Europe


Overcoming the challenges of living in the UK While the UK is a good place to study for those born here, it is also a popular option for international students. There are a wide number of challenges like feeling lonely in a different country; setting up bank accounts that require proof of address; and the worry of being unemployed once you finish studying. However, language is probably the single biggest obstacle to overcome for n ... Read more....
Cultural Learning Aids of Italy With the help of popular media, you will soon be able to go full Pavarotti and profess your Italian language skills with a loud and booming ‘Vincerò!’ TV Shows Beginner: Scuola di vampiri This children’s hor ... Read more....
Sian Hanson on Studying in Rennes, France Growing up in a Francophile household, I was always surrounded by an eclectic mixture of Claude Monet’s early Impressionist chef-d’œuvres, Julia Child’s favourite pastries, and regular screenings of Audrey Tartou in Le Fabuleux Destin de Amélie Poulain. While I had been for ... Read more....
Spain vs Latin America – Where to brush up on your Spanish? With an estimated 400-450 million people having Spanish as their mother tongue, it is the world’s second most spoken language and an official language in 21 countries across Europe, South America, Central America, The Caribbean and Africa. An important language in business, culture and communication, choosing to learn Spanish could be the best decision you’ve ever m ... Read more....
Working, Studying or Volunteering in Thailand Working Earning money and gaining fantastic occupational experience in Thailand proves your commitment, confidence and ambition to future employers. But, before you start job hunting it is vital that you understand the law. Under the Alien Employment Act there some professions that are reserved for nationals. These ... Read more....
The Best Universities in France Université Pierre et Marie Curie As one of France’s most prestigious institutions, Université Pierre et Marie Curie (“UPMC”) is currently the largest scientific and medical complex in the country. Carrying out groundbreaking research across seven different fields, ... Read more....
Best Language Schools in the UK LILA* Liverpool Liverpool www.lilalovetolearn.com If you are looking for a vibrant, iconic and cultural destination then LILA* Liverpool is the school for you. Located in the heart of the city centre students can enjoy cou ... Read more....
iGap Travel Guide LGBTQ+ Awards The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender & Queer+ (LGBTQ+) Awards program aims to recognize diversity in the travel industry, promote inclusivity and celebrate those leading by example in providing LGBTQ friendly travel. The awards guide will highlight those who have invited the community to ensure fair treatment, safety, and equality without judgement on ... Read more....
Top Students From 36 Countries Take on Global Goals This year, the Enactus World Cup project presentations by top college teams include an initiative that empowers refugees to earn an income by recounting cultural narratives in cooking classes within local communities, schools and businesses, a social enterprise driven by women who repurpose industrial waste into recycled paper, and a water purification project paired with a health and ... Read more....
Europe’s Cheapest Cities for 2017 Travel Revealed Compiling research based on general travel costs for backpackers, the Simply Holiday Deals infographic announces Sofia, Bulgaria, as Europe’s cheapest travel destination for 2017. The city takes the number one spot from Kiev, Ukraine. You can see the full infographic at ... Read more....
Caribbean Food Week Festival 2017 - Diary Note The countdown is on to Caribbean Food Week, the UK’s biggest celebration of Caribbean food and drink (21st – 28th August), and you’re invited to join in the fun at this year’s Caribbean Food Week Festival! This unique event will take place at Windrush Square in Brixton on 25th and 26th August (11am – 7pm), and is ... Read more....
Funding Your Dream Voluntary Trip Having the opportunity to volunteer aboard can be one of the most exciting and thrilling adventures you will undertake. But, before you start mapping out your travels or packing your suitcase, you need to consider the financial costs of your dream trip. If you are travelling with a volunteer organisation, inventively raising funds will generally be a requirement, an ... Read more....
Things To Do In Milan In Milan, fashion is king whether it’s simply the architecture, the shops or the people everything oozes style. With so many sites to see and a proud heritage to display, Milan is a truly Italian city, in-between sipping delectable macchiatos, americanos, or frappuchinos, you will be seeing some world famous sites in a city that prides itself on its appearance. ... Read more....
A Guide to Accommodation in Iceland While you may find it difficult to travel through Iceland on a shoe string, cheap accommodation, with the added bonus of glorious surroundings, can be found with just a little hard work and effort. When planning your trip it’s important to remember that the tourist season lasts from June t ... Read more....
Amazing Destinations in France France is the world’s most popular tourist destination that hosts over 82 million international tourists annually. It is known for its historic cities, lovely countryside, Loire Valley castles, cheese and wine. The climate is also pleasant, beaches on the Island of Corsica, Atlantic coast and the Fr ... Read more....
A trip around Lake Geneva Lake Geneva is the largest body of water in Switzerland, and one of the county’s most beautiful natural highlights. Thanks to its intriguing crescent shape, some visitors remain depressingly ignorant of the true size and scale of this lake, but in actual fact it covers around 220 square mi ... Read more....
Famous European Filming Locations To Visit Many of us have wished we could be in our favourite film or TV show, though sadly the reality is that the magic is only on the screen. But you can still get the next best thing: visiting the places where they were filmed. Here are some of the most beautiful must see filming locations to visit. Dubrovnik (Croatia) ... Read more....
Magical Norway With wondrous mountains, spectacular waterfalls and seas so clear you can see the bottom of them, Norway is truly a country steeped in natural beauty. The land of the Vikings and Trolls has much to offer in the way of sightseeing and culture. Here are some of its highlights. Bergen Known as th ... Read more....
Fun with Interlaken Adventures Located in the mountainous Jangfrau region, between the picture-postcard setting of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is the palpating heartbeat of central Switzerland. In recent years, the town has become a veritable mecca of adventure sport. The topographical features make it possibl ... Read more....
MANCHESTER INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL 2017 SHOWS ANNOUNCED New Artistic Director John McGrath reveals snapshot of his first programme, running 29 June – 16 July 2017 Artists – including Boris Charmatz, Yael Bartana, Vicky Featherstone, Scott Graham, Karl Hyde, Simon Stephens and Jeremy Deller – engage with urgent stories of our time ... Read more....
The German Market The biggest Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria is the Frankfurt Christmas Market, which has been a staple of the festivities in Birmingham for 50 years. However, Christmas markets in Germany have been a big part of German culture for centuries. The Frankfurt Market itself dates back to 1393. Historically they were meant for religious purposes, set up outside on the church ... Read more....
The Most Festive Places to Spend Christmas in Europe Although the traditional family home Christmas can be fun, sometimes it’s nice to have a change and venture to another part of the world to see how the holidays are done there. Here is our pick of some of the most beautiful locations in Europe to experience the most wonderful time of the year. Prague (Czech Republic) ... Read more....
Malta For Adventure The Maltese Islands were made for action packed holidays. Intrepid explorers, dare devil stunt men in training and those who simply get off on hurtling themselves head first into adventure will find their thirst for action sated on these three, sun drenched islands. The small size of these ... Read more....
Discover New Zealand New Zealand may be small, remote and thinly populated but it punches well above its weight with its outlandish scenery, magical outdoor experiences, glorious sunshine and impressive celebration of its indigenous Mauri people. So now it’s time to go Kiwi spotting, learn the Haka and join th ... Read more....
Tapas Culture in Granada Tapas is at the heart of Spanish culture and is now loved around the world – who doesn’t love a tasty nibble with a cold beer or glass of sangria? It encourages conversation and makes drinks out a much more social experience. In most bars across Spain when you order a drink you’ll be presented with a hot or cold snack called a tapa, and there are now resta ... Read more....
A beginner’s guide to navigating Europe From all day raving in the underground house scene, to the absolute serenity of sailing across a motionless lake, Europe has plenty to offer the curious traveller. If you’re visiting with limited time or money, it’s wise to plan a route that is tailored around what you enjoy. Bars & Clubb ... Read more....
