The post Festive Towns to Visit in the UK to Get Some Christmas Spirit appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Taking place from 30 November until 1 January, Windsor Castle hosts a magnificent display that will surely get you in the Christmas spirit. This year, the decorations are also expected to pay tribute to the recent Coronation of King Charles III.
This quaint town in Cornwall will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Mousehole Harbour Lights; a display that lights up the entire town with 10,000 Christmas lights. You’ll see festive lights ignite the entire village landscape, including a Loch Ness monster display in the river.
With its centuries-old cathedral, brick buildings, and old, traditional British pubs, Ludlow is a magical place to visit at any time of year. Still, the snow adds to its charm, along with its magnificent Christmas Fair.
The post Festive Towns to Visit in the UK to Get Some Christmas Spirit appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post The Best Bookstores for Travelers in London, England appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>No exploration of London’s book scene would be complete without a visit to Foyles, an iconic chain with seven locations around the United Kingdom. Their flagship store on Charing Cross Road has been a literary mainstay for over 100 years, offering a vast collection of gifts, toys, and books throughout a beautiful and spacious 5-story building. For a light meal or a cup of tea between chapters, be sure to stop by The Café at Foyles on the 5th floor.
Tucked into the Marylebone neighborhood of London’s West End is Daunt Books, an independent shop specializing in travel and non-fiction. While its curated selection is certainly nothing to overlook, what really sets Daunt apart from other bookstores is its architecture. The building’s Edwardian-style construction features oak galleries that appear to go on for miles, while expansive skylights brighten up the space for easy reading.
For those who prefer their books pre-loved, Skoob Books in Bloomsbury is a sanctuary of secondhand treasures just waiting to be read. The store carries a wide variety of genres and its knowledgeable staff are all too happy to help shoppers find what they’re looking for amidst a sea of over 50,000 uncatalogued titles.
The post The Best Bookstores for Travelers in London, England appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post The Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Your First Trip to London appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>London’s public transportation system is efficient and convenient. Purchase an Oyster card or use contactless payment to travel on the iconic red double-decker buses and the extensive underground network known as the Tube. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the different zones and plan your journeys using apps like Citymapper or Google Maps for seamless navigation.
No trip to London is complete without visiting its iconic landmarks. Snap a photo in front of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, take a stroll across the Tower Bridge, and marvel at the grandeur of Buckingham Palace. Explore the British Museum to see ancient artifacts or visit the Tate Modern for contemporary art. Don’t forget to witness the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace for a quintessential British experience.
While the popular attractions are a must-visit, don’t overlook London’s hidden gems. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Camden Town or Shoreditch for their eclectic markets, street art, and lively atmosphere. Take a peaceful stroll along the canals in Little Venice or visit the serene Kyoto Garden in Holland Park. These lesser-known spots offer a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience.
London’s culinary scene is diverse and exciting. Indulge in traditional fish and chips, savor a classic afternoon tea, or explore the vibrant street food markets such as Borough Market or Camden Market. Don’t miss the chance to try international cuisines in London’s multicultural neighborhoods like Chinatown or Brick Lane. Venture into the pub culture and sample some locally brewed beers or ciders.
Immerse yourself in London’s theater scene by catching a West End show. From world-renowned musicals to thought-provoking dramas, there is something for everyone. Book tickets in advance to secure the best seats and check out discounted ticket options like the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for last-minute deals.
The post The Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Your First Trip to London appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post You Will Soon Need to Apply Online to Visit the UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>At present, those with American citizenship can visit the United Kingdom without a visa for a period of 6 months. But a new policy being rolled out by the UK may soon make that a bit trickier.
Great Britain plans to fully digitalize its borders by 2025 and is rolling out an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system that will require all non-visa foreign visitors (including those from the United States) to apply online in advance of coming.
“Our number one priority is the security of the UK border and by launching ETAs we can ensure that everyone wishing to travel to the UK has permission to do so in advance of travel and refuse those who pose a threat,” stated the UK’s Home Secretary, Priti Patel.
So what can potential visitors expect?
Travelers will have to provide personal details, passport information, and security information in order to apply, and can expect a response within 48-72 hours. It has not yet been confirmed how much the process will cost.
The ETA is set to go into effect later this year.
The post You Will Soon Need to Apply Online to Visit the UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Cozy Getaways in the UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>History and romance are at the heart of the city center, from the beloved Roman and Georgian bathhouses to the home of Jane Austin. It’s one of the UK’s most underrated and most beautiful cities. The Roman Baths have been named a UNESCO World Heritage site—a perfect location for a romantic getaway, especially if you love history.
Located about an hour away from London, a perfect location for a romantic getaway. Windsor is best known as the home of Winsor Castle and is home to the Royal Family. This historic town has lots to see and a wide range of restaurants and bars to try out. Soak up this history as you walk across Windsor Bridge and enjoy the location where Prince Harry and Megan Markle got married.
