Destination Archives - Top Spot Travel

August 25, 2023 by Jeremy

Austria Unveiled: Essential Tips for Exploring Must-See Spots

Given its stunning Alpine peaks and tranquil clear blue lakes, Austria is truly the epitome of idyllic beauty. Nestled right at the heart of Europe, the forlornly beautiful country of Austria is where you can take the arguably most breathtaking train journey around the Alps. This alpine country is most known for its majestic mountainous landscapes and picturesque Baroque architecture, which are the remnants of its imperial past.

If you plan to book a vacation package to Austria, there is no better time than now! In this guide, we will have a run-through of the best places to visit as well as essential tips and travel hacks you must know for you to make the most out of your trip to Austria.

Tips, Travel Hacks, and Essential Information You Need To Know

If this is your first time traveling to Austria, here are the things you must know to ensure a hitch-free journey.

1. Always make reservations at restaurants

The golden rule in Austria is that you won’t be seated in most restaurants without a prior reservation. It is necessary to call the restaurant ahead of time to make reservations, as there are usually no reservation systems online. Also, take note that people in Austria consider lunch as the main meal of the day and not dinner. Hence, it is the busiest time in restaurants. If you plan to dine somewhere—especially during lunchtime—be sure to schedule it with the restaurant ahead of time to reserve a seat.

As for the tipping system in Austria, it is customary to tip 10%, but only if you are satisfied with the food and service.

2. Make sure you have enough funds to afford the expensive cost of living in Austria

Ensure you have adequate funds allotted for your trip along with some extra cash for emergencies because Austria consistently ranks in the top 10 in the list of most expensive countries to visit in the world. It is ahead of Germany, Hong Kong, and even Iceland. The goods and services here are even 10% more expensive than in the US. For instance, the average nightly cost for a hotel room for two in Austria is around 110 EUR (93.50 GBP or 127 USD), and the average price for lunch in considerably affordable restaurants is already 18 EUR (15.30 GBP or 20 USD). Moreover, the admissions to museums, castles, and other attractions are also relatively expensive, so keep this in mind before you pay a visit.

3. You can drink tap water in Austria

Unlike in other countries where you have to buy bottled drinking water all the time just to prevent traveler’s diarrhea when you’re in Austria, you can drink the water straight from the tap. This is because Austria’s water supply is hailed as the top 5 safest drinking water in the world. So, if you are thirsty, you can safely drink water from the faucet unless you see a sign that reads “Kein Trinkwasser” (no drinking water).

4. Exchange money in banks for less conversion fees

Austria uses the euro (€) as their currency. If you only brought dollars, you can exchange it at the bank or in exchange bureaus. It would be best to opt for bank conversions because banks charge less commission than exchange bureaus. Banks are open from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 12.30 PM and 1:30 to 3 PM;

5. Shops in Austria have a weekly Ruhetag

In Austria, they implement “Ruhetag,” which translates to “day of rest” or “quiet day.” This means that most shops are closed on Sundays.

As for the opening hours, most shops are open all day from Monday to Saturday. But if you are in the suburbs, shops close at noon during lunchtime and on Saturday afternoons.

On public holidays, most shops and banks are closed, and most museums have reduced hours.

6. Most Austrians can speak and understand English

German is the official language of Austria. In addition, people also speak Austrian German, Hungarian, and Slovenian. Most Austrians also speak and understand English, so you won’t always have to use Google Translate in every conversation. However, it will still be nice to know some basic German phrases that you can use in small talk, such as:

Hello (Hello)
Danke (Thank you)
Guten morgan (Good morning)
Wie geht es dir? (How are you?)

7. It is best to travel by car

If you plan to stay in the big cities for the duration of your trip—which we don’t recommend, by the way—traveling via public transportation is a good idea. However, if you plan to explore the breathtaking views of the mountains and countryside, renting a car is the best way to make the most out of Austria. After all, the most beautiful places here are in the countryside and mountainous areas.

When driving, note that you drive on the right side of the road here in Austria. You would also have to pay 8 to 10 euros for stickers that are needed for you to drive in Austria. If you have an international driving pass, you must carry it at all times.