The A – T Of Everything to Look Forward to at T in the Park With only four weeks to go to this year’s T in the Park and the sun shining, excitement for this year’s festival is reaching fever pitch. In anticipation of next month’s event, T in the Park festival organisers DF Concerts and founding partners Tennent’s Lager take us through the A – T of everything to look forward to at this year&r ... Read more....
What is the Best Way to Travel to North Cyprus? As you may have heard, North Cyprus is an unspoiled gem of amazing natural beauty coupled with numerous architectural and historical marvels. For the most part the politics of the region have allowed it to escape the ravages of tourism that have faced other parts of the Mediterranean – but that also makes it a bit tricky to travel to. Largely there is n ... Read more....
Become An Intern in Britain and Stand Out From The Crowd In an increasingly competitive job market, it is even more important to try to make your resume stand out from the crowd if you want to give yourself the best opportunity of finding employment in the future. Work abroad specialist, BUNAC, can help by offering the chance to live and work in the UK for up to six months on its Intern in Britain program: the ideal way o ... Read more....
ELECTRONIC MUSIC FESTIVAL IN SCOTLAND The show on Sunday 29th May just got a whole lot bigger as headliner Fatboy Slim and local hero Jackmaster will be joined by Kerri Chandler, Julio Bashmore and Joris Voorn After stunning fans with last week’s first wave of artists, The Electric Frog & Pressure Riverside Festival returns today with new additions Kerri Chandler, Julio Bashmore and ... Read more....
São Paulo with the locals As Bob Marley used to say: “concrete Jungle”, that’s São Paulo a city for every need, that’s what generally any Brazilian would say; You are able to find anything you want there, and if it cant be found, we will get it for you, because that’s what we do, Brazilians are people pleasers. Brazilians have a ... Read more....
More Artists to JOIN GOTHENBURG'S WAY OUT WEST 2016 Massive Attack and Young Fathers will team up to play Way Out West this year for a special collaborative performance with further exceptional UK talent also confirmed with Skepta and Jack Garratt. Taking place in Sweden's music capital of Gothenburg, Way Out West 2016 is shaping up to be the festival's biggest year yet with a wealth of international talent already confi ... Read more....
Coolest Street Food Festivals from Around the World Food is not only the best way to celebrate, it is also an excuse to celebrate in its own right. There are countless food festivals across the world, from traditional feasts to rainy English farmer’s markets, but for us nothing beats good street food. It trades pretentiousness for simplicity, and fancy presentation for taste, it’s relaxed, informa ... Read more....
Moroccan Etiquette and Culture Like many of its North African neighbours, Morocco is an ethnically diverse country with a rich history that encompasses many different civilisations and religions; Romans, Jews, Carthaginians, Moors and Arabs have all helped to shape its social structures and customs. Nowadays, the country is home to a population that is 99% Arab-Berber, with strong cultural influences coming from the ... Read more....
How to Avoid the Most Common Travel Illnesses You may have been preparing for your travels for months, but have you thought about preparing for the unexpected? Getting ill whilst travelling is undoubtedly a hindrance, stopping you exploring a location or disrupting further travel plans. It’s important you know what to take, what to avoid and what to do whilst you’re travelling to prevent or ... Read more....
Festival Internacional de Benicàssim has Begun 16 – 19 July - Benicassim, Costa Azahar, Spain - Tickets €160 Having been born in 1995 it is perhaps fitting that Benicassim should choose Blur and The Prodigy as two of its headline performers to help celebrate its 20th birthday. While Benicassim was putting on its inaugural festival, Blur se ... Read more....
Five Reasons to Visit Ecuador Ecuador literally has a little of everything, which is what makes it so unique compared to the rest of Latin America. At just over 175,000 square miles, Ecuador is approximately the size of Nevada or double the UK, and includes the famous Galapagos Islands. Quito Built ... Read more....
Student Stomping Grounds If you want to settle into Berlin student life quickly, don’t spend your time wandering around the city trying to find them. Here are our top student watering holes teeming with like-minded souls and cheap drinks! Salon Schmück&ndas ... Read more....
Discover Quito Quito sums up Ecuador perfectly – it may be smaller than other South American capitals, but that only serves to make it less intimidating and as a result even more appealing. The city has just as much cultural heritage as its competitors, as well as the best preserved Old Town of any of them, but with a much more relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that makes it the perfect plac ... Read more....
Discover Cuenca Nestled in the Ecuadorian highlands, along the Pan-American Highway and about 2,500 metres above sea level, lies Cuenca;Quito’s main competitor for the title of most beautiful city in Ecuador. The historic city centre islisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with charming colonial buildings with balconies full of brightly coloured flowers, and the impressive ... Read more....
Melbourne’s Food Scene Take a portion of Australia, slowly pour in a few cups of cultural exchange from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, gently simmer for a few centuries and you have yourself your very own culinary centre. This is exactly what happened in Melbourne, Australia’s coolest city and the epicentre of its growing culinary scene. It is home to countless hipster chic hideouts t ... Read more....
Best places to stay in Queenstown, New Zealand After a busy day of elegantly surfing through the rapids of the Kawarau River (or descending in a decidedly less graceful ball of flailing limbs and splashes, as the case may be), and a couple of cool beers at Minus 5˚ Ice Bar you are going to need to find somewhere to rest your head for a few hours. After all, you don’t want to be too tired for that bunge ... Read more....
Heading out into the Wild Queenstown adds its unique brand of creature comforts to amazing extreme sports, but eventually the time comes to leave the confines of the city and strike out to explore what makes New Zealand truly remarkable – the undisturbed natural environments that instantly take you centuries back in time. From snow-capped mountains and alpine glaciers to golden beaches and l ... Read more....
Island Living in Panama Mainland Panama has enchanting colonial era cities, pristine rainforest and a rich mixture of cultures from around the Americas, but leave the shore and you will find yourself in your very own tropical island paradise. Deserted beaches, untamed forest and unparalleled relaxation await, so take to the waters and immerse yourself in island living. &nb ... Read more....
ELLCI Milan - A Specialist Italian Language & Cultural School ELLCI is a specialist Italian language and cultural school for foreign students, located in the heart of Milan. The school is highly recommended by the Italian Department of Education, the Italian Cultural Institute and the Italian Department for Foreign Affairs. With 25 years’ experience of tutoring Italian, the school’s extensively qualified an ... Read more....
100 Year Commemoration of ANZAC Day in Gallipoli, Turkey On 25 April 1915, the first Australian and New Zealand troops of the Anzac Corps arrived in Europe as they landed on the west coast of Gallipoli in the ships of the invasion fleet, commencing a brutal eight-month campaign against the Ottoman Empire that saw the loss of 56,706 brave Allied soldiers lives. From a population of fewe ... Read more....
Accomodation In Malta Whether you’re planning a chilled out beach escape or you’re looking for adventure by day before hitting the clubs at night, you’ll need somewhere to rest your head at the end of the day. From cultural Valletta to the beaches and tourist favourites of St Julian’s or Sliema, these budget friendly choices will ensure your holiday gets off to the sm ... Read more....
Making The Most Of Lisbon For Free It costs absolutely nothing to have a good time in Lisbon! There are plenty of free and fun experiences on offer in the city, allowing you to have the best time possible without worrying about your budget. Why not make culture the theme of your trip and head to one of Lisbon’s many fantastic museums and art galleries? Creativity and talent come alive at ... Read more....
Experience Of A Gap Year Student In Seville Living abroad and traveling is my life calling, so I decided to go for a year on my Erasmus in Spain. Before I went on this trip I had booked my student accommodation and prepared all my belongings that would be needed during my year away. My plane landed safely in Seville, one of the most beau ... Read more....
