Today we have a surprise destination for you! A destination that will definitely go up in the next few years due to tourism, a place that is a perfect city break, a lowl budget one, ideal for both short getaways and long adventures on the ski slopes or on mountain trails.

For more travel inspiration watch our video!!!

Thermal baths in Tbilisi

It is all about Georgia, Tbilisi, which is also its capital city. But let’s get to know Georgia a little better through some interesting facts:

• And lets start with the name! We call the people of Georgia, Georgians, “Workers of the Earth “, they call themselves Sakartveli and the rest of the World Gurtjistan which means wolves. The legend has it that the name Georgia has been given by the Greeks as we are talking about a nation who is more than capable with farming!
• The country declared independence from Soviet Union in 1991 9th of April.
• The official currency is the GEL with the Lari subdivision and exchange rate with the Euro is 1 to  3 approx.
• The old capital of Georgia was the Mtskheta which is now under the protection of UNESCO as well as many monuments of the country.
• The country is in dispute with Russia because of the territories of Aphazia and Ossetia, in case some of you are interested in learning more…
• The country is famous for its good tasty wine and is known for its special wine that matures in pots.
• Also it is a rising winter destination because of the Snowy Mountains, the low budget resorts, the trails  of the nature and the hot baths!
• In summer Georgia is transformed into a well known tourist resort as well with the seaside Batoumi.
• The river Kura or Mtkvari that permeates the city, also crosses Turkey and Azerbaijan.
• Before its christianisation Georgia had pagans (visit the Uplistsikhe Caves and meet myths about Pagan gods, Berikan Pagan ceremony).

Tastes from Georgia

For Georgian food we can talk for hours, its really tasty! Briefly we recommend you to try:

• Khachapuri Pie
• Ajarian Khachapuri Pie which has been awarded as Number 1 by the world-renowned culinary magazine taste.com
• Lahmajoun
• Natakhtari Beer
• Churchkhela
• Wine
• Chacha drink 55 degrees of alcohol
• Khinkali Kalakuri

The highlights of the city

• Freedom Square
• Bridge of Peace
• Metekhi Temple (12th century)
• Anchiskhati Church
• Mtatsminda or David Mountain
• Hot baths
• St. George’s Church (Kashveti Church)
• Tbilisi Sulfuric Baths
• The Government House
• Tbilisi Botanical Garden
• The cable car Narikala Fortress
• Sioni or Zion Cathedra
• Mother of Georgia
• The clock on Shavteli Street where every day at 12.00 and 19.00 a pleasant melody is heard and called The circle of life
• The old walls
• The old town, totally hipster!
• Armenian TV producer
• Statue Tamada Sufra Proffessor the wise banker with the horn in the hand who announced the toasts.

Practical issues

SIM card for your smartphone can be found  free with very cheap Internet cost at the airport just before your exit. Wifi  is everywhere and it is  for free!
Currency exchange can be found in many central locations.
The museums are closed on Mondays.
There is a mall where you can do some shopping! There is also a bazaar which is more easily accessible (flea market)!

Transportation

Transportation from the airport of Kutaisi  to Tbilisi is really easy as Georgian Bus buses departing according to your flights. Tickets can be purchased on Internet or just before leaving the airport.  In the city we were by feet, actually we did 50 miles in less than 2.3 days! The city is pleasantly walked has comfortable sidewalks, underground and aboveground crossings in which all… All drivers stop for the pedestrians! There are taxis, just download the application Yandex (uber-type) those of you who intend to use them and finally there are the yellow buses starting from the central square of freedom!

Nearby Adventures

• Ski (two ski resorre)
• Trekking (Summer months)
• Uplistsikhe Cave Town
• Stalin Museum
• Gori Fortress
• Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin
• Mtskheta
• Jvari Monastery
• Svetitskhoveli Monastery
• Samtavro Monastery
• Bebris Fortress (The Elder’s Fortress)

We recommend on the first day a Free walking tour with Giorgi! He will show you the whole city and  it is  far most the best Walking tour we have ever tried and trust us we have  joined a lot of tours so many years of travelling. On the same afternoon, a cable car ride can be experienced.
On the Second day an excursion to monuments located outside of Tbilisi is a must. Information can be found here.
On day three… for ski lovers, skiing! For lovers of hiking, hiking! For lovers of relaxation, warm baths!

