Monday, September 12, 2022

Which are cheaper European countries to travel to?


Europe is often thought to be a costly place to travel. There are many more affordable places to visit across Europe. Eastern Europe is known for being one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe. Even the most popular destinations have plenty of budget-friendly options. Traveling Europe doesn't need to be expensive, whether you are backpacking or seeking a luxury vacation at a reasonable price. It's worth doing some research before you plan your Europe trip. Do your research, shop around and keep an eye out for the best deals. Also, learn money-saving tips. Here are some top European countries you can visit for your next holiday on a budget! ETIAS

The least expensive countries to visit in Europe

To compile the following list, I spoke with travel bloggers from all over Europe and many locals. The term “cheap” is a relative term that I don’t like. These are the best places to visit in Europe if you’re not from the UK.

1. Georgia

Georgia is one of the most affordable countries to travel to in Europe

Georgia is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe. Georgia is the former Soviet Republic, and tourism is booming. It’s also a great place to travel, as it’s safer and more affordable.

Georgia’s greatest asset is its natural beauty. There are many things to do in Georgia, including hiking the Caucasus mountains (Svaneti is the most popular), biking around Javakheti lakes, and skiing if you’re lucky.

The cost of intercity marshrutka bus trips varies depending on how far they are. Local companies can also provide car hire at a very affordable price. Family-run guesthouses are the best option for accommodation. They offer comfortable private rooms and a delicious home-cooked breakfast for about 20 euros per night.

Even Tbilisi’s capital is accessible. For a two-course meal at a restaurant, expect to pay about 15 Euros, and a glass of local wine will cost you a few Euros.

2. Malta

Malta in Spring

The island nation of Malta is a great place to visit in Europe. You can enjoy a luxury stay in Malta, but prices are very affordable if you have a tight budget.

Many restaurants offer delicious, fresh food at great prices if you enjoy traveling and want to sample the local cuisine. Many bars and restaurants offer happy hour specials, making drinking affordable.

Avoid Valletta, the capital city, if you are on a tight budget. The prices there are much higher. The best way to save money on travel is to choose to be a bit further from the main island’s coast or stay on the smaller Gozo island.

A budget of EUR65-70 per couple per day is acceptable for couples looking for occasional indulgences.

3. Bulgaria

Bulgaria is one of the most affordable countries to visit in Europe

Otsego is a village on Rhodopes Mountain

When I tell people about Bulgaria, I first emphasize how affordable it is. Also, how many things you can do without spending too much.

You can find excellent, luxurious hotels in Bulgaria for around PS45 per night. Or, for as low as PS25-30 GBP, dine at fine restaurants for just PS25-30 GBP for a couple. You can also visit some of the most beautiful places in Bulgaria for free. This includes monuments, museums, cities, national parks, and festivals.

The most beautiful places in Bulgaria are located in the Rhodopes and the North. Even big resorts can be very affordable, according to the UK. Sunny Beach is a popular party spot, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Instead, visit the Black Sea Coast’s North or South to check out Sinemorets and Balchik.

Bulgaria is a great place to visit if you are interested in winter sports. A day pass to Bansko, Europe’s most popular ski resort, costs only PS32

4. Portugal

Portugal is a popular European vacation destination because of its natural beauty

Most visitors stay on the Algarve beaches. You can still discover more by exploring deeper and leaving behind crowds and the heat.

Portugal coast

Odeceixe

Portugal is the cheapest country to visit in Europe

Loule

The natural beauty of Portugal’s Ria Formosa Nature Reserve is stunning, as are the deserted beaches and lagoons of Portugal’s Ria Formosa Nature Reserve and the wildflower-dotted dunes of Vicentine Coast Natural Park in the Southwest Alentejo.

You will find affordable lodging and delicious food at very reasonable prices in the villages and towns along the route. A wide range of accommodation and dining options make visiting cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Funchal affordable. This European getaway offers the perfect combination of culture, adventure, and relaxation.

5. Croatia

Croatia is a great budget-friendly destination

You can book a return ticket from Croatia for as low as EUR100 by flying cheaply from European cities.

Prices vary by season. Prices are lower in shoulder seasons like May and September than usual. The official low season is October to March. You will see the lowest prices.

A private room in an average house costs between EUR20 and EUR30. If you need more flexibility, transport can be made by bus, ferry, or rental car. The average daily budget in Croatia is EUR40-EUR55, including accommodation.