The Fascinating And Beautiful Ireland What Ireland lacks in size it more than makes up for with its history, people and picturesque landscapes. A picture postcard version of Ireland is easy to find, particularly along the west coast where the undulating green hills roll peacefully and majestically. Dotted around Ireland’s cities, towns and villages you can find pubs which offer you a cosy warmth that has been lef ... Read more....
What Birmingham Has To Offer Think of Birmingham as the ugly duckling, during the industrial age it was the ‘workhouse of the world’, with the advance of the 21st century that manufacturing grit has been replaced by a creative flair which has seen it become a beautiful swan in the form of a cultural behemoth. A conscious effort to reinvent the city has seen it shake its r ... Read more....
Never Far From Nature In Berlin You may be surrounded by cutting edge technology and artistic heritage, but in Berlin, you’re never too far away from nature. One of the greenest capital cities in Europe, the people of Berlin are dedicated to the cultivation of parks, public gardens and nature reserves – at the last count, there were over 2,500 public spaces within the city limits alone. To put it ... Read more....
Dubrovnik: Where To Stay Dubrovnik although not a large city, is still a big draw, with accommodation scattered all over the place. Although still cheap, it’s the most expensive city in the country – so expect to have to pay more for a room here than in parts of South Croatia. Lots of midrange hotels are in Lapad, 4km west of the centre; there’s very little acc ... Read more....
Street Art In Belgium Street art is a term which loosely covers all forms of visual art displayed in a public location. More specifically, artists seek to situate their work into non-art contexts, so that it presents a digression from the norm, and perhaps reaches a wider demographic, free from the confines of a traditional gallery environment. It is a movement intrinsically connected with graffiti, and the ... Read more....
Argentina's Beauty In The Iguazu Falls The sheer power of the Iguazu Falls is hard to describe unless you’ve been there for yourself. You can explore the walkways and surroundings for hours, or simply become entranced by the falling water itself. This series of 275 waterfalls, situated in the jungle between Argentina and Brazil, is actually wider and taller than the Niagara Falls in North America. The Iguazu Falls ... Read more....
Your Card To Copenhagen Copenhagen didn’t earn its title of the most cosmopolitan city in Scandinavia by chance; this is one destination that is overflowing with cultural attractions, historic oddities and a burgeoning restaurant and café scene. But with so much to fit in, you might worry that your dwindling budget will be the only thing holding you back. Luckily for y ... Read more....
Cultural Exploration Of Interlaken Interlaken was once the base for many Victorians to explore their extravagant desires; castles, gardens and arresting European scenery all make for an excellent home for royalty. An interesting juxtaposition can be found here, the peaceful stillness of the mountains and glittering lakes are used by daredevils looking for some adrenaline based adventures. For those w ... Read more....
The Do’s And Don’ts Of The Red Light District We have a lot to be thankful for when it comes to Amsterdam – its forward thinking nature and liberal attitudes have made it the hedonistic capital of Europe. Where everyone from excitable twentysomethings go for a wild weekend to fortysomethings who just can’t quite let go of their youth, Amsterdam offers the promise of debauchery abound. But be ... Read more....
Introducing Emilia Romagna Fast cars and great food. These are two of Italy’s most famous exports, but incredibly, few realise that they hail from the same birthplace. The region of Emilia-Romagna, stretching from the Apennine Mountains to the Mediterranean Sea, is said to be the home of both the engineering excellence and the culinary brilliance that Italy prides itself on.&nbs ... Read more....
Gaudí’s Barcelona Very rarely has one man defined a city quite so much as Antoni Gaudí. Practically every inch of Barcelona boasts of his creative genius, and countless parks, palaces, cathedrals and houses stand as a living testament to one of Spain’s greatest architects. So who was Gaudí? Born in the Catalan region of Spain in 1852, Gaud ... Read more....
Whale Watching in Iceland If you’ve seen Free Willy, then chances are you wouldn’t pass up the opportunity to see the majestic rulers of the ocean in their natural habitat – anyone can press their nose against the glass at SeaWorld, but few get to witness the beauty of whales as they frolic and feed off Iceland’s frozen coastlines. ... Read more....
Winter Sports in Slovenia As Europe’s unique meeting point for the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Pannonian Plain and the Karst, Slovenia is a country which is renowned for the close proximity of its opposites. The collision of these four major geographical units means that Slovenia benefits from a vast diversity of landscapes. One of these is the Alpine region of Gorenjska. ... Read more....
Umea: The City of Birches Umeå is the capital of Västerbotten County, located in northern Sweden on the Ume River. It is the fifth largest university town in Sweden; with around 33,000 students living here, the average age is just 38. The youth o ... Read more....
A Rural Bulgarian Adventure Stretched across the outskirts of Bulgaria are plenty of small towns and villages, where the unique architectural and cultural style from the past centuries is wondrously preserved. These settlements are truly special sites and are an opportunity for any visitor to fully merge into the spirit of Bulgaria. There are many picturesque towns and villages which exude a p ... Read more....
Volunteering near Valencia Volunteering abroad can be a great way to make the most of your time and money, as well as giving you vital experience in a specific field. If you have an interest in marine conservation, animal care or simply just want to find a volunteer placement with a difference, ... Read more....
Mix Modernity and Tradition in Andalucia Sitting at the most southerly point of Spain, Andalucía is also one of the most Spanish regions found in the country. A region that is brimming with culture that honours a long history, this is quintessential Spain. That is not to say it is come ancient relic stuck in the past, Andalucía also mixes together modernity while also managing to hono ... Read more....
The Brandenburg Gate The Brandenburg Gate in Berlin has throughout the decades born witness to Germany’s tumultuous past, most significantly in recent history standing divisively between East and West Germany during the Cold War as part of the impenetrable Berlin Wall. Yet this site, at one time representing such negativity, has come to stand as a national symbol for unity and peace.< ... Read more....
Central Europe's Adrenaline Fuelled Capital In the heart of central Europe lies an adrenaline fuelled playground. Switzerland has a plethora of adventure travel opportunities that uses the great outdoors as a jungle gym, offering all sorts of exhilarating, heart pumping activities. The picturesque mountain villages and dramatic peaks provide the most irresistible backdrop as you hurtle through the air or scal ... Read more....
Discover Germany's Financial Heartland - Frankfurt Frankfrut-am-Main is a bit different to your average German city, a financial heartland of Europe with huge skyscrapers and home of the European Central Bank; it has earned the nickname Mainhattan. It may lack the instant charm of other German cities like Berlin and Cologne but this isn’t some cold, concrete metropolis though, in-between sky risers you can find some ... Read more....
Working Abroad in Amsterdam Working in Amsterdam comes with an overwhelming amount of fun. The city has a knack for never-ending surprises and with Amsterdam’s culture, comes the open-minded and permissive atmosphere. With much of the Netherlands below sea level, it is considered to be a ‘low country’, however this most certainly does not reflect the Dutch.&nb ... Read more....
Warsaw: History Meets A Thriving Music & Arts Scene The capital of Poland has a melancholic history, having been left nearly completely destroyed in the aftermath of the Second World War. However Warsaw is not proving to be a city that dwells on its past and is taking running steps towards a promising future; saying that, the effects of Nazi German occupation are far from forgotten. The city is now home to educationa ... Read more....
Discover the Magic of Disney… Once upon a dream you may have craved for Disney to be part of your world. Well, when you wish upon a star that may well become a reality. With 145,000 members of staff – or “Cast Members” as Disney calls them – Disneyland Paris is one of France’s biggest employers and in turn they offer a whole range of internshi ... Read more....
Kosice: Atmosphere, Architecture & Hidden Treasures Košice is more than a main street filled with fantastic attractions and jostling tourists. The special atmosphere that pervades this city is enhanced by the winding back streets, alleyways and courtyards that invite exploration. No matter where you are in the city centre, you’re never more than a stone’s throw away from history, cultur ... Read more....
