Interesting Facts

June 6, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Rhodes’ cocktail bar scene is as diverse and enchanting as the island itself. From the serene gardens of Socratous Garden to the vibrant energy of Moooi Cocktail Bar, there’s a spot for every kind of cocktail lover. Whether you’re enjoying panoramic views at Oasis Roof Garden Bar or immersing yourself

June 6, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

The stunning island of Rhodes may be popular for its enchanting medieval architecture and pristine beaches, but it's also a haven for coffee lovers. As you explore its cobbled streets and sun-drenched plazas, you'll discover a thriving coffee culture that blends traditional Greek flavours with modern trends. We've scanned the

May 29, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Rhodes, Greece, is not only famous for its ancient ruins and beautiful beaches but also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene. Rhodes' bar scene is as diverse and dynamic as the island itself. From the historic charm of The Union Bar to the lively energy of Colorado Club, there's a bar

May 22, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

One of Spain’s popular Balearic Islands, Mallorca (also known as Majorca) is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, culinary scene, vineyards and glorious weather. Mallorca is known for being one of the most affordable places in Europe, but in terms of the rest of Spain it can be a

May 15, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcome to Bordeaux: A vibrant city renowned as the wine capital of the world. It lies nestled along the Garonne River in southwestern France, offering natural beauty alongside city life. Its rich history dates back to Roman times. and the UNESCO-listed city centre is a maze of picturesque squares. Thousands

May 14, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Soaring a stomach-churning 828 metres (2, 716-feet) high, the Burj Khalifa isn’t just the world’s tallest building, it’s also 60% taller than the world’s second-tallest building. That’s quite the leap. It comprises 160 floors and boasts the tallest observation deck in the world too. How long did it take to

May 14, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Lunar New Year, known as Tết or Tết Nguyên Đám, is the most important festival of the year in Vietnam. It falls on the first day of the Lunisolar calendar, usually at the end of January or the start of February. Each year is dedicated to a sacred animal

May 9, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Crete is Greece’s largest island, known for its crystal clear waters, ancient historical ruins, hiking trails and cultural attractions. Like the mainland, Crete is known for its reasonable price points and its abundance of accommodation options. We’ve created the ultimate guide for costs in Crete, and how to explore this

May 9, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcome to Croatia. Renowned for its stunning coastline, medieval towns and rich cultural heritage, Croatia has tourists flocking from around the world. The popularity of Croatia rises every year, especially since the hit TV series 'Game of Thrones’ was filmed in its capital, Dubrovnik. You might expect the prices to

April 30, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcome to Malaga: a vibrant coastal city renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant culture. Birthplace of world-famous artist Pablo Picasso, Malaga boasts a range of museums including the Picasso Museum to showcase his work. The city's popularity would have inevitably increased overall prices. However, those on a

April 30, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcome to Nice: Nestled along the sparkling French Riveria, this glamourous city boasts a beautiful blend of history with modernity and culture. Its Mediterranean climate, sophisticated atmosphere, and alluring charm attract visitors from across the globe. You might assume Nice to be an incredibly pricey destination due to its increasing

April 30, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Berlin is Germany’s lively capital city, made popular by its vibrant art scene, culture and significant history. The city tells a story through the partial remains of the Berlin Wall and the Holocaust Memorial. Berlin is also known for being relatively inexpensive compared to other major European capital cities, but

April 30, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Tirana is Albania’s capital city, known for its colourful pastel buildings, art culture, lively shopping districts, and nightlife. However, it is quite underrated as far as dream travel destinations go. When it comes to costs, Tirana (and Albania as a whole) are much cheaper than other European destinations. However, like

April 29, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

It’s no secret that millennials are travelling more and more. But, just what are they after when it comes to modern-day travel experiences? Instagram, online booking apps, and artificial intelligence are shaping the way this generation travels, for sure, but there’s more to it than just apps and shareability. Just

April 29, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

No more being squished like a sardine on the 8:05 L Train when you could enjoy extra room on the 8:09, right? Now you can make an informed decision about whether or not you want to squeeze on. Or, wait a few more minutes for a vehicle where you’re more

April 29, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Now is the best time to finally learn that language you’ve been meaning to. With millions around the globe either in quarantine or practising self-isolation due to the coronavirus, there’s lots of free time to go around. Get started on a new language or sharpen your old skills with the

April 29, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

French is one of the world’s most studied languages and is known for being romantic-sounding and loaded with silent letters. French evolved from the dialects of Northern Gaul and once the region was conquered by the Romans, Latin was peppered in. Thanks to this, French has Latin, Germanic and Celtic

April 15, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcome to Dubai: a thriving and vibrant city located in the United Arab Emirates, known for its stunning architecture, luxurious lifestyle, and overall glitz and glamour. Dubai has experienced a huge surge in tourism in recent years, and an increasing number of expats have decided to give up their lives

April 15, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Thailand is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, known for its Buddhist temples, tropical beaches, friendly locals, and markets. Despite its international reputation and high tourist footfall, Thailand is often cited as being very affordable, especially to Westerners. Thailand also has certain areas that, despite having a large

March 27, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Planning a trip this year? You might be interested to discover which UK airports inflate their parking prices during the peak summer season. In our recent analysis conducted on 18th March, we compared the prices for a week-long parking period in April and July and ranked them based on which

March 25, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Venice, the enchanting city built on water, is famed for its intricate canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. As one of Italy's most iconic destinations, Venice attracts visitors from around the globe, eager to explore its beauty. But amidst its picturesque canals and romantic gondola rides, the question arises:

March 19, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Bangkok, the bustling capital of Thailand, is a city of contrasts with its majestic temples, vibrant street markets, and towering skyscrapers. Known for its lively street life and cultural landmarks, Bangkok offers a diverse experience to travellers. But, when it comes to costs, is Bangkok expensive? Here's what you need

March 19, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, Spain, is a city teeming with iconic architecture, delightful cuisine, and a lively arts scene. While it’s a dream destination for many, the cost of visiting Barcelona can concern travellers. Knowing what expenses to expect and how to navigate the city on a budget

March 19, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Tenerife, the largest of Spain's Canary Islands, is a paradisiacal destination known for its year-round sunshine, stunning beaches, and the majestic Mount Teide. While it's a popular spot for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure, the cost of visiting Tenerife varies widely based on your travel style and preferences. Understanding what

February 26, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcome to Dublin: The vibrant Capital City of Ireland doesn't disappoint with its rich history, fascinating culture and traditions as well as stunning scenery. Founded by the Vikings, Dublin's medieval roots are seamlessly blended with a splash of modern energy, making the city an incredibly exciting destination. Dublin has people

February 21, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcome to Birmingham: Located in the heart of the United Kingdom and boasting the title of England's second-biggest city. This thriving and diverse city offers a rich culture, industrial heritage, and iconic landmarks. The combination of history, world-class shopping, and a delicious culinary scene attracts visitors to Birmingham. The city's

February 5, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Paris is a traveller’s dream destination, with stunning historical architecture and structural masterpieces and a vibrant art, fashion and food culture that rivals many other major cities in Europe. Paris also has excellent transport links to take you around the city easily and efficiently. Despite this, Paris has a reputation

February 5, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcome to Seville: the Andalucian capital known for its flamenco dancers, architecture, and food. It’s a passionate, sun-soaked city, with green parks bursting with fresh-scented orange trees and beautiful Moorish buildings aplenty. It’s fast becoming one of Spain’s most popular city breaks, and that comes with a price. Seville might

February 2, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Tokyo, Japan’s sprawling capital city is regarded as the largest city on Earth by population. It is home to world-famous attractions and landmarks like Sensō-ji Temple, Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo National Museum. Although Tokyo has an international reputation as being a tourist hotspot, compared to other megacities like New York

January 24, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

The USA’s largest city, New York City, is a bustling metropolis filled to the brim with fashion, art, landmarks, cultural activities, and a heap of urban charm. With all these things comes a reputation for being expensive, as New York is notorious for being one of the most expensive cities

January 24, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Italy’s capital city is a hub of culture, fashion, architecture and art, and features numerous historical sites like the world-famous Colosseum and Pantheon. Despite its international reputation and appeal, Rome has certain areas that are cheap and budget-friendly. If you know where to look, you can cheaply and comfortably explore

January 19, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcome to Rhodes: The largest of Dodecanese islands. The sun-soaked island is loved for its golden sand beaches, mountaintop villages, charming woodlands, and ancient history. It’s no wonder that Rhodes is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece. While Rhodes isn’t as expensive as Mykonos, it also isn’t

January 17, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Cardiff, the capital and largest city in Wales, is a melting pot of culture, nightlife and history, from its castle to its bay and surrounding beaches. Despite its cultural attractions, Cardiff can be quite expensive, especially in the centre of the city. If you know where to look, Cardiff can

January 17, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city (not the capital!) is a vibrant hub of arts, culture, nightlife, history and architecture, and serves as the country’s gateway to the rest of the UK. It’s also a top destination for students, with its main university being in the world's top 100 ranking universities. But,

January 7, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team

Faro is the capital of the Algarve region of Portugal, a popular tourist destination known for its sandy beaches and world-famous golf courses. Due to its international appeal, Faro may increase its prices to fit with peak travel seasons, so if you are travelling to Faro, it’s a good idea

December 26, 2023 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcome to Cyprus: a gorgeous Mediterranean island boasting a harmonious blend of ancient history with sun-soaked beaches. It is renowned for attracting tourists from across the globe who visit to get a taste of its magic. The island's popularity has inevitably bumped up prices for accommodation, travel, and eating out.