You can save money by renting a house with a kitchen. Groceries and restaurants in Europe are comparable to elsewhere, but they are much more affordable than elsewhere. This makes it a great base to travel on a tight budget in Europe.

Friday, September 2, 2022

ETIAS Application Exceptions for UK Citizens


Citizens of countries that currently enjoy visa-free travel to Europe will be required to apply for and acquire ETIAS permission before starting any European travel in 2023. The European Union maintains a list of approximately sixty countries outside the European Union and Schengen Area currently visa-free in Europe. These nations are now considered "third countries," and people from these countries will need an ETIAS to travel to Europe for any reason or length of time starting in 2023.

ETIAS Regulation Exceptions

A valid passport with a validity period of three months after the end date of the anticipated stay in Europe is a must when registering for an ETIAS. There are exceptions and specific circumstances, as with other restrictions, when it may be permissible to visit, transit through, or stay in the European Union or Schengen Area without having an ETIAS-certified passport.

There are three scenarios in which a third-country national may be required (or forced) to visit Europe without an ETIAS-approved passport. When you’re using:
  • Emergency Passport
  • Diplomat Passport
  • Identity Card for Seafarers

Alternate Forms of Documentation

Emergency Passports

An individual whose previous ETIAS authorized passport has been taken, lost, or wrecked beyond use may be issued an emergency passport. In such cases, obtaining a new authorized passport while traveling would be nearly impossible, and a temporary or emergency passport would be the only feasible option.

A temporary passport is only intended to cover an emergency scenario. A temporary passport has a limited validity period and is unlikely to have the required electronic chip. Depending on the issuing nation, it is usually only valid for three months or less. It is not possible to be used for an ETIAS registration and should be replaced as soon as possible with a genuine passport.

Diplomatic Passport

Diplomats have unique travel benefits, such as fewer immigration restrictions. Diplomats from foreign nations do not need an ETIAS-approved passport when traveling for business, according to ETIAS standards. This exemption does not apply to personal non-official visits to the EU or Schengen Area, and ETIAS authorization is necessary, which is the norm with all third-country passports.

Seaman’s Card

Because of the unique circumstances of working at sea, the International Labor Organization voted in 1958 to offer seafarers the privilege of temporary entry into the EU and Schengen Zone for work, shore leave, shopping, switching ships, or medical treatment. Sometimes, a Seaman’s Card or Seaman’s Book this document is given to boat crew members and seamen. However, many European nations will accept a valid passport and a Seaman’s Card without ETIAS clearance. This is not the same for every European Union state or Schengen Zone member, so verify each country’s policy first. While it looks that seafarers with a legitimate passport will not need ETIAS permission, this has yet to be confirmed.

A Seafarer’s option will not apply to most travelers to Europe. A lost, stolen, or damaged passport is the most likely scenario where a tourist will wind up in Europe without the essential ETIAS clearance. If this occurs, it is critical to begin obtaining a temporary passport as soon as possible.

Why ETIAS is important?

Visa waivers are a form of international travel authorization that means that the traveler does not require a Europe evisa to enter the country. It is important for countries to have Visa waiver programs because it allows them to attract more people and increase tourism. 

Visa waiver programs allow travelers from different countries to enter and exit the countries without having to apply for a visa before they leave or arrive in their destination country. However, some countries only offer visa waiver programs for certain types of travelers, such as tourists.

Friday, August 26, 2022

ETIAS UK for British Citizens Traveling to Europe



What is ETIAS UK Visa Waiver?

Europe has introduced a new Visa Waiver system, which will be launched in 2023. The ETIAS will allow British visitors to travel throughout the Schengen Zone for 90 days. As a result, beginning in 2023, British people traveling for commerce, transit, tourism, or health will need to register for a visa ETIAS waiver.

As a prerequisite for health care and avoiding terrorist activities and illegal immigration, the Visa Waiver program will boost security in the Schengen area’s 26 members. European Travel Information and Authorization System, also known as ETIAS, will be used to undertake the pre-screening of persons wishing to travel to Europe. You will, however, require work or student visa if you intend to work or study in Europe. If you are a British citizen looking to travel to Europe for a short stay, say for a business trip or a leisurely vacation, you should look into ETIAS requirements as soon as possible to understand whether you are ready to make the travel. Any UK citizen who does not possess a valid passport or who has a criminal record, or who has overstayed their previous visa may not be eligible for ETIAS UK, which is why it’s essential to prepare for the change as early as possible.