Suggestions for exit and food

Drink (all Hipster places so if you are not fun of it you will not like them)

• Warsawa
• Art Cafe
• Moulin Electrique

Food

• 21
• Khinkali House
• Meama

Coffee

• Art Cafe
• Moulin Electrique

Budget per person for three days
Airtickets with Wizzair €30
Hotel “Good ” €50 the three-day
Transportation to and from airport €12
Food €10 in a good restaurant with beer and salad
Beer €1.5
Pies 1-3 € (from the shops that buy the locals are under €1)
Sweet delicacies locally made with Muto and walnuts €0.60
Coffee 0.30-1.30 € (in the local shops more economical)
One day excursion outside Tbilisi €20
Free walking tour as you wish, eg. 10 €
Cable Car €1.30
Souvenirs €5 (eg. 10 magnets)
About €160 per person, the weekend!

We hope you enjoyed our post and visit Georgia soon!

Modloba means thanks!

The post BEST OF TBILISI – TRAVEL IN GEORGIA appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

1. Set a budget

Its not just a case of paying the flight tickets, your available cash will dictate whether you stay in hotels, hostels, airbnbs, campsites or on couches! You ll also need cash for travel insurance, visas, vaccinations and other travel essentials! Yur daily expenses will be far higher in Western Europe and North America than in South East Asia, Indonesia and India!

Extra tip! Spend less time in more expensive countries!

2. Pack as little as possible

Never pack more than you are willing to carry! As long a you have your passport, phone and a few credit cards anything else can be replaced on the road! Read our post about travel light!

3.Be flexible

Moving your departure date by a few days can save money, mid week flights are generally cheaper as for example on Christmas days.

budget travel nonstoptravellers

4.Plan

If you need to hang a world map on your wall or a scratch off map put some pins or stickers on it and reinforce the idea you ll be there soon! Adjust them if your itinerary strategy or motivation changes.

5.Talk to an expert

Especially when planning long trips for the first time it is quite possible that you re gonna make mistakes! Talk to an expert before you book, either it’s a travel agency or a more advanced traveler than you are! They surely will know which routes work best and cost least!

6.Book your tickets

Bying your tickets in advance (of course after having done a good research for the cheapest flights) will most likely cost less than if you were to book after departuring! All the above depends on the travel style you have chosen! If you are able of travelling for 1 year in Africa for example there no such need!

7.Make some hacking

If you aren’t a frequent traveler search the rewards plan of each airline before booking!!!

8.Don’t be too agile

Unless you decided to travelling a more agile way! Try to make some research before travelling that will save you both time and money!

9.Check weather

Look at weather conditions for the specific times you ll be in various places. So focus on what tyou want to do most and research conditions there. There are some times though when  being in some regions the wrong time that might bring unexpected benefits!

10.Give time in your first cities

Give yourself smooth arrivals in foreign cities by knowing where you ll be going when you get off a plane. Try to spend there at least one day, besides it a great chance to get to meet another cities in just 24 hours!

Read our post about our travel resources!

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Frankfurt is usually a transit destination, due to the large centrally located airport and the many flights that it serves, so most travelers usually are passing through for a day or even for some hours, like us! We ve prepared below the 9 + 1 things to do in Frankfurt for both transit and regural travellers!

Frankfurt germany Φρανκφούρτη Γερμανία

9 + 1 things to do in Frankfurt

1. Sunset by the Maïn river. The colors that water gets during sunset hours is a piece of art. Nice view point can be found on the “iron bridge” Eiserner Steg.
2. The skyline, and the contrast of the old city comparing to the “new” one. As you walk in “new-old city ‘, as the locals call it, or Romer Platz, you can see beautiful views as skyscrapers or Gothic Cathedrals like the one of St. Bartholomew (it was built in the seventh century).
3. The view of the city from above is something magical! There are many places where you can enjoy it, e.g. If you are a sportsman you can climb the stairs to the platform around 250 of the Cathedral and get a little taste, another option is from the “Main Tower” which has a height of 200 meters, 56 floors and fortunately, theres a lift that can take you around to a full city view. It is a must!
4. We love that you can walk around with a bottle of beer everywhere in the streets and there no one to tell you anyhting about it. You see people who just left work to sit by the subway with a can of beer.

Frankfurt germany Φρανκφούρτη Γερμανία

5. You find people from all over the world. It is generally a multicultural city  that makes the atmosphere even more beautiful.
6. Yu can find bread, sausages k beer everywhere!

Frankfurt germany Φρανκφούρτη Γερμανία

7. Good coffee and cakes can be found in an extremely a small patisseri in the old town, next to an antique shop, called am Naschmarkt Dom!
8. A visit must be done at the city’s Garden, Palmengarten which has all kinds of plants and spots for some extra relaxation.
9. It’s perfect that you can move around comfortably by bicycle.
10. For a taste of local dishes worth a visit the kleinmarkthalle, is a covered market where you can find almost everything. The most famous stand is the one with the 2 ladies who serve the best sausages for about 40 years now.

