Top Spot Travel

February 21, 2014 by jfalbelda

Top Tourist Attractions In Finland

Nature is behind many of the top tourist attractions in Finland. It may be home to Nokia, one of the world’s leading phone manufacturing companies, but it is blessed with unspoiled nature and stunning scenery. Locals are well aware of this that even though they live in a technologically-advanced country, they spend their summer months in cottages around beaches and lakes for relaxing activities such as swimming and fishing. The Nordic country also has an interesting past which left it with numerous historical attractions.

#1: Rauma

The old town is characterized by its wooden architecture and has become one of the finest examples of a traditional Nordic city. Rauma is also one of the world’s biggest and most beautiful wooden towns. There are more than 600 buildings here and many of them are privately owned and well-preserved. The typical house in Rauma is called a kirsti. It is a small fisherman’s house. Don’t miss this awesome Norwegian destination!

#2: Seurasaari Island

The island offers a quick escape from Helsinki as it’s only a few kilometers away. Not only does it give you a peaceful break from the city, it also acts as an outdoor museum that represents four centuries of Finnish history. Old mansions and estates from all over Finland were moved here but you will also see small cottages and farmhouses to represent the country’s different regions. Walking around Seurassari Island is a delight for any nature lover as well because of its beautiful sceneries.

#3: Suomenlinna Fortress

The fortress hails from the later half of the 18th century. It was built to aid Sweden in protecting the eastern Baltic region from Russian invasion. Suomenlinna spans across six islands near Helsinki and is part of the top tourist attractions in Finland. It’s renowned for being one of the world’s biggest and strongest fortresses.

#4: St. Olaf’s Castle

It is a medieval castle built in 1475 on an island connected to the mainland. Like Suomenlinna Fortress, its purpose was to protect Finland from Russia. St. Olaf’s Castle was originally ordered by Eric Knight Akselson Toth but subsequent kings who lived there contributed to its current eclectic architecture. Each year the grounds of the castle and fortress are used as a venue for the Savonlinna Opera Festival.

#5: Petäjävesi

Petäjävesi is an old wooden church that exemplifies northern architecture. It was constructed by a peasant from 1763 to 1764. Its facade and rooftop are characteristically Gothic in architecture but simple in design. The interiors are marked by intricate designs and craftwork such as handmade arches and carvings. Nowadays, the church is a major tourist spot.

#6: Koli National Park

The national park encompasses a woodland growing on mountains from 2 billion years ago as well as islands and a lake. Locals consider it a magical and sacred place. Despite its seemingly uniformity, there is a wide variety of animals and plants thriving in the area.

So there you have it, just some of the great tourist attractions to enjoy in Finland. So, book your tickets, pack suitcase and hit the road! Bon Voyage!

February 10, 2014 by jfalbelda

Five Reasons to Hit the Road in Victoria, Australia

Many travellers arrive in Victoria, Australia with plans to visit cosmopolitan Melbourne, but the surrounding countryside of this vastly diverse Australian state is also well worth visiting. One of the best ways to explore all of Victoria’s heritage, culture, and scenery is on a road trip. Whether you have an afternoon or a month, you won’t run out of sights to see. The following are a few reasons to plan a road trip in Victoria.

1. The Great Ocean Road

No discussion of road trips in Victoria would be complete without an obligatory mention of the Great Ocean Road, so we’ll get it out of the way first. There’s a reason why this road is famous, with its spectacular scenery and 12 Apostles rock formations. The route hugs the coastline between Torquay and Allansford, taking you past rainforests, rugged cliffs, and peaceful inlets. Along the way you can stop and enjoy the vibe at relaxed seaside villages and gaze at long-lost shipwrecks, for a truly memorable journey.

2. Alpine Adventures

Although Victoria’s best-known for its beaches, it also boasts snow-capped mountains for a change of scene. The Great Alpine Road passes through the high country, travelling from Wangaratta in the northeast to Bairnsdale in the Gipplsand region. In total, it covers 308 kilometres of alpine scenery such as meadows filled with wildflowers, quaint country towns, and snow-covered mountain peaks. Get out of the car and stretch your legs with a little cross-country skiing, snowboarding, fishing, or hiking. Continue reading →

January 22, 2014 by jfalbelda

Your Mini Travel Guide to Cuba

Looking to explore all of what sunny and tropical Cuba has to offer? Looking for Cuba resorts and places to stay? Wondering what you should see and do in Cuba? Cuba is one of the most popular vacation spots when it comes to Caribbean travel (minus the Americanos) and thousands of people travel from across the world to this beautiful island every year.