December 26, 2023 - Big 7 Travel Team

Edinburgh is one of the most diverse and cultural cities in the UK, showcasing its culture, arts, theatre, and history through its architecture and annual festivals. Despite this, Edinburgh has a reputation as being one of the most expensive cities in the UK. But, if you know the tips and

December 26, 2023 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcome to London: the epicentre of English culture, theatre, music, finance, and art. It’s also one of the most expensive cities in the world. But if you know what to expect, and are armed with a few tips on how to save money, then you can explore London on a

December 26, 2023 - Big 7 Travel Team

Malta is a small island country that is rife with historical and cultural sites, luxury hotels, restaurants, bars and museums. It’s also known for being more affordable than other European countries, and its quality of life is excellent. If you know what to expect when travelling to this country, and

December 19, 2023 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcome to Santorini: a Cycladic dream in the Aegean Sea, characterised by sweeping caldera views and whitewashed architecture clinging to the craggy cliffside. Bright pink bougainvillaea cuts through the sea of whites and blues, creating a picture-perfect scene. Santorini is a feast for the senses, but it doesn’t always come

August 17, 2023 - Big 7 Travel Team

Africa, the cradle of humanity, is known for being the most geographically diverse place on earth. The 54 countries each contain numerous tribes with their own distinctive cultures and idiosyncrasies. Needless to say, some unique traditions have evolved across the continent over the years. From spittle-laden blessings to ritualistic wife

May 7, 2023 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Philippines is a beautiful, vibrant country with 7,600 islands to explore. Every corner of every region here has something new to discover, but here’s some key things to know about Filipino culture. One thing that makes the Philippines stand out is the passionate and strong culture that people have

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

This idyllic beach resort is located in southeast Mexico on the northeast coast of Yucatan. Cancun is best known for its blockbuster beaches, high-rise hotels and endless days of sunshine, but there’s more to this city than all-inclusive resorts. How much do you know about Mexico’s best-loved sun and sand

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Equatorial Guinea is a fascinating country with a long history. It’s small, tucked in beside Cameroon and Gabon in central west Africa. The mainland and five offshore islands make up this relatively unknown country. But there’s a lot to learn, so let’s get to know it a bit better. Here

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Lisbon is the largest city in Portugal and also its capital. It is the only Atlantic coast capital city in continental Europe. Home to some impressive chapels and bridges, the city is also one of the best places to visit for those who love books. Filled with heritage sites and

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Acropolis is one of the most famous monuments in Greece. This ancient citadel overlooks the city of Athens. It contains the remains of several important ancient buildings, for instance, the Parthenon. Constructed during the second half of the 5th-century BC, the Acropolis is over 2,500 years old. With such

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The commercial and educational hub of Central Vietnam, Da Nang, is an important port city on the South China Sea. Famous for its bridges, long cable car and flavourful food, this Vietnamese city has lots of things for visitors to enjoy. So, whether you are planning a trip, or just

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Krabi is a port town in southwestern Thailand and a tourist hotspot. The town is famous for its scenic views, breathtaking beaches and idyllic islands. With its warm and crystal clear waters as well as plenty of coral reefs and sea caves, it is also a popular destination in Thailand

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Central African country of South Sudan is the world’s newest country. The population has one of the world’s lowest life expectancies and is also one of the world’s youngest. Once part of Sudan, the country is rich in culture but doesn’t have is any UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Curious

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Unlike most of Egypt‘s most iconic monuments, the Abu Simbel isn’t located in Cairo, Luxor or even Alexandria. The soaring rock-cut temples are located in the small village of Abu Simbel, located in Aswan near the corner with Sudan. They sit on the western bank of Lake Nasser, 140 miles

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Founded in the 12th century, the Kremlin both represents the historical heart of Russia and modern-day politics. It’s one of the country’s most iconic landmarks, visited by as many as 2.5 million people every year. Set in the heart of Moscow’s Red Square, the Kremlin complex is separated by a

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

It’s also one of its newest capital cities. It officially became a city on 28 October 1904 and the capital city in 1955. Today, it’s the largest city in Wales, 11th largest city in the UK and the most important administrative, shopping, and cultural centre in the country. It’s also

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Located about 120 kilometres (74.5 miles) south of the Thai border, Penang is Malaysia’s second-smallest state. To reach the state, you’ll need to travel across a 13 kilometre (8 miles) toll bridge in Butterworth or hop on a ferry from the Malaysian mainland. Georgetown is its best-known, and possible best-loved,

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Located in the West Indies of the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago comprises two main islands – Trinidad and Tobago – and a handful of smaller islands. This twin-island republic boasts everything you expect from a Caribbean island – palm-fringed sugar-soft beaches, staggering biodiversity and year-round sunshine. Considering heading here for

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Easter Island is a remote, inhabited island in the Pacific Ocean. It is famous for the hundreds of giant stone heads that dot the landscape. For centuries, historians, geologists, archaeologists and scientists have been fascinated by these statues. If the moai of Rapa Nui intrigue you too, here are some

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Shanghai is in East China and sits at the mouth of the Yangtze River in the Yangtze River Delta – the name Shanghai means “on the sea”. The city’s nicknames are the Pearl of the Orient and the Paris of the East. The city is one of the world’s largest

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

This South Asian nation is home to 163,187,000 people, making it the eighth-most populous country in the world. It’s far from being one of the largest though; at 56,990 square miles it’s about one-tenth of the size of Alaska, making it the 92nd largest country in the world. Looking to

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

This remote island in the Western Pacific Ocean was once known as ‘Pleasant Island’. Today, it’s become a dumping ground for Australia’s refugees, been ravaged by phosphate mining and is in danger of sinking – fast. But there’s more to this pint-sized nation than the headlines. Here are a few

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Located on the northern tip of Taiwan, around 100 miles off the coast of China, Taipei is the capital of Taiwan. A record high of 11.84 million people visited Taiwan in 2019, many from China. But beyond the national palace, the weird and wonderful entertainment and the incredible cuisine, how

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Chiang Mai is the largest city in northern Thailand. Famous for its temples and old walled centre, the 13th-century river port city attracts millions of visitors every year. From its moats to mountains, Buddhas to baby elephants, here are some of the most interesting facts about Chiang Mai that might

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Mumbai is the capital city of Maharashtra state and a natural harbour on the west coast of India. It is famous for many things, for instance, its old-world charm and architecture that starkly contrasts with modern, soaring skyscrapers. It is also famous for being one of the most populated cities

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Millau Bridge is the tallest – but not the highest- road bridge in the world. You’ll find it in beautiful southern France. This architectural wonder was completed in the year 2004 and since then, it has been earning acclaim and awards for its stunning, minimal modern design that’s in

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Eritrea – also referred to as the State of Eritrea – is located in the ‘horn’ of Africa. It’s squeezed between Djibouti, Ethiopia, Sudan and the Red Sea in East Africa. According to the Human Development Index, Eritrea is one of the ten least developed countries in the world, which

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

There’s more to Cyprus than sun-bleached beaches and turquoise waters. From its Neolithic ruins and Byzantine churches to turtle beaches and wine trails, the country packs a powerful punch. It’s where West meets East, steep mountains sit alongside sweeping stretches of sand and ancient legends pervade. In short, there’s more

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Republic of Guinea is located in West Africa, between Sierra Leone, Senegal, Liberia, Mali Cote d’Ivoire and Guinea-Bissau. Little known to most of the world, the country is teeming with wildlife, rolling mountainous landscapes and vast sandy stretches. Interested in finding out more? From Africa’s greatest acrobats to a

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Vietnam’s capital city Hanoi is usually the first stop for most people travelling the country, with millions flocking here ever year to tick off its remarkable sights, incredible cuisine and hodge-podge history. But how much do you know about this colourful capital city? From the bloke that built the Eiffel

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Bavaria’s fairytale palace, Neuschwanstein Castle, is one of Germany’s most popular landmarks. In the summer, it receives at least 6,000 visitors every day. Between its turrets, towers and mountain-top location, it looks like it could’ve been plucked straight out of a Disney movie; there’s even a mad king. We’ve cherry-picked

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Sphinx is a strangely shaped rock located at an altitude of over 2,200 meters in the Bucegi Mountains in Romania. Scientists believe that erosion caused the rock formation, but others believe that it is the work of aliens. Curious to know more? Here are some of the most interesting

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Capitol Hill is a historic neighbourhood in Washington, DC, the capital city of the United States. On Capitol Hill, you’ll find the United States Capitol building, one of DC’s most distinctive buildings. Its dome is the second tallest peak in Washington DC, – the tallest is the Washington Monument. But

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Located on the Balkan peninsular, North Macedonia is rich in ancient Greek, Roman and Ottoman heritage. Until recently, it was officially known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia because Greece had already claimed the title of Macedonia for one of its northern regions. Today, that’s all been resolved with

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Dammam is the fifth largest city in Saudi Arabia. It is famous for being where oil was first discovered in the country. It is also one of the most famous port cities in the whole of the Middle East. With striking structures and idyllic artificial islands, Dammam is a great

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Fukuoka on Kyushu is one of the largest cities in Japan. Modern-day Fukuoka is the result of the fusion, in 1889, of the port city of Hakata and the former castle town of Fukuoka. However, the settlement of the area dates back thousands of years. Famous for its bronze Buddha,

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Macao Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China Macao – to give it its full title – is located on China’s southern coast. While we are on the subject of names, Macao was its original old Portuguese spelling but over time, the spelling evolved into Macau in both

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Middle of the Earth is the most visited tourist attraction in Ecuador due to the fact that it is located right on the Earth’s Equator. Or is it? Scientists have measured the Equator to be hundreds of feet away from the monument that supposedly marks the centre of the world.

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Located in the Sentinel Range of the Ellsworth Mountains, Mount Vinson is the highest mountain in Antarctica. It is one of the Seven Summits and is also the most remote, most expensive, and coldest of the Seven Summits to climb. So, whether you are planning a summit or are just

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The biggest, holiest and most important Hindu temple in Bali is located on the slopes of an active volcano. With over 80 temples, this impressive site attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year who come to marvel at the architecture, worship and take part in the many festivals –

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland, is also one of its most popular. Beloved for its waterside location, volcanic landscapes and vibrant culture, over two million people visit the city every year. But how much do you know about the city beyond its blockbuster sights? Did you know that in Māori-language,

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Widely described as ‘Mother of Miami’, Julia Tuttle was a local businesswoman who owned property in the local area. She convinced Henry Flagler, a railway tycoon, to extend the railroad down to Miami river territory. In return, she supplied him with the land for a hotel and railroad station for

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Cut off from the western world until the fall of the iron curtain in the 1980s, today visitors come to this sizzling city in their droves. Prague is known as the city of a hundred spires and is home to some of Europe’s most breathtaking buildings, from gothic castles to

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

One of the world’s most iconic luxury hotels, Burj Al Arab is also one of Dubai‘s most iconic landmarks. The 320-metre high skyscraper was the tallest hotel in the world when it was built in 1999, though it slipped to number five in the past few years. It’s still 14

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The CN Tower is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Over 1.5 million people visit the legendary landmark in Downtown Toronto every year to take in the breathtaking views or to dine in the clouds. Completed in 1976, the 554.44 metre (1,815-feet) high communication platform was once

November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Rome is a city of many fountains, but nothing tops the Trevi Fountain or Fontana di Trevi. Completed in 1762, the statue stands at an impressive 26.3 metres (86 ft) high and 49.15 metres (161.3 ft) wide, making it the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Budapest is the largest city in Hungary and is also the capital of the country. It is famous for its rich history, many underground caves, and for being the Spa Capital of the World. With the mighty river Danube flowing through its centre, it is one of the world’s outstanding

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Delhi is a city and territory in north-central India. It is famous for many things, for instance, its spice markets, religious monuments and for being one of the most populated cities in the world. Unfortunately, it is also famous for its awful pollution, although this has improved since officials started

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The national mosque of Pakistan is the rather unusual Faisal Mosque in Islamabad. The mosque and its architecture won a prestigious design award for its non-traditional shape. The mosque is shaped like a Bedouin tent and lacks the traditional dome that crowns most other mosques. Curious to know more about