Sofia – Find Your Story Here! Is there culture and heritage in your agenda? The history book of Sofia is wide open for you and within reach. Rucksack on back, you can be a Thracian and boast that you have seen how the first settlers had lived here around the 6th millennium BC. You can be a Roman emperor, walk along the Roman streets, light a candle in the 4 ... Read more....
Culture and Countryside – Introducing Oslo Oslo is incessantly contradicting itself. A historic past is offset by a burgeoning café and bar culture, whilst a cosmopolitan atmosphere is contrasted by tranquil greenery – Oslo has enough intrigue to keep even the most seasoned traveller second-guessing. Forever associated with the legacy of the Vikings, Oslo is of cou ... Read more....
Palermo: More Than a Mafiapolis As far as history and culture goes, Palermo is one of Italy’s richest cities and it is a bit of a treasure trove when it comes to architectural wonders like castles, palaces and churches as they need to be discovered through exploration as the best ones are hidden away. Showcasing an extraordinary architectural complexity, works of art are scattered throughout the centre with ... Read more....
Leisure Activities in Paris If you have chosen to study or work abroad in Paris then we congratulate you on an excellent choice. With titles like the ‘City of Light’ and the ‘City of Love’, Paris is considered one of the most stunning and romantic cities in the world. Overflowing with history and remaining incredibly influential in art, fashion, food and design, Paris offer ... Read more....
Prague: The Historical City With A Wild Nightlife As night falls over Prague, the city undergoes a radical transformation. Suddenly the historical city turns into a wild party destination – and the best place to enjoy an unrivalled night out is in Old Town. The bars, clubs and pubs surrounding Wenceslas Square in Old Town are cheap and innovative, routinely attracting the younger, t ... Read more....
Dining and Dancing in Vienna Viennese cuisine, or wiener küche, first started appearing in German cookbooks around the end of the 18th Century. It takes diverse influences from Italian, French, Turkish, Jewish, Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines, reflecting the blend of nationalities and historical influences of the city. Today, Vienna is probably most famous for its pastries &ndas ... Read more....
Introducing Basel Basel is known as Switzerland’s cultural capital; there are more than two dozen museums here, a medieval old town in the Grossbasel area, and plenty of cultural events and festivals taking place throughout the year. If you’re visiting at the end of January, be sure to join in with the celebrations of Vogel Gryff, the symbolic chasing away of winter, where ... Read more....
And the Eurovision Song Contest host city is... Vienna will host the 60th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest in 2015, organisers revealed today. After a lengthy process to find the bes ... Read more....
You Must Go to Moscow! Russia’s capital city represents a collision of Medieval Muscovy and the Soviet Union, two mighty imperial cultures which have shaped the architecture and atmosphere of the city to what it is today. At the heart of the city lies the Kremlin, the hub of Russian political power with an intrinsic historical connection to the Orthodox Church. This ... Read more....
Edinburgh: Metropolitan Energy Meets A Historic Past Edinburgh is a city that is richly decorated with its historic past, yet today bustles with a youthful, metropolitan energy. From the city in which Harry Potter was brought to life over a cup of coffee at The Elephant House cafe, with its view from the window of the haunting and – dare we say it – magical Edinburgh Castle, to the infamous annual Fringe Fes ... Read more....
Undergraduate Study in Italy Studying abroad in Italy performs in many respects; renowned for its art and architecture, history, culture, food and fashion, it also offers one of the most highly valued and greatest educational experiences. With a long history of education, the University of Bologna has been regarded as having paved the way for the university system in existence today. With 89 cu ... Read more....
A Glossary of German Beer There are over 1,200 breweries in Germany that supply an immeasurable amount beer to an innumerable amount of pubs. Whether it is a vintage Bavarian beer garden or a crammed Cologne beer hall, Germany offers one hell of a pub crawl. It is therefore difficult to know where to start, so to help you on your way we have put together a handy glossary of German beer types ... Read more....
A Girl's Guide to Paris From tiny stores showcasing independent fashion labels to the epitome of infamous designer luxury, Paris is a haven for the retail minded. Whether you plan on some serious window shopping or you’re busy seeking a unique bargain, the boutiques and fashion houses of this designer city offer an unrivalled shopping culture. Forget diamonds – Paris is ... Read more....
Riga: Europe's Latest "Go To" Destination Riga is the latest “go to” destination on the continent. This is not just because it can offer the essentials of any boozy three dayer that rivals the likes of Amsterdam and Prague (the basics being alcohol, easily locatable English cuisine and under three hours by plane) but it also offers an aesthetic quality which lingers long in the mind and a cultural ... Read more....
Nightlife in Cyprus Whether you’re going all out on the rowdy strip in Ayia Napa, exploring the diverse and exciting bars and clubs of Limassol, or checking out the bustling student scene in Nicosia, the Cyprus nightlife can be as loud or relaxed as you want to make it. Come here to discover quirky bars, some of the biggest clubs in Europe and a healthy dose of live music – i ... Read more....
Optimus Alive: July 10-12 Arctic Monkeys – The Black Keys – Bastille 10-12 July Lisbon Weekend tickets from £104.10 On the outskirts of Lisbon, boasting views of the Tagus River, Optimus Alive prepares to celebrate its eighth birthday ... Read more....
Study in Birmingham There are many reasons to want to study in Birmingham. The UK’s second city, Birmingham has grown from a medieval market town, becoming a major industrial hub before developing into the progressive city it is today. The city boasts many achievements – it famously has more canals than Venice, it has the largest park space of any city in Europe, an ... Read more....
T in the Park - The Balado Bucket List With just one week to go until T in the Park 2014 opens its gates, organisers DF Concerts, founding partner Tennent’s Lager and a daily crowd of 85,000 festival-goers are gearing up to say #byebyeBalado to the festival’s much-loved home of 18 years. Final preparations for the big farewell party are underway, with organisers and fans getting ready to give T in the Pa ... Read more....
Boston: The Best Student City in North America Ever since the QS World University Rankings for the Best Student Cities in the World was first launched, Boston has continually been recognised as the number one city in North America. Despite changing the criteria for 2014 ... Read more....
The Hidden Treasures of Rome The Sistine Chapel, Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum – the most popular landmarks of Rome are the reason why most tourists visit this city in the first place. Every day, thousands of visitors descend on these attractions and queue restlessly for hours for the chance to snap the perfect photo, but Rome is so much more than these few beloved landmarks. Now, w ... Read more....
Your Guide to Accommodation in Iceland While you may find it difficult to travel through Iceland on a shoe string, cheap accommodation, with the added bonus of glorious surroundings, can be found with just a little hard work and effort. When planning your trip it’s important to remember that the tourist season lasts from June to August – it may be short, but expect the prices to skyrocket drama ... Read more....
Goodwood Festival of Speed – June 26-29 Williams Formula 1 star Felipe Massa and 1996 world champion Damon Hill will both drive at the Goodwood Festival of Speed with the legendary team on June 26-29. The 2014 Festival of Speed theme is ‘Addicted to Winning’ and there can be few grand prix entrants more appropriate to this than Williams; its 114 victories and nine constructors&r ... Read more....
The Lowdown on Valladolid Valladolid is the architecturally diverse and sophisticated capital of the Castile-Leon region in Spain. It has a large student population, meaning the city really comes alive at night, and by day there are plenty of monuments and museums to enthral as you wander around the city streets. From hosting the marriage of King Fernando and Queen Isabel in 1479, the reside ... Read more....
Exploring Bucharest Romania’s capital is a mismatched sort of a city, with modern office buildings alongside French Baroque architecture, wide tree-lined boulevards and grey communist-era housing blocks. It earned the nickname ‘Little Paris’ between the World Wars, for the elegance of the city and the sophistication of its inhabitants. It even has its very ... Read more....