Unfortunately we had only one day at our disposal to explore Frankfurt, so we limited ourselves to a very central parts of the city! But fortunately we have now made new travel friends like Louisa Abraham who studies in Frankfurt and helped us with the above tips! Thank you very much and happy travels!!!

The post 9+1 THINGS TO DO IN FRANKFURT appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

In Venice we found ourselves by chance and we could even say we avoided it a bit because of the numerous tourists that have been invading it in recent years! Having won an air voucher in a competition we decided to visit it for a weekend and of course the experience was wonderful! Unfortunately we visited Venice after the heavy rainfall that hit the country but luckily for us the timing worked out to our favour. Not many tourists and we enjoyed the city as the locals do!

Food

Italy and food… It is a combination well known all over the world!!! And when we talk about food we mean pizzas and pasta, i.e. spaghetti!

From pizzas, of course, we ate countless margaritas and diabolas! The cost was just 2.50 €/piece! We picked out the pizzeria Quanto Pasta where you will find a kind man from Turkey who will welcome you with the most perfect smile and there is room inside the store to relax from your walk (most shops are only for take away so there is not many places to sit and just have a pizza).

Then we choose the other favorite Italian habit, which is none other than spaghetti and gnocchi (just try them with cheese and basil sause)! Everything you can imagine about pasta you will find it there! In the city you will find many shops to serve delicious dishes, with prices starting from 15 €/person (1 plate plus service fee, without salad or any drinks).

Drink

So… we ve talked about food, now lets talk about drinks! When we say drinks in Venice we mean 3 things… espresso cafe, Aperol and wine! All three wonderful and favorite, each one for a different time of the day!

Well… espresso you will find literally everywhere! With prices starting from €1 ala Italiano… You enter a bar, you order, you drink and leave in 5 minutes the most!! Thats the Italian way!  We really loved a small shop in an alley, ideal for a break from your walk! You can have a cup of coffee in San Marco Square, but prepare for steep prices. The most historic and famous café of the square is the Florian Cafe which is preferred by tourists (a tray with beautiful glasses of coffee and ornaments costs more than €10)! Look for the cheaper solution in the Dorsoduro area!

Aperol Spritz you will also find everywhere… quick stop for aperitivo, don’t sit down for ages! Prices start from €3 per glass! The shops we visited were Corner pub and Bacarando in Corte Dell Orso.

Finally for wine lovers  the choices are also many but here we suggest you choose the Black Jack which will definitely draw your attentions for its special appearance, at the corner of a beautiful little square. Combine your wine with some cheese! Prices for a bottle vary considerably depending on the brand but a glass starts at €6.

Stay – Accommodation

In general Venice is considered an expensive city and indeed the accommodation especially in the center is quite a bit of a crush. However, since it is worth staying in the center of the city, at the beautiful picturesque alleys and next to the gondola we recommend the accommodation to be somewhere centrally located! Generally in Italy there are apartments with many rooms and common areas (kitchen-bathroom) which are located in central locations and cost a little money. We stayed at one of these in a central location and paid 120 €/2 nights just search on the Airbnb platform.

What to see in Venice

• The main attraction of Venice is Venice itself! Enjoy walking for endless hours, get lost in the colorful alleys, admire the canals, photograph the beautiful corners and generally step away from the main center area! You will find yourself in magical places and you will be absolutely by yourself!
• The second largest attraction is the square of San Marco, which has taken its name from the cathedral that dominates the square!
• The bridge of sighs has been turned into a symbol of love and is almost behind the church of San Marco.
• The Palace of the Doge (20 € per person), the residence of the leaders of Venice.

What to do in Venice

The most well-known experience in Venice is of course the vaporetto ride (fairly economical-generally the transport network is huge and waterful!-it has many stops which you can easily locate & spot and contain detailed information for the itineraries of Vaporeti) or the gondola ride to the Grande Canal. In any case, you have the opportunity to wander through the city’s canals and admire it through a different perspective!

Note that the gondola ride (which in our opinion shows neither romantic, nor tourist, nor scenic… Sorry!) It costs from 80 €/30 minutes and more during commercial hours! We had read a lot about gondoliers and romance and songs like Amore mio etc… We were told that nothing like this was ever seen, except thta in real life the Gondoliers just did their job, wore some funny hats and most of them weren’t even Italians. We do not say it to deconstruct the experience (in the end we did not try it by ourselves) we simply write about what what we saw, because after all it is all about expectations. Its You choice guys! We d love to hear your opinion after all! We trully believe that Gondolas in Alsace are more romantic than in Venice!

