Travel Guides

Excited about the Paris 2024 Olympics? From July 26th to August 11th, the City of Light will host the Olympic Games, followed by the Paralympics from August 28th to September 8th. Over 30 venues across Paris and its outskirts will see world-class athletes from 32 sports competing for gold in iconic locations like the Grand Palais, Eiffel Tower Stadium, Champs de Mars, and Yves-du-Manoir Stadium. No surprise, then, that ticket sales have soared since they first went on sale in December 2022. As a result, Paris—a popular summer destination for tourists—is set to be even busier, with hotel prices spiking by 92.4% due to the high demand. But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. We’ll help you find the best hotels near the Olympic venues, ensuring they’re worth every penny. So, if you’re planning your stay for the games, check out our top picks to make the most of your Paris 2024 Olympics experience! Best Hotels to Stay for the Paris 2024 Olympics 3-Star Hotels 1. Hôtel Le Colisée If you’re looking for a centrally-located spot to stay during the Olympics, check out Hôtel Le Colisée. It’s only a 9-minute walk from the Grand Palais, where fencing and taekwondo events are held. Situated in the heart of the Champs-Elysees area, you’ll also be close to major attractions like the Eiffel Tower. The best part? This 3-star hotel is super affordable at around AU$219 per night! Address: 6 Rue du Colisée, 75008 Paris, FrancePhone: +33 1 56 88 26 26Website: https://www.hotelcolisee.paris/en/ 2. Fenghuang County, Hunan The Grand Hôtel Lévêque is a 3-star hotel located in the heart of the action, in the 7th arrondissement – Tour Eiffel – Invalides area of Paris. You’ll be super close to all the excitement, with the Alexandre III Bridge, where the swimming portion of the triathlon events will take place, just a 15-minute walk away. The room rates might not be the cheapest, with rooms starting from around AU$375 per night. But considering the location and convenience, especially during this big event, it is one of the best options if you want to be in the centre of it all. Address: 29 Rue Cler, 75007 Paris, FrancePhone: +33 1 47 05 49 15Website: https://www.hotel-leveque.com/en/ 3. Ibis Styles 16 Boulogne The Ibis Styles is all about convenience! This 3-star hotel is just a 7-minute walk from Parc des Princes, where the football tournaments will be held. No need to worry about missing kick-off due to a long commute! Plus, the Porte de Saint-Cloud metro station is right on their doorstep. With line 9, you can be in central Paris, including the famous Champs-Élysées, within 15 minutes. Need help navigating the city? Don’t sweat it! Aside from French and English, the friendly staff at the 24-hour reception also speaks Arabic, German, and Spanish – ready to assist you anytime. All this for around AU$196 per night – a good deal for a stay in the heart of the Parisian Olympic buzz! Address: 19 Av. Ferdinand Buisson, 75016 Paris, FrancePhone: +33 1 41 10 40 50Website: https://all.accor.com/hotel/B045/index.en.shtml 4. Hotel de L’Empereur by Malone Calling all judo and wrestling fans heading to Paris for the 2024 Olympics! If you’re looking for a conveniently located hotel, the 3-star Hotel de L’Empereur by Malone might be perfect. It’s just a 10-minute walk from the Champs de Mars, where you can see famous athletes like Shohei Ono and Luis Alberto Orta Sanchez in action! Bonus points for awesome views: some rooms even overlook the iconic dome of Les Invalides, which is practically right on your doorstep (100 metres away to be exact!). Plus, for easy exploring around the city, the La Tour-Maubourg and Varenne metro stations are a short stroll away, connecting you to the rest of Paris. At around AU$372 per night, this hotel ticks the boxes for location, comfort, and affordability – all important for a memorable Olympic experience! Address: 2 Rue Chevert, 75007 Paris, FrancePhone: +33 1 45 55 88 02Website: https://hotelempereurparis.com/en/ 5. B&B Hotel Argenteuil For those on the hunt for a wallet-friendly yet peaceful during the Olympics, look no further than B&B Hotel Argenteuil! It’s just a 14-minute walk from the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium, where the hockey games are happening. Plus, it’s away from the hustle and bustle of central Paris and is situated near the calming banks of the Seine, so you can relax or take a leisurely stroll along the river after a long day. With prices starting at AU$103.55 per night, it’s light on the wallet too! Address: 114 Quai de Bezons, 95100 Argenteuil, FrancePhone: +33 892 23 37 66Website: https://www.hotel-bb.com/en/hotel/argenteuil 4-Star Hotels 6. Mama Shelter La Défense Mama Shelter La Défense is located in the heart of the La Défense district, Europe’s largest business hub just a 10-minute walk from the water polo and swimming events at La Défense Arena. Set in the bustling Hauts-de-Seine department, you’re only a short metro ride away from all of Paris’ must-see sights. Picture yourself taking a scenic stroll along the Seine River or checking out some contemporary arts in Musée d’art contemporain Défense between games. While staying here, you can also indulge in delicious French cuisine at a local bistro nearby like Le Miroir. At around AU$410 a night, this 4-star hotel offers a prime location, delicious breakfast, and stunning city view – making it well worth the price. Address: 10 Rue Jean Jaurès, 92800 Puteaux, FrancePhone: +33 1 40 81 02 02Website: https://mamashelter.com/paris-la-defense/ 7. Hotel Dame des Arts Looking to catch some basketball competitions? The venue at La Concorde is just a 20-minute walk from this 4-star hotel. Here, you can also catch breaking, BMX freestyle, and skateboarding – three relatively new games to the Olympics. Besides being super convenient, this hotel offers stunning views of Saint-Sulpice from its rooftop and many private balconies. Imagine soaking up the Parisian skyline after a day of cheering on your favourite athletes! Plus, with the Saint-Michel Notre-Dame Metro station right around the corner, exploring the rest of the

Planning a trip to Europe or the UK? Don’t forget to equip yourself with the best travel eSIM or SIM card for the UK and Europe to stay connected while you’re there! Sure, your hotel might offer Wi-Fi, but having your own internet access is always convenient, especially when you’re on the move. Any savvy traveller knows to avoid roaming, as it can rack up hefty fees! That’s where travel eSIMs/SIM cards come in handy. Simply scan the eSIM or insert the physical SIM card into your phone, and you’re good to go as soon as you touch down. Plus, you won’t have to worry about overspending since you can choose the amount of data, talk time, and text options upfront. Join us as we explore the finest travel eSIMs and SIM cards for Europe and the UK, enabling you to select the ideal one for your adventures! Choosing the Best eSIM & SIM Card for UK & Europe Factors to Consider When selecting the best eSIM and SIM card for UK and Europe travel, consider factors such as network coverage in different countries, especially if you’re travelling to multiple destinations, data plans customised to your usage patterns (including browsing, streaming, and navigation needs), cost-effectiveness, device compatibility with eSIM technology, plan flexibility for top-ups or adjustments, quality of customer support, especially while travelling, and any additional features like voice and calls inclusion options that enhance your overall experience. Here are some factors to consider that can assist you in narrowing down your choices: 1. Customer Support Having reliable customer service is like having a safety net, especially when travelling across time zones. You might assume that everything will run smoothly as long as you have your travel eSIM or SIM card. However, issues such as misplacing your card, having it stolen, or experiencing difficulty connecting to the network can happen at any time. That’s why it’s wise to choose providers who offer support through various communication channels, such as live chat on WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, and that are known for providing timely responses. This ensures you can receive prompt assistance whenever you need it! 2. User Reviews You’ve probably experienced it yourself—there are products that don’t live up to their promises. Therefore, checking out user reviews and experiences can be incredibly useful when deciding on the right UK & Europe travel eSIM or SIM card. User reviews provide genuine insights from fellow travellers into the reliability of a service provider and the performance of their eSIM and SIM card. So, take the time to scan reviews from sites such as Google Review, ProductReview.com.au, Trustpilot, or Product Hunt. 3. Network Coverage Consider your destination: are you off to explore Western European gems like France, Germany, and Italy? Or perhaps you’re eyeing a trip to Southeastern Europe, with Turkey on your list? Choose providers that offer plans tailored to your destination. There’s no need to splurge on coverage for an entire region if you’re only visiting a few countries. 4. Data Plans Whether you’re using your phone casually to stay connected with family while travelling or relying heavily on it for Zoom calls, choosing a provider that offers data packages and usage limits tailored to your needs is crucial. Aim to secure enough data similar to what you typically use in your daily, weekly, or monthly routine. It’s a good idea to go beyond this amount, especially if you’ll heavily rely on your phone for navigation and other essentials. Additionally, be mindful of any speed restrictions that would lower your internet speed once it surpasses certain limits. 