T in the Park to Start with a Bang In four weeks’ time, T in the Park will open its gates, and with the countdown now well and truly on, festival organisers DF Concerts and founding partner Tennent’s Lager have revealed further details of a top line-up of talent set to get the party started for Thursday campers. Wit ... Read more....
New Acts Added To Reading and Leeds Festival In a year where Reading & Leeds Festivals have announced not three, but four of the world’s biggest acts as headliners for 2014, the line-up continues to grow with over 50 additions across the stages. This year looks set to be the strongest yet with the best of UK and world talent across rock, indie, dance, alternative, grime and hip-hop and with only 120 days to go, ... Read more....
New Acts Added To Reading And Leeds Festival In a year where Reading & Leeds Festivals have announced not three, but four of the world’s biggest acts as headliners for 2014, t ... Read more....
Bergen Known as the City of Seven Mountains (no prizes for guessing why), Bergen, on the west coast of Norway, has managed to retain an old-world charm and continues to enchant visitors with its rich history to this day. Bergen is also renowned for its close connection to some of the most beautiful natural sights in Norway, with its surrounds of mountains, fjords, and proximity to t ... Read more....
Volleyball World Championship Poland is the next venue of the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship, and this is something of a spiritual home for the tournament as it is the country’s national sport. This will be a special place to watch the championship as Polish volleyball fans create a buzz and an atmosphere that is not matched anywhere else. Enthusiastic audiences wil ... Read more....
Chaido & Bairro Alto Chiado Chiado is an affluent quarter of Lisbon, its shabby chic reputation was under threat when in 1988 a huge fire swept across Baixa and wiped out many of the old shops found here. Luckily the area was rejuvenated and the bohemian atmosphere has been successfully salvaged. The redevelopment was undertaken by emi ... Read more....
Lenin's Tomb According to TripAdvisor, Lenin’s Tomb makes for an “interesting” visit. And interesting is perhaps the only word that can be used to describe this macabre attraction; compelled by a sense of morbid curiosity, visitors file respectfully past the glass coffin of the long (longlong) dead former Soviet Leader in what can only be described ... Read more....
From K To B – Travelling Between Kosice And Bratislava Slovakia is a country brimming with history and fascinating sites, so why rush? Take the time to absorb all the great nation has to offer by doing a mini tour of the country and travelling from one region to the next. Travel in Slovakia is relatively straightforward and does not need much pre-planning, so you can easily visit the idyllic countryside, fortified cities and trad ... Read more....
Estonia: Positively Surprising Estonia sits proudly at the tip of the Baltic Islands. Compact but dense with much to see and do, this is a country which has not let its small size hold it back. The nation is a cultural sponge that has soaked up traits of former rulers and the different nations of people who have decided to make Estonia their home. History might be found around every cor ... Read more....
Review: Wicked the Musical - Apollo Victoria Theatre Everyone knows the story of Dorothy, the little girl who flew over the rainbow and crash landed in Oz. Befriending scarecrows and tin men and skipping along a road of yellow brick, she is unwittingly drawn into battle with the Wicked Witch of the West and teaches us all that good always triumphs over evil. ... Read more....
Slovenia vs New Zealand Slovenia – Europe’s Answer to New Zealand We’ve all drooled over the stunning panoramic shots of New Zealand in the Lord of the Rings films – forget hobbits, the scenery is what caught our attention. But for those of us living in the northern hemisphere, you may be surprised to find th ... Read more....
Water Sports In Fuerteventura With long coastlines, beautiful beaches and constant year round temperatures, Fuerteventura is the ideal location for trying out some water sports. There are plenty of options for everyone from the experienced patron to the complete novice, with plenty of classes available for you to get involved with. Surfing F ... Read more....
Introduction To Ticino The Italian language, the pizza and the architecture might make you think you are strolling through Florence but no, this is a part of Switzerland that bears no resemblance to any Swiss stereotype of yodelling tax dodgers. This is due to its proximity to Italy, which engulfs the borders of the region. Everything here is affirmatively un-Swiss, the climate is mild an ... Read more....
Revisiting Cappadocia This might sound a bit hyperbolic and cliché ridden but Cappadocia is a place like no other on our planet. Seriously. The closest place we can find that bears any similar resemblance to Cappadocia is the moon; it’s rocky, lunar-like landscape is like something straight out of Apollo 18. But unlike the moon, Cappado ... Read more....
Chiado & Bairro Alto Chiado Chiado is an affluent quarter of Lisbon, its shabby chic reputation was under threat when in 1988 a huge fire swept across Baixa and wiped out many of the old shops found here. Luckily the area was rejuvenated and the bohemian atmosphere has been successfully salvaged. The redevelopment was undertaken by emi ... Read more....
Cornish Attractions Newquay Laid-back charm and some of Cornwall’s best beaches are found in Newquay. From family holidays to wild stag parties, Newquay has something to offer for every crowd, and with thousands of holiday makers flocking here each summer. Master the Surf&l ... Read more....
A Feast Fit For A Gladiator Rome is bursting with restaurants, cafés and delis, but many of these are overpriced, mediocre, and are obviously catered to unsuspecting tourists who think fusilli is some sort of breakfast cereal. Don’t settle for frozen pizza and bland bolognaise – eat like a real Italian in some of the city’s best (and most importantly, fairly pric ... Read more....
Turkey Watersports Turkey benefits from being the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It is surrounded by the Black Sea, the Mediterranean, and Aegean and Marmara seas making it a haven for water sports. Turkey is simply implores its visitors to explore the seas of magnificently unique regions. Sailing Coa ... Read more....
Review: Birmingham Comic Con March 2014 While the UK convention scene has continued to grow over the last few years, the biggest event is undeniably the world-famous, Comic Con. Bringing all the geeky goodness of MCM London Comic Con – Europe’s leading festival of popular culture – to the Midlands, the 22nd and 23rd March saw The NEC host t ... Read more....
Hungry For Hungary? Hungarian food is always hard to comprehend – how can something so simple taste so good? To fully appreciate Hungarian cuisine, we need to go on a bit of a history lesson; today, the rich and plentiful dishes you find in any traditional restaurant are a clever blend of European influences, with a distinct nod to the food of Hungary’s original settlers, the Magyar pe ... Read more....
Introducing Gothernburg Sometimes taken for granted when compared to its more illustrious neighbour Stockholm, Gothenburg is a city that exudes an alluring charm and grace. Here you will find a buzzing cafe culture, world class restaurants and amazing green landscapes. Prepare to be seduced by ornate architecture found on its tram-lined streets, the hipster hangouts of cafes hum with a boh ... Read more....
Art Scene in Berlin As one of the most important historical locations of the 20th century Berlin has inherited a culture and art scene which reflects that past. Art has taken many different forms in Berlin, and you do not even have to step foot inside a museum or gallery, just head to the streets, in particular the famous Berlin wall – you cannot escape the bohemian atmosp ... Read more....
Amalfi Coast on a Budget When your mind conjures up images of the Amalfi Coast you may think of yachts, luxury boats and indulgent decadence. Artists have often come here seeking inspiration and using it as a hideaway from the world. But Italy’s most famous shoreline is not a just privilege for those whose bank accounts are as deep as the Tyrrhenian Sea that borders Amalfi, the br ... Read more....
Best Dubrovnik Beaches When summer comes around we want one thing and one thing only and that is sun, sea and sand. OK, that is three separate things but they come as one like Blink-182 or the Bee Gees. Europe has loads of these traditional summer escapes whether it is in Spain, Portugal or the South of France – there is plenty to choose from. However there is one region in Europe which has gone on ... Read more....