Requirements for ETIAS UK Citizens

UK citizens must ensure that they meet the following ETIAS UK requirements to apply successfully:

  • A valid passport (which will not expire for at least three months)
  • A valid payment method (credit or debit card)
  • A valid contact detail (email and phone number)

Because ETIAS is electronically connected to your travel documentation, UK citizens must fill out the ETIAS form and travel with the same passport. This is important to remember in case you have multiple citizenships.

Considering the system will be digital, and issues may occur, printing a copy of approved ETIAS for border police at the European entry is required. You will be permitted entrance to Europe after the data and accompanying documents are pre-screened and approved. We also encourage British citizens traveling to Europe to be polite and cooperative when talking to border officials. Remember that your ETIAS authorization does not guarantee your entry to Europe, and authorities have the final say. If you act disrespectfully, distressed, or non-cooperatively, it may be possible for officials to deny you entry into Europe.

Who will require ETIAS to travel across Europe?

Citizens of 60 countries, which includes the UK, will be able to visit the Schengen Zone via the ETIAS visa waiver program. While citizens of one of these states do not need a visa to go to Europe, you will need to register for ETIAS UK when it launches in late 2023. Keep in mind that ETIAS is a new screening system developed by and for Schengen-area countries. The Schengen area is not synonymous with the European Union. While most countries are part of both the EU and the Schengen area, others, like Switzerland and Norway, are not part of the EU but part of Schengen, therefore will require ETIAS. Others, like Ireland, are part of the EU but do not participate in the Schengen agreement and have their own regulations. Everyone who wants to go to Europe will be pre-screened through the ETIAS. All of the information you provide will be double-checked against several security databases. It’s not difficult because most ETIAS applications are approved very shortly. Those 60 states will still have to go through the process to go to Europe.

Friday, August 19, 2022

Which are the most beautiful cities in Europe to visit?


Europe is known for its beautiful cities. It is the home to some of the most stunning places in the world. However, it is not just Europe’s natural beauty that makes it attractive. It's also because of the culture and history that these cities have accumulated over time.

Some of these cities have been around for centuries and are still going strong today, while others are relatively new but have managed to capture hearts with their unique charm and beauty.

Europe’s most beautiful cities, including

  • Paris
  • Vienna
  • London
  • Rome
  • Amsterdam
  • Barcelona, among many others.

How to Travel Europe With a Backpack and No Money or Skills

Europe is a fascinating continent that has so much to offer. Whether you are an independent traveler or someone who is looking for an adventure, there are many ways to explore Europe without having to spend a lot of money.

Here are some budget travel tips for tourists:

– Stay in hostels and dormitories. They are often cheaper than hotels.

– Eat at local restaurants instead of expensive restaurants.

– Use public transportation instead of taxis and trains.

Top 5 European Cities with the Most Beautiful Views

There are many beautiful places worldwide, but Europe is known for its breathtaking vistas. The following are some of the top European cities that offer views that will amaze you.

1) Paris, France

2) Amsterdam, Netherlands

3) Prague, Czech Republic

4) Berlin, Germany

5) Copenhagen, Denmark

Paris, France

Also known as the Latin Quarter is home to the Sorbonne university. It also has student-filled cafes. It is also home to the famous Shakespeare & Company bookshops. The Jardin des Plantes botanical garden and the National Museum of Natural History are both family-friendly attractions. The remains of prominent figures like Marie Curie and Voltaire are kept in the stately Pantheon Building. ETIAS

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands. The city is well-known for its rich artistic heritage, narrow houses with narrow facades, and intricate canal systems. These are the legacy of Amsterdam’s 17th-century Golden Age.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is divided by the Vltava River. It is known as “the City of a Hundred Spires” and has a historic center with colorful buildings, Gothic churches, and an animated hourly show. The pedestrian Charles Bridge was completed in 1402 and is lined with statues honoring Catholic saints.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin, Germany’s capital city, dates back to the 13th Century. The Berlin Wall’s graffitied remains and Holocaust memorial are two reminders of Berlin’s turbulent 20th-century history. Its 18th-century Brandenburg Gate, which was divided during the Cold War, has been a symbol of reunification. It is also well-known for its art scene, modern landmarks, and the 1963-built, gold-colored, swoop roof Berliner Philharmonie.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital, sits on the coastal islands of Amager and Zealand. The Oresund Bridge links it to Malmo, south Sweden. Indre By is the historic heart of the city. It contains Frederiksstaden (18th-century rococo), home to the Amalienborg Palace, the royal family’s palace. Nearby are Christiansborg Palace, the Renaissance-era Rosenborg Castle, and Christiansborg Palace. Gardens surround these buildings. They house the crown jewels.