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Jakarta, or the Special Capital Region of Jakarta to give it its full name, is the capital of Indonesia. It is located on the northwest coast of Java, the world’s most populous island. Jakarta is the centre of economics, culture and politics of Indonesia, and with a population of over

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Myanmar is the biggest country in mainland Southeast Asia. Home to over 135 different ethnic groups, the country is culturally rich and diverse, however, the majority of people living in Myanmar (90 per cent) identify as Buddist. Curious to learn more about this fascinating country? Here are some of the

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Bangalore, which is officially known as Bengaluru, is the capital and largest city of Karnataka, India. It’s home to more than eight million people, with a history that takes back well over 1,000 years. Millions of domestic and international tourists visit every year for its year-round pleasant weather, blockbuster sights

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Located in the eastern Caribbean Sea of North America, Dominica might be one of the region’s smallest islands but it still packs a punch. It hit the headlines in 2017 when Hurricane Maria wreaked havoc on the island, but it has quietly and successfully rebuilt itself. Thanks to its staggering

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

You’ll likely be familiar with the name but how much do you actually know about Iran? Known for centuries as Persia, the King re-branded it as Iran, which means land of Aryans, in 1935. Unlike most Islamic states, the national language in Iran is Farsi, not Arabic. The country fell

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

At 25 km and 12 km wide, Liechtenstein is one of the smallest countries in the world. It’s also one of the richest. Nestled into the Apennines, between Switzerland and Austria, it’s one of the world’s two ‘double-landlocked’ countries, surrounded by landlocked nations. But there’s more to the country than

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

France isn’t short on fairytale castles, but not even the Palace of Versailles holds a candle to Mont-Saint-Michel. Close to three million people visit the landmark annually, making it one of France’s most popular sights. The gravity-defying Abbey, which sits atop a craggy island in a glittering bay between

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Welcoming over two million visitors every year, Sacré Coeur is France‘s second most-visited church. It’s one of the Paris’ most iconic monuments too, but how much do you really know about the capital’s celebrated cathedral? We’ll wager you haven’t heard quite a few of these interesting facts about Sacré Coeur

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, and Cebu is its own cluster of islands and islets. The city and its island province are a tourist hotspot with a winning combination of beautiful countryside scenery with urban attractions, for instance, cultural and historical sites. The place is also

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The 13th-century Sun Temple at Konark in India is dedicated to Surya, the Hindu Sun God. It is one of the most famous monuments in India. The monument is an elaborate chariot full of carvings and hidden meaning. It is also a highly-accurate sundial and can tell the time to

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Nabateans founded Petra over 2,000 years ago. However, it was rediscovered in 1812, which is why people sometimes refer to it as ‘The Lost City of Petra’. It is a myriad of temples, tombs and caves located in the rugged desert of southwestern Jordan. It is also an endangered

November 22, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Set in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Tonga is made up of over 170 islands spread across an ocean area roughly the same size as Japan. Of those islands, only 36 are inhabited. As you might expect, it’s all white sand and coral-fringed beaches, tropical rainforest and friendly people

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Antalya is a large city on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. Since the second century BC, the city has been an important port and today it is a busy resort city and the gateway to the Turkish Riviera. With over 2,000 years of history, visitors to the city can see a diverse

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

This iconic landmark is a proud symbol of science and the city of Brussels. Built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair, the structure was supposed to be just temporary, lasting just six months. However, it is still standing some sixty years after its construction. Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders. Part of the Zambezi River, the waterfall forms the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. You can see most of the falls from the Zimbabwean side, but most visitors head to the Zambian side. If you want to get closer

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Antigua and Barbuda lure hundreds of thousands of tourists to their powdery white beaches every year. The tiny island chain is home to some of the Caribbeans most stunning landscapes and delicious local cuisine. This, combined with a long and colourful history and the friendly locals, means you’d be hard-pressed

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

In a city brimming with eye-popping architecture, Delhi’s Lotus Temple – also known as the Bahai House of Worship – manages to stand out. In fact, we even named it one of the Top 50 Most Beautiful Buildings in the World. Built in 1986, the lotus-shaped temple was designed to

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The capital of the French Riviera and France’s fifth-largest city, Nice has been a magnet for tourists for centuries. It’s the epitome of sunlit sophistication, from its belle-époque architecture to its seaside promenade. It’s beloved by everyone from Queen Victoria to Elton John but there’s more to the city than

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

There’s more to this twin-island nation than year-round sunshine, palm-fringed white sand beaches and luxurious hotels. For instance, did you know that it’s the smallest sovereign state in the Western Hemisphere? Thought not. From a founding father’s birthplace to French-imported monkeys, here are a few interesting facts about St Kitts

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

An inuksuk is a stone structure placed by the Inuit in various locations across northern Canada, Greenland, and Alaska. They use these structures as ways of communicating with each other. They indicate directions, mark sacred places and signpost great spots for hunting and fishing. If you come across one, you

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

JJohor Bahru is the southernmost and second largest city in Malaysia. It is one of the most visited cities in the world and is home to the busiest international land border crossing in the world. With more theme parks than any other state in the country and lots of cultural

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, the Prophet’s Mosque, is in Medina in Saudi Arabia. It is the second holiest place in Islam after the Kaaba in Mecca. In the Prophet’s Mosque, you’ll find the Tomb of The Prophet Mohammad, and millions of Muslims come here to pray every year. Curious to learn more

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Forbidden City in Bejing is one of China’s most famous landmarks and one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Housing ancient cultural relics as well as over 9,000 rooms, this site was once home to emperors but is now an incredible and one of the most visited

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Egypt isn’t short on blockbuster sights, but Luxor Temple is one of its star attractions. Located on the east bank of the River Nile, it’s one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in the world. Construction began in 1400 BCE, spearheaded by the Pharoah Amenhotep III and completed by Tutankhamen, Horemheb

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The North Cape (Nordkappsome) is located in Northern Norway. It is a high cliff that stretches out into the Arctic Ocean. Road access to the North Cape is through one of Norway‘s longest subsea tunnels. At North Cape, you can visit the world’s northernmost ecumenical chapel and if you arrive

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Parc Guell is one of Antonio Gaudí’s most iconic works. He designed and built the 12-hectare landmark just before the outbreak of World War One, and it officially opened as a public park in 1926. A designated Unesco World Heritage Site since 1984, more than 12 million tourists visit Park

November 18, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the United Arab Emirates or the UAE. Located in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula, squeezed between Oman and Saudia Arabia, this federation of seven emirate states was born in 1971. In the past five decades, it’s rapidly transformed from a quiet fishing

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Grenada is a small volcanic island in the Caribbean made up of one large and six smaller islands. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, lush forests and waterfalls, and for its spice production. Though small, the island certainly does pack a punch when it comes to things to do.

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Kolkata – or Calcutta in English – is the capital of the state of West Bengal in India. It is located on the Hooghly river and during the British Rule in India it was the country’s most important trading port. With a long history and a mix of cultural influences,

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Medina is a large city in Saudi Arabia and the second-holiest place in Islam. It is the city of the Messenger of God and where you’ll find some of the oldest mosques in the world and the tomb of the Prophet Mohamed. A site of pilgrimage for millions of Muslims,

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Micronesia – or the Federated States of Micronesia – is a collection of more than 600 islands in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the world’s smallest nations, with a landmass smaller than Luxemburg, but as a region, it spans more than 1,801 miles (2,900 kilometres) and

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Located on the southwestern coast of Africa, Namibia is one of the driest countries on the planet. Around one million tourists visit the country every year for its dramatic desert landscapes, wildlife-filled national parks and colourful culture. But how much do you really know about the country? Did you know

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Tajikistan – or the Republic of Tajikistan – is a landlocked country in Central Asia. Squeezed between Kyrgyzstan, China, Afghanistan and Uzbekistan, it was one of the constituent republics of the Soviet Union between 1929 to 1991. Even after the fall of the Iron Curtain, the country remained off the

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Central Asia is unchartered territory even for the worldliest travellers. Of its five republics Uzbekistan – officially the Republic of Uzbekistan – is the most densely populated. Its name is a combination of the Turkik words ‘uz’ (self), ‘bek’ (master) and the Persian suffix ‘stan’ (country). This essentially translates

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Standing at 20 metres (66. ft) high and 65 metres (213 ft.) wide, Brandenburg Gate is one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. It’s sandwiched between the Haus Lierbermnn and Haus Sommer, both built in the late 1990s by Josef Paul Kleihues to replace the pavilions destroyed during World War Two.

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Floating between the west coast of Italy and the north coast of Sardinia, Corsica is the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Known as the ‘Island of Beauty’, it’s a European holiday hotspot thanks to its glittering beaches, wild hinterland and lively towns. Headed here on holiday and looking

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Part of the Soviet Union until 1991, Kyrgyzstan boasts incredible natural beauty, with its unspoilt mountainscapes, vast glaciers and pristine lakes. Its history dates back over a thousand years too, increasingly influenced by China, Iran and the Middle East as it became a crucial part of the Silk Road route.

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Latvia may be a small country, but it has quite a few surprises among its boisterous capital city and bucolic countryside. Did you know, for instance, that over a third of the population live in the capital city? Or that Latvia boasts Europe’s tallest women? Closed off from the Western

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Sandwiched between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova became an independent republic following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. It follows then that Moldova is a relatively new country, but its history actually stretches back millennia; some of Moldova’s key archaeological sites house ancient tools dating back 1.2 million years.