Discover Northern Ireland A country hidden away during much of the 20th Century after a conflict wrought period during the Troubles, the six counties that make up Northern Ireland have finally been opened up for the whole world to see a part of Ireland thatis vibrant with culture and history. Belfast has really undergone an image change in recent years af ... Read more....
FC St Pauli - Germany's Kultklub Bayern Munich might be the most famous German football team but there is another team in Germany that is proudly spoken of by the football hipsters, one that is alternative and left field in a way that Bayern Munich could never be: FC St Pauli. Without question the original ‘kultklub’, St Pauli are very much a ... Read more....
Inside the Volcano Gather your wits about you and journey to the centre of the earth…Jules Verne, eat your heart out. Since 2012, Iceland’s hottest (yeah, we went there) tourist attraction has invited thousands of bold explorers to descend into the chilly depths of Thrihnukagigur Volcano to see what the world looks like from the inside. & ... Read more....
5 Things to Do in Madrid It is often said that Madrid is the most Spanish of Spain’s cities, home of its greatest football team and some of the best places to eat the legendary Spanish dish of Tapas, it is difficult to argue with that sentiment. We have put together five things to do in Madrid that will really immerse you in this city’s way of life. &nbs ... Read more....
The Sound of Salzburg Apparently, most English-speaking kids in the world grow up knowing the lyrics to this iconic film. So if you know what comes after “Do, a deer, a female deer*” then chances are your trip to Salzburg might just turn into a bit of a Julie Andrews- inspired pilgrimage. Despite being released ... Read more....
Legoland Billund You can build castles, skyscrapers, cathedrals, entire cities…or at least, that is what it always said on the box. Now we don’t know about you, but our Lego creations often amounted to nothing more than a wonky “house” (A red brick symbolised the oven. A blue brick represented the garden pond) but that wa ... Read more....
Best Beach Reads There is nothing better than stretching out on the golden sand with an ice cream in one hand and a good book in the other. Also the perfect way of whiling away a long plane or coach journey (and starting a conversation with the cute tourist sat next to you) every traveller should have a book or two stowed away at the bottom of their hand luggage. Check out our guide ... Read more....
Chasing the Northern Lights You don’t have to be Brian Cox to know that the Northern Lights (call them the aurora borealis when you want to sound clever) is one of nature’s greatest miracles. Thanks to its name, many assume that the best place to see this natural light show is in the North Pole, but they&am ... Read more....
Playgrounds for Grown Ups We’ve got a feeling that a lot of you will be visiting Hungary with one mission in mind – to become fully-fledged members of the ‘alternative pub’ scene that thrives with such wild abandon. For those that don’t know what we’re talking about (though we’re pretty sure we got your attention with the word & ... Read more....
Kronborg Castle – Shakespeare’s Stronghold Majestically overlooking the Sound of Øresund, Kronborg Castle is a proud monument of the European Renaissance. Built as a stronghold in the 1420s by King Eric VII, its original purpose was to protect the town of Helsingør and control the ... Read more....
An Unexpected Haven for Winter Sports When it comes to Turkey, it is hard not to conjure up images of beaches, cities full of life and arid landscapes. But, like when everyone thought the world was flat, that’s simply not the case –surprisingly, Turkey boasts the most stunning ski slopes that draw in thousands of skiers and snowboarders each and every winter. The skiing centres of An ... Read more....
5 Things to do in Barcelona Spain’s most cosmopolitan city and the capital of a very much independent Catalonia region; Barcelona is not like other Spanish cities. A hub of the Mediterranean spirit, people flock from far and wide to consume the city’s cultural delights, weather and one of the greatest football teams on the planet. ... Read more....
Adventure Travel in Switzerland In the heart of Central Europe lies an adrenaline fuelled playground. Switzerland has a plethora of adventure travel opportunities that uses the great outdoors as jungle gym that offers all sorts of exhilarating, heart pumping activities. The picturesque mountain villages and dramatic peaks offer the most irresistible backdrop as you hurtle through the air or scale ... Read more....
A Guide to the Croatian Islands The many islands of Croatia are of vast, stunning and varied beauty. There are over a thousand of them in total, which vary in size from tiny rocks in the sea to Cres Island, which is the 20th largest island in the Mediterranean. Each one offers unique sights, sounds and attractions; some islands are like secluded night clubs that party till d ... Read more....
Isle of Wight 12 - 15 June From humble beginnings in 1968, the Isle of Wight festival has gone on to be an institution on the UK festival scene. Legendary acts such as Jimi Hendrix have graced the stage here; his performance went down in history in 1970 as it was one of his last major performances before his untimely death later in A ... Read more....
Three Reasons to Visit Bologna Bologna boasts a beautiful historic centre, a thriving night life scene and, perhaps most importantly, it has the best food in the entire world. The best cuisine found in Italy is, without a doubt, in the region of Emilia- Romagna. Famed as the home as parmesan cheese, (Parmigiano Reggaiano) Parma ham, (Prosciutto di Parma) and aged balsamic vinegar (aceto balsamcio ... Read more....
Rotterdam – The Netherland’s Second City This could most certainly not be anywhere…despite sitting in the shadow of its big brother Amsterdam, Rotterdam is a second city that refuses to go the bed quietly while the big cities play. It’s unapologetic in its desire to try out new identities; all at once Rotterdam is a gritty port city, a stylish night life hub, a sophisticated ... Read more....
The Vodka Museum Yes, you read that right. Moscow is home to the world’s only museum dedicated to the distillation process – and the liberal consumption – of Russia’s favourite drink. But are you really all that surprised? The Russians have had complex laws and traditions surrounding this eye-watering elixir since the 19th ... Read more....
Roman Emona The historic legacy of Ljubljana runs deep. What now stands as the capital and largest city found in Slovenia was once the site of a thriving Roman settlement, and traces of this flourishing legacy still remain across the city, offering tantalising glimpses into the past. The settlement of Emona was built in the middle of the &am ... Read more....
LANGUAGE LEARNING TIPS The satisfaction you get from learning a foreign language is hard to match, whether it’s the endless practical uses it has or simply the edge it gives you when you can show it off to your friends, learning a language is cool. Nothing impresses a local more than when you speak to them in their mother tongue, particularly when it’s German, which has more ton ... Read more....
A FEAST FIT FOR A GLADIATOR Rome is bursting with restaurants, cafés and delis, but many of these are overpriced, mediocre, and are obviously catered to unsuspecting tourists who think fusilli is some sort of breakfast cereal. Don’t settle for frozen pizza and bland bolognaise – eat like a real Italian in some of the city’s best (and most importantly, fairly pric ... Read more....
A DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO INTERRAILING You want to travel around Europe, but there seems to be a problem. For whatever reason, be it fate or luck, you still haven’t won the lottery (yet). This means that for you, travel is limited to the no.37 bus (always over crammed and unsavoury) and your idea of posh food extends to After Eights. Your dreams of exploring the contine ... Read more....
The CHEAP WAY TO EXPLORE GERMANY We’ve all heard tales of how great German transport is, but unfortunately efficiency comes at a cost; unless you have the luxury of being able to plan long distance journeys well in advance you will find that booking a train will cost a small fortune. To combat this, those wily Germans have very much taken to the idea of “Mitfahrgelegenheit”, oth ... Read more....
GLOBAL GATHERING If dub step, drum and bass and dance are your cup of tea, then you already know about Global Gathering, one of the biggest festivals in the world for lovers of electronic music. It began in Stratford upon Avon in 2001 at Long Marston Airfield where 25,000 people turned up for an experience very different to the one of offer in 2014. Today Global Gathering attracts 50,000 visi ... Read more....
'The View from the Shard' Review Firstly, it almost goes without saying, The Shard is just a really cool looking building. Appearing like a huge dagger of silver that has dropped out of the sky, it’s certainly eye catching and it’s exactly how I imagine buildings to look like in Hong Kong and other futuristic metropolises. Standing at 310 metres with 95 floors one o ... Read more....
