Travelguide

Soccer fans around the world are all excited about the upcoming tournament! How to get to the UEFA EURO 2020? What do you need to know before you pack your things in June 2020?

First of all, tickets for UEFA EURO 2020! Just so you know, the first application phase is already over. The next sales phase will start on Dec 2019. You can find the details about the UEFA EURO 2020 tickets purchasing on the official UEFA website.

Second, if you are attending matches in more than one host city/country, make sure you take care of your accommodation and transportation in advance. Hotels and Airbnb services are going to be super busy in any city on the list, so consider booking in advance.

Last but not least, travel visas. If you are already considering certain matches that you want to attend, you probably already know which cities and countries they are going to take place in. For those who don’t know, 12 countries will be hosting the UEFA EURO 2020: Azerbaijan, Denmark, England, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Ireland, Romania, Russia, Scotland, and Spain. Depending on the country where the match you want to attend takes place, you should check if you need a travel visa for entering that country.

Traveling to Montreal is like visiting Europe without leaving Canada. One of the most distinguishing features is the visual image of Montreal. The architecture itself will take your breath away more than once, we promise!

Here is the list of destinations that are at their prime in March: best deals, entertainment, fun activities.

It may still feel like winter at home, but many parts of the world are super attractive in the month of March.

1 - Cape Town, South Africa

It is the best time for hiking and cycling and also exploring local wineries and enjoying the “March lilies” flowering all over the city.

2 – Norway

Besides winter activities, such as skiing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, reindeer sledding, snowshoeing, etc., according to the statistics, March is the best month to see the Northern Lights.

3 - Cartagena, Colombia

In this colorful city of Colombia, you can not only enjoy sunny days and clear skies but also fewer crowds, since the low season is about to start. Hotel rates in March are usually going down.

4 – Jordan

When the weather is warming up in March don’t miss your chance to spend a night out in Wadi Rum. At this time of the year, it is less busy and the almond and olive trees should still be blossoming.

Decided to visit the hottest place on Earth? The Death Valley National Park is waiting for you - all wild and beautiful! Be cautious though and save this tips.

Located in California/Nevada, USA, the Death Valley has been a legendary attraction not only for tourists, but also for movie scenes. When you decide to visit the Death Valley, be prepared to spend at least a few hours there. It's not just one spot, it's a huge territory of sand, dunes, rocks, mountains, and lots of stops for sightseeing. We will focus on a few of them - what is really worth seeing in the Death Valley:

1 - Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. It is the largest dune field in the park. It includes three types of dunes: crescent, linear, and star shaped. There is a parking available right in front of the dunes, so it will be totally up to you how much time you spend there - 10 min or a couple of hours. The view is truly mesmerizing, so no wonder if you want to walk a little bit further and further, just be careful and stay on track.

2 - Dantes View is the most breathtaking viewpoint in the park. Here is the bonus for Star Wars fans - two episodes of the famous movie series were filmed in the Death Valley National Park, and the Dantes View was one of the locations used of a scene.

3 - Zabriskie Point is one the most famous viewpoint in the park. If you are looking for a great place for photography, visit Zabriskie Point at sunrise or sunset. The best shots are guaranteed! 

Honeymoons are a special time for couples to celebrate their love and start their lives together in a new and exciting location. While many popular honeymoon destinations are visa-free for Canadians, there are a number of destinations where Canadians are required to obtain a tourist visa before their trip. In this article, we'll highlight some of the top honeymoon destinations where Canadians require tourist visas.

Vietnam

Vietnam is a great honeymoon destination with scenic beauty and rich culture. From lush jungles to stunning beaches, Vietnam boasts a variety of natural landscapes perfect for romantic adventures. You can experience the culture and history of Vietnam, including ancient temples, imperial citadels, and bustling markets. In addition, Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh flavours, healthy ingredients, and diverse culinary styles, making it an excellent place for food-loving couples. Vietnam offers a range of luxury accommodations at affordable prices, allowing couples to enjoy a romantic honeymoon without breaking the bank. As for activities, from hiking in the mountains to kayaking in the bays, there are plenty of outdoor activities for active couples. Last but not least, Vietnamese people are known for their hospitality, making it a welcoming destination for newlyweds.

Most foreign nationals are required to obtain a visa in order to enter Vietnam. There are a few exceptions for citizens of countries that have visa-free agreements with Vietnam, but for most people, a visa is required.