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

République de Côte d’Ivoire is a West African Country and former French colony. Evidence of its colonial past can be seen all across the nation including in its official language. They like to do things big in the Côte d’Ivoire. It is home to the world’s biggest church and it

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Krakow is a beautiful old city in Poland. It’s so beautiful that UNESCO made the centre of the city its first-ever World Heritage Site. Full of history and heritage, the city is also full of heart and those looking for love might just find it if you rub the beloved

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Sandwiched between Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and self-declared Kosovo, Serbia truly is the heart of the Balkans. Home to countless historic relics, delicious and hearty cuisine plus a rich kaleidoscope of art and culture, it’s easy to fall hard and fast for this beautiful country. Whether you’re

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Located just 26 miles from the historic heart of Dublin, Newgrange is Ireland’s most visited archaeological monument. Around 200,000 people visit the site every year to step back thousands of years to a simpler time. The ancient site is shrouded in myth and legends too – and there are even

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Piazza San Marco – or St. Mark’s Square – is one of the most visited sights in Italy. Millions of tourists flock to the iconic square to explore the Basilica of Saint Mark, wander the Halls of Doges Palace and sip Bellinis in one of the most picturesque spots on

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Sandwiched between Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary and Ukraine, Slovakia was part of Czechoslovakia until the “velvet divorce” in 1993. The landlocked country may not have beaches, but there’s a good deal more to it than its cobbled capital Bratislava. With mountains across the north and centre, hills to

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Home to more than 900 lovely, laid-back islands, the Solomon Islands is located in the South Pacific, between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu. Despite its white sandy beaches, rainforests and eye-popping sights, tourism hasn’t really touched the country – perhaps because it’s so difficult to reach. Interested in learning more

November 17, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

This tiny cluster of nine Polynesian islands in the Pacific Ocean has been inhabited since the 14th century, but few people know about it. Ringed with coral and topped with palm trees, Tuvalu is pure paradise but it takes a long time to get there, with just two direct flights

November 8, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Sierra Leone, unofficially known as Sloane, is a West African country rich in wildlife, history, and natural resources. The country has a long and brutal history; it was a hotspot for the slave trade and endured a bloody, complicated civil war. However, the country is slowly experiencing economic growth. And

November 8, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Somalia is the easternmost country in Africa, in what’s known as the Horn of Africa. It has endured a long and brutal history, with a neverending war, random attacks, and famine. Somalia’s also become infamous for its pirates, who seized ships in the Gulf of Aden during the 2000s. However,

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Harmandir Sahib is the holiest shrine in Sikhism and stands magnificently on a holy pool in Punjab, India. Its name in English is the Golden Temple due to the fact that 24 karat pure gold covers much of the outside of the building. Not only does the Sri Harmandir

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The City of Jerusalem is the largest city in Israel and the capital of the country. Some 956,849 people call the city home. The first settlement of the area took place between 4500 and 3500 BCE, making Jerusalem one of the oldest cities on Earth. With so much history, there

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Timor-Leste is the newest country of the 21st century. Located in Southeast Asia, the country doesn’t have any UNESCO World Heritage sites, but it does have some of the most biodiverse waters in the world. So, from flags to fish, population to power struggles, here are the some of the

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Immortalized by Count Dracula, Bran Castle is now Romania’s most-visited attraction. It’s perched on a cliff at an elevation of 762 metres, surrounded by dense forest and valleys that look like exactly the sort of place literature’s most blood-thirsty villain would reside. Inside, narrow winding staircases and underground passages spiral

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Floating in the heart of the Caribbean sea, the idyllic island chain of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is beloved for its palm-fringed white sand beaches and year-round sunshine, but unlike some of the region’s other islands, it hasn’t been exploited by tourism. Planning a tropical island getaway? From black

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The White Cliffs of Dover have a special place in Britain‘s collective imagination. Located along a five-mile stretch of the Kent coast, at the point where the country is closest to continental Europe, the chalky cliffs are as symbolic to Brits as the Statue of Liberty is for America. They’re

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Kuala Lumpur is the shining jewel in Malaysia’s crown, so it’s not surprising that the King lives here and tourists flock to admire his royal abode. Fun fact: the King is part of the only rotating monarchy in the world. One of the New 7 Wonder Cities and home to

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Liberia is in Western Africa with a coastline along the North Atlantic Ocean. With 29 ethnic groups and languages, Liberia is an ethnically diverse country, as well as a fascinating one. The Americans founded the country, and as a consequence of this, the Europeans never colonised Liberia and the country

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Sagrada Família, or to give it its full title, The Basílica de la Sagrada Família, is an unfinished basilica in Barcelona, Spain. You’ll find it in the middle of the city in the Eixample district. This one-of-a-kind temple is the work of genius architect Antoni Gaudí. This incredible building

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

This vibrant metropolis is one of Germany’s most popular cities, for good reason. Home to an epic music, beer and art scene, Berlin also boasts a rich history unrivalled by any other European city. In the 20th century alone it was the setting for a revolution, the rise of Nazis,

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Squeezed between Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia and the Adriatic Sea, people have vied for control over Bosnia and Herzegovina for centuries. The triangular-shaped state is well-known for its role in the devastating war following the disintegration of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, and before that as the springboard for World War One

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Ha Long Bay, in northeast Vietnam, is one of the world’s most recognisable landscapes. It’s renowned for its vivid emerald waters and soaring limestone islands covered in dense rainforests. Designated a World Heritage Site in 1994, the smattering of islands is popular with scuba divers, wildlife enthusiasts, rock climbers and

November 4, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The 55th largest city in the United States, Honolulu might be small but it packs a punch. Famed for its long golden sandy stretches, epic surf and dramatic mountainscape backdrop, it’s most people’s idea of an idyllic tropical escape. But beyond the sand and the waves, how much do

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Home to some of Africa‘s most stunning scenery, vibrant culture and warm locals, Angola deserves to be on anyone’s bucket list. While still largest off the tourist track, the capital city Luanda is nicknamed the Paris of Africa for its vibrant metropolitan atmosphere. Moreover, though, the nation boasts some seriously

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Cloud Gate in Chicago, affectionately called, “The Bean” is a true city landmark. Inspired by liquid mercury, it is one of the world’s largest permanent outdoor art installations. You’ve seen it in countless Instagram posts and even a Kanye West music vid. So, are you ready for some interesting

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Many people quite often confuse The Holy See with the Vatican City. They are not the same thing. The Vatican City is a state located within the Italian city of Rome. The Holy See is actually the name given to the government of the Roman Catholic Church. Both the Vatican

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Nicaragua in Central America is set between two bodies of water and two other countries. It is home to some pretty impressive natural features, for instance, an open vent active volcano and the tenth-largest lake in the Americas. Another unique thing is that it is the only Latin American country

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Zambia is home to some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders and wildlife. Located in southern Africa, the country is famous for its rugged terrain and for being an awesome safari destination. Home to the biggest waterfalls, the biggest lake and the big five, the African Nation is big

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world with a history that spans more than 2,300 years. This ancient fortification, made from cement, rocks, bricks and dirt, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and it attracts millions of visitors every

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Burkina Faso is a large, landlocked country in West Africa. Squeezed between Mali, Niger, Benin, Togo and Côte d’Ivoire, much of the landscape is dominated by savannah. But beyond the newspaper headlines, how much do you know about this African nation? Did you know, for instance, that Burkina Faso translates

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Burundi is a tiny country with a staggering variety of landscapes, from soaring mountains to lakeside beaches. But since the civil war broke out in 1993, only the most intrepid travellers have seen the country first-hand. Looking to learn more about this landlocked East African nation? From jogging bans to

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Mali – officially the Republic of Mali – is squeezed between Algeria, Niger, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Senegal and Mauritania. It’s the eighth-largest country in Africa, but how much do you know about this landlocked nation? From the world’s richest man to the largest mud building in the world,

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Squeezed between Libya, Chad, Nigeria, Benin, Senegal, Mali and Algeria, Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world when measured by GDP per capita. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t rich in wildlife, history and nature. From its own dinosaur to the tallest mud-brick minaret in the world,

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Rhodes is the fourth largest island in Greece and the largest of the Dodecanese islands. It’s actually closer to the Turkish mainland (18 km away) than it is to the capital, Athens (400km). It offers a fascinating mix of culture, history, beaches and outdoor adventures, and it’s long been a

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The blue-domed churches of Santorini are probably one of the most recognisable monuments in Greece. You’ll find them on the island of Santorini with some of the most well-known and photographed in the town of Oia. The island is peppered with hundreds of chapels and churches and dozens of them

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

The country’s official name is the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. With a population of almost 40-million, it is the 37th most populous country in the world. Kabul is the capital and largest city in Afghanistan. Around 10% of the population lives in Kabul. The official languages of Afghanistan are Pashto

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam, home to two of the most important Muslim cities in the world – Mecca and Medina. It’s the 14th largest country on earth, measuring over 2.14 million squared km, which makes it roughly the same size as Western Europe or one-fifth the size

November 3, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

This cutting-edge capital is the height of Scadi-cool. But how much do you know about Stockholm beyond IKEA, Abba and spas? Now’s as good a time as ever to put your knowledge to the test. From drinkable river water to the world’s first-ever open-air museum, here are a few interesting

October 28, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Florence is the capital of the Tuscany region in Italy. It is famous for being the home of many masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture. In fact, Florence is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance as many early writers and artists of the period sprung from here. From its

October 28, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

At just over 620,000 sq. km (239,000 sq. miles), the Central African Republic is slightly smaller than Texas or half the size of France. Squeezed between Chad, Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cameroon and the Republic of the Congo, it’s the smallest landlocked country in central

October 28, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Germany’s economic and financial capital Frankfurt-am-Main is famous for its soaring, steel skyscrapers and sprawling airport, but there’s more to the city than ‘Mainhatten’. Don’t believe us? From Germany’s largest urban forest to the original hot dog, here are a few interesting facts about Frankfurt that might surprise you. There

October 28, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Sun-kissed Senegal is located at the westernmost point of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. Squeezed between Mauritania to the north, Mali to the east, and Guinea and Guinea-Bissau to the south, the country is recognized as one of the region’s model democracies. But while the country has enjoyed a stable

October 28, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Skellig Michael is a remote, rocky island situated in the Atlantic Ocean just off the coast of County Kerry in Ireland. Famous for its remarkably preserved early Christian monastery and for being the filming location for two Star Wars movies, the island attracts pilgrims and film fans from all over

October 28, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Over 2,000 years old, the Western Wall is a limestone wall in the Old City of Jerusalem. It is a sacred site to the Jewish people and many come to the wall to pray on a daily basis. It is a very popular tourist site, attracting millions of visitors every

October 28, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Estonia is famous for its dense woods, charming historic centre of Tallinn and delightfully unique history that spans millennia. In recent years, the Baltic nation has seen a boom in tourism and even implemented a Digital Nomad Visa for those looking to stick around long term. Needless to say,

October 28, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Bound by the Mediterranean Sea, Tunisia, Algeria, Niger, Chad, Sudan and Egypt, Libya is Africa’s fourth-largest country and the 16th largest country in the world by land. It boasts the longest African coastline on the Mediterranean Sea (often called the Libyan Sea), the largest desert in the world, a volcanic

October 28, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Sitting right in the centre of Europe on the Baltic Sea, surrounded by Belarus, Latvia, Poland and Russia, Lithuania is truly a gem of Eastern Europe and the Baltics. Famous for its ancient history, interesting pagan roots and archaic language, there’s lots to love about it. Add to this a

October 28, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Famed for its rich history, Oktoberfest, beer and football, Munich is one of Germany’s most popular destinations. Around three million tourists hotfoot here every year, but how much do you know about the Bavarian capital? From thousand-year-old monasteries to ancient latrines, here are a few interesting facts about Munich you

October 28, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

Jutting out into the Strait of Gibraltar, the Rock of Gibraltar is a small peninsula separated from Spain by a sandy isthmus. However, despite being so close to Spain, this limestone promontory is actually an overseas territory of the United Kingdom. The Chief of State is Queen Elizabeth II. Even