Safestay Celebrates Its 1st Birthday Safestay opened in July 2012 and is the first in a new line of contemporary hostels set to open across central London. Housed in a beautiful 18th Century Georgian building, formerly the Labour Party Headquarters, Safestay plays on ... Read more....
Introducing Next Year's Eurovision Hosts Despite being a small country of only 5.5 million people, Denmark has a big heart and an incredibly rich cultural background. Experience Denmark, from its gothic, historical buildings, to its modern, well-designed landmarks and take in the thriving culture of this magnificent country. Copenhagen ... Read more....
Best of Cadiz On the southern Atlantic coast, Cadiz is sometimes overlooked as a destination for travellers to Spain. But the people of the city are amazingly warm and welcoming and in typical Andalusian style, they have a wicked sense of humour. In fact, they are famed even in Andalusia as being a particularly witty bunch – no mean compliment. And as we shall ... Read more....
60 Seconds with Natalee Harris We caught up with the beautiful star of the MTV hit show The Valleys to find out all about her travel passion. What is your favourite holiday destination? Definitely Ibiza - It has the best atmosphere and friendly people out to have fun. I&# ... Read more....
A Football Fanatics Holiday We could quote Bill Shankly here, but frankly it is not necessary. If you live and breathe football then you will want to incorporate the beautiful game into your holiday no matter what the occasion. It could be that your team are playing on the grandest stage of them all in the UEFA Champions League or you simply want to swap Barnet for Barca and catch a glimpse of ... Read more....
Spanish Nightlife The Spanish really know how to party. With countless numbers of resorts dotting the nation, millions head to Spain every year to soak up the sun, sample the food and have fun all night long. The Spanish tradition of nightlife starts with tapas, a meal or a cultural event, before heading to a bar and finally a club. The night is often rounded off by a break ... Read more....
Italian Shopping Italy is a nation of self-conscious fashionistas – it is a rare sight to a see a dishevelled Italian, so it comes as no surprise that its cities are packed with magnificent places to shop and spruce up your wardrobe. Milan Rarely disputed as th ... Read more....
Beach Break Live Returns to Cornwall as Jake Bugg set to Play The organisers of Beach Break Live are preparing to make history once again as they unveil plans to evolve the antiquated UK festival model by creating the first UK music holiday. After three years in the beautiful Pembrey Country Park in South Wales, Beach Break Live will return to its spiritual home, Cornwall, to create the ver ... Read more....
Best UK Attractions Although the UK maybe small, it has a large capacity to surprise and excite – the charming traditional countryside, storybook beaches and fast moving cities create a glorious diversity while the nation boasts a miraculous history and heritage. Exhilarating Th ... Read more....
Study Abroad in Germany Leaving home to go and study at university is one of the most liberating and exciting moments in a young person’s life – whether you are only a hour away from home because you like to nip back every other weekend and get your clothes washed or whether you have gone the other side of the country to finally cut those apro ... Read more....
Amsterdam Nightlife Amsterdam, the principal city of The Netherlands, is renowned as one of the party capitals of the world. With relaxed drug laws, legal prostitution and a liberal, progressive atmosphere, it can be an ideal place for travellers to cut loose and enjoy the thrill of experiencing otherwise illicit pastimes. However, there’s a lot more to Amsterdam’s ... Read more....
Turkish Food & Culture Although Turkish cuisine takes many influences from the Ottoman Empire, it consists of a lighter use of spices, a preference for rice over bulgur, and a wider inclusion of seafood. Many of the recipes are very rich on olive oil and cooked dishes that are often served cold while vegetables and herbs are used abundantly. ... Read more....
Wychwood Festival Wychwood Festival is thrilled to be announcing another clutch of superb artists to add to the increasingly exciting music programme. Brit-Award-winning, platinum-selling singer-songwriter Kate Nash, cult hero and popular BBC 6Music DJ Craig Charles and high-energy, seven piece band Police Dog Hogan ... Read more....
Blissfield Festival 2013 Blissfields Festival is pleased to unveil its headline acts for 2013. Under the banner ‘The Director’s Cut’, the award winning Hampshire festival will be celebrating all things film in its 13th year, from the early talkies to VIP Hollywood parties. Expect a weekend full of red carpets, interactive games, pop ... Read more....
Europe with a Difference You may not get tropical climates and palm trees in these countries but you get culture, you get medieval architecture and an amalgamation of cuisines shaped by migrants from all over Europe who have taken their national dishes and fused them with their host countries. Belgium ... Read more....
Cheap & Cheerful - Eastern Europe Western Europe will always be popular to tourists because they it is far more. Not to mention the much warmer weather compared to Eastern Europe that tourists enjoy. But the following countries all have something to offer and should not be shunned on the count of some of lack of infrastructure which may hinder them. ... Read more....
France - A Country of Romance & Culture France is one of the most visited countries in the world and with good reason; it is a country that caters to young couples looking to celebrate their love. So for you men that hate romance, candlelit dinners and treating your girlfriends and wives grit your teeth because this guide will cause you nightmares. ... Read more....
Visit Russia The capital Moscow is one of the world’s greatest cities and due to the vast size of the country there are terrains of every kind, a variety of weather from the coldest city in the world like Yakutsk to the sub-tropical beach resorts of Sochi. Russia is entrenched with a marvellous history and there countless museums you can visit to learn about it, especially in Mo ... Read more....
Ukraine Ukraine leans slightly more towards the eastern part of Europe bordering Russia along the east and a whole host of countries. Only the north-west is vacant and that’s because the Black Sea is there. The capital Kiev (not named after the much loved Chicken Kiev) is home to leafy hills and wonderful architecture ... Read more....
The British Seaside No trip to the UK is complete without paying a visit to the seaside. Brighton is famous for its pier with classic arcade games and fairground rides, stunning seafront and pebbled beach. This attraction is one of the most familiar sights seen on postcards and TV adverts in the UK so why not see it in the flash and don’t forget to take your picnic basket and ... Read more....
Brilliant Birmingham Birmingham is the second largest city and can be found slap bang in the centre of the UK which means it has easier and quicker links to the north and south of the country. Popular cities like Manchester and London are just a couple of hours away from the Midlands. The bullring is at the heart of ‘Brum’ where you’l ... Read more....
Marvellous Manchester Manchester is known for being a vibrant university city, home to one of the most renowned football teams in the world, Manchester United and hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2002. The city leads the way in urban regeneration and has gained a reputation for being the best place to shop, eat and drink and is thought to be the British music capital where bands like Oasis and the ... Read more....
Snowbombing Festival Reveals Fantastic Additions To 2013 Line Up SNOWBOMBING ... Read more....
Glorious Greece Yes, we’re aware of the recession struggles Greece has been dealing with the past few years but don’t let that stop you from visiting this enchanting and fascinating country. When you visit, don’t limit your time in Greece to just sunning yourself on the beach when there is so much more to see and do. &l ... Read more....
Discover Dublin More than just Guinness and leprechauns, this capital city of Ireland waves goodbye to many a happy folk every day. From tempting restaurants to buzzing nightlife to numerous department stores and a popular gay district Dublin has everything for the city break lover. Dublin is a cracking night out, after all t ... Read more....
Germany - Your New Favourite Country Think of Germany as your new favourite country, you may as well think of it because you’ll soon be saying it. The Germans love a party so expect drinking, dancing and cultural delights for even the most timid of party animals. We’ve already mentioned drinking so why not start with beer tast ... Read more....
Viva La Espana What a glorious country Spain is. They have given us paella and Penelope Cruz and welcome us with open arms whenever we visit. Spain is full of interesting and remarkable culture that can’t be replaced or forgotten. Traditional Spanish bull-fighting is hard to find these days as animal-righ ... Read more....