Turkey

Turkey offers a range of landscapes, from sandy beaches, rolling hills, and towering mountains to historical cities and ancient ruins. Honeymooners can enjoy various activities such as sunbathing on the beaches, hiking in the mountains, and exploring the cultural heritage of cities like Istanbul. Turkey has a rich cultural heritage reflected in its food, architecture, and art. Turkey has many luxurious resorts that offer all-inclusive packages, private beaches, and romantic settings for honeymooners. These resorts provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and a chance for couples to relax. Turkey offers excellent value for money, making it an affordable honeymoon destination.

Citizens of most countries, including the majority of countries in Europe, North America, and Asia, are required to obtain a visa in order to enter Turkey. Before travelling, it is important to check the latest visa requirements for your country of citizenship.

India

India also offers a wealth of options for honeymooners. From breathtaking beaches to historic palaces, from wildlife adventures to cultural experiences, India has something for every type of couple. With its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique experiences, India will surely provide newlyweds with an unforgettable and romantic start to their married life. One of India's most popular destinations for honeymooners is Goa and the Andaman Islands, known for their picturesque beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Couples can soak up the sun, enjoy water sports, and sample delicious seafood. The serene atmosphere and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect location for newlyweds to unwind and spend quality time together.

There are a few exceptions for citizens of countries that have visa-free or visa-on-arrival agreements with India, but for most people, an Indian visa is required.

Greece

Greece is home to some of the world's most stunning and iconic landscapes, including the Aegean and Ionian Seas, the towering Mount Olympus, and the rolling hills of the Peloponnese peninsula. The beaches of the Greek islands are particularly stunning, with crystal-clear waters and soft, sandy shores. Greece offers a perfect setting for a romantic honeymoon, with its scenic beauty, rich history and culture, delicious cuisine, relaxing accommodations, and exciting activities. Whether you're looking for a beach holiday, a cultural adventure, or simply a chance to relax and enjoy each other's company, Greece has something to offer.

Citizens of the European Union and European Economic Area countries, as well as citizens of Switzerland, do not need Schengen visato enter Greece. Canadians also do not need a visa to travel to countries within the Schengen area for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, starting from 2024 ETIAS for entry to Europe will be required for citizens of Canada,  the United States, UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong and other countries.

France

France has been a number-one choice for a honeymoon destination for decades. One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Eiffel Tower is the epitome of romantic experiences. Couples can enjoy stunning views of Paris from the top, take a picnic in its shadow, or dine in one of its chic restaurants. Also, France is famous for its culinary delights, and the country's wine regions are a must-visit for food and drink lovers. France has a rich cultural heritage and a fascinating history, with castles, palaces, and monuments to explore. Visit the Palace of Versailles, explore the streets of Paris, or wander the galleries of the Louvre to immerse yourselves in the country's rich heritage. So, there is a reason behind the fact that France has been one of the most popular destinations for honeymoons. Whether you prefer adventure, relaxation, or culture, France has something for everyone and is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

France also requires a Schengen visa for citizens of most countries. It is important to check the specific requirements and procedures for a visa you are applying for, as these can vary. If it is your first Schengen Visa you will be required to attend an interview at the Consular/ Visa Center office as part of your application process and provide relevant documentation.

The process of obtaining a visa might get complicated and time-consuming, which you don't want to add up to your busy schedule around the wedding and honeymoon. With years of experience and a team of expert visa specialists in place to assist you, we provide a hassle-free experience that will ensure a smooth and efficient visa application process. So, plan your honeymoon trip, enjoy the beginning of your married life, and let us help you obtain your visa with ease and on time.

If you don’t have your vacation planned, here are some unique and stunning destinations in BC that you can visit with the love of your life.

Plus, this year Canadians got lucky - Valentine’s Day happens just before the long weekend devoted to the Family Day! That is a great opportunity for a 3-4 days getaway somewhere in BC. It is actually known as a vacation destination for many, so if you already live here – see where you can go within just a few hours driving.

1 – Free Spirit Spheres

Where: Vancouver Island, BC

Have you ever dreamt of a treehouse? So these are not just treehouses you are imagining, these are absolutely unique spherical treehouses designed to offer a great mix of back-to-nature experience and glamping. That is a truly exotic getaway where you get to find peace and relaxation while living in a sphere up in the trees of the coastal rainforest.

2 - Spot Bald Eagles at Brackendale

Where: Squamish, BC

Brackendale Eagle Provincial Park is located in the Squamish River Valley, which is one of the best places to mesmerize wintering bald eagles. Also, you can join the big celebration of the Sea to Sky Gondola opening ceremony right on February 14^th!