October 28, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team

This cool capital is the largest city in Poland. Located east of the centre, in the heartland of the Masovian Plain, it’s divided in two by the Vistula River. Beloved for its cutting-edge architecture, burgeoning art scene and fascinating history, millions visit the city every year. Planning a trip to

July 12, 2022 - Aleyna Yilmaz

Germany is full of cultural quirks and customs that are slightly different to the rest of the world. Life in Germany is mostly followed by rules and regulations, ensuring order and efficiency. Sometimes cultural misunderstandings cause confusion, and sometimes they cause offence. If you’re going to visit Germany, avoid making

July 5, 2022 - Allie D'Almo

One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Tower of Pisa attracts more than five million visitors every year. While it might look like one of the world’s most structurally unsound buildings in the world, you can climb its 294 steps right to the top too. At 55

June 1, 2022 - Aleyna Yilmaz

Vietnam is steeped in spirituality, superstitions, and old-age traditions. Throughout Vietnam’s rich and long history, a fascinating cultural heritage has been passed down through generations. The Vietnamese take their traditions seriously, which has contributed to their strong national identity – a blend of traditional and contemporary values. They strongly value

May 24, 2022 - Allie D'Almo

The traditional English Sunday roast dates back a long time, possibly as early as King Henry VIII’s reign. Traditionally, Roman Catholics and Anglicans abstained from eating meat on certain days of the week, but then they could tuck into their hearts content come Sunday. Today, a traditional Sunday Roast includes

May 24, 2022 - Allie D'Almo

Like most countries in South America, Ecuadorians maintain many Christmas traditions, but this one is particularly unusual. Ecuadorians buy dolls at Christmas time and dress them up to look like Baby Jesus. Instead of adding them to the Nativity Scenes set up across the country and in most people’s homes,

May 24, 2022 - Allie D'Almo

The Summer Solstice, Midsommar, is an important date in Sweden’s collective calendar. The whole country grinds to a halt to celebrate the longest day of the year. People hotfoot to the park to nibble on pickled herrings, dance around poles and ever-so-Instagrammable flower wreaths. This never-ending lunch party takes place

May 24, 2022 - Aleyna Yilmaz

Brazil is a beautiful, diverse country. It’s on many travellers’ wishlists, and for good reason. Crashing waterfalls, beautiful beaches, and dense forests make up just a portion of what this country has to offer. Like any other country with a rich culture, there are certain customs and societal norms that

May 24, 2022 - Aleyna Yilmaz

If you’re planning on travelling to Ghana, you have plenty to look forward to. The country’s compelling history, lip-smackingly flavoursome dishes, beautiful landscapes, friendly locals, and vibrant music scene make it a wonderful place to visit. But like any other country that has a rich culture, there are some customs

May 23, 2022 - Aleyna Yilmaz

Japan has a unique culture, steeped in tradition and history. A lot of them might differ from your own. If you’re visiting Toyko, it’s a good idea to get acquainted with the cultural norms, habits, and practices. Some things might seem small, but you want to avoid inadvertently offending the

May 22, 2022 - Aleyna Yilmaz

Turkey is where the east meets the west, rich in culture and tradition. The combination of enchanting history, pristine beaches, beautiful nature, and hot weather has made it a hub of tourism. With 50.2 million visitors every year, Turkey is the sixth most visited country in the world. With a

May 17, 2022 - Aleyna Yilmaz

Traditions in Turkey are a big thing. The country is steeped in old-age rituals and superstitions. In Turkey, there’s nothing more important than family, respect, hospitality, and food. These values have turned into ancient traditions which have been passed down for generations. Here are some unique traditions in Turkey that

April 18, 2022 - Allie D'Almo

Spain celebrates its own version of April Fool’s Day on 28th December, Santos Inocentes (Holy Innocents). It’s a merry old day that sees people play pranks on each other, for example, sticking paper cut-outs on people’s backs. Those who do manage to trick people call them ‘Inocente, inocente’. Inocentadas means

April 13, 2022 - Allie D'Almo

Practised in both Greek and Turkey, the Evil Eye (matiasma) is one of the country’s most famous superstitions. The Evil Eye is a curse given from one person to another by way of a spiteful look. The person who catches the evil eye will usually start to feel pretty rough,

February 25, 2022 - Melanie May

Agra is a city in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, India. Once part of the Mughal Empire, today the city is famous for its rich history and magnificent monuments like the Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Mehtab Bagh, and, of course, the Taj Mahal. It is also famous for its

February 23, 2022 - Allie D'Almo

Denmark’s cool, cutting edge capital city is a popular mini-break destination for millions of tourists every year. Over 9 million people travel to Copenhagen every year for a dose of royal history, Michelin-starred meals and eye-popping architecture – all by the waterside. But how much do you know about the

December 20, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

New Year is one of Russia’s most important holidays. When Christmas was banned during the Soviet era, many of its associated traditions were transplanted to New Year. It became a dedicated day for getting family and friends together around the (New Year) tree, gift-giving and eating too much. Today, while

December 8, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

When most people think about their tropical island fantasy escapes, they’re normally conjuring up an image that looks an awful lot like Hawai. Between its cobalt blue sea, white sandy palm-fringed beaches and technicolour coral reefs, Hawaii is most people’s idea of paradise. But there’s more to Hawaii than bliss

November 20, 2021 - Melanie May

The Minar-e-Pakistan is a historical monument in the city of Lahore in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It is the largest tower in Pakistan and also a symbol of the freedom of the country. The tower has a beautiful botanical design and each of its platforms represents a part of

November 15, 2021 - Melanie May

Famed for its wildlife, archaeological discoveries and complex history, South Africa is a fascinating country. Nicknamed the Rainbow Nation, the country is home to many different peoples and cultures and you’ll hear dozens of different languages being spoken. So, if you are planning a trip to the southernmost country on

November 11, 2021 - Melanie May

The temple complex of Angkor Wat is situated in Siem Reap in northwest Cambodia. It is one of the most important religious monuments in the world and has become the symbol of Cambodia and the pride of its people. UNESCO designated Angkor Archaeological Park a World Heritage Site in 1992

November 10, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

China is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world, churning out breakthrough after breakthrough at record rates. But it’s also a deeply traditional and conservative country at its heart – and one that takes its culture seriously. If you’re taking a trip to China, it pays to

November 9, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

Legend tells that Rome was founded in 753 BCE by Romulus. However, there is archaeological evidence of humans living in Rome over 5,000 years ago though, suggesting that the city’s ancient foundation has been obscured by the legend of the testosterone-fuelled twins. In 2014, excavation work confirmed this with the

November 1, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

Soaring a stomach-churning 828 metres (2, 716-feet) high, the Burj Khalifa isn’t just the world’s tallest building, it’s also 60% taller than the world’s second-tallest building. That’s quite the leap. It comprises 160 floors and boasts the tallest observation deck in the world too. How long did it take to

October 29, 2021 - Melanie May

Over 4,500 years old, the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt is one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the only one that remains relatively intact. However, this is not the only pyramid in Egypt. There are more than 100 of these intriguing monuments dotted across

October 27, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

Over 31 million tourists flock to Japan every year for its rich culture, intricate cuisine and bubbling hot springs. It’s one of the most forward-thinking countries in the world but it’s also a deeply traditional culture with a myriad of rules, best-practice and customs that can easily baffle outsiders. Japanese

October 15, 2021 - Melanie May

People will still be nervous about flying and will choose ‘low travel’ – transport low to the ground. Road, train and ferry travel will all be popular. These modes of transport allow travellers to physically distance more so than on aeroplanes. They can open windows, get fresh air and move

September 14, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

With its Jungle Book ruins, endless beaches and wildlife-rich national parks, Sri Lanka is popular with everyone from broke backpackers to luxury holidaymakers. But it wasn’t always that way. For over 25 years, Sri Lanka was embroiled in a turbulent civil war that left it cut off from most of

September 10, 2021 - Melanie May

Republic of Kenya (English) or Jamhuri ya Kenya (Swahili) is located in East Africa. Nairobi is the capital city and the country’s population is around 53 million. Kenya is synonymous with safaris and is famed for its vast wildlife reserves. But there is more to this stunningly beautiful country than

September 8, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

They know how to celebrate in the Philippines. The festivities kick off in September, so by the time New Year’s Eve comes around, the party is already in full swing. As the new year approaches, we’ve cherry-picked some of the most common and more unusual traditions people in the Philippines

September 7, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

Located just 100 km from Tokyo, Mount Fuji is an iconic symbol of Japan. Soaring 3,766 metres high, it’s the country’s tallest mountain, as well as the second-highest volcano in Asia and the seventh-highest island peak in the world. Unsurprisingly, it’s one of Japan’s most-visited tourist attractions and over 200,000

September 6, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

Like most of South America, they like to party in Ecuador – and what better time to celebrate than New Year? There’s no time for sitting down and watching the countdown on telly either, New Year in Ecuador is a community event, and even the smallest villages throw parties that

September 6, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

Greece is no stranger to traditions, but this really comes to a head at New Years’. The two day period is crammed full of centuries-old superstitions, religious rituals and quirky observations. From cakes and carols to pomegranates and pebbles, here are seven New Years traditions in Greece that you might

August 23, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

In France, New Year’s is referred to as La Saint-Sylvestre because December 31 is the feast day of Saint Sylvestre. Like most countries, New Year’s is a pretty big deal in France. It’s a time to get together with friends or family and eat, drink and talk excessively. Everyone has

August 18, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

It might be flip flop and sunglasses weather, but a traditional Brazilian Christmas doesn’t look too different to most Christmas in Western Europe or America. The first Portuguese settlers came to Brazil over five centuries ago, so many of the country’s Christmas customs, traditions and superstitions were inherited from Portugal.

