Europe is commonly known as a popular tourist destination, with Paris, Prague and Amsterdam among the most visited cities of the region.
Budapest, the pearl of the Danube, is well worth considering too.
Located in the heart of Europe, Budapest transforms into an urban playground as soon as temperatures soar and it has seen an increase in tourism in the past few years. From simple strolls through its many parks and outdoor festivals to the hot water springs of its lavish historical bath houses, from its grand art nouveau architecture to the cool ancient caves beneath the royal palaces of Buda, Budapest has it all.
The city is alive by day and night and has many tourist-friendly areas that are refreshingly un-touristy.
The days can be quite long but there is nothing like a Hungarian sunset to help one unwind. One of the city’s best features is its many outdoor dining areas, a great way to experience Hungarian gastronomy that is sure to satisfy every foodie’s desire. One must never pass through Hungary without a taste of their renowned Goulash soup — trust me, you will love it!
From the hills of Buda to the flatlands of Pest, dotted with commercial buildings and squares, it is a city with two distinct personalities.
The inner city is located in both Buda and Pest and divided by the mighty Danube river.
Buda is dominated by the grand Hapsburg palace, known as Buda Castle, a must-visit to start off the tour of the city with its adjoining Fisherman’s Bastion. The area is located atop Castle Hill and visitors can get a scenic view of Pest on the other side of the Danube.
The historic palace grounds, with pebbled roads and royal pillars, provide amazing panoramic views of the hills behind it to the expansive city below it. The medieval Fisherman’s Bastion is home to a scattering of small shops and cafes serving local delicacies. The Castle district, as it is known, dominates the Budapest skyline and also houses the Budapest History Museum, the Hungarian National Gallery and the National Szechenyi Library, overlooking the historical Szechenyi Chain Bridge that joined the two parts of the city some 150 years ago.
Budapest is the only European capital that boasts natural caves in the middle of the city. They are located under Gellert Hill and are open for tourists to visit and explore. The Labyrinth is located in the center of the Castle Hill area and is remarkably child-friendly. The 1,200-meter-long cave has spacious corridors and exhibit rooms. It is believed that Ottoman rulers buried treasures in these caves during their rule and Turkish tomb relics and stone monuments from the Gothic and Renaissance eras are on show.
One of the best features of Budapest is its pedestrian-friendly quality — almost everything is accessible by foot and public transportation is dependable. Tickets are available at underground stations that also include buses and tram lines. The city’s subway system is among the oldest on the continent.
Margaret Island, one of the city’s largest parks, is a vast open area offering a secluded oasis away from the buzz of the city. The island was once home to the city’s most prestigious families but now has only one official resident. Still, people regularly flock to this serene space to enjoy outdoor excursions.
The island is home to a petting zoo, a relaxing Japanese garden, musical fountains, eco-friendly playgrounds, bike routes (bike rentals are available), a bath house, a fitness park and the annual Budapest summer festival. An open beach can be found on the island where visitors can swim and enjoy a nice summer day, however, it is best to check the weather beforehand. There is also a swimming pool complex that includes a warm thermal bath, baby and toddler pools as well as a wave pool. It is best to visit during the week as it gets crowded on the weekends.
The island has an amazing panoramic view of both Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building and since it is an open park area, it is a great location for a full day of entertainment away from the surrounding concrete jungle.
The inner city is known for its boutiques, restaurants and cafes and the Gozsdu Weekend Market where locals showcase their arts and crafts — quirky items not found anywhere else in the city. There are many tours available but it is best to just grab a map and walk your way through the city.
Be sure to visit the Hungarian Parliament Building, known as the Orszaghaz, which translates to “house of the country.” The neo-Gothic building is one of the largest building in Hungary and the third largest parliament building in the world. Visitors are allowed to explore the building complex at certain times but some areas are restricted, specifically when a meeting is in session. Bullet holes are still visible on its walls overlooking the river Danube as a reminder of the Hungarians’ resilience during the two World Wars.
