Top 5 Destination Spots in Europe

Europe is chock-full of incredible vacation spots, and narrowing down your choices to just a few can be incredibly daunting. Europe has everything, from huge cities full of culture, history, and nightlife, to breathtaking mountains, to beautiful and relaxing beaches and countryside. To help you decide where to head next, we’ve compiled a list. Here are our top 5 destination spots in Europe.

amsterdam5. Amsterdam

The culture in Amsterdam is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. You can spend all day biking through the city’s tree-lined cobblestone streets, or just take a gondola down one of its many waterways. There is a thriving art scene in Amsterdam, with plenty of museums and galleries, as well as an eclectic food scene that takes its influences from all around the world. There’s something for everyone here, from newlyweds to families to young groups of friends.

florence4. Florence

Choosing just one Italian city to visit is difficult, but Florence provides an incredible combination of historical and modern Italian culture. All you have to do is wander the streets and you’ll be hooked – the architecture here is stunning, and much of it dates back centuries. However, there’s also plenty of Italy’s world-renowned cuisine and trendy fashion here, so you won’t just be stuck in the past.

reykjavik3. Reykjavik

Iceland’s capital is a great European destination for both trendsetters and bargain hunters. The city projects an effortless cool that hipsters around the world love, and if you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, you can enjoy one of Iceland’s famous steam baths and see the Northern Lights. WOW Air also offers some of the cheapest international flights around to help you get there.

london2. London

There’s so much to do and see in London, you may need to make a return trip. From historical attractions like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, to musicals on the West End, to the incredible nightlife, you’ll fall in love with London’s charms instantly.

paris_380x2441. Paris

There’s just nothing else like the City of Love. There are so many iconic landmarks to visit, like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc De Triomphe, plus some of the best museums you’ll ever visit. Paris is also the perfect place to relax with a cup of coffee and a great book at a charming sidewalk cafe. Wander through any of the arrondissements, and you’ll find some of the world’s best food in small, hidden-gem restaurants.

5 Solo Traveling Tips for Women

As a woman, it is both thrilling and slightly terrifying to take off on an adventure by yourself. Traveling alone is a great way to truly take in the world’s amazing beauty and assert your independence, but it can also be filled with potential dangers if you aren’t careful. Here are some travel tips for women, so you can make the most of your travels while still staying safe.

1. Be aware of the culture you are visiting. 

While there are many places around the world that have fully embraced gender equality, there are also many that still place certain restrictions on women (both legal and cultural). Read up on cultural norms in the countries you will be traveling to before you go, so you won’t be caught off guard when you get there. Yes, things can be unfair, but blending in with the locals will help you stay safe from criminals who like to target tourists.

2. Plan, plan, plan.

When it comes to traveling by yourself, there’s no such thing as planning too much. Create a detailed binder containing all of your flight/train/car rental information, hotel information, locations of attractions you plan on visiting, and hospitals and embassies in case something happens. Planning ahead will not only help you see more of your destination, but it will also provide you with important resources in the event of an emergency.

3. Minimize the number of valuables you bring. 

Try to leave any valuable items you don’t absolutely need behind at home. This means only traveling with identification documents you know you can replace, and maybe eschewing your laptop for your tablet (or just using your smartphone) for a while. Valuables make you a target for thieves, especially in busy cities. However, the valuables you do bring with you should be kept on your person in a safe location at all times, like in a hidden compartment in your bag. This way, you’ll have control over them and won’t have to worry about what happens if someone breaks into your hotel room.

4. Use travel insurance for long trips.

Travel insurance may seem like an unnecessary expense, but if you are heading halfway around the world for a few weeks (or months!), there are so many things that could potentially go wrong. There are many travel insurance providers that offer affordable plans, and having it can provide you with peace of mind so you can enjoy your trip.

5. Trust your instincts when meeting new people. 

Traveling can be a great way to make new friends, but you also might run into some seriously shady people. Take it slow when you are meeting new friends, and don’t head off alone with someone you’ve just met, no matter how cool they seem. Also, be careful with how much you drink – you don’t want your reactions or judgment to be compromised if someone tries to take advantage of you. Pace yourself, and make sure to eat and have water with your alcohol.

Remember ladies, always keep yourself alerted of any potential dangers and stay out of trouble. Stay safe!