Tourists come to learn the rich history and experience the Cuban culture, as well as bask in the sun upon famous beaches like Varadero Beach, Playa Giron and Caya Largo. Located only 90 miles south of Key West, Cuba has a great history including its independence from the United States in 1902, Che Guevara’s conquests during the Cuban revolution, the new recent encouragement of entrepreneurial business supported by the government and more.

If you want to see some of Cuba and visit the main attractions that many choose to put on their travel bucket lists when they are there, then you might want to consider the following popular excursions.

Che Guevara Museum and Mausoleum

This is definitely a popular place to visit when you are travelling through Santa Clara, Cuba. When you step inside this museum you will learn everything you ever wanted to know about this important historic individual, known as a hero to many. You are not allowed to take any photos when you are inside, but you will absorb enough in your time there and also see where Che Guevara’s remains are laid in a memorial.

The Cigar Factory Is Always A Hit Among Tourists

This famous factory is a great addition to your ‘must-see in Cuba’ list. You can’t take pictures inside this venue either, but the visit alone will be an unforgettable one. A large team of employees work 8 hours a day rolling tobacco leaves and making authentic Cuban cigars of over 33 brand types.

Bacardi Rum Factory

If you have a great love for rum, then you will want to put this attraction on your to-do travel list. This factory opened in 1868 and was founded by Spanish-born Don Facundo. He actually came up with the Bacardi bat symbol idea because he discovered bats in the rafters at the factory. While you cannot walk through the factory itself while it is in action, there is a little bar area where you can taste samples and buy famous rums like Ron Santiago de Cuba and Havana Club.

When it comes to Cuba resorts, you can choose to live the luxury VIP life at resorts like the new Royalton Cayo Santa Maria in breathtaking Cayo Santa Maria which is adults-only and the perfect place for romantic couples, or take the family to Iberostar Varadero and the Hotel Paradisus Varadero where the whole family can enjoy quality time together. If you are seeking something more affordable, there are cheaper Cuba resorts like Club Amigo Marea del Portillo in Manzanillo or the Sol Cayo Santa Maria in Santa Clara. There are many Cuba all-inclusive resorts that cater to all types of travellers visiting Cuba and doing a basic search on Sunwing.ca will get you what you need for your Cuban adventure.

Riley Gladstone is a travelholic. When she is not traveling the world, she’s writing about her travel adventures. You can find more her stories on her travel blog, TripHole.com.

January 2, 2014 by Jeremy

Five Awesome Places to Walk it Out

As the importance of taking up an active lifestyle has become more apparent in recent years, interest in active vacations has increased. While many activities available in holiday destinations can be costly, such as skiing in winter, golfing in summer, or SCUBA diving in tropical locales year round, the easiest and most fulfilling activity of all costs next to nothing: walking.

By going along at your own pace, you get your body in motion while picking up on details in your surroundings more easily than if you were speeding along in a tour bus, or on a bike. All over the world, there are many ideal locations where one can go on walking holidays that will fill them with awe and wonder.

In this article, we focus on five awesome places to walk it out. Let’s start by focusing on…

1) Pertisau, Austria

Set before a pristine lake and backed by the towering Austrian Alps, Pertisau in Austria stands as one of the best places in the world to get your walk on. Here, you’ll be walking in the former footsteps of aristocrats, kings, and emperors, who favoured this location to get away from the pressures of their responsibilities. Strolling through the alpine fields suspended high above the tour boats of Lake Achensee, you will feel a sense of peace that one simply can’t find in the mundane residential developments back home!

2) Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, India

Situated high in the foothills of the Himalayas, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a world away from the noise, pollution and chaos of urban India. This special place will allow you to spot many species of plants and animals that call this protected area their home, such as rhododendrons and leopards. Additionally, the locals that live here lead a way of life completely different from their city brethren, giving an opportunity for a unique cultural exchange that are increasingly tough to come by these days.