8. Include hiking in your must-try activities in Austria

Austria has one of the best hiking trails in Europe. If you have seen the Sound of Music, you must go to Austria to hike at least once in your lifetime. There are countless breathtaking trails across the whole country for you to choose from, but it is recommended to try the Grossglockner, Dachstein, Zell am See-Kaprun and Hallstatt trails.

9. Austria is among the safest countries in the world

Austria is generally an incredibly safe country. In fact, it is ranked as one of the top 5 safest countries in the world, so your mind can be at ease while traveling here. If you are a female solo traveler, you would be delighted to know that you can walk alone in small cities, parks, and even the woods, and no one would bother you. Although, of course, you have to watch your important belongings as there are some instances of pickpocketing in crowded areas or known tourist attractions.

In any case, memorize these emergency numbers so that you can contact the authorities in case you ever find yourself in an emergency situation:

General emergencies in the EU: 112
Ambulance: 144
Police: 133
Fire brigade: 122

Must-See Tourist Spots in Austria

Austria is full of exciting places to visit—from bustling chic cities to quaint little towns, impressive city landscapes to idyllic natural hiking trails and majestic mountains; you will never run out of breathtaking sights to be in awe of. If you have limited time for your trip, ensure the following tourist spots are in your itinerary.

Vienna

You can never go wrong with exploring Austria’s capital and largest city—Vienna. But beware because the city’s vibrant music scene and world-famous apple strudels will undoubtedly get you hooked.

When in Vienna, make sure to visit one of its significant landmarks—the Schönbrunn Palace, which served as the former residence of the emperors. Take the time to appreciate its intricate interiors, well-manicured gardens, and lavishly decorated halls that the former emperors used to roam. Also worth noting is the Belvedere Palace, which houses Austria’s most prestigious works of art, dating as far back as the Middle Ages.

The Blue Danube—the second longest river in Europe—also flows through Vienna, so don’t pass up the chance to go on a boat tour that will take you to the historical and modern parts of the city. Here, you’ll sail past historical buildings, such as the Donauturm, Uniqa Tower, and the Ringturm.

Salzburg

For a breathtaking view of the Alps, the beautiful city of Salzburg should be one of your top choices. Not to be taken only at face value, this historic city also has a long history of serving as the religious center ever since the early days of Christianity’s reign in Europe. Not only did it serve as the primary residence of the prince-bishops, Salzburg was also the hub of the greatest artists and architects at the time. They built churches, residences, and monasteries that still stand today as tourist attractions.

It is highly recommended for you to buy a Salzburg Card, which gives you free access to all the museums in the city and its surroundings. You will also get to use public transport for free, including the famous Untersberg cable car and the impressive Panorama City Tour boat trip. The card will also entitle you to discounts on various activities, such as concerts and theater performances.

But if you want a laid-back trip to just appreciate the surroundings, it is best to walk the medieval streets and arcade courtyards of Salzburg’s quaint, romantic towns. The old village of Residenzplatz is a good starting point as this is where you will find a majestic baroque palace. You can also climb to the Hohensalzburg Fortress to give you a gorgeous panoramic view of the city. After that, you can explore the Princes’ Chambers, which is one of the best-preserved secular gothic buildings in Austria.

Innsbruck

At the heart of the dramatic alpine landscape lies the forlornly beautiful city of Innsbruck. This city is often considered the skiing mecca because it is the best place for tourists who love winter sports. As such, you will find numerous ski resorts here, as well as the famed Bergisel Ski Jump.

The streets of this quaint town are full of tales as old as time and cozy cafés. Innsbruck is also renowned for its Imperial and modern architecture. One famous example of this is the Nordkette funicular designed by architect Zaha Hadid. Its futuristic stations climb up to 2,256 meters from the city center, and it is a popular spot for skiing in winter and hiking or mountaineering in summer. You can take the Nordkette cable car and ascend to the largest nature park in Austria, which offers unparalleled views of Austria’s unspoiled beauty.