There is an interesting height restriction law of the land where buildings can not exceed the height of the dome of the Hungarian Parliament Building and St. Stephen’s Basilica.
The neighborhoods behind the building are known for their fine architecture. There are parks hidden within the neighborhoods and small restaurants, bistros and cafes serving new and eccentric cuisines.
Stroll down Andrassy ut, a tree-lined boulevard flanked by breathtakingly beautiful neo-Renaissance mansions, townhouses and boutiques. The street is a reminder of the country’s glory days, with many areas marked as World Heritage sites. The street ends at Hosok tere, or Heroes’ Square, noted for its semi-circular statue complex featuring the seven chieftains of the Magyars and other important leaders and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier that honors all Hungarian soldiers who have died in battle.
Heroes’ Square serves as an entrance to City Park, home to the popular Szechenyi thermal baths and Vajdahunyad Castle, modelled after the infamous Corvin Castle in Transylvania. The public park is close to many playgrounds, the city zoo, Budapest circus, an amusement park and many more entertainment outlets that are suitable for all ages.
All summer long, there is an abundance of things to do within the city limits and beyond. For instance, Tihany, a village overlooking Lake Balaton (the largest lake in Central Europe), makes for an enjoyable visit. There is also the Hortobagy region, dotted with many little villages with traditional cottage rentals available. The picturesque village of Holloko takes you back to the 13th century with its peasant houses and residents who still retain their colorful traditional attire.
The city of Budapest and its surroundings are great to visit during the spring, summer and fall months with the city’s amenities attracting visitors from miles around.
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From caves to castles, Budapest has it all
From caves to castles, Budapest has it all
Review: A visit to AlUla’s ancient kingdom ‘Wadi Al-Naam’
- Exploration was organized in groups of three riding in desert buggies to reach the hiking location
The Quest for the Ancient Kingdoms is a thrilling treasure hunt and adventure experience in AlUla’s Wadi Al-Naam, also known as the Valley of the Ostriches.
Before the journey begins, participants are provided with helmets, gloves, and hiking sticks, and are treated to a short lesson about the valley by the tour guide.
During our visit, the guide did a wonderful job making the group feel comfortable and translating the lesson from Arabic to English.
Exploration was organized in groups of three riding in desert buggies to reach the hiking location.
The buggy ride is a great chance to enjoy the iconic orange-hued rocks and mountains of AlUla.
At the first stop, participants can get a closer look at the fine details of inscriptions that tell the story of the Dadanites, the ancient residents of AlUla.
The 500-meter-long hike features various obstacles, like climbing up walls and steep steps, while offering breathtaking views of the unforgettable AlUla terrain.
Participants can choose between the Challenge Edition for adult adventurers or the Family Explorers version for a lighter experience. The treasure hunts are ideal for family or friend groups who want to get active during their trip to AlUla.
The quest concludes with a certificate of completion, refreshments, and a chance to interact with camels.
The best part of the experience is connecting with new individuals and putting your heads together to problem-solve as a team to win the quest.
Before going on this journey, please ensure you apply sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, and stay hydrated as it will involve physical strength and energy to enjoy.
The Wadi Al-Naam Discovery tour costs SR200 ($53) per person and will be open until Feb. 27.
For more details, visit experiencealula.com.
UK, Omani princes launch journey across historic Arabian route
- Camel trek first taken by British diplomat Bertram Thomas in 1928 to be retrodden by team of six travellers
- Prince of Wales, crown prince of Oman sponsoring historic coastal journey
LONDON: A group of explorers, backed by royalty, is set to undertake a historic journey, retracing a route across the coast of Oman first trodden by a British diplomat almost a century ago.
The Jewel of Arabia expedition, supported by William, Prince of Wales and Omani Crown Prince Theyazin bin Haitham, will feature six travelers, led by Mark Evans, following in the footsteps of Bertram Thomas, who first made the journey over 42 days in 1928.