3) Faroe Islands

Sitting in the midst of the North Atlantic Ocean between Scotland and Iceland, the Faroe Islands are a hauntingly beautiful fortress of solitude that you will remember long after you have been here. Walking along the tracks of the sparsely inhabited countryside here will lead to many encounter with sheep, as well as waterfalls, cliffs, dramatic coves, and lighthouses. Just be sure to pack a sweater, as conditions are cool even during the peak of the summer (the average temperature is just 11 degrees Celsius at that time).

4) Marrakesh and the High Atlas Mountains, Morocco

From walking amongst the lively bazaars of the capital Marrakesh, to the refreshing coolness of the High Atlas Mountains (the roof of North Africa), a walking holiday in Morocco is an experience in exoticism and high country hiking all rolled into one. Bear witness to the immaculate hospitality of the Berbers, then take of their guides into the heart of Morocco’s surprising green heart, as the highest mountains in Africa outside of Kilimanjaro trap moisture from the dry air, creating rain and life where you might not expect it.

5) Cyprus

Boasting exquisite views along the coast and up in the Trodos Mountains, Cyprus has much to offer the active traveler. Many tracks along the effervescent shore are delightfully unspoiled, with many private beaches begging to be discovered. In the interior, the Trodos Mountains are filled with the scent of pine and festooned with many gorgeous wildflowers on its slopes, and they offer a cooler alternative to the lowlands during the peak summer months.

Overall, many nations across the world offer ample opportunity to get away from the bustle of the big city and to reconnect with nature. All you have to do is make for the nearest nature preserve, mountain range or coastline, and explore around … you’ll be surprised with what you might find!

December 31, 2013 by Jeremy

Seven Reasons to Visit Ottawa This Winter

With its beautiful architecture, world class museums, cosmopolitan feel and gorgeous hotels, Ottawa is always a great city to visit. Personally however, I believe that it’s the Winter months when Canada’s capital really shines.

It might be cold, perhaps even freezing, but when the temperature drops, so does the snow. And there’s just something magical about Ottawa when it’s blanketed in snow and ice.

From the world’s largest ice rink to the magic of Winterlude, here are seven reasons why I believe Ottawa is the perfect Canadian city for a short break this Winter.

The Worlds Largest Outdoor Ice Rink

Most people are surprised to learn that Ottawa is home to the world’s largest outdoor skating rink. The Rideau Canal Skateway is 7.8 kilometres long and has officially been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s located in downtown Ottawa and is open from January until February. Skate rental is both affordable and available on site.

Downtown Skiing

If skates aren’t your thing, how about a bit of cross country skiing? Gatineau Park is located just across the river and has over 200 kilometres of well groomed trails. Downhill skiers are also well catered for in Ottawa with both Camp Fortune and Mount Pekenham situated less than an hours drive away.

Fine Dining

With no less than 2000 restaurants to choose from, it should come as no surprise that Ottawa is a foodies delight. Highlights include crepes at Baker Street Cafe, fine dining at Beckta and spectacular sea food at the Pelican Grill. Meanwhile, international cuisine can be sampled in the cities beautiful foreign districts such as Chinatown and Little Italy.

Winterlude

Each February, Ottawa comes alive with the annual Winter festival, Winterlude. This year it takes place from January 31^st until February 17^th and if you’re in town, it’s not to be missed. Highlights include the ice slides of SnowFlake Kingdom and the international ice carving competition held at Confederation Park.

Byward Market

The Byward Market is one of Canada’s biggest and oldest markets. Home to a wide range of stalls, restaurants and cafes, it’s the perfect venue for a family day out. Christmas trees, carollers and the smell of maple syrup combine to produce a welcoming and enchanting environment each and every Winter.

The Country’s Best Museums

Being the capital city of Canada means that Ottawa gets the lion’s share of the country’s best museums. Highlights include both the National Gallery and the WarMuseum. My personal favourite however would have to be the Canadian Civilisation Museum. If you want to learn more about Canada’s history, I couldn’t recommend a better place.

Great New Years Entertainment

Finally, we have New Year’s Eve, this year, visitors will have a choice of not one, but two outdoor events. The first can be found at Sparks Street Mall which promises hot food, cold drinks, live music and a fireworks show.

The second event will take place at City Hall and is being hosted by the Scottish Society. This means kilts, bagpipes and an atmosphere that’s expected to rival Edinburgh’s annual Hogmanay party.

Needless to say, hotels book out fast at this time of year, and advanced bookings are therefore very much recommended. The Minto Suite Hotel in Ottawa is a great place to start. Enjoy your trip!