August 18, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

The Lunar New Year, known as Tết or Tết Nguyên Đám, is the most important festival of the year in Vietnam. It falls on the first day of the Lunisolar calendar, usually at the end of January or the start of February. Each year is dedicated to a sacred animal

August 17, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

Christmas in Iceland is tightly interwoven with folklore and pagan traditions. It’s a time when mountain-dwelling characters and monsters will come into town and mischievous pranksters leave gifts for children. It’s also one of the most magical times of year to visit the country, when the dark days are lit

August 16, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

Christmas is a popular time to visit Russia, when its onion-shaped domes are capped with snow and its cities sit under a canopy of twinkling lights. But while it’s undeniably pretty, there’s probably a thing or two you don’t know about this holiday. From 1929 until the fall of the

August 16, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

New Year’s is a big deal in Germany, so much so that that the German’s have a specific name for it – Silvester. The period is rooted in old superstitions, centuries-old traditions and Christian customs, as well as a few rogue additions that have been popularized in the past few

August 16, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

Christmas isn’t a national holiday in China and most people work on December 25 like any other day, but that doesn’t mean there’s no festive fun. The country’s Christian population – which accounts for around 5% of the country – tend to celebrate the special day quietly, but in the

August 14, 2021 - Melanie May

In , Christmas is a festive and fun time. In Japanese culture, a lot of customs are practised around this time of year, many of which aren’t observed in other countries. Curious to know more? Here are some unique Christmas traditions in Japan. In Japan, people gather with family for

August 3, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

In the United Kingdom, Christmas is a time to come together to celebrate and have intense disputes with your siblings over board games you would never play at any other time of year. It’s also a time for food comas, hangovers, Love Actually and Michael Buble’s Christmas album. The Christmas

August 3, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

As you might imagine, Mexico – a country famous for fun and fiestas – take New Year pretty seriously. It’s a time for family and friends to get together, get merry and eat so much they can hardly speak. In Mexico, it’s called Nochevieja, which means ‘Old Night’. It’s all

July 31, 2021 - Melanie May

In Spain, the unique customs and traditions don’t stop when Christmas ends. They continue right into the New Year. From eating twelve grapes (just like the Italians) to dropping gold into cava, the Spanish have lots of interesting ways of welcoming in the New Year. So, whether you are brushing

July 31, 2021 - Melanie May

In Italy, New Year’s Eve is known as vigilia and is also La Festa di San Silvestro, Saint Sylvester’s feast day. New Year’s Day, is called Capodanno, which literally means “head of the year.” For Italians, this time of the year is a holiday filled with rituals, customs and superstitions,

July 30, 2021 - Melanie May

In Japan, New Year’s is an important holiday and the Japanese believe that the New Year should begin with a clean slate. In Japanese culture, a lot of customs are observed around this time of year, many of which aren’t observed anywhere else in the world. Curious to know more?

July 23, 2021 - Melanie May

Christmas is a special time in Norway full of celebrations and gatherings, therefore, it’s a wonderful place to spend Jul. The season has a rich history of distinctive customs, ones that Norwegians still practice today, for instance, making julekurver decorations. To help you celebrate Christmas Nordic-style, here are some of

July 23, 2021 - Melanie May

There are plenty of Swedish festivities, holidays and events over the festive season which sees the Swedes practice many distinctive customs. From Lussebullar to St. Lucia, here are some unique Christmas traditions in Sweden that you may not have known about. In Swedish, the Christmas greeting is god jul och

July 23, 2021 - Melanie May

The Spanish love to celebrate the festive season with lots of unique customs. There is almost a full month of celebrations, holidays and feasts. There are also lots of different events, for instance, a ‘fat’ lottery, a Christmas April Fool’s Day and a festive pooping log. Intrigued? Here are some

July 23, 2021 - Melanie May

Christmas is a big deal for Italians and they love to celebrate Natale all across the country! The season starts on 8th December, the Day of the Immaculate Conception. The official end of the Christmas season isn’t until 6th January, the Day of the Epiphany. Though customs differ from region

July 21, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

Sure, Christmas is a pretty big deal but in Cuba, it’s actually Christmas Eve that gets all the attention. Noche Buena, as it’s known in Cuba, involves a glorious traditional meal featuring a whole suckling pig, fried plantains, rice and vegetables. Families get together, the neighbours join in – you

July 6, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

Mexico is a country with a rich and colourful history, influenced by ancient Aztec customs and Hispanic rituals. Popular culture is every bit as vibrant, with dancing, street art and some of the best cooking in the world. Beyond the tacos and tequila, the country is home to some truly

July 3, 2021 - Melanie May

China is a fascinating country with a rich history and culture. It is one of the world’s largest countries with one of the world’s oldest civilizations. As a result, the Chinese practice a wide range of wonderful customs, some of which are centuries old. Ready to learn more? Here are

July 3, 2021 - Melanie May

Japan is a remarkable country with a rich, deep history and culture. For a period of 214 years, Japan was a closed country. This goes some way towards explaining our fascination with this intriguing archipelago. Whether you are planning a visit or just want to know more, here are some

June 9, 2021 - Allie D'Almo

At 55 metres (183 foot) tall, the Tower of Pisa is an impressive structure, even without its famous lean. And, while it may one of the most structurally unsound buildings in the world, you can actually climb up 294 steps to the top of it too. Planning a trip or

March 29, 2021 - Melanie Hamilton

Germany has long been a crossroads and cultural hub of Central Europe. From its ancient history, thriving economy, interesting culture and delicious cuisine, it’s easy to see why it is such a sought after nation to visit in the EU. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff or foodie,

March 24, 2021 - Melanie Hamilton

Year after year Greece reels in more than 30 million tourists from all around the globe looking to indulge in the delicious cuisine, rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover or culture and history fanatic, Greece checks all the boxes. So whether you’re planning to

March 12, 2021 - Melanie Hamilton

Dazzling scenery, rich culture and an incredible gastronomic scene are just a few of the things that await in New Zealand. Which is why this breathtaking Pacific nation is one of the most sought after tourist destinations and is great for every type of traveller. Whether you’re planning to visit

December 4, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

We can all agree that one of the worst aspects of flying, especially long-haul, is the crammed leg spaces. If you’re lucky and have a row or extra seat to yourself, sometimes you can rough it slinked over; as long as you can handle the neck and backaches that follow.

December 2, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world racking up nearly 94 million international tourists annually. From ancient cities like Rome, Venice and Pompeii; to stunning natural wonders like the Dolomites, Amalfi Coast and Blue Grotto; it’s certainly earned the title of one of the world’s most

December 2, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

South Korea is famous for its ancient temples, delicious foods and bustling capital of Seoul. From the epic Gyeongbokgung Palace to vibrant and eclectic market streets of Seoul, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you plan to hit the countryside and explore marvels such as the

October 26, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

Cultures all around the world have honoured the dead since the dawn of time. From Ireland‘s ancient Samhain festival, Barriletes Gigantes in Guatemala and India‘s Mahalaya Amavasya, honouring ancestors is nothing new. Easily one of the most recognizable and popular celebrations of the dead is Dia de los Muertos aka

October 21, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

The stunning Mediterranean country of Italy was home to one of the worst Coronavirus outbreaks early on. By May the virus had already claimed the lives of 30,000 Italians and was still spreading. In the months since Italy first reopened they’ve dealt with more than a few hiccups that have

September 15, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

In need of something to brighten your day? These hilarious images from the 2020 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards will make you laugh. The light-hearted competition has announced this year’s finalists and the images are incredible. From bears waving hello in Alaska to turtles sticking up the middle finger, these candid

September 14, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Thai Airways has transformed its old cafeteria in Bangkok into a pop-up restaurant (complete with airline seats) serving inflight food. Since opening last week, the cafe has been mobbed by locals who are keen to experience the feeling of being on a flight again. The cafe is serving more than

September 9, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

The world’s favourite* fast food brand (*we made this up but it’s basically undeniable), McDonald’s is famous for its exotic and different menu items across the globe. A McFalafel? Hook it to our veins. But the chain also excels when it comes to unusual and often downright beautiful McDonald’s restaurants

September 1, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

With the power of the American passport declining and more travel restrictions in place for American citizens than others, the thought of gaining residency somewhere (anywhere!) else can be tempting. In fact, a recent YouGov study reveals that a third of Americans are interested in moving to Canada if the

September 1, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

If you’re in need of a little spirt booster, then the world’s first Happiness Museum in Copenhagen should be top of your post-pandemic travel list. Confused about what a museum dedicated to happiness consists of? First things first, it makes sense that it’s in Demark. The Danes are consistently voted

September 1, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

You might think when staying in a hotel that it’s sparkling clean. And while most hotels do prioritise strict cleaning (more so now than ever), it turns out that even a fancy hotel might not be much cleaner than your own home. In fact, it’s probably dirtier. UpgradedPoints recently did

August 20, 2020 - Big 7 Travel Team

Dark refers to “a dark chapter of history”, these dark aspects of history and humanity have shaped the current climate we are living in. This growing interest in a dark past has been on the rise and has fed into tourism. However, it’s not to say that this topic hasn’t

August 10, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

It’s not easy keeping a restaurant in business – about 60% of restaurants fail in their first year. To keep a restaurant in business for any length of time is impressive, but the oldest restaurants in the world are blowing things out of the water. Lasting through world wars, economic

August 5, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Wondering what language people speak in the Philippines? There’s different dialects, but the main languages spoken here are Tagalog and English. Before you brush up on your Filipino slang words, master the basics with these essential Filipino phrases. You’ll fit right in once you know how to say these greetings

June 15, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

One trend that’s here to stay is remote working, as people all across the world (and their employers) realise that it’s not always necessary to have an office base. With that in mind, we’re sure many people are considering upping sticks to a new city once travel restrictions ease. Keep

June 15, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

The Global Peace Index (GPI) measures more than just the presence or absence of war. It captures the absence of violence or the fear of violence across three domains: Safety and Security, Ongoing Conflict, and Militarisation. Interestingly, the 2020 GPI results show that the level of global peacefulness has deteriorated

May 12, 2020 - Big 7 Travel Team

Some countries are starting to decrease their lockdowns with faint hints of the possibility of travel to nearby areas. One word that you might hear of late is the term ‘travel bubbles’. But what are travel bubbles? We have all the info… The concept is an entirely new one that

April 28, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

The Taj Mahal is one of the most visited tourist sites in the world, and it isn’t hard to see why. The pearly white palace tomb is a gleaming testament to love, India and symmetrical art. Whether you’re visiting or just looking to brush up on your knowledge of one

April 23, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

French is one of the world’s most studied languages and is known for being romantic-sounding and loaded with silent letters. French evolved from the dialects of Northern Gaul and once the region was conquered by the Romans, Latin was peppered in. Thanks to this, French has Latin, Germanic and Celtic

April 15, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

The Eiffel Tower and centrepiece of Paris is recognized and loved around the world. Every year 7 million people flock to the iron arches to look up at one of the world’s most iconic structures. In addition to making great selfies and postcards, the Eiffel Tower has some pretty interesting

April 14, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Often depicted in fairytale novels or sci-fi TV shows, there’s more than a few ‘deserted islands’ around the world. From far-flung islands thousands of miles from Africa to a volcanic island in the South Pacific with mysterious monuments, these are the most remote islands on earth. The British overseas territory

April 8, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

German is a complex language full of tricky grammar rules and long words such as ‘grundstücksverkehrsgenehmigungszuständigkeitsübertragungsverordnung‘ which is a term to delegate land, in case you were curious. But more interestingly, it is full of words with no English equivalent. Some of which you never even knew you needed a

April 6, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

The Louvre, one of Paris‘ gems and the world’s largest museum, is a bucket list item for many around the world. In addition to being the world’s largest and most visited museum, it also comes with a history of its own dating back almost a thousand years. Here are seven