Finally, it is customary to have a one-day excursion to the Murano Island, known for its handmade laces. To get to the island we suggest that you take a 24-hour ticket with 20 € per person (there is also a simple ticket which is not suitable for you who want to explore Murano for some hours).

48 Hours in Venice

We arrived on Friday afternoon and left at Sunday noon !

On the first day we recommend walking the city, a gondola ride (for those of you who insist on doing so) and taste Italian flavors and wine! On the second day (start early travellers!) Visit Piazza San Marco, the cathedral and the surrounding sights and then travel to Murano Island! Returning indulge in delicious Italian treats! Third day wake up and enjoy fragrant espresso before the first tourists wake up, take a photo walk, grab a margarita pizza and get ready for the ride back home!

To and from the airport

Access to the city of Venice is very easy, no reservation is required unless you are traveling high season, with one of the following ways:

Waterbus with 14 €/person/route for 75 minutes
Bus with 8 €/per person/route for 40 minutes

This was our proposal to enjoy Venice within 48 hours! We recommend sport shoes, a raincoat, bags (for feet), a scarf for the evening and good mood!!! We hope you had fun with us and soon see your own pictures of the beautiful Venice!

The post THINGS TO DO IN VENICE appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

Russia the Emperor Land

This article began as a joke with Olga to whom I said she has no right to make a promotion in her previous article about a trip to Moscow because of her half russian origin!

Why don’t you write an article, then;> “was her answer.   I never back to a challenge, so… here i am!

Although “The term life journey” is one of the most common in terms when describing travel, it is not easy to think of something more precise for Russia. With an area far more bigger than the whole of Europe and history which has set the course of the world RussiA is an unforgettable experience for every traveller!

Moscow Russia bridgetomoscow.com

The legend named Moscow Third Rome, since the niece of Constantine Palaiologos married there after the fall of the city (the title of the Tsar is in fact the title of Caesar in Russian language and the eagle on the Russian flag is rooted in Byzantine double-headed eagle.). Arriving in Moscow what makes the first impression is the size. Everything is HUGE! The tails of cars, the volume of buildings and especially, the wealth of museums but also the palaces and the characteristic churches with the golden domes. Cadillac and Bugatti on Tberskagia Street, but also homeless outside of the Rolex Boutique a few straits below. The only thing that is certain is that the country is appropriate for social reflection.

The first shock… The Red Square

You’ll never forget the moment you walk through the gate of the Red Square. It’s true like getting into a fairy tale where the buildings are marshmallows. Facing three of the most beautiful buildings you’ll ever see in your life.

A warm coffee or a sweet in Gum, the largest department store located in the square is imposed as a walk afterwards as the center is extremely impressive.

The basics

Let’s face something in a low voice. Europeans with travel education often end up returning from museum to museum simply because they have nothing better to do or because we have badly planned our travel time. In Moscow this practice will simply lead you to wander around waiting for endless queues and controls (airport type) consuming an infinite time which they could devote to more interesting activities. So we present the most interesting and original museums that one can see.

• Diamond Museum: One of a kind!
• Space Museum: Remember that the Russians first conquered space and in Moscow Yuri Gagarin is a national hero.
• Pushkin Museum
• Lenin Mausoleum: You agree or not with his ideas belonged to the personalities who changed the world. The spectacle is staggering!

The Good stuff!

The surprises in Moscow never end. The city is immense and the only thing that limits you to its beautiful is your time and budget since the city is one of the most expensive in the world. With a good division of the two, you’re overlapped.

Moscow Russia bakeryandsnacks.com

Ritz Carlton-Red Square

It is really worth ride on the terrace of the Ritz for a coffee to see the breathtaking view of the Red Square. What will keep you there forever is the view of the seven “brothers”, the seven imposing buildings that Stalin built to symbolize the foundations on which a state must step.

Cafe Pushkin

My favorite! The Pushkin Café dates back to 1999 and is something you should not miss while you are in Moscow. Some people compare it to Cafe Greco in Rome.  Only it is much better!! The Russian cuisine is mixed with the French producing wonderful dishes (and sweets, try them!) but most importantly: Tsarist Russia revives before your eyes! Waiters with proepanastatikes Russian uniforms, pocket watches and some with the typical sideburns (!!) of the season put you 200 years behind.