5. Validity Periods The easiest way to choose the right validity period for your travel needs is to match it with your trip duration. However, if you’re a frequent traveller, you can consider providers like TravelKon, which offer plans with up to 365 days of validity and provide extensive coverage. Additionally, you never know when you’ll want—or have—to extend your trip. So, make sure you choose a provider that allows you to top up your travel eSIM or SIM card anytime during your stay. 6. Cost and Value Different providers offer various plans: some charge only for what you use, while others provide prepaid deals. If convenience in billing and automatic payment is your preference, postpaid is the way to go. However, if you prioritise cost efficiency, prepaid travel eSIM and SIM cards are excellent options, allowing you to control expenses better by paying upfront for the data you need. There are also unlimited data and minutes options available for selection. Are you planning a short trip? If so, consider opting for limited travel eSIM or SIM cards with fixed data, calls, and texts. However, if you’re a frequent traveller or planning an extended journey, unlimited plans may offer better value. P.S. Be cautious of sneaky additional costs such as activation fees or hidden charges. You can identify these by either reading the Terms & Conditions (boring, we know) or checking other users’ reviews! Comparison of the Best Travel SIM Cards for the UK and Europe 1. TravelKon If you’re in search of a travel eSIM or SIM card that offers exceptional service, unbeatable connectivity, and excellent value for money, TravelKon should undoubtedly be your top choice. With TravelKon, you can enjoy prompt and efficient customer service available round-the-clock, responding to your queries within minutes. Accessible via live chat (Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp) and email, TravelKon’s support team operates daily from 6:30 AM to 11:59 PM Australian Western Standard Time (GMT+8). Don’t just take our word for it – countless customers rave about their service, praising its helpfulness and quick response, even beyond regular business hours. It’s no surprise that TravelKon boasts impressive ratings of 4.8 on ProductReview.com.au and a perfect 5.0 on Google Review! Whether it’s a short vacation or a long-term adventure across European countries such as the UK, Switzerland, Russia, Italy, or the Balkans, they’ve got you covered with their selection of Europe & UK travel SIM cards and eSIMs,

Are you planning a European summer vacation? If you’re still undecided about where to go, read on to find a list of the best summer destinations in Europe. As temperatures rise, Europe invites you with its diverse and enchanting summer offerings. From the pleasant weather and long daylight hours of Northern Europe to the sunny beaches of the Mediterranean, the continent provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, culinary delights, and urban exploration. From Italy to Cyprus, these are our top 10 summer destinations in Europe along with the hottest spots and exciting activities each location has to offer! Best Europe Summer Destinations 1. Amalfi Coast, Italy In the summertime, you can anticipate enjoying around 14 hours of sunshine and clear blue skies along the Amalfi Coast. Despite the lengthy hours of sunlight, the coastline rarely experiences scorching temperatures, thanks to the refreshing sea breezes. In other words, it’s mostly perfect beach weather! Here are some of the best places to visit along the Amalfi Coast, especially during your European summer trip: Villa Rufolo Positioned in the heart of Ravello, Southern Italy, Villa Rufolo stands as a premier tourist attraction on the Amalfi Coast. This historical and cultural villa offers a captivating blend of sun-kissed landscapes, rich heritage, and architectural marvels. Summer is an ideal time to explore this destination, as it hosts the Ravello Music Festival for two months during the season. Fiordo di Furore If you’re in search of a popular swimming spot during the summer, look no further than Fiordo di Furore. This narrow cove features a small beach and is a favourite among swimmers during the warmer months. Beyond the beach, you’ll discover a quaint fishing village and several paper mills. Positano Beaches A summer vacation wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the beach! For budget travellers, Spiaggia Grande in Positano is an excellent choice. This pebbly beach offers kayak rentals and easy access to several fantastic restaurants. Additionally, there are beach clubs available, with notable options including Arienzo Beach Club and Laurito Beach Club. 2. Dubrovnik, Croatia If you’re looking for a laid-back beach getaway in Europe, Dubrovnik is another fantastic option. Alongside its inviting beaches, Dubrovnik boasts a vibrant culinary scene where you can indulge in the region’s renowned wines and savour fresh Adriatic Sea oysters.During the summer months, Dubrovnik offers an array of attractions and activities to enjoy: Lokrum Lokrum is a stunning nature reserve with plenty to explore. It’s an ideal spot for a summer getaway if you’re seeking a