5 Must-See Museums In Europe For The Culture

This list is meant to be a short guide for those planning a trip to Europe. Museums are usually expensive, so I’ve tried to keep this list as affordable as possible.

#1 – The Louvre

#2 – The British Museum

#3 – National Gallery of Art, London

#4- National Gallery of Denmark, Copenhagen

#5- Vasari Corridor, Florence

Thursday, August 4, 2022

European Travel Information and Authorisation System


What is ETIAS?

ETIAS is a new visa waiver, otherwise known as the European Travel Information and Authorization System. The purpose behind ETIAS’s creation by European Union was to strengthen and protect its borders, as well as the EU residents and visitors. ETIAS visa waiver program for Europe aims to identify potential threats and risks that could be associated with visitors traveling to any Schengen Area country. You must go through the ETIAS authorization processes to enter a Schengen country. 

You are eligible for the visa waiver program if you are a citizen of any country that does not require a travel visa to enter Europe. From 2023, eligible travelers 2023 must apply for an ETIAS travel permit. ETIAS for Europe grants travelers permission to visit 26 Schengen Zone members. This region includes countries that recognize eliminating all internal borders with other members. 

Currently, 59 countries will need to apply for ETIAS visa waivers when visiting the Schengen Zone. As per the latest information, ETIAS is expected to be available to even more countries shortly. ETIAS visa waivers are applicable to short-term stays up to 90 days. Tourists and business travelers will need to have an approved ETIAS before traveling to any Schengen member country.

Countries that will need ETIAS for traveling in Europe

There are currently 59 countries on the list of the ETIAS program.

Those nationals with citizenship in one of the 59 countries under the visa-free travel agreement do not need visas to visit Europe. ETIAS intends to pre-screen these travelers. This way, the system will avoid risks associated with terrorism, pandemics, and other criminal activities. Information provided by applicants will be checked across security databases.

There are several purposes for which ETIAS visa waivers will apply. They will be available for short-term and business/ leisure stays. After acquiring it, ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires. However, everyone planning to stay in Europe to study or work for longer than 90 days will need to apply for a different visa.

The EU established ETIAS to increase security in the Schengen Area. Visa-free travelers will still need to pass a security screening before arriving in the EU.

How does ETIAS work?

All travelers who want to travel to Europe via the Schengen Zone will be able to access the visa waiver, ETIAS online. To obtain an ETIAS travel permit, travelers must meet all requirements.

To apply online for ETIAS applicants must have a valid passport and an email address.

They also need to have a debit/credit card to pay the application fee.

These are the basic ETIAS requirements to apply for the European visa waiver.

ETIAS applications only require basic biographical information, including full name, birth date, and country of residence. The applicant must provide details of their passport when completing the ETIAS form. There will be security and health questions at the end of the process.

Most applications can be processed in minutes. Each application is checked against a variety of security databases. These databases include SIS, VIS and EUROPOL DATA. Interpol is another example. ETIAS has its own screening rules and watchlist. After an applicant has submitted a revised application, he or she will receive a confirmation message containing the travel authorization to the email address that was provided.

ETIAS cannot be used for business, transit or tourism travel. However, it can be used to waive visa requirements for students and workers for stays up to 90 days. Travel agents will request ETIAS before the start of their trip. An ETIAS without which you are denied entry to Schengen countries could lead to serious consequences. As of 2023, travel authorization is a mandatory requirement.

When will ETIAS will be mandatory?

Officially, the European Commission announced that the ETIAS travel authorization program will be a reality by the end of 2023. ETIAS will be implemented by the EU Parliament and Commission.

Development will begin immediately.

All citizens of the EU ETIAS visa-free countries will need to apply for a travel authorization before they can travel once it becomes operational. They can still travel to Europe, however, for the moment, without a travel authorization.



Which are cheaper European countries to travel to?

Europe is often thought to be a costly place to travel. There are many more affordable places to visit across Europe. Eastern Europe is know...