Russian Ballet

If you’ve seen the Black Swan that gave Natalie Portman the ¨ Oscar now get ready to see it and live as you are in the birthplace of this art. The ballet was the entertainment of the Tsarist courtyard and there are many interesting stories among the dancers to gain the favor of the czars, but also to rise in the hierarchy, (for example the placement of broken glasses in the ballet of Prima Ballerina). Although you can enjoy the ballet and in St. Petersburg, the Bolshoi Theatre is located in Moscow. Book your tickets early as the prices can be extremely high and try to see it as a new experience as it looks nothing like anything you may have seen in Europe. (such as opera or Musical). I’m sure you’ll remember forever.

Red Square Street Food

Those who love street food, and know that we are many, do not forget to try the street food you serve in the Red Square. There are several shops with their own tables where you can sit right after the museum tour. The street food is basically grilled meat (chicken and lamb) neat or in sandwiches and also some special burger. They are delicious and really worth a try.

Always remember that the world is like a book. And those you dont travel only read the same one page!

We wait for your experiences and (всегда путешествие)!

This was the experience of Sakis from his trip to Moscow, it was his own narrative and his own travel story! Thank you very much for the wonderful article, we very much appreciate your gift to our blog! If you liked the story of Sakis and would like to share some travel history with other travelers you can send it to us via our contact form and do not forget to do subscribe in our newsletter:

Meet Sakis:

Μόσχα Ρωσία Moscow Russia

To whom they may concern… I am Sakis, the man who wrote this article for you. In case you wannna know my story, I come from a little town with big dreams, an amazing family, friends and a brother. I had the privilege to have an amazing mother who is the greatest traveler I’ve ever known, (only compared to Olga!). For whatever came later she is to blame…! Since I was 9 when I travelled for my first time to Czechs Republic I knew that I would travel till I die.  Several years later I have been to many countries and the more I travel the less i think they are.  My purpose is to give you information’s to manage your travelling time the best you can only from places I have been. Always Remember … The world is a book and those who do not travel only read the same page! e-mail: slekkas00@gmail.com ● Nationality: Hellenic ● Date of birth: 16/09/1996

*feature photo legersholidays.com

The post TRAVELLING IN MOSCOW appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

We combined the journey to Moscow with the one to St. Petersburg for which we will write you of course a next article (impossible to fit them both in just a few lines), but in the case you can only visit Moscow, lets find out more.  The trip to Moscow is so much easier than you can imagine! First of all, Russia is a large European country and is indeed very close to Greece. In recent years access is very easy and affordable!

How and when to travel to Moscow

In Moscow you will arrive by air from Athens, Thessaloniki, Kavala and why not from Sofia airport! Airline tickets can found on average at about €150 but for economy enthusiasts you can travel through Bulgaria even with €30 return tickets trip (as long as you keep track of the airline offers often). It goes without saying that in the winter months tickets are cheaper but we do not recommend winter trip because you will not be able to enjoy the beauties of Moscow at-40 points! Prefer months such as May or September. But always keep in mind that even then there will be enough cold.

What you can do and what to see in Moscow

The most striking point of Moscow is none other than the magnificent Red Square! It is a huge square that emits power thanks to its deep red color. At the same square stands the fairytale Cathedral of St. Basil the most famous temple of Russian Orthodox tradition. Moving on to the square you will visit the Kremlin, which has been the centre of Russian political power for several centuries and has been a centre of Soviet power once! In the same square you will visit Lenin’s mausoleum and the huge, luxurious Gkoym department store. In this area we will recommend other places of interest, gardens, squares, the Bolshoi etc. There’s just so much to write that it simply doesn’t fit in a single article! We will tell you how to visit the Moscow Space Museum as well!

What to eat

The food is also a huge chapter and here we can help you since we have a personal opinion because of the half origin of Olga! We reemphasize that all food even in restaurants in central places is very very cheap! You will definitely try Piroshki in various variants with potato, cheese, egg etc., Barenika with potato or minced meat, pelmeni (tortellini) and Soups! Our beloved one is called Borsch and you will find it with less than €1 in all the restaurants in Moscow! It goes without saying that there are known fast food chains but of course… The decision is yours! Coffee and even a cup of tea in Russia can be found everywhere even in outdoor vehicles! In the streets you will corn that is a favorite dietary habit-delicacy of the Russians, and you will see them enjoying it in the many parks you will meet as you exploring the the city! Finally do not forget to try vodka! Authentic Russian and of course very cheap vodka!