April 6, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

Spanish is such a beautiful language. Warm and flowing, fast and interesting, there are many ways to describe what it sounds like to a native English speaker. Because of the difference in culture, there are plenty of words that lack an English translation and vice versa. That’s why we’ve compiled

March 31, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

With coronavirus continuing to rear its head around the globe, many are stuck at home practising self-isolation or in quarantine. If you are planning a trip to take after the pandemic, you may be wondering how you can travel mindfully in a world of mass tourism. The rise of social

March 30, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

We’ve all heard about Magellan, Christopher Columbus and Hernan Cortes – but what about Sarah Winnemucca, Annie Londonberry and Valentina Tereshkova? These incredible ladies paved the way for women’s exploration and have inspired us to go above and beyond. Here are some of history’s most inspiring female explorers who changed

March 30, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

The late and great Anthony Bourdain was so much more than a chef. He was a teacher, a doer, an adventurer. Before his tragic suicide in the Summer of 2018, he taught us invaluable lessons on life, travel and food. Bourdain was not one to let the world pass him

March 25, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

With millions across the globe indoors due to the coronavirus, now is the perfect time to learn a new skill. Fortunately, we are in the 21st century with infinite online resources at our fingertips. Like any skill, you learn by doing. Here are seven skills to learn at home during

March 25, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

Looking to sharpen your knowledge of art history? With so many indoors due to the coronavirus, now is the best time to partake in educational activities and learn something new. Whether you are an art buff or just curious, here are seven art history podcasts you should listen to. If

March 24, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

It’s a bit grim right now, with the coronavirus pandemic sweeping the world and one-fifth of the globe under quarantine. So, this year’s Happiness Report is pretty welcome news. Each year, the United Nations ranks 156 countries by how happy their citizens perceive themselves to be. The happiest countries in

March 21, 2020 - Big 7 Travel Team

With over 276,000 confirmed coronavirus cases and 11,400 deaths worldwide, cities across the globe are taking drastic measures to try slow the spread of the virus. Historic landmarks have been shut down, citizens are quarantined to their houses and borders are closed. The startling images of some of the biggest

March 21, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

You know how every day someone asks “how are you?” And even if you’re totally dying inside, you just say “fine,” so everyone can go about their day? This show is the opposite of that. Hosted by author Nora McInerny, this is a funny/sad/uncomfortable podcast about talking honestly about our

March 20, 2020 - Staff Writer

People emigrate every single day – predominantly for economic reasons – in what up until recently was a more open and connected world. Travel was cheap, opportunities were plentiful and for many (although certainly not the majority), the world was our oyster. My God, how things change in just a

March 20, 2020 - Big 7 Travel Team

There has been some debate about the response of the UK government during the coronavirus London outbreak, but the time has come: coronavirus empties London’s streets. Although other countries have more severe lockdowns in place, Londoners are finally starting to desert the streets. The Underground Tube timetables have been cut,

March 18, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

With the coronavirus sweeping across the world, countries are closing borders, imposing visa restrictions and locking down entire cities. Wondering which countries have coronavirus travel bans and quarantine notices? This is an A-Z list of all the countries with travel restrictions. The below information is correct at the time of

March 17, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

With so many people indoors and practising social distancing to combat the Coronavirus, the itch to travel is strong. While travel is advised against in most areas of the world, that doesn’t mean you can’t still experience a different culture. By watching foreign films, you are able to break the

March 17, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

The Coronavirus has left the world feeling static, bleak and panicked. That’s why we want to share with you seven inspiring news stories that have taken place this year. It’s important in trying times like these that we try to look on the bright side and remember that there are

March 17, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

Despite being severely affected by the Coronavirus with over 23,000 active cases, the Italian spirit cannot be broken. The country is in a nationwide lockdown following the surge in Coronavirus, which means everyone is indoors. So, what did Italians do to turn their lemons into lemonade? They sang from their

March 17, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

With must of the world hanging in the balance as medical professionals and researchers search for a solution to the Coronavirus pandemic, many people are indoors. Many European countries are inforcing mandated quarantines while other nations such as the US are strongly encouraged self-isolation and social distancing. If you’re stuck

March 16, 2020 - Elizabeth Thorn

Let’s start this off by saying…stay home. If you’re able to work from home, do so. If you’re able to self-isolate, do so. Stay inside, wash your hands and avoid the potential spread of coronavirus further than it already has in your city or country. However, for those of us

March 16, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

With COVID 19 continuing to sweep across the globe, many are taking precautionary steps to self-isolate. Mandatory quarantines, social distancing and self-isolation mean that many people are cooped up at home. If you fall into this category and you are looking for some wanderlust from your couch, start with these

March 15, 2020 - Staff Writer

We seem to always live in uncertain times. I’m old enough to remember Chernobyl. I remember being glued to my TV screen for three days straight after 9/11. The 2008 financial crisis didn’t have the same psychological effect on my life as those moments did, although it probably had a

March 13, 2020 - Big 7 Travel Team

In the latest crazy story emerging around the coronavirus, monkeys in Thailand have stormed an entire town as they battle over a single banana. The monkeys normally get food from the 100s of tourists who visit the town. But, as the tourists in Thailand have dried up, so has the

March 11, 2020 - Elizabeth Thorn

Storytelling has existed for centuries. It is an innate desire found deep within the human brain to want to share, learn from and cultivate stories. As humanity has evolved, storytelling has changed from being a mere campfire activity to one that includes lights, cameras, and special effects. Hieroglyphics turned into

March 10, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

When it comes to curbing the spread of Covid-19, are ‘coronavirus travel bans’ effective? Countries all over the world are cracking down on travellers from areas with high rates of coronavirus cases. But, just how well does this work? Scientists have published their findings in the journal Science. The researchers

March 6, 2020 - Big 7 Travel Team

As the coronavirus outbreak goes global, with more than 97,000 infections across the world, some countries are experience more severe outbreaks than others. The countries most affected by coronavirus are mainly in Asia, Middle East and Europe. Want to know which countries to avoid? Here’s a full list. As always,

March 3, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton

Travelling by train is longer than flying no more. With highspeed rails and bullet trains all over Europe and Asia, it’s easier now than ever to get from point A to B with speed and ease. Taking a train is now becoming faster and more convenient than trodding through airport

February 24, 2020 - Elizabeth Thorn

The holiday, which originally celebrated Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in , now serves as a massive, worldwide celebration of the Irish culture and heritage in general. But, do they celebrate it the same in Ireland as they do in other large Irish communities around the world such

February 19, 2020 - Elizabeth Thorn

After recently releasing our report on the , it became clear that Asia is home to some of the best airports in the world. Ranking high in terms of performance, service and overall quality of entertainment to keep busy travellers happy, the best airports in Asia welcome millions of visitors

February 17, 2020 - Elizabeth Thorn

Where’s the capital of Switzerland? That’s a great question. And, most people seem to think the answer is or even . And, while Geneva is a huge hub for international politics, it’s not the capital of this European country. The capital of Switzerland is actually Bern. Well, it’s at

February 6, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

You’ve probably heard about durian – aka the ‘world’s smelliest fruit’ before, but did you know it smells so bad that it’s banned on public buses and planes across Asia? It might stink to high heavens, but it’s also a delicacy in many countries and is a super popular snack

February 3, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

A wonderfully vibrant festival, Holi is also called the festival of love or the festival of colours. Holi Festival is a fun festival that is celebrated in India and all over the world each spring, with a riot of colours, powder dyes and bonfires. It’s a time to ring in

January 22, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Whether you’re working in the tourism industry and keen to keep up to date with the top tourism trends for 2020, or simply a traveller who wants to know what’s hot for travel, these are the things to keep an eye out for. More people are travelling than ever

January 17, 2020 - Elizabeth Thorn

It’s no secret that and more. But, just what are they after when it comes to modern-day travel experiences? Instagram, online booking apps, and artificial intelligence are shaping the way this generation travels, for sure, but there’s more to it than just apps and shareability. Just as millennials have

January 15, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

As Chinese New Year (aka Lunar New Year) 2020 is coming up, we’ve put together a handy guide of the key things to know. From where it’s celebrated to ancient traditions and tasty treats, it’s one of our favourite festivals. Forget New Year’s Eve on December 31st – this vibrant

January 11, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

First things first – flying is actually one of the safest modes of transport there. The Aviation Safety Network estimated the risk of a fatal incident to be one in 2.52 million, so keep that in mind, okay? Some airlines do have a better track record than others, as found

January 11, 2020 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

First things first – flying is actually one of the safest modes of transport there. The Aviation Safety Network estimated the risk of a fatal incident to be one in 2.52 million, so keep that in mind, okay? Some airlines do have a better track record than others, as found

December 27, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

While top rated attractions and beautiful destinations that look great on your Instagram are valid reasons to visit somewhere, what about the people in the countries themselves? More specifically, what about all those sexy accents you can listen to while you travel? The countries with the sexiest European accents? Here

December 24, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

So which countries are safe, and which are not? The safety score for countries equally weighs each of the three factors: war and peace, personal security, and natural disaster risk. 16 of the top 20 safest countries are in Europe. Only Qatar, Singapore, New Zealand, and Canada rank in the

December 24, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Whether you’re a nervous traveller or just curious, it’s no harm being aware of where you’ll find the most dangerous countries in the world. The Travel Risk Map. discovered the most dangerous countries around the world. Libya, Somalia, South Sudan and the Central African Republic, all in Africa, are among

December 13, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

The legendary chef Anthony Bourdain is best known for his revealing writings on New York restaurant life, with his bestselling book “Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly” a must-read for any chef. But he was also a natural on TV, with his show Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown a must-watch

December 6, 2019 - Elizabeth Thorn

Japan and Singapore are tied for having the in the world. But, as long as you’ve got one, honestly, you’ll be able to travel to the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Exciting, right? Yes! If you’re like other avid travellers, the coveted passport stamps are exciting to rack up

November 29, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Passports are pretty much essential in this day and age – you’ll need it to travel outside of your own country, as official ID and so many more benefits. Whether you’re a longterm passport holder or don’t have one just yet (and if you don’t, here’s how to get one

November 22, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Do you have an obsession with flying? Or maybe you dread the moment you set foot into an airport? A business traveler who sees every airport in the world? You probably already know which are the main airport hubs. But which are the busiest airports in Asia? Whether you love

November 19, 2019 - Elizabeth Thorn

Whether you’re just visiting for the Christmas holidays or you find yourself settling into ex-pat life in France, you’ll want to familiarise yourself with some of ’s most interesting Christmas traditions. With normal Christmas traditions such as advent calendars and the standard Christmas Eve gift-giving rituals, some French Christmas

November 15, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Myanmar is still a developing tourist destination, with many rural areas relatively peaceful and that bit away from the backpacker path. As with other Buddhist countries, it’s important to respect the culture here, as well as be aware of other do’s and don’t’s when in Myanmar. From staying safe on

November 13, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

While different cities and regions have different slang, there’s a general French slang that’s spoken all across the country. This is the lingo that’s not taught in your language class. Verlan, which is actually the French word à l’envers backwards or “reversed”, is spoken by younger people, inverting words and

November 12, 2019 - Elizabeth Thorn

Traditional Christmas celebrations in Mexico are a mixture of religious traditions and modern festivities. The result is a truly enchanting holiday season that you’ve got to experience at least once in your life. The Mexican celebration of Christmas begins each year on December 16th, too, so their holiday season starts

November 12, 2019 - Elizabeth Thorn

From the infamous Krampus to a special celebration on the sixth of December, there are quite a few German Christmas traditions that few other countries celebrate. And, if you’re planning on travelling to this holiday season, you’ll definitely want to familiarise yourself with all of the wonderful holiday events

November 7, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

It was partly for that reason that a campaign to choose seven new wonders of the modern world was launched twenty years ago, selecting such glories as the Colosseum in Rome and the Great Wall of China. Several spectacular structures just missed out on a place on the list though.