3 – Slopes + Spa = Scandinave

Where: Whistler, BC

This destination never gets old – Whistler Village and everything it offers: a cozy atmosphere, amazing dining spots, little cute shops, and a bunch of nice hotels. However, the most exciting thing about Whistler is the greatest opportunity for downhill sports and one of the best spa experiences at the Scandinave Spa.

When you are planning your next trip - either with your travel agent or by yourself - make sure you are aware of what type of tour you are looking for. Especially if you are travelling with somebody else - your vacation expectations should be the same or complement each other.

Type of tours you might be choosing from:

1 - R&R (Rest and Relaxation)

A sandy beach, good food, spas and perhaps nightly entertainment are typical for of the #relaxation tours. Popular destinations are Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Indonesia, and Thailand.

2 - Scenic/Historical Sites

Mayan ruins in Mexico, history of Europe, the Holy Lands, and many more destinations with rich history and heritage attract tourists for active traveling. This type of tours includes lots of walking, and it is highly recommended to have a nice accommodation to be able to rest in comfort after a long day of sightseeing and exploring.

TOP-5 hot destinations to go to in December and enjoy the beaches with white sand and azure sea.

1 – Vietnam

It is a very beautiful place with picturesque views and exotic beaches. You can explore small islands and bays sailing a boat. It is a very safe country now, and yet you can’t get rid of a feeling that you are on an adventure. Best months to go to Vietnam: Nov-Feb.

2 – Thailand

White sand beaches, azure sea, and a cloudless blue sky are waiting for you in Thailand. Every island is very unique, and we recommend you to pick the one that would meet your expectations from the vacation. For example, Ko Lanta, an island district in Krabi Province, is famous for its calm and cozy little hotels on a beach. Best time to visit: Nov-Mar.

3 – China

There are lots of beautiful beaches in China to visit during the holidays. The most popular beaches around China would be at Sanya, Xiamen, Putuo Island, Beidaihe and Beihai. Feel free to watch our video guidance on how to apply for a visa to China from Vancouver.

The year 2020 will be marked not only as a first year of the new decade but also as a year of the biggest sports events worldwide.

Every year is somewhat special in terms of annual tournaments, championships, and other sports events. However, some major events take place once in a few years, and here is what we have on the list:

1 – EURO 2020: UEFA European Championship

This football competition takes place every 4 years and has been played in multiple European countries. This year it will be played from June 12th to July 12th in 12 countries: Azerbaijan, Denmark, England, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Ireland, Romania, Russia, Scotland, and Spain. Read more about what you need to know before you go to UEFA EURO 2020.

2 – Summer 2020 Olympic Games

Japan has been preparing for this huge event for the last few years. The host city for the 2020 Olympic Games is Tokyo. Exciting fact is that five new sports have been added to the program in Tokyo: baseball and softball, karate, sport climbing, skateboarding and surfing. The Games will be held from July 24th to August 9th, 2020.

Thinking of an exotic getaway for the upcoming winter? Here are 4 hottest destinations you can reach traveling from Vancouver on a cruise ship tour.

1 – Cambodia

When you cruise to Cambodia, you will have a chance to explore not only breathtaking beaches but also incredible pristine jungles and ancient temples. We would recommend taking excursions and making time to visit such must-see Cambodian sites as The Ruins of Angkor, Psar Lu Market, Wat Krom, and Wat Leu, Phnom Penh.

2 – Vietnam

Incredible ports of Vietnam will be just the beginning of your exotic experience. Vietnam is an incredible country mixing energetic cities, picturesque waterways and bays, and a mountainous countryside with rice terraces. Must-see destinations in Vietnam include Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa.

3 – India

If you are looking for an exotic getaway, consider cruising to India. India’s ports offer such an unforgettable experience like bustling bazaars, Victorian-era museums, ornate temples, and the smell of spices in the air. India’s main cruise ship ports are Mumbai and Kochi. Other emerging ports include Goa, on the Arabian Sea, and Chennai.

4 – China

Cruise calls on China are becoming more and more popular. In every Chinese port, you visit the nature will be just around the corner – mountaintops, rivers, sea. Along with its rich history and cultural heritage, China is very advanced. So, during your tour, you will have a chance to enjoy modern entertainment, shopping, and unique cuisine.

