rent cars directly from their owners, thereby avoiding many typical car rental costs.
Look For Coupons
Websites such as Autoslash offer a wide range of car rental coupons, meaning that you can save on your car rental just by applying the right coupon code.
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]]>The post Off-Peak Perks: Why You Should Try Traveling in the Off-Season appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Crowd-Free Tourism
Tired of navigating human mazes at famous landmarks? Off-peak travel offers the serenity of empty streets and uncrowded attractions. Say goodbye to photo-bombers and hello to that perfect selfie backdrop you’ve been dreaming about.
Budget-Friendly Adventures
Other than fewer tourists, off-peak also means wallet-friendly adventures. Accommodations, flights, and activities often come with considerable discounts. Your bank account will thank you, and you’ll have more cash for to throw on fancy souvenirs (or some extra cups of coffee).
Insider Experiences
Want to feel like a local, not just a tourist? Off-peak lets you blend in with the community, offering a chance to chat with locals, discover hidden gems, and snag reservations at trendy local restaurants without months of planning.
If you’re now convinced that off-peak is the travel philosophy you didn’t know you needed, go ahead and book that flight. It’s almost over!
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]]>The post How to Prepare for a Flight When You Don’t Love Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Plan For All Eventualities
Whilst no one wants to predict that they’ll be stuck in the departures lounge for an extra five hours due to delays, unfortunately this is a reality which is worth planning for. Make sure you have comfortable clothes, extra layers for warmth, water, snacks, and something to distract you other than your phone. If you’re already feeling a bit nauseous from pre-flight nerves, staring at a phone screen will only increase these symptoms. Bring a great book, a mini board game or even a journal so you can jot down your thoughts as you wait.
Consider Paying For Extra Legroom
One of the biggest causes of stress and worry can be sitting cramped up in a plane seat for several hours, next to people you don’t know. If you’re traveling alone and can afford it, it may be worth paying for extra legroom, or for seats in your preferred section of the plane. If paying extra isn’t an option, bring a travel pillow so you can support your neck if you’re trying to sleep, and consider an eye mask and ear plugs too – if you don’t enjoy flying, sometimes the best way to deal with it is to try and nap through it.
Allow Extra Time
One of the biggest causes of flight stress is having a strict deadline at the other end of the flight. Unless absolutely unavoidable, try and allow yourself enough time to get from the airport to your accommodation or your next mode of transport without stress. Nothing is worse than standing in a customs queue, sweating because you have five minutes to make the train into the city centre. Map out each part of the journey, and leave yourself at least half an hour of spare time to get to each transfer.
Flying may not be your favorite activity, but with these simple adjustments, you can make the whole experience a lot more enjoyable for yourself.
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]]>The post Ennis House: An Architectural Marvel That is Also a Film Icon appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Representing Mayan Revival
Built in 1924, the Ennis House boasts Mayan Revival architecture, standing as a prime example of Wright’s innovative approach. Rising gradually with over 27,000 concrete blocks, it’s a vertical marvel supported by a retaining wall. Wright’s use of concrete in the 1920s, a novel idea for home construction, showcased his belief in its potential for affordable housing.
Unique Design Blend
The concrete blocks, hand-cast from on-site gravel, granite, and sand, feature a unique woven pattern, both inside and out. The Greek key design, a nod to Charles Ennis’s Masonic affiliation, adds another unique touch to this architectural masterpiece.
Hollywood’s Favorite Backdrop
Beyond its architectural significance, the Ennis House is a true Hollywood superstar, gracing the scenes of Mulholland Drive, Rush Hour, and Blade Runner, to name a few. The house’s mysterious allure has made it a canvas for filmmakers and commercials alike.
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]]>The post Magical Disney Destinations: Explore Real-Life Locations of Your Favorite Scenes appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris – The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Well, starting with this one is a must, as this real-life destination literally appears in the title of a Disney movie. Having taken almost 200 years to complete, this iconic French monument is a world-renowned piece of Gothic architecture. A true, not very Disney-like tragedy occurred in 2019, when the roof of the cathedral caught fire, resulting in terrible damage. But hey, good news: After five whole years, Notre Dame is set to complete its restoration process and reopen in December 2024. This means you could soon go there and act out some memorable Disney moments.
(@nature_mountains_sea)Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria – Sleeping Beauty
Did you know that Neuschwanstein Castle, located in the picturesque Bavarian Alps, was the real-life inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s Castle in the classic Disney film? This enchanted castle, looking over mesmerizing views, was built by King Ludwig II at the end of the 19th century. If you happen to be in the area, go wander through its antique rooms and imagine yourself in a Disney fantasy.
Taj Mahal, India – Aladdin
The inspiration for the imaginary Sultan Palace in Aladdin came from a very real place: the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. Despite commonly being mistaken for a palace, the Taj Mahal is actually a super impressive tomb. Its building was initiated by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1632 in honor of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Looking at this remarkable architectural creation, constructed with white marble and enveloped by beautiful gardens, it’s not hard to imagine it as the basis for a Disney palace.