October 27, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Passports are essential to travel, that’s for sure, but not all passports are of equal status. Different European passports give you different access and different freedom to travel. Good thing then that there’s a handy ranking that tells you just how useful your passport is – the Henley Passport Index.

October 27, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Christmas traditions vary across the world, from roller skating in Venezuela to pints of Guinness left out for Santa in Ireland. Whether you’re looking to incorporate a new and unique tradition to your own family gathering or simply curious, these are some of our favourite Christmas traditions from continent to

October 22, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

As if we didn’t have enough to be scared about, we love to freak ourselves out that bit more. It’s officially spooky season, so that means people are on the hunt for the most haunted places in the world and other spooky spots. From famous haunted houses to ghost sightings

October 17, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

It can often seem that Generation Z are talking an entirely different language – and they are, kinda. Those cool words you see all over social media? It’s millennial slang, don’tcha know. What do you if someone asks you to ‘spill the tea’, or to show the ‘receipts’? Be confused

October 8, 2019 - Elizabeth Thorn

Looking for the best airlines in Asia? The World Airlines Awards 2019 have just announced the winners of the best airlines in each region of the world, and the results are pretty interesting for Asia. Even if you’re not looking to fly first-class, the airlines on the list of the

October 7, 2019 - Big 7 Travel Team

Flying can be a scary experience at the best of times for some people, so if you are a little nervous you *might* want to take note of this list of the most dangerous airports in the world. The list is composed data from a variety of sources including Soar

October 7, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

If luxury is what you’re after – we’re talking spacious legroom, friendly cabin staff and tasty meals – then these are the companies you’ll want to book with. Whether you’re looking for the best flight deals, the airline with tickets at best price or simply the best airlines to fly

October 7, 2019 - Elizabeth Thorn

Cannabis tourism is on the rise. With marijuana becoming legal in more countries each year, so is the number of travellers looking for 420-friendly cities to enjoy. Thanks to social progression and legal reforms, you don’t have to make it all the way out to just to legally

October 7, 2019 - Big 7 Travel Team

The world is an uncertain place at the moment with political factors, global warming concerns and a huge technological shift happening all at once. One thing that won’t change however, is that people will still want to travel. They are doing so in record numbers, with huge new emerging markets

September 30, 2019 - Elizabeth Thorn

One quick Google search of millennials years will bring up hundreds of thousands of results detailing just how selfish, unsatisfied, and narcissistic people born from 1981 to 1996 are. To that we say…yes, we are selfish! We love investing in ourselves and the experiences that form us into the adults

September 26, 2019 - Big 7 Travel Team

The 10 cleanest cities in the world are places that you are going to want to spend time in and there are many surprising entrants on the list. These are cities that are so clean you could eat your dinner off the ground. (Okay, maybe don’t do that though?) Places

September 16, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

If you’re in need of a little bit of inspiration to just get up and go – see the world! – these inspirational travel quotes will be the push you need. Whether you’re planning a trip right now or just love to fuel your wanderlust, you’ll love these travel quotes.

August 28, 2019 - Big 7 Travel Team

Because of the sheer size of the airline industry and how much we all spend on flying, airline marketing campaigns tend to be big budget and often super creative. We’ve already covered the 15 brilliant marketing campaigns from tourism boards, but there’s also some amazing campaigns from the airline industry.

August 25, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

From ancient tombs to market towns, these are the cities that have stood the test of time. Here’s 10 of the oldest cities in the world, that have been continuously inhabited. Visiting these destinations is almost like stepping back in time, as you get a sense of rich history. Not

August 12, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Have a spare eight minutes? We guarantee there’s no better way to spend them than by hopping from China to Russia on the world’s first ever cross-border cable car. The cable car will run between Heihe in northeast China and Blagoveshchensk in Russia, bringing passengers over the Amur River. Each

July 25, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Think you need a professional camera to take jaw-dropping photographs? Think again. The winner’s of this year’s iPhone Photography Awards prove that your phone can be just as powerful. From seaside tents to Burning Man, these images will inspire to get out there and start snappin’. This year’s winners were

July 11, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

That amazingly blue lake you might be seeing all over Instagram of late? It might look incredible beautiful, but there’s more than meets the eye. A turquoise lake nicknamed the “Siberian Maldives” has gone viral, but a Russian company are now begging influencers to stay away. The issue? It’s a

July 10, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Passports are something essential to travel, that’s for sure, but not all passports are of equal status – different passports give you different access and different freedom to travel. Good thing then that there’s a handy ranking that tells you just how useful your passport is – the Henley Passport

July 3, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

That’s it, we’re moving to Iceland. The small-but-mighty island is officially the best country for expats to live abroad in, according to a new survey. There’s plenty of factors you need to think about before packing up all your belongings and moving to a whole new country. including careers and

June 25, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

If ever there was something that will inspire you to travel the world, it’s these amazing Anthony Bourdain quotes. One year ago, the legendary chef was found dead from an apparent suicide at the age of 61. A tragic event that his friends and fellow food lovers mourned the world

June 24, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

If you’re looking for a few extra likes on your Instagram posts, listen up. The most popular colours for travel snaps across social media have been revealed. Carlsbad, a Californian seaside city, released its 2019 Colors of Travel Study. This study identifies “trending colours used in inspirational travel photos” and

June 24, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Incase you’ve been living in an internet-proof cave, the New Zealand accent is officially the sexiest accent in the world. Take that, Australia. Naturally, the news led to a flurry of TV hosts all over the world desperately trying to imitate this super sexy New Zealand accent. Some did

June 24, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Whether you’re a hardcore carnivore or have fully embraced a vegan plant-based lifestyle, you can’t argue that veganism has really hit the big time this year. This year alone, we’ve seen more vegan news on our timelines than ever before. KFC launched a vegan burger that sold out in just

June 22, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Sommarøy – meaning ‘Summer Island’ – is an island in Norway where the sun doesn’t set for 69 days every summer, and is in constant darkness from November to January. So, what to do when it’s daylight for three months a year? Well, locals in Sommarøy want to eliminate conventional

June 18, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

The world’s best airlines have been announced at the 2019 World Airline Awards, with Asian airlines yet again soaring to the top. If luxury is what you’re after – we’re talking spacious legroom, friendly cabin staff and tasty meals – then you should book with an Asia-based airline. Out of

June 16, 2019 - Big 7 Travel Team

Three days ago the internet went into a frenzy as a video of a South Korean theme park ride went massively viral across Twitter, Youtube, Instagram and various blogs. The video showed a vertical “Gyro Drop” ride which appeared to shoot people out at the top, spinning them around furiously

June 15, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Travel photography is a superb way to spark some inspiration for exploring the world. As more and more images of far-flung places and secret views pop up on our Instagram feed , the photos we see just keep getting better. Always a showcase of the best travel photos of the

February 14, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Spending some time in the pretty English city of York? Not only do we have the best things to do in the city, we’re also sorting you out with a handy guide to the Shambles – one of York’s most unique features. The Shambles is actually the inspiration for the

February 11, 2019 - Big 7 Travel Team

The bar scene in Qatar is unique in that they are all based in 4 and 5 star hotels, due to the local alcohol licensing laws. The good news is that there are some incredible spots in the city for a drink, so we’ve rounded them up for you. From

February 7, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

The city has some seriously cool saunas – including ones that float in the fjord and one that’s more like a music tent at a bohemian festival. Oslo saunas are an essential experience of any trip here… And yes, you do have to brave a plunge into the icy water

February 6, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

The rivalry between Celtic and Rangers (the ‘Old Firm’) is one of the fiercest in world football, and you’re gonna have to pick one or the other to support when in this vibrant Scottish city. The two teams rarely play at home at the same time (to reduce violence between

February 1, 2019 - Big 7 Travel Team

As soon as you set foot in the Sri Lankan capital, Colombo the first thing you’ll notice are the tuk tuks. The three-wheeled multi-coloured vehicles come zipping around every corner with smiling drivers, whisking their passengers around the city. While tuk tuks are used by everybody locally and tourists themselves

January 23, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

Nerves of steel? You’ll need to be more than just a little bit brave to take a dip in this glass-bottomed swimming pool in Dubai. At the InterContinental Dubai Festival City, you can swim in a 25 m outdoor pool that extends onto a balcony with views of Dubai Creek.

January 21, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

We’ve seen skyscraper hotels, dog-shaped hotels and even underwater hotels, but have you ever imagined what it would be like to stay in an underground hotel? The world’s first ever underground hotel recently opened in Shanghai, China. The InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland is a bold piece of architectural design, which has

January 13, 2019 - Big 7 Travel Team

Anyone who’s a music fan will know that musicians often write about destinations that are special to them, with some cities a lot more popular than others. This interactive map created by Celebrity Cruises shows just how many songs are from a particular city. From Amsterdam to Alaska and the

January 13, 2019 - Big 7 Travel Team

Japan has endless fascinating attractions, but one absolute must-see in 2019 is an art installation at Hiroshima Castle, opening in February. The famous digital art collective teamLab — which has massively popular installations in Tokyo, Paris, and Singapore – will bring a new installation to Hiroshima Castle. The iconic 1589

January 8, 2019 - Big 7 Travel Team

Think you can tackle the scariest rollercoasters? Feeling brave and have a stomach made of steel? Well, we’ve asked our readers and scoured the world for the scariest rollercoasters for you to add them to your list and tackle them one day – if you think you can handle it.

January 5, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea

This is not a drill – you can actually get paid to live on an island off the coast of San Francisco. East Brother Light Station is on an island that’s home to both a lighthouse and a small inn, and the not-for-profit is looking for a couple to look