Some Cruise Ship Tours may include several destination countries. In any case, we do encourage you to check on your travel visa situation in advance. If you need a visa to go to one of the countries of your cruise ship tour, our visa specialists will gladly guide you through the process. Stress-free visa application is what you need, so all you have to worry about is your travel itinerary, which is a fun part!

African Safari will become an unforgettable adventure of your life. Make sure you are well-prepared for the wild journey!

First of all, be aware that African Safari is an unpredictable experience! Even if you choose a guided tour – be prepared for such things as weather change, insects, rough rides…Wild animals are not waiting for you along the road (which is mostly gravel or sand). Sometimes your driver will need to cross the river, or a stone field, or even drive through the bush!

Second of all, stay safe! For that, follow these safety tips for African Safari:

• Stay in the car at all times;
• Keep your hands and camera inside the car;
• Don’t approach animals too closely;
• Don’t make noise;
• Never stand between hippos and the water;
• Always obey the rules – they are there for a good reason!

The guides of the African Safari are always there for you to get the best safari experience. So, don’t be shy to ask for a stop, or any question that you have – there is one more chance for you to learn more about African wildlife and animals’ behavior, don’t miss it!

See what countries in Africa are the most popular for African Safari tours. 

Family vacation, a solo trip or traveling with friends – consider these countries for your 2020 travel plans!

Keep in mind, that some of these countries may require visa, or eVisa, but some of them do not require visa or you can get a visa on arrival. Please, check if you need a travel visa (including transit visa) here, and pick one of these hot destinations for 2020 travel:

1 - Ethiopia: Addis Ababa and its historical must-see Menelik Palace, also known as the Imperial Palace.

2 - China: Beijing city had a couple of great openings this year such as Beijing Daxing International Airport, Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing Luxury Hotel. Also, the Qianlong Garden will be opened for the first time in 2020. That all is attracting tourists just as much as historical sites of the city.

3 - UAE: The first World Expo in the Middle East will take place in Dubai in 2020.

4 - Malawi: one of the best African destinations for a safari tour. After years of repopulating the major Liwonde National Park, which has a tragic history of poaching, 2020 will be the first year that visitors can anticipate seeing the Big Five.

What could be better than a spontaneous getaway to one of the most romantic places on the planet!

Every year St. Valentine’s Day reminds us about one of the most significant things in life – LOVE! Everybody must have experienced this desire to escape with the loved one somewhere warm, exotic or just quiet place on earth – just to enjoy the company of each other. Here is the list of the most romantic destinations worldwide that have always been magnetic for loving hearts.

1 – Hawaii – the absolute leader for a romantic vacation!

Spend some quality time with your romantic partner in one of the most naturally beautiful places on earth. The most popular destinations here would be Kauai or Honolulu. However, no matter what you choose – you will get picturesque secluded beaches, colorful gardens, and breathtaking waterfalls!

2 – Big Sur – the perfect romantic ride in California

If you go on a road trip and take the Pacific Highway, you will enjoy one of the most unforgettable coastlines - just between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hearst Castle.  This ride is perfect for Valentine’s break! Enjoy the mountains on one side and rocky cliffs and amazing beaches on the other. Here are some travel tips for the road trip to make sure your vacation goes smoothly.

3 – Kyoto – peaceful Japanese experience

Japan is one of the most impressive destinations in Asia, but Kyoto is something absolutely special you will never be able to forget, especially if you explore it with your significant other! Visit Kyoto Botanical Gardens and enjoy a romantic boat ride.

The best selection of annual festivals for music lovers. Europe, Asia, North America – you chose where to go in 2020 and enjoy the time of your life!

Here is a list of music festivals 2020 – from the world’s most famous to the less well-known cultural events that are worth to visit!

1 - Coachella Music & Arts Festival – California, USA

Dates: Apr. 10 – Apr. 19, 2020

Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival has become an iconic cultural event for the country. There are all sorts of musical styles like Hip Hop, alternative rock and electronic music. You will be surprised by the large scale art installations, amazing food, and celebrities wearing their best desert outfits. If you are thinking of a roadtrip to California, here are some useful tips for you to keep in mind while traveling in the USA.

2 - Primavera Sound – Barcelona, Spain

Dates: June 3 – June 7, 2020

Enjoy the great music, live acts, and performance in this wonderful city! Make to the beach for a music festival, or explore lots of chill areas to spend time with friends. Experience this wonderful vibe of a summertime music festival in Barcelona as many nationalities visit the city specifically for the event.

When you are on a road trip, expect unexpected things to happen to you. Even if you have planned everything and it seems like you are all set, well, you are not!