break from the crowds. You can enjoy a leisurely picnic, relax on the rocks, or take a refreshing swim in the clear waters. Dubrovnik Summer Festival The Dubrovnik Summer Festival, an annual event spanning from July 10th to August 25th, stands as one of Europe’s oldest festivals. At this festival, you can immerse yourself in a diverse array of performances, including theatre, opera, jazz, folklore, ballet, and classical music. Banje Beach Yes, we mentioned Dubrovnik as a great place for a beach vacation in Europe, and a visit to Banje Beach will prove it to you! Here, you can enjoy stunning views of the city walls while lounging on the sand. Plus, from water skiing to waterboarding, there are plenty of water sport activities you can try if you’re feeling adventurous. 3. Ibiza, Spain If you are a party-goer or shopaholic, a summer in Ibiza should not be missed. Renowned for its vibrant nightlife, this island in Europe boasts famous clubs where you can party like a rockstar. Additionally, the town offers excellent opportunities to shop for high-end designer goods. Cala d’Hort Among the top attractions on the island, Cala d’Hort stands out as a must-visit spot, especially for diving enthusiasts and sunset admirers. With its crystal-clear waters, Cala d’Hort provides an ideal setting for diving and snorkelling adventures. Moreover, the dramatic cliffs surrounding the bay create a stunning backdrop for witnessing breathtaking sunset views. Dalias Hippy Market For a taste of Ibiza’s eclectic culture, don’t miss the Dalias Hippy Market. Held every Saturday and particularly bustling in the summer months, this market showcases the island’s creativity with stalls selling everything from accessories and handicrafts to local food. San Antonio If you’re seeking an unforgettable nightlife experience, head to San Antonio. Here, you’ll find a diverse array of nightlife options, from pulsating nightclubs with the latest beats to laid-back lounges and dive bars. 4. Marmaris, Turkey When planning your summer family getaway to Europe, essential items like soft drinks, ice cream, wine, and sunscreen are a must. Marmaris stands out as an ideal destination offering all these necessities at budget-friendly prices. It also boasts family-friendly beaches with soft sand perfect for relaxation. Additionally, visitors can enjoy exciting activities such as scuba diving and snorkelling trips along the picturesque coast. Here are some recommended places to visit in Marmaris, especially during the summer: Marmaris Castle & Museum When visiting Marmaris, spending time at the beach is a must-do activity. Uzunyali, commonly known as Long Beach, is the primary beach in Marmaris. It stretches along the coast and is accompanied by various amenities such as bars, restaurants, and hotels. Marmaris Castle & Museum When visiting Marmaris, spending time at the beach is a must-do activity. Uzunyali, commonly known as Long Beach, is the primary beach in Marmaris. It stretches along the coast and is accompanied by various amenities such as bars, restaurants, and hotels. Atlantis Waterpark Families visiting Marmaris can enjoy a fantastic day at Atlantis Waterpark, conveniently located on the beachfront. This waterpark is an ideal summer spot since it only operates from May to October. With its range of attractions and activities suitable for all ages, it promises a memorable experience for families. Uzunyali Beach A notable sightseeing spot in Marmaris is the historic Marmaris Castle along with its museum. Take some time to visit this castle located above the Old Town, particularly in the summer months. From here, you can enjoy stunning views extending all the way to Icmeler

Are you planning a European adventure but concerned about the costs? Totally understandable! Keeping your spending in check while exploring this vibrant continent can be tricky. Fear not, though, because there are countless ways to enjoy a budget Europe trip without missing out on its wonders. From securing budget accommodations to utilising affordable connectivity, Note down these tips from our co-founders to save big bucks while still soaking up all the incredible experiences Europe has to offer! 6 Tips for a Budget Europe Trip 1. Explore Budget Accommodation Consider Hostels If you’re mindful of your expenses while in Europe, consider staying at hostels. These budget-friendly options are incredibly popular across the continent, with a wide variety available in every city. Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or with friends, hostels offer diverse lodging options, including dormitories, private rooms, and even family suites to suit your preferences. One of the biggest draws of hostels is their affordability compared to conventional hotels. Despite the lower price tag, many hostels boast prime locations, like the Flying Pig Downtown Hostel in Amsterdam or The House of Sandeman in Porto. Additionally, they often promote a sense of community among guests and kitchen facilities that allow travellers to prepare their own meals and cut costs further. Stay with a Local Exploring Europe with friends can be a budget-friendly option as you can divide accommodation costs among your group. But what if you’re on a solo trip or don’t have friends to stay with? Consider connecting with locals through hospitality exchange services. These platforms allow users to find hosts who offer free accommodations for short-term stays. Aside from saving on lodging expenses, staying with locals provides an opportunity to connect with residents who can offer insider tips and advice about the area. Find Work Exchange Options Another effective way to save money on lodging while you’re on a Europe trip is by exchanging work for free accommodation. Various places like hostels, farms, and local businesses often offer opportunities for travellers to work for a few weeks in return for a complimentary bed and sometimes meals. This option allows you to delve deeper into the local culture, explore the surroundings, and build connections with residents. 2. Choose Budget-Friendly Activities Check Out Free Attractions and Museums You’ll find numerous nature attractions like beaches and beautiful parks that are free to visit and perfect for picnics across Europe. Additionally, many cities offer free entry to some of their tourist spots. For instance, in several Italian cities, famous attractions waive their fees every first Sunday of the month, while all public museums in London are open to visitors at no cost. Moreover, major European cities offer free walking tours, allowing visitors to explore city attractions and delve into history. Remember to tip your guide at the end as a gesture of appreciation for their time and expertise! Opt for Budget-Friendly Attractions When it comes to expenses, you’ll generally find that prices rise as you head north or west in Europe, such as in France and the UK. For budget-friendly travel, consider exploring southeastern Europe, including countries like Croatia and Romania, where costs tend to be lower. As a general guideline, straying from tourist hotspots gives you more affordable options. However, if a particular destination truly captivates your interest, it might just be worth the extra investment. Remember to not focus on budgets so much and consider other factors like unique experiences or personal preferences when making your decision! Make Use of City Tourist Cards Local tourism offices frequently offer tourism cards that provide access to various attractions, tours, and restaurants within the city. With these cards, you can enjoy free entry and significant discounts on activities. Some providers also include discount vouchers, complimentary guidebooks, maps, and priority access to make your trip even more convenient. 3. Eat and Drink Wisely Seek Out Food Discounts While travelling, dining out is likely on your agenda, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to enjoy delicious meals. In Europe, numerous websites, like TheFork, offer discounted restaurant bookings that allow you to try out delicious yet budget-friendly meals during your trips. Try Local Cuisine If you’re watching your spending closely, it’s best to steer clear of the pricey, tourist-filled restaurants. Instead, opt for local sandwich shops, pizza joints, or outdoor street vendors for more budget-friendly meals. One way you can find these gems is by stepping away from sightseeing streets or asking locals for recommendations on their favourite dining spots. Carry a Reusable Water Bottle In many parts of Europe, tap water is safe for consumption. To save some more extra bucks, consider bringing along a reusable water bottle during your trip. By refilling your bottle with tap water whenever possible, you can stay hydrated all while minimising the consumption of single-use plastic bottles. Cook Your Own Meals Apart from accommodation costs, food and drinks can also eat up a lot of your budget in Europe. One smart way to save money is by cooking your own meals. Start by shopping at local food markets which you can find in almost every city across Europe, such as Mercat Central de València in Valencia, Spain or Apt Marché in Provence, France, then cook your meals at your accomodation’s kitchen. 4. Find the Most Economical Means of Transportation Book Flights in Advance Planning ahead can save you a lot, especially when it comes to flights. To avoid high fares, try booking your flights to Europe about 4 months in advance. According to Forbes, the best deals for flights to Europe are typically found around 129 days before departure, but can range from 50 to 179 days prior. During your search, consider using sites like Skyscanner to compare airlines, airports, dates, and times so you can find the flights that fit your budget and travel itinerary the best. Use Public Transportations Train travel is widely favoured in Europe for its speed, comfort, and scenic views. If you’re travelling across multiple countries, consider investing in a Rail