Transportation

Ah, here we are talking about an entire history, an underground museum that reaches 18 floors below the earth. We refer of course to the Moscow Metro which is one of the oldest metro in the world and has one of the largest networks worldwide. You may have heard the quiz? What is the largest and cheapest museum in Moscow?  And yes, it’s the subway! The Moscow metro will just love it! It has infinite stops, it is very fast, almost every 1 minute comes a train, it is very very economical, has Internet (well read… It has internet 18 floors under the earth) and you can spend endless hours from station to station as it is an underground museum full of history and art! Statues, paintings, mosaics and countless exhibits suggesting the greatness that this city once lived!

Stay – accommodation

Staying in Moscow as strange as it may seem is too cheap, at least for European citizens it certainly is. Russia’s currency of ruble has deteriorated quite a bit in recent years, resulting in a loss of power over strong currencies like euro! Searching through the known platforms we use and we have written to you in our previous article, you will find both hotels and cheap apartments around the center at very good prices! Do not be afraid of distances if you find cheaper accommodation because you will be moving with the incredibly economical metro of Moscow, fearlessly and especially quickly throughout the city and its surroundings!

What to buy as a souvenir

Matrioskes! The famous dolls that are enclosed in each other, are typical examples of Russian folk art!

Cost of travel for one week?

We’ll tell you in the next article along with the trip to St. Petersburg, keep in mind that the price will surprise you… Positively!

The post MOSCOW – TRAVEL IN RUSSIA appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

1.  Shoulder rotation

Raise your shoulders up and rotate them back to front several times, repeat several times and then rotate front to back!

2. Neck roll

Drop your chin to your chest slowly and carefully rotate head clock wise several times, stop and repeat counter clockwise!

3. Ankle rotation

Lift one foot slightly off floor leeping leg stationary. Make several small circular motions and repeat with other foot!

4. Finger – toe stretch

Clench fingers inward toward palms, then stretch outward! Repeat several times and try the same with your toes!

5. Foot flex

With the heels on floor lift toes upward as far as possible. Hold for several seconds and then relax!

6. Heel lift

Lift one heel as high as posible while keeping toes on floor then relax heel to floor! Repeat while alternating right and left heel!

The post HOW TO TRAVEL HEALTHY appeared first on Nonstoptravellers.

So you got yourself to Athens! You arranged your excursions, visited museums, places of interest and…  its time to go to bed??? Of course not!!! Athens is a city that never sleeps! 

We experienced a ride on Enteratinment Bus of  Travel Panda,the ultimate nightlife trend and we are going to share it with you right away!

The adventure begins at 21.00 pm! We arrived at the office of Travel Panda Adventures at 40-42 Sygrou Avenue, hosted in a modern venue with positive vibes and smiles from all over the team! Right outside a 16 seat Mercedes mini bus designed for partying and unforgettable fun, was waiting for us to board! After catching up with our co – travellers, our Tour leader welcomed us to the adventurus Entertainment Bus!

Boarding Time!!! The atmosphere in the Minibus was great, we sat in our comfortable seats, we met our Tour leader and took off for the athenian riviera!

A fact we liked the most from the very first moment of our experience is that we didnt feel uncomfortable and unwelcomed at all!

We started to socialize all the way to our first stop while enjoying summer music since there is a hi-fi sound system insidie the Bus! That’s how we got to our first stop!

First stop was at a public beach, side by side with summer breeze, we enjoyed the sea view under the athenian starts accompanied with complimentary cold beer! Just like the locals do!  As we moved to the Bus, adventure continued and it was time for the Karaoke! The bravest among us took the lead and started singing, unrevealing our music talents!  One of the most fun things we’ve ever done!

Second stop was at a well-known beach beach bar, the perfect way to meet the Greek nightife! – Let the party begins! Says our Tour Leader and we’ve all started to dance lightly summer rhythms while enjoying a cool cocktail! Having been “full of” Athenian night, summer rhythms and cool cocktails we wereready for…? Greek street food… what else!?! The famous greek souvlaki!

Third stop was at a well-known souvlaki bar to enjoy a complimentary pita Souvlaki (Greek street food Greeks have after partying).  We enjoyed the delicious souvlaki and got on board for the last part of our ride!

On the way back we asked for more summer music sounds, the perfect match for the closure of an amazing, adventurous night experience. Thee time is shortly after 1.30 am and its time for disembarkation! Happy faces, smiles and the promise to meet again to enjoy another experience of Travel Panda!