The lake district is arguably one of the most picturesque regions of the UK, offering panoramic views of the mountains. It is no surprise that some of England’s best authors have gathered inspiration from this region’s natural beauties. This adult-only hotel is the perfect location for a romantic getaway.
The post Cozy Getaways in the UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Top 3 Spots in Manchester Every Sports Fan Should Check Out appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Old Trafford is the home of the football club Manchester United, and the second largest football stadium in the UK after Wembley. If you can’t manage to attend one of the matches during your visit, you can always walk next to the famous pitch by joining the museum and stadium tour.
Another iconic stadium you shouldn’t miss while in Manchester, Etihad Stadium currently serves as the home of Manchester City. It was initially built for the 2002 Commonwealth Games, and it went on to host many major events over the years. Just like Old Trafford, Etihad Stadium offers stadium tours to visitors.
After exploring Manchester’s most iconic stadiums, get ready to dive into the UK’s rich football history in this amazing museum. It’s England’s national museum of football, and it’s now home to around 140,000 items celebrating the history of this sport.
The post Top 3 Spots in Manchester Every Sports Fan Should Check Out appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Day Trips Worth Taking From London appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Located 115 miles from London, this city is named for baths that the Romans built in the 2nd century. Today you can visit the hot springs and head to Thermae Bath Spa for some pampering treatments. When you’re done, there are plenty of bars and pubs to relax and enjoy the local fare.
One hour by train from London will take you to this hip and happening beach town full of unique stores and restaurants. Palace Pier is the place to be if you’re looking to check out all of the local businesses. Take a walk on the rocky beach and breathe the salt air.
Cambridge is a beautiful little city about an hour east of London by train with plenty to offer any traveler. Take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens or a tour of the famous university, check out the Fitzwilliam museum, or visit St. Mary’s church. It’s a short trip sure to be worth your while.
The post Day Trips Worth Taking From London appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post The Prettiest Castles to Visit in the UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Home to the Dunrobin Clan since the 14th century, this beautiful castle features architecture reminiscent of the palace of Versailles and others in France. Not only is the castle itself a sight to behold, but you can also view the gardens as well as visiting their tearoom, museum, and even a collection of live falcons.
Conwy Castle looks a lot like how you probably drew castles as a child. It is large and foreboding, made of stone bricks, and has turrets shaped just like in a fairy tale book. It was built for King Edward I and is a mastery of medieval architecture and fortification. On a visit, you can climb up the towers for an awesome view.
Built in the 15th century, Kilchurn Castle features a 5-story tower house that looms over its otherwise-mostly-ruined structure. The ruins are part of what makes it so picturesque. It’s set in one of the most beautiful places in the world, with a lake on one side and green mountains on the other.
The post The Prettiest Castles to Visit in the UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Countries That Have Totally Embraced the Vegan Lifestyle appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>America is the heart of influence for most of western society, and it’s no different when it comes to the vegan trend. The west coast, in particular, is known for its progressive take on healthy vegan cuisine, and the options are truly endless if you live out there.
The U.K. is another world leader when it comes to trendy vegan cuisine. London has multiple restaurants that are completely vegan-friendly, but even restaurants that are non-vegan tend to offer a variety of feasible options to vegans as well.
There’s a reason that Berlin, Germany’s capital, was named as the “Vegan Capital of Europe”. It’s because they’ve truly adopted the culture of veganism unlike any other. As a result, countless other cities around Germany have followed suit, making Germany undoubtedly one of the most vegan-friendly countries in the world.
The post Countries That Have Totally Embraced the Vegan Lifestyle appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Ranked: Top 5 Poker Countries in the World appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The United Kingdom has been growing its poker scene quite a lot over the last couple of decades. London, Edinburgh, and Dublin all have major hotspots where you can play poker from dusk until dawn.
Canada might be categorized as a country with “nice people”, but that won’t stop them from taking all your money in a friendly game of poker. Given that it’s legal to play poker there both online and at the casino, they’ve gotten a fair bit of practice.
Brazil is filled with countless casinos, and poker is incredibly popular there. According to a study, over 60% of their population enjoys poker in some way. Although online gambling there is illegal, it generates up to $4 billion of revenue per year.
Even though Indonesia is a relatively small country, its population absolutely loves poker. Gambling there is illegal, and therefore there are no legal casinos there—but their online poker culture is one of the most thriving in the world.
Americans love poker, and they’re legally allowed to play it. With 460 casinos in the United States, it stands to reason that there’s plenty of opportunity for Americans to get their game on. Whether it’s in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, or Reno, America is by far the biggest poker hotspot in the world.