September 7, 2022 by Jeremy

Four Reasons to Put Singapore on Your Travel Bucket List

Singapore isn’t just any other city – it’s a unique and exciting experience! Located south of Malaysia, the island city of Singapore should be in your travel bucket list. With extravagant, luxurious shopping malls, relaxing spas, stunning green gardens, and picturesque beaches, there’s something for every type of traveler in Singapore whether you’re alone or with family or here for adventures, to explore, or to simply wind down and relax. Eager to learn more? We’ve put together the top five reasons to add Singapore to your itinerary!

Royalty Free Photo

#1. Shoppers Rejoice!

If you love to shop when you travel and pick up new things from the destinations that you visit around the world, then you’ll love exploring the shopping malls in Singapore. The options for shoppers are so vast in this city, that it’s pretty much impossible to visit without buying at least one or two new items for yourself, or to give as gifts for your friends and family back home. And, there’s something for everybody, from high-end and designer items at Orchard Lane, to traditional, vintage and handmade items found in Little India and China Town Lane.

#2. Turn on Your Taste Buds:

One of the main reasons that Singapore attracts so many visitors is that quite simply, it’s a paradise for foodies. Anybody who enjoys trying new dishes and enjoying all the taste sensations of a new cuisine will be in their element in this vibrant city. From tantalizing street food on the go to sitting down for a three-course meal in a high-end, five-star restaurant, Singapore has something for every type of food-lover who visits. If you’re ready to get started with sampling the best cuisine in the city, you can book Delhi to Singapore flights here.

#3. Fun and Adventure:

Singapore may be known for its calming spas and quiet beaches, however, it’s not just the serenity that attracts visitors to this city. In fact, it’s just as much of a great choice of destination if you are looking for some fun, adventure and an adrenalin rush, with several awesome amusement parks to choose from. These include Universal Studios, LEGOLAND Singapore and Wild Wild Wet Singapore to name just a few, which are popular with visitors of all ages!

#4. Relax and Unwind:

Lastly, whether you’re looking for a totally relaxing vacation or simply want somewhere to rest in peace after an action-packed day in Singapore, you’re in the right place. The city has a vast array of spas and massage parlors to choose from if you want to indulge in some rejuvenating treatments, whilst those who love exploring nature will be in awe of the many gardens around the city. Gardens by the Bay is a must-visit, and home to the Cloud Forest Dome which is the tallest indoor waterfall in the world. For a truly relaxing day, eastern Singapore and Sentosa Island are where you will find the main beaches, complete with water sports options, seafood restaurants, and plenty of spots to kick back and relax.

Make sure to include Singapore in your travel bucket list. It is a city that truly offers something for every kind of traveler.

February 4, 2022 by Jeremy

Best Ski Resorts in North America

Skiing is an incredible sport that requires every muscle in your body and can take time to perfect. If you’re new to the sport, or you’ve spent your entire life chasing the best slopes you could find: there’s a lot of fun to be had in North America!

Each of these ski resorts offers a fantastic chance to head down some of the most incredible slopes on the continent while also having fun getting to know other athletes.

Some of these are even those slopes that some Olympic games were played on! Here’s where to enjoy them.

Lake Louise Ski Resort

The Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of the most famous in the world. Just an hour outside Banff, the oldest national park in Canada, this is a great stop for anyone who wants to make the most out of their vacation.

Lake Louise is more than just a ski resort, though; beyond its countless slopes and incredible views, there’s also a lot of fun spas and adventuring things to enjoy while you’re in town.

Over time this has become a favorite for anyone wanting to make the most out of an active vacation!

Vail Ski Resort

The Vail Ski Resort is one of the top resorts in America. This is what skiers think of when skiing in America is brought up. Not only are there thirty feet of snow every year, but it also drops down on over 5,300 acres of land. This resort is the third-largest single mountain ski resort in the USA, but it holds its own because of its flexibility and how long its season lasts.

If you want to get in some of the best skiing possible, regardless of your skill level: this is the place to do it.