Entertainment Bus Travel Panda Adventures Athens riviera nonstoptravellers

Not ready to say goodbye yet? Simply ask Tour leader at the end of the adventure and he will give you tips and recommendations on how to keep your nightlife adventure going!

To conclude, our ride by the Athenian Riviera was excellent from the beginning of our journey till last minute! Travel Panda Adventures’ team has organized the entire experience in a perfect way! Both Tour leader and the driver were professionals and fiendly contributing to the success of our adventure! Entertainment Bus is definitely the best way to enjoy Athens by night and combines party, adventure and fun into an experience in a different way!

Extra highlights: Travel Panda Adventures offers special rates to students, groups of more than 5 people and the possibility of private use of the Minibus! Especially the last one, is recommended for hosting various special events of you ad your friends, while creating tailor made rides! Just a few ideas from us, imagine your birthday along with your best friends by the Athenian riviera, or an alternative bachelor party for your wedding!

Thank you very much Travel Panda, we are looking forward to enjy  all the adventures you offer! Delphi, Mycenae, Nafplion, Meteora and, of course, the unique sunset adventure in Sounio or the Panorama tour by bike at Plaka Acropolis, the neighborhood of Gods!!

Adventure on Entertainment Bus starts at 21.30 every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at 40-42 Syngrou Avenue and ends at 1-1.30 am! For more information, more socializing and to show some love, you can check out our favorite Travel Panda at the following links:

Email: reservations@travelpanda.gr

Facebook: @travelpandaadventures

Instagram: @travelpandaadventures

Phone: (+30)2110192141 και (+30)6907858720

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Built on the site of ancient Pharai, the city took its modern name from a miracle-working icon of the Virgin Mary known as kala matia (good eyes).  It was discovered in the stables of an Ottoman aga (governor), who became a Christian as a miracle. The icon now resides inside the city’s oversized cathedral, the Church of Ypapanti.

Down town

Below the city’s castle, the small but attractive old town is located, a favorite meeting place for young people, because here is concentrated the nightlife (in winter). Old town was almost totally destroyed by the Turks during the War of Independence, rebuilt by French engineers in the 1830s, then levelled again by an earthquake in 1986. A lively Saturday food market at the old town is waiting for the visitors to try traditional products such us Kalamata olives, pasteli, olive oil etc.

Walk to find its castle and places of interests such us the hall that hosts every summer the prestigious International Dance Festival. The castle with the panoramic view is built on the site of the acropolis of Faron. Constructed in the 13th century by William Villehardouin and underwent subsequent additions and alterations by the Venetians and Turks. At the foot of the castle lies the  church of Ag. Ioannis which dates back to the post-Byzantine times. Visit the cathedral of the Visitation-Ypapanti (1873), the monastery of nuns (12th c.), the Byzantine church of the Agioi Apostoloi (13th c.), which received special historical value as here was celebrated the first thanksgiving in liberated Kalamata on March 23, 1821.

Visit also

The old Town Hall, the Gallery of Contemporary Greek Art, with paintings, sculptures and engravings, the Archaelogical Museum with finds dating from the Bronze Age to the Roman period, the Folklore and Historical Museum with traditional items, local costumes and relics from Greek Revolution of 1821, the municipal theater and Railway Park where exposed old engines and railroad cars, the meeting of residents and visitors walking point is the spacious central King George Square. From here starts the pedestrian part of the main road Aristomenous where you can find many shops and cafés. The district developed around the picturesque railway station with pedestrian network, small coffee bars and taverns. One of the gifts of Kalamata, is the huge beach (4km), clean waters (blue flag). The beach stretches along the boulevard Navarinou and is one of the most beautiful places in the city to walk or ride a bike. On the western beach there is a remarkable marina town with many tourist facilities, cafes and restaurants.

Ancient Messene (Messinia), Mani, Vergas Beach, Little Mantineia, the Avia,  town of Messina, the mountain villages of the western slope of Mount Taygetos, on the way to the city of Sparta (the route to Sparta is one of the most beautiful in Greece), Oreini Arcadia, Voidokoilia, Agios Andreas, Gargaliani (Marathopoli), Kardamili (New Suburb), Koroni, Methoni, Kyparissia, Petalidi, Pylos (Gialova), Stoupa and Finikounda. which in recent years have developed into resorts with significant tourist infrastructure and nightlife during the summer months,

Events

• The International Dance Festival, held every summer with his artistic radiation beyond the borders of the country and attracted dancers from around the world.
• Cultural events, theatrical performances and concerts at the castle amphitheater in the summer.
• The carnival events of the Municipality, with the standard “carousel” in the town square, every first Sunday of Carnival.
• The revival of impressive custom of “saitopolemou” Easter night of Resurrection (Western Kalamata Beach – Old Slaughterhouse).
• The big carnival in Messina last Sunday of Carnival.