Introducing Italy For the most stunning scenery, food and people, the Italians do it better than anyone. Cities such as Venice, Rome, Florence and Naples are all filled with vibrant nightlife, tasty food and interesting attractions but it’s the hidden Italian culture that is begging to be explored. The Colosseum is a ... Read more....
The Trans-Siberian Express The Trans-Siberian Railway is the most epic train journey you will ever make. It is a great way to capture the beauty of Russia and take in all the wonderful sights and attractions from the comfort of your seat. The railway runs from St Petersburg, through the Russian capital of Moscow onto Vladivostok, near t ... Read more....
Study Abroad at the Netherlands Oldest University More than just windmills and clogs, The Netherlands is home to Leiden University, the oldest one in the country and features 88th on the global university leader board. Not bad for a University that once came from humble beginnings. Leiden University, lo ... Read more....
Beatlemania Who doesn’t love the famous four? OK, so we understand The Beatles were defiantly more popular with your parents in the 1960s but where do you think your beloved One Direction and Coldplay get their inspiration from? To learn all about John, Paul, George and Ringo you have to head to their hometown, Liverpool for a Beatles-filled afternoon. All t ... Read more....
Whisky Tours of Scotland To truly appreciate whisky in its finery there’s no other country to visit but Scotland. Home to the Famous Grouse, Johnnie Walker and Bell’s, Scotland is the king of whisky and the king of getting you merry. We’ve picked the best of the best for you whisky lovers out there. Enjoy! ... Read more....
The Greek Islands: A Clubbers Haven Greece is the king of clubbing holidays. If the stress of exams or pressure of university is getting to you, grab your closest friends, a suitcase full of beach clothes and fly far away to your choice of Greek island for a non-stop party. The question is, once you’ve partied in Zante who’s stopping you from clubbing in Malia? The way we ... Read more....
Iconic London When you visit London, it won’t surprise you if you see a tourist having their photo taken next to Big Ben, Tower Bridge or Buckingham Palace but it might surprise you to find others getting excited over being photographed next to a police officer. London is home to some of the most iconic images and culture in the world so when walking through one of the cities bus ... Read more....
The Quirks of Oxford and Cambridge Travelling half way across the world to study may seem excessive but if it’s to graduate at the university with the most Nobel Prize winners (Cambridge) or to attend the same one that 26 British Prime ministers did (Oxford) then it’s worth it. Oxford and Cambridge are the most prestigious universities in the UK and considered two of the best in the world b ... Read more....
Enjoying Winter Sun on the Cheap As much as we would all love to spend the winter catching rays in the Caribbean or Dubai for most of us that is a distant dream. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the winter sun on a student budget. We’ve found the four best countries to head to when the cold nights and dark mornings get too much. &a ... Read more....
Glastonbury Festival Experience Mud soaks through your wellies, Beyonce’s ‘Run the world’ blasts through your ears and you’re pushed to the front of a stage at one of the biggest musical events in history. Welcome to Glastonbury. The festivals 2013 show had people clammoring to buy tickets a whopping eight months before the festival and after a record time o ... Read more....
Going to Glastonbury without a Ticket Tickets for Glastonbury 2013 sold out instantaneously last Sunday leaving those who missed out, sincerely disappointed. Gone are the days when security was relaxed and those without tickets could easily gatecrash the festival. Legend has it someone even managed to dig an underground tunnel to subtly sneak into the festival! Now you no longer need to go to ... Read more....
Halloween Holiday in London Halloween, as always, is not for the faint-hearted or squeamish and London is no exception when it comes to celebrating this spooky annual phenomenon. The world’s most renowned and horrifying serial killer once roamed the dark allies of London looking for his next victim, so it only feels right to experience a tour showcasing the nerve-jangling history behind the no ... Read more....
Halloween Holiday in Transylvania Part two of our Halloween Horror destination brings us to the fabled home of Count Dracula. If you’re looking for a Halloween getaway with plenty of frights then Transylvania is for you. The name itself is creepy enough to give you chills. First thing on your itinerary ... Read more....
The Return of the Booze Cruise Thanks to the strength of other currencies against the euro, you will be pleased to know the infamous booze cruises are back once again. For one British pound you can get €1.25, the highest it has been in three and a half years, which has seen a rise in British ferry passengers and Eurotunnel users travelling f ... Read more....
The World's Best Ski Resorts Ski resorts are extremely popular for those looking for more adventure in their holiday and life in general, but there’s more to it than just the snow. It can be difficult picking the right destination to suit you when looking for the best ski resort. You want to make sure you choose the right slope which will cater to your specific skiing abilities.&n ... Read more....
Oktoberfest 2012! Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival annually held in Munich, Germany. The 16-day festival attracts over 6 million people from all around the globe who consume around 1.5 million gallons of beer, 480,000 spit-roasted chickens and 200,000 sausages (Würstl). Other German dishes include Schweinebraten (roast pork), Steckerlfi ... Read more....
Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival 2012 Each year Ireland is home to the Galway International Oyster Festival. September sees the city of Galway welcome the most internationally renowned food festival and world’s longest running international oyster festival to celebrate the oyster harvest. This year the festival will run from the 28th to 30th Sep ... Read more....
Cool Camden North of the West-End, Camden is a bustling London borough oozing with an alternative culture and urban vibrancy that is unmatched by any other part of the metropolis. The unique area is home to an assortment of individual shops, market stalls and one-off places to eat as well as being well renowned for its diverse music scene attracting visitors from near and far. ... Read more....
Winter Wonderland - Why Lapland Is Not Just For Kids Lapland is certainly not just for Christmas and certainly not just for the kids. The vast area is the largest in Finland. The winter wonderland is an abundance of pure snow, arctic wildernesses as well as deep forests of the Nordic spruce and not to mention the sensational Northern Lights; all just waiting for you to relish.&nbs ... Read more....
The Northern Lights Also known as Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights are one of nature’s most spectacular displays; a mysterious, multicoloured light display captivates you as the night sky brightens up with a magnificent and fascinating glow that twists and swirls in a heavenly and mesmerising manner. A beau ... Read more....
Top Five Clubbing Destinations In Ibiza Ibiza is the clubbing capital, sunbathers paradise and a holidaymakers dream but when you immerse yourself into this vibrant atmosphere I’m sure you won’t want to do a Kevin and Perry and get stuck with the parents in amongst the family resorts so here’s the cream of the crop for the perfect clubbing destinations in Ibiza. ... Read more....
The Hottest Nightclubs In Ibiza There are reasons why Ibiza – affectionately known as ‘beefa’ – has been named as the clubbing capital and you’ve probably heard a few if not most of these reasons. The reputation speaks for itself but it can’t hurt to name a few events like Judgement Sundays, Hed Kandi and Ibiza Rocks which has seen some of the best ... Read more....
5-Aside-Football Tours In Europe You don't have to be Lionel Messi to play in Barcelona - there are plenty of 5-a-side football tours so that you and your mates can get involved too. If you’ve missed the opportunity to go on tour with your university that doesn’t mean you and your 5-aside team have missed out on the fantastic tour experience. There are plenty o ... Read more....
England a Great Place to Study The United Kingdom has long been the top study abroad destination, and it doesn’t take a genius to figure out why – for English-speaking students going abroad, it’s one of the places where you don’t have to be studying a foreign language to get by. Learning a language is hard, right? So if you can get away with doing less work and still ... Read more....

Overcoming the challenges of living in the UK

While the UK is a good place to study for those born here, it is also a popular option for international students. There are a wide number of challenges like feeling lonely in a different country; setting up bank accounts that require proof of address; and the worry of being unemployed once you finish studying. However, language is probably the single biggest obstacle to overcome for n ...