Whistler Blackcomb

Whistler is one of the most well-known skiing resorts in the world: and for good reason! Not only are the slopes here amazing, but the season stretches over five months, and there’s a wide variety from beginner slopes to those that need a lot of skill for anyone to be able to complete them.

Whistler is fantastic outside of the ski resort, offering a chance at fun and relaxation while still being surrounded by the gorgeous views this mountainous area has to offer. You’ll fall in love within minutes of your first visit; don’t be surprised if you start looking at real estate for sale in Whistler!

Big White Ski Resort

Also known simply as Big White, this ski resort is just 56 km southeast of Kelowna in British Columbia. This is the highest summit in the Okanagan Highland and is a breathtaking place to be year-round.

Visitors love the views that they get while gliding down the slopes and the moment they can catch their breaths while riding back up in the gondola. Every inch of this resort is made to be a skier’s dream destination.

Skiing is an incredible sport that can work every inch of your body and mind while letting you enjoy some of the most stunning views in the world.

If you’re looking for other great accommodation nearby one of the aforementioned resorts, look for a promo code on Hotels.com for more options. You can usually find places to stay much cheaper right next to the resorts in walking distance even.

October 9, 2020 by Jeremy

CBD Affiliate Program – A Great Opportunity for Marketers

As explained by a financial analyst, money is a language spoken in every part of the world. Across the time zones and location, the currency and value may change, still, every mature being wants it.

This article is meant to show how you can benefit from affiliate marketing. Particularly, we will be explaining why the CBD affiliate program is a great option. But first things first, let us explain what affiliate marketing is.

What Is Affiliate Marketing?

This is a reward system that allows you to earn from promoting products and/or services that are not yours. This means you are rewarded financially or materially for making people make purchases.

This marketing does not have to be an offline affair. Most affiliate programs today are online-based. The registration, advertisement, purchase, and payment are all conducted via an online platform. You can read more about it here: https://smartblogger.com/affiliate-marketing/.

How Rewarding Is Affiliate Marketing?

Frankly, you cannot give a definite answer to this question. If you ask two people this question, chances are that they will have entirely different answers. Why is this?

The Product Marketed

Success as an affiliate marketer is down to a number of things. However, chief among them is the product or niche you are marketing. If you are promoting an item or service that is highly demanded, you stand a better chance of making huge returns.

The Marketing Techniques

To make reasonable sales, you have to get people aware. To do this, you should be open to new trends that can help with this. As things are, there are social media and digital platforms where you can spread the message to a large number of people very easily.

Other than getting people to know, you have to draw the attention of the right people. It is called “target-audience”. For example, you do not want to draw the attention of high school students to a diaper offer. They are not the right kind of audience.

Instead, you need pregnant and married folks to know about it. For more on affiliate marketing techniques that can help you in this niche, you can click here.

Commission Rate

To make a sizable income from affiliate marketing, you need to be conscious of the numbers. What’s in it for you? How much do you stand to gain from every sale?

These are questions you should seriously answer.

CBD Affiliate Program – A Great Opportunity for Marketers

Up until now, we have stressed how an affiliate marketer can make the most of the business. In one of the points, we stressed the importance of the actual item of service being marketed and how that this will affect your prospects. Well, we certainly have something that ticks all the boxes: The CBD affiliate program.

Just in case you are wondering why anyone should consider marketing a product like this, let’s go over some reasons.

CBD Is in Increasing Demand

The organic properties that make up CBD products are greatly beneficial. This is why many consumers use them to resolve various physical and psychological health problems.

As people keep hearing the timely and massive benefits of these drugs, CBD companies are raking in huge profits. Little wonder many pharmaceutical companies are diversifying into the production of CBD supplement.

Just so you have an idea of how profitable the industry is, it is estimated that by 2025, the industry will generate over 20 billion dollars. Considering that the sector is not more than 15 years, this is very impressive.

A Wide Range of Products to Market

The word CBD product is quite ambiguous. There are many kinds of products that can be purchased and used by clients. Options include oils, powders, gummies, treats for pets, vapes and topicals, among others.