Thomas made the trek to document the area and local wildlife, and was congratulated on his achievement by King George V.
The new journey, featuring camels but also modern off-road vehicles, will “raise awareness among young people both in and outside of Oman of the value of Oman’s natural heritage and biodiversity as well as the environmental challenges the country and the wider world face,” The Telegraph reported.
It will also feature podcasts and radio interviews with local stations along the way, meetings with local children and an online tracker so people can view its progress in real time.
Prince William told the modern explorers at the Royal Geographical Society on Monday: “I wish I was able to join you, but will be following very closely.”
He added: “The expedition will walk in the footsteps of British explorer Bertram Thomas and take in the wonderful coastline of Oman.
“They will be able to take in the beauty of Oman, and also see the damage done by climate change.”
Prince William added: “The expedition will not only highlight Oman’s biodiversity and natural heritage, but also symbolize the enduring friendship between our two countries.”
The prince added to guests at the Royal Geographic Society that he would “try and make something happen” regarding a future visit to Oman, teasing: “We’re in the planning process.”
The trek will see daily starts around 5 a.m. local time, and will aim to cross 25-30 kilometers per day. The travelers will sleep under the night sky, surviving in the desert without tents.
Evans, 63, said: “The stars of the show will undoubtedly be the camels.”
He joked that the animals are now in a “camel boot camp” in Oman to prepare for the arduous trek.
Alongside Evans will be Nigel Harling, Ana-Maria Pavalache, Dhirka Al-Mawali, Ibrahim Al-Hasni and Amour Al-Wahibi, all of whom are experienced explorers.
Thomas’ original expedition came at a time when the region was considered one of the world’s most inhospitable, known as Rub Al-Khali, or the “empty quarter.”
He worked for the sultan of Oman, and became the first Westerner to make the journey along the coast, spending much of his spare time exploring the country, navigating harsh terrain and warring local tribes.
Upon completion, he received a congratulatory telegram from George V, and used the experience as the basis for a book, “Arabia Felix,” which contains a foreword by T.E. Lawrence.
Meanwhile, 2025 will also mark 225 years since the signing of a friendship treaty between Britain and Oman.
Al-Baha farms offer an escape from busy lives
- There are activities such as cycling and hiking and some farms offer overnight accommodation
AL-BAHA: People seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives are flocking to tourist farms in Al-Baha region.
The centers offer a unique blend of natural beauty, agricultural experiences and recreational activities, where visitors can spend their time picking fruit, helping with crop harvesting or learning about organic farming techniques.
There are also activities such as cycling and hiking and some farms offer overnight accommodation, enabling guests to experience the beauty of the starry night skies.
The farms are committed to sustainability and use eco-friendly practices to protect the environment.
Fahd Al-Zahrani, director of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in Al-Baha, said agritourism was becoming increasingly important in the region as it created jobs, boosted the local economy and helped diversify the tourism sector.
Virtual, AI-powered Saudi travel companion impresses visitors at travel exhibition in London
- The new app, called SARA, offers users insights and advice about the Kingdom’s tourist attractions in a natural and seamless conversational style
RIYADH: The Saudi Tourism Authority unveiled the beta version of SARA, its new travel companion app for visitors to the Kingdom, at the World Travel Market exhibition in London this week.
It allows users to interact with a digital female guide, powered by AI, who is deeply knowledgeable about Saudi Arabia and offers insights and advice about the country’s tourist destinations, historical landmarks, archaeological sites, cultural diversity, international events, and anything else a visitor might be interested in.
SARA was on show in the Visit Saudi pavilion at the World Travel Market, which began on Monday and concluded on Wednesday. Officials said she interacted directly with attendees, who were captivated by her engaging stories about the Kingdom’s tourist attractions and experiences, and the extensive information she was able to provide.
The app reflects the nation’s progressive approach to smart tourism, they added, and leverages the latest developments in AI so that it can respond to questions, understand visitor needs, and offer personalized information and suggestions in a natural and seamless conversational style.