The post Ranked: Top 5 Poker Countries in the World appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Festive Towns to Visit in the UK to Get Some Christmas Spirit appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Taking place from 30 November until 1 January, Windsor Castle hosts a magnificent display that will surely get you in the Christmas spirit. This year, the decorations are also expected to pay tribute to the recent Coronation of King Charles III.
This quaint town in Cornwall will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Mousehole Harbour Lights; a display that lights up the entire town with 10,000 Christmas lights. You’ll see festive lights ignite the entire village landscape, including a Loch Ness monster display in the river.
With its centuries-old cathedral, brick buildings, and old, traditional British pubs, Ludlow is a magical place to visit at any time of year. Still, the snow adds to its charm, along with its magnificent Christmas Fair.
The post Festive Towns to Visit in the UK to Get Some Christmas Spirit appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post The Best Bookstores for Travelers in London, England appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>No exploration of London’s book scene would be complete without a visit to Foyles, an iconic chain with seven locations around the United Kingdom. Their flagship store on Charing Cross Road has been a literary mainstay for over 100 years, offering a vast collection of gifts, toys, and books throughout a beautiful and spacious 5-story building. For a light meal or a cup of tea between chapters, be sure to stop by The Café at Foyles on the 5th floor.
Tucked into the Marylebone neighborhood of London’s West End is Daunt Books, an independent shop specializing in travel and non-fiction. While its curated selection is certainly nothing to overlook, what really sets Daunt apart from other bookstores is its architecture. The building’s Edwardian-style construction features oak galleries that appear to go on for miles, while expansive skylights brighten up the space for easy reading.
For those who prefer their books pre-loved, Skoob Books in Bloomsbury is a sanctuary of secondhand treasures just waiting to be read. The store carries a wide variety of genres and its knowledgeable staff are all too happy to help shoppers find what they’re looking for amidst a sea of over 50,000 uncatalogued titles.
The post The Best Bookstores for Travelers in London, England appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post The Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Your First Trip to London appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>London’s public transportation system is efficient and convenient. Purchase an Oyster card or use contactless payment to travel on the iconic red double-decker buses and the extensive underground network known as the Tube. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the different zones and plan your journeys using apps like Citymapper or Google Maps for seamless navigation.
No trip to London is complete without visiting its iconic landmarks. Snap a photo in front of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, take a stroll across the Tower Bridge, and marvel at the grandeur of Buckingham Palace. Explore the British Museum to see ancient artifacts or visit the Tate Modern for contemporary art. Don’t forget to witness the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace for a quintessential British experience.
While the popular attractions are a must-visit, don’t overlook London’s hidden gems. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Camden Town or Shoreditch for their eclectic markets, street art, and lively atmosphere. Take a peaceful stroll along the canals in Little Venice or visit the serene Kyoto Garden in Holland Park. These lesser-known spots offer a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience.
London’s culinary scene is diverse and exciting. Indulge in traditional fish and chips, savor a classic afternoon tea, or explore the vibrant street food markets such as Borough Market or Camden Market. Don’t miss the chance to try international cuisines in London’s multicultural neighborhoods like Chinatown or Brick Lane. Venture into the pub culture and sample some locally brewed beers or ciders.
Immerse yourself in London’s theater scene by catching a West End show. From world-renowned musicals to thought-provoking dramas, there is something for everyone. Book tickets in advance to secure the best seats and check out discounted ticket options like the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for last-minute deals.
The post The Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Your First Trip to London appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post You Will Soon Need to Apply Online to Visit the UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>At present, those with American citizenship can visit the United Kingdom without a visa for a period of 6 months. But a new policy being rolled out by the UK may soon make that a bit trickier.
Great Britain plans to fully digitalize its borders by 2025 and is rolling out an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system that will require all non-visa foreign visitors (including those from the United States) to apply online in advance of coming.
“Our number one priority is the security of the UK border and by launching ETAs we can ensure that everyone wishing to travel to the UK has permission to do so in advance of travel and refuse those who pose a threat,” stated the UK’s Home Secretary, Priti Patel.
So what can potential visitors expect?
Travelers will have to provide personal details, passport information, and security information in order to apply, and can expect a response within 48-72 hours. It has not yet been confirmed how much the process will cost.
The ETA is set to go into effect later this year.
The post You Will Soon Need to Apply Online to Visit the UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Cozy Getaways in the UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>History and romance are at the heart of the city center, from the beloved Roman and Georgian bathhouses to the home of Jane Austin. It’s one of the UK’s most underrated and most beautiful cities. The Roman Baths have been named a UNESCO World Heritage site—a perfect location for a romantic getaway, especially if you love history.
Located about an hour away from London, a perfect location for a romantic getaway. Windsor is best known as the home of Winsor Castle and is home to the Royal Family. This historic town has lots to see and a wide range of restaurants and bars to try out. Soak up this history as you walk across Windsor Bridge and enjoy the location where Prince Harry and Megan Markle got married.