Find out the 7 Best Things to do in Kalamata city. Other than this you can choose amongst:

Climbing, Mountain bike, Walks off road jeep, Excursion enduro, Sea sports, Bike, Running, Organized camping.

Accessibility: two hours and a half away from Athens.

What to buy – eat?

• pasteli
• honey
• herbs
• cheese (graviera – talagani – sfela)
• sygklino pork & sausages
• fresh yoghurt
• fresh fruit & vegetables
• sandals
• ceramics
• traditional neckerchief (silk texile)

Click the map with Kalamata’s places to see!

Things to do in Kalamata – nonstoptravellers

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Our nomination

This post is to celebrate this nomination, its our way to thank felow travel blog Itsalltriptome for nominating us and of course its a post that aims to encourage bloggers do their best and document their experiences in a way that is inspiring to the readers!!!

So first of all thank you  Itsalltriptome! We share your passion for travel and our vibes meet your aim of inspirning other to travel too!

About Sunshine Blogger Award 

The Sunshine Blogger Award is given from bloggers to fellow bloggers who inspire creativity and positivity and who bring sunshine to the blogging community and to their readerships alike. It is a way of encouraging one another as in saying “Hey, you are doing a great job and we can see it. Keep it up!”. Now you know why we feel so happy to have received this award.

sunshine-blogger-award nonstoptravellers

Our answers to the questions posed by Maria  from  Itsalltriptome:

1. Who is the person who inspired you the most and helped you decide to start your own blog? As a couple that loves travelling we find inspiration in each other whether its for starting a blog together or making hard life decisions!
2. If you should stop travelling for some reason, which is the one country you would like to spend the rest of your life in? This one is easy! We would love to live in a small Greek island, like Anafi!
3. How do you spend your time during flights/train journeys etc? Olga… always sleeping! Dimosthenis… always reading!
4. Which is the one thing about blogging you hate the most? When you find out that your exact words are being used somewhere without mentioning! Bad copies!
5. What is your favourite thing about blogging? That is a perfect way to express yourself and ideas to the whole planet!
6. What do you usually buy as souvenirs from the places you visit? We like all kind of souvenirs, especially the eaten ones and little miniatures!
7. Is there something you always take with you in your travels? Olga… earplugs and spleep mask! Dimosthenis… book!
8. What is your best tip for packing light? Ha, you have to read our post about light travel!
9. Road trip or scenic train ride? Xmmm, thats a tough one! Olga… train! Dimosthenis… road trip!
10. Is it important for you to taste a destination’s local food/wine etc? Its a MUST! You must try local food in order to taste its culture!
11. Do you send postcards to your loved ones while travelling? Unfortunatelly not any more! But we always try to keep informed our friends and family for our daily travelling experiences!

Our 11 wonderful blogs’ nominations for  for the Sunshine Blogger Award are:

1. Travelshare
2. Bichearoundtheworld
3. Busymamascorner
4. Coconut4TheSoul
5. Thetrawheeler
6. Withpanos
7. Neoperativa
8. Anthomeli
9. Travellingbuzz
10. SerbiangirlinGreece
11. Worldtravellen

And our questions for them are:

1. Who inspired you to start blogging?
2. What would be your ultimate goal to achieve by being a blogger?
3. Do you enjoy being a blogger? Why?
4. What would you say is the most amazing fact about your blog?
5. What is the most amazing fact about yourself that you would like to share with you readers?
6. What is your favourite travel blog?
7. What do you expect of a  travel blog the most? Destinations or travel tips?
8. What is your travel style? Couples, solo, backpacker, luxury traveller etc?
9. Can you share a blogger’s “DO” advice, with your readers?
10. Can you share a “DON’T” advice too?
11. Would you like to share with us your blog’s moto?

And last but not least here are the rules to follow for those who have been nominated for the Sunshine Blogger Award:

• Thank the blogger(s) who nominated you in the blog post and link back to their blog.
• Answer the 11 questions the blogger(s) asked you.
• Nominate 11 new blogs to receive the award and write them 11 new questions.
• List the rules and display the Sunshine Blogger Award Logo in your post and/or on your blog.

We hope you enjoyed the post as much as us and maybe you have identified yourself by answering with us to the questions. Lets get in touch and stay connected for more interesting posts, guest posts and content ideas!

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