1 - Wi-Fi is really HARD to find! Surprisingly, but turns out that in Canada we are spoiled with Wi-Fi access almost everywhere. In the US you have more chances to find Wi-Fi at a fast food cafe in the middle of nowhere, but not in restaurants or cafeterias where you would actually expect to connect to Wi-Fi. So, if you travel without roaming and have an urgency to contact your family or check your email, don't ignore the closest Starbucks.

2 - Bring CASH. Yes, in 99% cases you'll be able to pay by a credit card, but it's not guaranteed that it won't be unexpectedly declined, and you won't know why.

3 - If you booked your accommodation through EXPEDIA, always contact the hotel before heading there and confirm that they have your booking. Sometimes hotels don't see the bookings made via Expedia for an unknown reason. In this case you are risking not getting your accommodation even if you've already paid for it. If the inn didn’t see your booking and can't provide you with a room on the required date, there are 2 options:

Sometimes traveling with friends may become torture for many reasons you can't predict. Here are some travel tips to have fun and keep your friendship going.

Everybody has their vision and expectations from the trip, that's why it's important to be on the same page. Here is the best way to start your planning:

1 - Discussion

Go through the details of your upcoming trip: what each person of the group wants to visit. It would be very disappointing to spend all this money on the trip and not be able to see what you expected or always been dreaming of. Compromise is key to the discussion.

2 - Finances

The point that cannot be ignored as it's the frequent cause of conflicts. Generally, the entire plan of your vacation will depend on the finances each of you is ready to spend. Guided tours, restaurants, accommodation, and transportation - all that has to be discussed before the trip to avoid any misunderstanding.

3 - Useful apps

There are a bunch of super handy mobile apps that will allow you to keep track of your shared expenses and balance with your friends. For example, Splitwise will be useful if you decide to take turns paying the bills. Also, Budgy App would be a nice analog.

TOP-5 Canadian cities that will make your Christmas holidays experience the most festive and memorable!

If you are planning to spend your Christmas holidays away from home, consider Canada as an option and you won’t regret! Festive season in Canada is quite remarkable with its snowy scenes, Christmas markets and seasonal cheer. Here are TOP-5 best Canadians cities to go for your winter holidays:

1 – Toronto

It is not only the largest city in Canada, it’s the biggest concentration of fun! Half a million people are coming to Toronto every year to see sparkling lights, enjoy outdoor skating rinks and attend various of seasonal events, such as Toronto Christmas Market, Christmas at Casa Loma, Cavalcade of Lights, Christmas Flower Shows and many more!

2 – Montreal

This one is the largest city in the French-speaking province of Quebec, and definitely a great destination to enjoy the Christmas season. Delicious food, European atmosphere, weekly fireworks shows – all that is about Christmas holidays in Montreal. If you are planning your getaway to Montreal, check out these events: Christmas in the Park, Holiday Alley in Old Montreal, Merry Montreal.

If you are going to Saint Petersburg as a UEFA fan next summer, here is what you need to know about the schedule and the city.

As a UEFA fan you probably already know that the UEFA EURO 2020 tournament will take place in 12 cities: Amsterdam, Baku, Bilbao, Bucharest, Budapest, Copenhagen, Dublin, Glasgow, London, Munich, Rome, and Saint Petersburg. For sure, not every fan would have an opportunity to travel from country to country to watch all the desired matches.

If you are already excited to come to Russia for UEFA EURO 2020, you are not going to be disappointed with the host city - Saint Petersburg. If you are going to stay in the city and watch the game only there, you will need to know the schedule of matches and what to do in Saint Petersburg between the big dates.

Matches in Saint Petersburg Stadium

The most fun winter activities in Russia you want to experience at least once!

Winter in Russia is known to be severe and pretty challenging, especially for foreign tourists. However, if you are into these winter activities, you are going to have so much fun during your trip to Russia in wintertime!

1 – Dog Sledding

This activity is relatively new but it is becoming more and more popular among local citizens and tourists. Now there are lots of destinations in Russia (such as Chukotka, Yakutsk, or even country-sides of Moscow and St. Petersburg). This exciting winter adventure will make your Russian trip truly unforgettable!

2 – Ice Sculptures

One of the most creative ways to celebrate winter in Russia is ice carving competitions. There are annual festivals and Ice Sculpture Championships taking place in different cities of Russia. The most popular destinations would be Moscow, St. Petersburg, Ekaterinburg, Khabarovsk, Perm.