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]]>The post How to Make a Business Trip Feel Like a Vacation appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Balance Your Itinerary
As much as possible, try to schedule leisure activities within your free time. Keep work commitments limited to typical business hours, using evenings and weekends as an opportunity to relax and explore. Check out local attractions, go out to eat, and attend cultural events to experience the unique features of your destination. With this approach, you’ll be able to get more out of your trip and return home with both professional achievements and personal memories.
Consider Your Accommodations
If you have the option to choose your own accommodations, opt for a place with a relaxing atmosphere. Look for hotels or Airbnb’s that come with amenities such as a pool, spa, or fitness center where you can unwind in your free time, and consider extending your stay for a day or two post-business to enjoy your destination without the constraints of work.
Connect With Local Culture
One of the best ways to make any trip feel like a vacation is to create a sense of connection with the local culture. Venture beyond the business district to parks and markets in off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, and consider taking a guided walking tour if your schedule allows. Ask your host or hotel concierge for recommendations.
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]]>Do Your Homework
Before you dive into the logistics, take a step back and define the main objectives of your retreat. Whether it’s strengthening social connections, inspiring creativity, or boosting team motivation, well-defined goals are your friends in planning a great company getaway. Surveying company employees in advance is a wonderful option! This way, you can use their input to shape the agenda and activities.
Choose the Right Setting
As many have said before: location, location, location. This precious aspect can make or break the entire retreat, so choose wisely. Make sure to base your decision on your goals and the preferences of your employees. Whether you end up choosing a beachside resort, a mountain retreat, or an urban oasis, the setting should facilitate relaxation and team bonding. A well-balanced environment will contribute to a successful retreat that leaves a lasting positive impact.
Build a Thoughtful Agenda
Once goals and locations are set, it’s time to craft the perfect agenda. It’s important to maintain a good balance between pure fun, team building, and some light discussions on company goals and vision. Incorporate icebreakers, set time for poolside or spa R&R, and include some more dynamic activities like hikes, city tours, or a group visit to the zoo. A thoughtful agenda should create a holistic experience for employees, leaving them thoroughly satisfied and happy to return to work.
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]]>The post Word on the Street: 4 Naples Street Foods You Have to Try appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Sfogliatella
If you have a sweet tooth, sfogliatella is a pastry that will send you straight to dessert heaven. This shell-shaped, carb-rich treat is usually filled with ricotta cheese, almond paste, or citrus peel. Whether you opt for sfogliatella riccia (curly) or sfogliatella frolla (smooth) version, you’re bound for a yummy delight.
Pizza Margherita
This might sound basic, but hey – sometimes, basic is best. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and trying out a traditional Margherita is a must. Head to a local pizzeria and relish in the simplicity of fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil, and a bit of olive oil on a thin, chewy crust. The combination of top-notch ingredients and traditional wood-fired ovens makes Naples’ Pizza Margherita a world-famous culinary delight.
Fried Pizza (Pizza Fritta)
OK, so, deep-fried pizza. Is any further explanation needed? Seriously, this popular Neapolitan street food invites diners into the realm of culinary perfection. This oily delicacy is made by folding pizza dough around ricotta, salami, ham, or veggies, then deep-frying the whole thing. What are you waiting for? Go grab one from the nearest street vendor.
Cuoppo di Mare
Seafood enthusiasts will love the Cuoppo di Mare, which is essentially a paper cone (well, that part’s not for eating) filled with various types of deep-fried seafood. From calamari and shrimp to small fish, this Naples street food is sure to have you drooling. Enjoy your cuoppo as you stroll along the seafront, watch the sunset, or just sit on a street bench – everything goes.
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]]>The post Heading to Paris? Here Are 3 Easy Ways to Learn Some French Before You Go appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Duolingo, Anyone?
You’ve probably heard of Duolingo, one of the most popular free language learning apps in the world, supporting 42 different languages, French among them. Designed for beginners, Duolingo offers gamified lessons that actually make language learning fun! The app covers essential phrases, greetings, and practical vocabulary, and even features daily challenges to keep learners engaged. A few minutes each day should work wonders for your French level, preparing you to navigate the streets of Paris with confidence.
FrenchPod101 Podcasts
Tune into FrenchPod101’s podcasts, a great resource for auditory learners. Offering lessons for all levels, the podcasts cover a spectrum of topics, from basic phrases to cultural insights. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or relaxing at home, these podcasts provide a convenient way to immerse yourself in the French language. Take advantage of their practical dialogues and culture-related information, ensuring you’re equipped with the conversational tools you need to interact effortlessly during your Parisian adventure.
Language Exchange Meetups
If you’re more into human interaction and face-to-face learning, language exchange meetups can be a wonderful option for you. Whether online or in your local community, it’s an ideal way of practicing French with native speakers. Look up gatherings near you or sign up for an online language exchange platform like Tandem and Preply to engage in real conversations, get immediate feedback, and learn colloquial expressions. You might even end up making some Parisian friends to hang out with while you visit.
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