The lake district is arguably one of the most picturesque regions of the UK, offering panoramic views of the mountains. It is no surprise that some of England’s best authors have gathered inspiration from this region’s natural beauties. This adult-only hotel is the perfect location for a romantic getaway.
The post Cozy Getaways in the UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Top 3 Spots in Manchester Every Sports Fan Should Check Out appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Old Trafford is the home of the football club Manchester United, and the second largest football stadium in the UK after Wembley. If you can’t manage to attend one of the matches during your visit, you can always walk next to the famous pitch by joining the museum and stadium tour.
Another iconic stadium you shouldn’t miss while in Manchester, Etihad Stadium currently serves as the home of Manchester City. It was initially built for the 2002 Commonwealth Games, and it went on to host many major events over the years. Just like Old Trafford, Etihad Stadium offers stadium tours to visitors.
After exploring Manchester’s most iconic stadiums, get ready to dive into the UK’s rich football history in this amazing museum. It’s England’s national museum of football, and it’s now home to around 140,000 items celebrating the history of this sport.
The post Top 3 Spots in Manchester Every Sports Fan Should Check Out appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Day Trips Worth Taking From London appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Located 115 miles from London, this city is named for baths that the Romans built in the 2nd century. Today you can visit the hot springs and head to Thermae Bath Spa for some pampering treatments. When you’re done, there are plenty of bars and pubs to relax and enjoy the local fare.
One hour by train from London will take you to this hip and happening beach town full of unique stores and restaurants. Palace Pier is the place to be if you’re looking to check out all of the local businesses. Take a walk on the rocky beach and breathe the salt air.
Cambridge is a beautiful little city about an hour east of London by train with plenty to offer any traveler. Take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens or a tour of the famous university, check out the Fitzwilliam museum, or visit St. Mary’s church. It’s a short trip sure to be worth your while.
The post Day Trips Worth Taking From London appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post The Prettiest Castles to Visit in the UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Home to the Dunrobin Clan since the 14th century, this beautiful castle features architecture reminiscent of the palace of Versailles and others in France. Not only is the castle itself a sight to behold, but you can also view the gardens as well as visiting their tearoom, museum, and even a collection of live falcons.
Conwy Castle looks a lot like how you probably drew castles as a child. It is large and foreboding, made of stone bricks, and has turrets shaped just like in a fairy tale book. It was built for King Edward I and is a mastery of medieval architecture and fortification. On a visit, you can climb up the towers for an awesome view.
Built in the 15th century, Kilchurn Castle features a 5-story tower house that looms over its otherwise-mostly-ruined structure. The ruins are part of what makes it so picturesque. It’s set in one of the most beautiful places in the world, with a lake on one side and green mountains on the other.
The post The Prettiest Castles to Visit in the UK appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Countries That Have Totally Embraced the Vegan Lifestyle appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>America is the heart of influence for most of western society, and it’s no different when it comes to the vegan trend. The west coast, in particular, is known for its progressive take on healthy vegan cuisine, and the options are truly endless if you live out there.
The U.K. is another world leader when it comes to trendy vegan cuisine. London has multiple restaurants that are completely vegan-friendly, but even restaurants that are non-vegan tend to offer a variety of feasible options to vegans as well.
There’s a reason that Berlin, Germany’s capital, was named as the “Vegan Capital of Europe”. It’s because they’ve truly adopted the culture of veganism unlike any other. As a result, countless other cities around Germany have followed suit, making Germany undoubtedly one of the most vegan-friendly countries in the world.
The post Countries That Have Totally Embraced the Vegan Lifestyle appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Ranked: Top 5 Poker Countries in the World appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The United Kingdom has been growing its poker scene quite a lot over the last couple of decades. London, Edinburgh, and Dublin all have major hotspots where you can play poker from dusk until dawn.
Canada might be categorized as a country with “nice people”, but that won’t stop them from taking all your money in a friendly game of poker. Given that it’s legal to play poker there both online and at the casino, they’ve gotten a fair bit of practice.
Brazil is filled with countless casinos, and poker is incredibly popular there. According to a study, over 60% of their population enjoys poker in some way. Although online gambling there is illegal, it generates up to $4 billion of revenue per year.
Even though Indonesia is a relatively small country, its population absolutely loves poker. Gambling there is illegal, and therefore there are no legal casinos there—but their online poker culture is one of the most thriving in the world.
Americans love poker, and they’re legally allowed to play it. With 460 casinos in the United States, it stands to reason that there’s plenty of opportunity for Americans to get their game on. Whether it’s in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, or Reno, America is by far the biggest poker hotspot in the world.
The post Ranked: Top 5 Poker Countries in the World appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>