European cities to visit this Weekend

Europe boasts several countries famous for their beautiful cities, architecture and incredible nightlife, this is a quick guide for the weekend traveller to choose the best destination to visit next time you get some time off work:

Amsterdam

Though not an uncommon choice for a weekend away with friends; Amsterdam is popular for a reason. Whether choosing to indulge in the legal highs available in coffee shops throughout the city, or visiting the cities' red light district and sex museum, there will be plenty to keep you busy during your stay. Of course Amsterdam boasts attractions of a more cultural nature if that's your thing, the house of Anne Frank and Van Gogh museum are also located in the city for those wishing to soak up the tradition and history of the city.

Paris

Usually associated with romantic breaks, Paris is often overlooked as a major party city. The french capital boasts a plethora of bars, clubs and attractions to keep a group entertained during their stay. Clubs such as the VIP Room regularly host international celebrities and models, while smaller clubs can be located throughout the city to suit any taste. During the day you can keep yourself amused byy visiting some of the most famous attractions in the world including the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and obviously the Eiffel tower.

Berlin

When discussing European nightlife you cannot overlook the German Capital. Berlin not only has some of the most stunning examples of architecture but it also boasts an incredible array of bars and clubs for the weekend traveller. Berghain & Panorama Bar located in an abandoned power plant, also known as the Church of Techno is known worldwide for its selection of the best techno DJ's  in the world. Attractions such as the Berlin Wall, Berlin tower and Museum Island will keep hungover minds distracted during the daylight hours.

Any more places to add? Leave a comment!

International Festivals to visit before you die

If you're looking for something a bit different from the usual UK music festival scene and are willing to travel, here are a list of five incredible annual festivals taking place around the world.

Holi - (Festival of Colours)

Location: India, Nepal, Pakistan

When: March each year (Dates Vary)

What is it: Holi is a ancient Hindu religious festival which has grown in popularity among non Hindus in Asia and worldwide. Celebrations include bonfires, singing, dancing , food and drink while participants cover each other in brightly coloured dyes and water.

Oktoberfest

Location: Bavaria, Germany

When: Late Spetember- Early October

What is it: Oktoberfest is the 'world's largest funfair'. It is a 16 day festival visited by over 6 million people each year. Guests can enjoy attractions such as fairground rides, stalls, games and traditional food, not to mention a variety German beers with nearly 7 million litres serverd during the 2007 festival.

Carnival

Location: Rio de Janerio, Brazil

When: Lent each year (Dates Vary)

What is it: Each year Rio hosts the largest carnival in the world, with over 2 million people attending each day. The Carnival parade is filled with revelers, dancers, floats and performers. Participants in the carnival are formed from 'Samba Schools' located in Rio gathered together to celebrate while sampling traditional Brazilian food and drink.

Tomorrowland

Location: Boom, Belgium

When: July (Dates Vary)

What is it: Tomorrowland is the world's largest electronic music festival with over 400, 000 people attending the 2014 festival. Past performers have included: Alesso, Armin Van Buuren, Benny Benassi, Dillon Francis, Laidback Luke, Steve Angello and Hardwell.

Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead Festival)

Location: Mexico

When: 31st October - 2nd November

What is it: Dia de los Muertos is a traditional Mexican holiday where families gather to honor and remember those who have died. Traditionally this involves creating altars and decorating the graves of the deceased using sugar skulls, marigolds and the favourite foods and drinks of the departed. Definitely a unique way to spend next Halloween.

Gap Year Travel Ideas

Every student desperately wants to take a gap year and travel the world, however very few of us actually follow through with the plan. Limited funds and a struggle to find friends also able to go holds thousands back every year, but there may be hope for us yet. 

Several organisations now exist who cater travel plans for young people; arranging everything from accommodation, activities and catering for clients. Social media is also adopted by these companies to allow travellers on the same journey to interact with and get to know each other before leaving, easing the fear of travelling to the other side of the world alone.  

Contiki Holidays is one such company offering young people the opportunity to customise trips to suit their requirements and allowing travellers to interact with one another before departing.

Contiki Holidays

About: Founded in 1962, Contiki tailors holidays for travellers aged from 18 to 35 and arrange trips to destinations including: Europe, Asia, Latin America, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

What’s included: Travellers can expect twin shared accommodation, Meals and transfers to be included in their package; along with guides and a comprehensive schedule of activities for their chosen destination.  However travellers are required to book flights independently as Contiki have no options of including travel in their packages.

Price Range: A wide range of travel packages are on offer to suit most budgets, prices vary from £185 for 2 day UK trips to £2460 for 2 week visits to Japan.

Networking: Additionally, Contiki offer customers use of their ‘Meetup’ service. Basically this is a forum for all those who are travelling with the company, allowing travellers to speak with and get to know the others who will be taking part in the trip from around the world. This makes the service attractive to individual travellers who may be nervous or apprehensive about booking a trip as they will have the opportunity to get to know others before leaving.