Europe Off The Beaten Path Travel Articles

Iceland

What First-Time Visitors Get Wrong About Visiting Iceland

Advice for first-time travelers visiting Iceland. Tips on driving, the unusual weather, and the waterfalls that no one will ever forget.

Lleida, Barcelona, And The Raimat Arts Festival In Spain

Lleida, the Raimat Arts Fesitival and some discoveries in Barcelona, Spain.

Renting in Ischia, Italy, or on Cape Cod

Comparing the costs of renting on Cape Cod, Mass versus renting on the island of Ischia on the Bay of Naples. Italy is cheaper.

The Louvre is the world's most visited museum. Inside its courtyard stands the iconic pyramid which serves as the entrance to the museum. Standing at 71 ft. high, it consists of 603 rhombus-shaped and 70 triangular glass segments.

Tickets to the Louvre Museum: Everything You Need

How to get tickets to visit to Louvre Museum in Paris.

Traveling to Valencia Spain

A visit to the Valencia Spain for giant paella, City of Arts and Sciences and great culinary discoveries.

Why Slovenia Should Be Your Next Food And Wine Destination

Slovenia is a foodie paradise, and the greenest country in Europe. A visit to some of the truffle hunting grounds and gourmet finds of Slovenia.

Moments in Mallorca

Moments in Mallorca, photos by Paul Shoul of this gloriously beautiful Balearic island off the coast of Spain.

Málaga Spain: For the Sea, For the Spirit

Malaga, the capitol city of Andalusia in Spain, is a special place to enjoy tapas and the world’s best ham; exploring and eating Malaga.

Les Sables d’Olonne: A Slice of Paradise In Vendée, France

Explore Les Sables d’Olonne for unforgettable sailing experiences in Vendée, perfect for travelers seeking adventure and fun.

Madrid is Ready for Your Visit

Madrid is waiting for your visit, a perfect destination for families and people who live culinary and history on vacation.

Chris and Taina Snellman-Langenskiöld, founders of the boutique hotel Billnäs Gård in Finland. Billnäs Gård photo

Finland’s Eco Progress: A Truly Green Nation

Finland is leading the world in sustainable tourism, a look at some of the places in Helsinki where the new eco-ethos is being practiced.

The Guggenheim Museum of Art in Bilbao, Spain completely changed the city and entire region. Max Hartshorne photos.

Bilbao and Gehry’s Stunning Guggenheim

The Guggenheim hits you like few other museums do, a swirling round towering place with the titanium skins all around and so much impressive art.

GoNOMAD Travel Podcast

Take a few minutes to travel the world with The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast. Brought to you by the long-running GoNOMAD travel website, The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast brings you audio stories from destinations around the globe. It’s short-form… 3-7 minute long episodes. No jarring AM radio-style theme songs, no ads, just an interesting short travel story and some food for thought, from editor Max Hartshorne. Fun!
While you’re planning your next trip or travel adventure, download and listen to The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast.

GoNomad is part of the Voyascape Travel Network & you can find more of our travel podcasts from around the world at https://voyascape.com/
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The New Year celebration in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and traditions that provides a unique experience for all who partake. The city is alive with energy as it transforms into a vibrant hub for festivities.

January 1 is not just a day but the beginning of a week-long holiday where locals and visitors alike engage in a variety of celebratory activities. The streets are bustling with life, illuminated by lanterns that glow softly against the backdrop of the night sky, while the scent of street food tantalizes the senses. This journey through Chiang Mai reveals the many layers of its New Year festivities, from its breathtaking natural beauty to the deep-rooted cultural practices that make this time of year so special. Among the most striking sights during this season is the blooming of the Himalayan cherry blossoms.

A short trip to Kun Chang Hian allows visitors to witness these stunning flowers in full bloom, creating a magical setting for exploration. Here, one can engage with local traditions, such as listening to the kyan, the traditional bamboo mouth organ played by village children, or trying one’s hand at archery using bamboo bows.

The culinary scene is equally delightful, featuring local delicacies, including the famous grilled pork sausage, which embodies the rich flavors of Thai cuisine. As the celebrations culminate on New Year’s Eve, a profound sense of spirituality envelops the city. Temples become sanctuaries for nighttime prayer, and the flickering lights of candles enhance the tranquil atmosphere. Participants gather to release floating lanterns, a symbolic gesture of releasing past burdens and inviting new fortunes into their lives.

This ritual not only enhances the visual splendor of the night sky but also fosters a deep connection among participants, creating a moment of shared hope and renewal. The New Year in Chiang Mai is more than just a celebration; it is a heartfelt embrace of tradition, community, and the promise of new beginnings.