Off the beaten track in Sri Lanka
- New visa rules have made it easier than ever for Gulf tourists to visit the island nation
TORONTO: Sri Lanka has long been a favored destination for visitors from the Gulf. Easy access, budget-friendly offerings, and diverse experiences – from cultural and historic landmarks to idyllic beach resorts and scenic treks – make it an ideal getaway destination. And now, there’s one more reason for Saudis to take a trip to the island nation. Last month, the Sri Lankan government announced that residents of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Oman, and 31 other countries can now visit without a visa.
The capital, Colombo, is probably the most popular destination in Sri Lanka, along with Kandy and Ella, but the less-frequented areas in the central and southern regions of the country are well worth considering.
My Sri Lanka trip started in Hatton, in the Nuwara Eliya region. Often called “Little England,” the region is a reminder of the country’s former colonial rule, with Tudor-style architecture and sprawling tea estates named after their former British proprietors.
The central province is home to Sri Lanka’s renowned tea highlands. Tea is an integral part of the island’s history and culture — as its former name, Ceylon, suggests.
My encounter with Ceylon tea starts at the Dunkeld Tea Factory, owned by The Dilmah Group, a family-run business that has become a global name. The tea is single-origin — meaning it is picked, cultivated, and packed from the lush, rolling terraces of the region. The tour takes guests through the history of Ceylon tea, which actually began with coffee plantations in the 18th century. But leaf disease devastated those plantations, leading to the demise of the short-lived coffee industry in Sri Lanka. In 1867, James Taylor, a Scottish man, planted the first tea clearing in Kandy. By the late 19th century, the country had become one of the largest tea producers in the world. Guests are also invited to a tea-tasting experience, including the Orange Pekoe, the robust tea blend that is a specialty of the region.
I stayed at Summerville, one of the five palatial bungalows once home to English plantation owners which have now been refurbished into boutique properties by the Ceylon Tea Trails Hotel under the Resplendent Ceylon Group. Perched at nearly 4,000 feet and set across 2,000 hectares, the bungalows are perfect for those seeking a slow, luxurious vacation. Guests can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the emerald hilltops from various vantage points or unwind in the several tranquil lounge spaces scattered throughout the bungalows. Or — with a private chef and butler on hand — choose to indulge in a five-course dinner that features the likes of a Yatawatte tea-infused roasted chicken or the Earl Gray fondant.
The tea trails, ranging from four to 15 kilometers long, connect the various bungalows, offering scenic hikes through the valleys. For those seeking adventure, the newly-inaugurated Pekoe Trail (a 300-km route with 22 phases) allows tourists to explore the rich biodiversity of the area. This trail can be experienced on foot or by rail.
The next leg of my trip was drastically different. As we were making our way down from the central region to Sri Lanka’s southern tip, the hilltops, winding roads, and cool weather gave way to palm trees, speedy tuk-tuks, and tropical weather.
In the Hambantota district, the biggest draw is undoubtedly Yala National Park, the second largest national park of the country, and the one with the highest density of leopards. An early morning or afternoon game drive provides ample opportunities to spot wildlife, including the elusive leopard, sloth bears, and elephants.
After the adrenaline rush of a wildlife safari, I head to our ‘glamping’ lodge — the Wild Coast Tented Lodge, another one of Resplendent Ceylon’s properties. The luxury camp is unfenced and wildlife will often wander into the premises from the park, giving guests a sometimes-gleeful, sometimes-terrifying experience.
The lodge itself is an architectural delight, focusing on sustainable design and the use of organic materials, including bamboo. It includes 28 “cocoons” or pods scattered throughout the jungle wilderness. The interiors feature rustic touches like cooper hardware, a leopard-claw bathtub, and vintage leather furniture.
It’s also here that the jungle meets the Indian Ocean. As I wandered along the rugged coastline or enjoyed a sundowner, I was once again reminded of the serenity that Sri Lanka has to offer.
