They go up, they go down, and they show a side of things you can’t get anywhere else. Sure, funicular railways might have their roots in yesteryear, but they’re still one of the most sought after attractions on the tourist trail. From heritage cars to sleek, modern cabs, Europe sports some of the most visually spectacular funicular rides on the planet. Here’s a bucket list of ten of the best ... Read Full Article
A Perfect River Cruise for Seniors
By now you have heard of the popularity of river cruising among seniors. As a senior myself, I can attest that it is a wonderful, relaxing way to see the world. Here are six reasons why a river cruise is a perfect way for seniors to travel Europe and beyond. And, if you are accustomed to ocean cruises, you'll find river cruising to be even more relaxing. Insider Tip: To make sure you get the ... Read Full Article
Travel Stuff We Love
We love to travel and we also love to share with our readers items that make travel easier, more interesting, or are just plain fun. Here is our latest batch of travel stuff we love: Travel Stuff We Love Carry on Backpack Our latest love (for sure) is Standard Luggage Company's Carry-on Backpack. We received a sample of this product just before we left for our annual beach weekend. I couldn't ... Read Full Article
Why Take a Europe River Cruise?
River cruising has been growing in popularity for the last two decades, with more and more cruise companies and ships plying the great rivers of Europe. Taking a Europe river cruise appeals to a wide range of travelers, which also makes it especially great for a multi-generational trip. Whether you’re traveling with your kids, parents, grandparents, or the whole extended family, river ... Read Full Article
Seven of the Best Beaches in Europe
With spring finally here, and summer on the doorstep, beach season is ramping up again in the northern hemisphere. It’s a welcome turn for lovers of European surf, sun and sand-between-the-toes frivolity. After all, Europe is home to some of the most stunning and spectacular beaches on earth. Here’s a quick taste of some of the best beaches in Europe; you really ought to consider visiting at least ... Read Full Article
Three of Ireland’s Best Hotels
Three of Ireland's best hotels have just one thing in common: superb hospitality. Otherwise, they're as different as chalk and cheese, as the saying goes. These are upscale lodgings with highly individual character. If you are looking for something truly special, also consider spending a night at one (or more) of Ireland's best Castle Hotels. Ireland's Best Hotels The Falls Hotel and ... Read Full Article
Carpe Diem: Seize the Day and Travel Now!
You would not be reading Europe Up Close if “travel a lot” were not one of your life’s great pleasures. I’d like to suggest that you abandon procrastination before you use up your allotted travel days. Murphy’s Law can strike at any moment and the chance to travel might be gone. Older people inevitably start collecting minor disabilities and issues: heart, hip, knee, back, fill-in-the-blank. ... Read Full Article
Where To Stay in Venice: Editor’s Picks
Where to Stay in Venice The Best Place to Stay in Venice When deciding where to stay in Venice, it's important to know something about the differences between its many neighborhoods. Should you stay near the main piazza, Piazza San Marco, or would you prefer to stay closer to the train station, eliminating the otherwise long walk or water taxi ride to your ... Read Full Article
Italy From Bottom to Top: Tasting and Talking about Puglia Wine
Follow me as I journey from the southern tip of Italy’s Puglia region all the way up to the Trento Alps. I’ll be focusing on budget-friendly travel, and I’ll rarely use a car. Along the way I’ll sample traditional foods, visit lesser-known ruins and cities, sample excellent wines, and visit local cooking schools, the entire two months living out of a backpack. . . Day #8 Fabio Ingrosso and I ... Read Full Article
Italy from Bottom to Top: the Cuisine of Puglia
To enter Puglia’s culinary world is to walk into a combination of creativity and simplicity infused with fresh produce. For centuries, agriculture was the primary source of income, and you can taste the high standards of the local farmers who know just how a vegetable is supposed to taste. Chemicals have been introduced to the area, but even though most farmers use chemical fertilizers and ... Read Full Article