By opting to be a CBD affiliate marketer, you have a wide array of products that can be marketed and purchased.

The Legality of CBD Products

Considering the benefits derived from the use of CBD products, these products are legally allowed for production, sale, purchase, and use. As a result, you are certain that you are not breaking the law by marketing them.

So Many Uses

We have stressed how highly in demand CBD products are. This is partly because of its relevance in many situations and conditions. For instance, it can be used for arthritis as well as insomnia. These are entirely different conditions, but these drugs help resolve both problems.

Also, other than humans, pets and livestock stand to benefit from this drug as well. Almost every mammal can use these drugs. This is because they have the endocannabinoid system.

Huge Returns

There are many companies into the production of these drugs. As a result of this, many of them are exploring the affiliate program option as a way of standing out from the crowd. To this end, they offer great commission and incentives that are above market standards to their marketers.

Many of these companies offer between 20 – 40 percent commission. You should consider making the most of this opportunity. There are a couple of good companies that have this program. You can visit cheefbotanicals for more on this.

Conclusion

Are you thinking of the best way to make money online?

In this article, you have seen how the CBD affiliate program can be good option for you. We can go on and on stressing how profitable it can be. We however recommend this to you considering the prospects and impressive numbers emerging from this niche.

June 12, 2020 by Jeremy

Top 7 Tourist Attractions To Visit in Australia

World’s smallest continent, and largest Island, Australia is a breathtaking beauty on every traveller’s list. From being home to exotic wildlife to the land of revered aboriginal tribes, complete with clean sandy beaches, turquoise coral reefs, a stretch of deserts, national parks, and rainforests, Australia is a paradise. As you step on this diversified land, you will find yourself enjoying, relaxing, and having a frolic time.

So, if you are planning to tour Australia or wish to visit your sibling who has recently relocated to this city, then these are the unmissable tourist attractions of the city. Let’s explore!

1) Sydney Opera House: An architectural marvel! Structured and built as a huge sailing ship by architect, Jorn Utzon nestled between Sydney Harbour and Royal Botanic Gardens, The Opera House graces the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is also the world’s iconic architectural masterpiece.

2) Great Barrier Reef: Scuba Diving Hub. Located in the coral sea encompassing a vast area of more than 2, 900 coral reefs, islands, and cays, Great Barrier Reef is a most sought after destination for scuba divers and underwater explorers. It is also one of the seven wonders of the natural world that attracts venturesome souls to its lap.

3) Great Ocean Road: Spectacular formations and driving routes. For the beholders of beauty, this is a must-visit place. A long stretch of road along the Port Campbell National Park having wind and wave sculpted rock formations known as the Twelve Apostles, London Bridge, The Arch, and Loch Ard Gorge; Great Ocean Road is a natural beauty to visit and explore.

4) Mudgee: A beautiful town northwest of Sydney in New South Wales, Australia harbouring colonial buildings, dozens of wineries, Lawson park on the banks of the river, and St. Mary’s Catholic Church is characterized by Gothic Revival architecture.

5) Blue Mountains National Park: Have a beautiful day trip at the Blue Mountains National park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Blue Mountains National Park gets its name from the blue haze emanating from the eucalyptus tree. The stunning park shelters wilderness and encompasses waterfalls, gorges, hiking trails, and aboriginals rock paintings.

6) Kakadu National Park: Fuel your wilderness. It is this planet’s wilderness areas as well as a World Heritage Site. With a covering area of 19, 840 square kilometres, Kakadu is Australia’s largest National park and world’s second-largest in the world. In the National park lies the astounding quirkiest wildlife diversity.

7) Harbour Bridge: Another famous tourist attraction in Sydney, Australia is the Sydney Harbour Bridge– an epitome of engineering perfection. Also, known as the Coathanger, this steel construction is the largest steel arch bridge in the world.

So, these were the top 7 tourist attractions that you can’t afford to miss on your Australia trip. Given the current situation, it may not be possible for you to travel to this city; therefore, send rakhi to Australia to your sibling this year, and take a trip to Australia the next year because it’s a gem of a country to embrace and to explore.