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The Apps you need have on your travel checklist.

August 10, 2017 / theopinionistonline / Leave a comment

Planning on travelling through Europe? Checklists are a must when you’re getting ready to jet set. But, what we may be forgetting – other than your toothbrush, is the apps that we should be downloading before we leave the house.

Yes, that’s right travel apps are just as important as your socks and undies. If you’re travelling through Europe or else where there are a few apps that will inevitably be handy for your travels. In this instance I’ll be focusing on Europe and the apps that really helped me get around.

I found that Visit a City and Trainline EU were two of my most important apps- apart from facebook and instagram.

Visit A City is a great app that provides you with different itineraries of things to see and do. The great thing about his app is that you can download the itinerary to use offline so you’re not chewing into your data usage and you can also edit start times and delete things you may not want to see-basically allowing you to then create your own itinerary based on the suggestions provided.

Another great thing about the app is that it also offers you a range of guided tours and day trips in and around the city you’re visiting that you can choose from and book through the app. It really couldn’t be anymore convenient!

I personally found this app really helpful when I was recently travelling through Europe and only had a limited number of days in a few cities.

If you’re travelling through Europe and you’re not flying to all your destinations, the next app that should be on your checklist should be Trainline EU. This app allows you to book trains to travel in between European countries and also trains within the country. The great thing is it gives you a few options so you can choose your seats and preferred class. It also will keep a record of them on the app and send you your tickets via email.

The obvious app to have is Trip Advisor. The app will give you real customer reviews and help you get the best out of your holiday whether its local or international. The great thing about the app is that reviews are current and the app covers everything from hotels to tour groups.

There’s a whole range of travel apps that are great to help you plan your trip and advise you on what sites to see, where to go, where to eat and where to stay. They are an essential part of your travel kit.

Happy Travels.

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Nelson Bay, NSW, Australia: The Perfect Short Break From The City.

May 2, 2017 / theopinionistonline / Leave a comment

Picturesque Nelson Bay is the main town that’s part of the Port Stephens area. Situated on the New South Wales North Coast a 3 hour drive from Sydney or a 1 hour drive from Newcastle.

This town is not just a great destination for summer, it’s great all year round. So whilst there are beaches I could write about (they’re absolutely beautiful) this piece is more about the other activities you can enjoy when you’re not visiting in the summer months and my picks on where to eat.

The seaside town offers a variety of attractions and things to do within itself and its surrounds. I spent a few days there and whilst I did get the chance to take a quick dip at Fly Point which is a small beach just past the marina as you head towards Shoal Bay (yes, I know its May and it’s getting cold in the southern hemisphere – however, the weather was glorious) I also managed to get in some activities.

Do:

Other than enjoying the stunning beaches and clear waters that the bay and its surrounds have to offer there’s a plethora of activities to choose from especially if you’re not visiting in the summer months. With so much to do and see in and around Nelson Bay you can be here for over a week and do something different every day. If you’re only going for a few days then these are a must do.

Horse Riding – Sahara Trails in Anna Bay is a short car ride from Nelson Bays town centre. You have a few choices in what type of rides you want to do. If you’re like me and it’s your first time then opt for the Aussie Bush Trail Ride. The experience lasts for an hour and it’s a good introduction into horse ridding. Alternatively you have the beach ride if you’re more experienced.

View of Shoal Bay. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

View of Zenith Beach. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Tomaree Head Summit Walk- The views from the mountain are spectacular. The walk up the mountain to the summit will take about 45mins with a few stops in between if you are taking in the view as you go up (or if your fitness level- like mine, is not up to scratch). Whilst you’re walking up take in the views of Shoal Bay and Zenith Beach. Walking back down may be quicker depending on which route you take , there are gun emplacements from World War II you can walk to on your way back down, however, when you’re up there take a few minutes at the top to appreciate the views.

Dolphin Cruise- There are a few different companies that offer cruises around the bay and if you’re lucky enough you may see a few dolphins or a whale. The type of cruise you’re after is dependant on your itinerary and how much you want to spend and of course the time of year.

Eat:

Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay (5 mins up the road from the town centre) have plenty on offer. Especially seafood, after all this is a bay and they do have a great little fish market down at the marina. Below are a few places I tried out that I recommend ( there were others that didn’t make the list):

Casa De Oro- If you like tapas then this is a nice little restaurant that offers a range of tapas dishes on their menu. Try the pork meatballs and mussels in tomato and chilli salsa they are flavoursome especially when accompanied by the Fried Potato with Tomato Salsa & Aioli. The sangria is also very good. My only negative was the Bruschetta with Tomato, Basil, Bocconcini & Prosciutto, for me it lacked flavour and the piece was small for the price they charge.

Bacon and Eggs & a Carrot Colada at the Little Nel Cafe. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Little Nel Cafe- This cafe is located in The Nelson Resort just as you enter the towns centre on Government Road. It’s a great spot and the food is delicious. Breakfast and lunch servings are a decent size and will leave even the most ravenous holiday maker feeling content. If you’re looking for an energy boost I recommend skipping the coffee and getting the smoothies in particularly their Carrot Colada. Their Falafel Bowl is also a great option for lunch.

Enjoy a drink with this view. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Little Beach Boathouse- this is a little piece of heaven where you can either go for drinks and nibbles or enjoy a meal at the restaurant upstairs. My recommendation is to get there just before sunset to watch the sun go down as you sip on your wine. The best spot to sit and relax (trust me the view will put you at ease) is on the deck- if you can get a spot. The boathouse cater for special events as well and after you see the sunset you’ll understand why this place is a popular location for tourists and locals alike.

Scones at the Inner Light Tea Rooms. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Inner Light Tea Rooms- If you want to have lunch or afternoon tea with some of the most beautiful ocean views- this is the place! The Inner Light Tea Rooms offer a variety of food choices for breakfast or a light lunch. However, if you want to just enjoy a coffee (or milkshake) with some scones this is the place. The scones are divine and will definitely take care of your sweet tooth.

Mod Thai (Shoal Bay)- There are two of these restaurants near each other. One is in Nelson Bay (not much of a view) and the other that I had dinner at is on Shaol Bay Road in Shoal Bay, a very short (like not even 5 min) drive from Nelson Bay town centre. I’ve eaten a lot of Thai food, however this place has some gorgeous food. Whilst the menu isn’t huge there is a choice of dishes (sorry no laksa though). The spring rolls are delicious as is their beef pad Thai and exotic seafood special (a combination of seafood in a red curry).

Nelson Bay is great if you want a short family get away, romantic weekender or just want to chill out and relax with your friends. There are more activities like quad biking, kayaking and camel riding that you can do if you have the time. If you get a chance head out to Murray’s Brewing Co. and sample some local beer and wine.

For more information on Nelson Bay go to visitnsw.com

Happy Travels!

Port Douglas, Australia – More Than Just A Couples Destination.

April 19, 2017May 5, 2017 / theopinionistonline / Leave a comment

Port Douglas has to be one of the nicest places I have been too in Australia. Situated in Tropical Far North Queensland (TFNQ) about an hour or so’s drive from Cairns, this small piece of paradise has a lot more to offer than just a romantic weekend getaway for couples.

This destination hotspot is great to explore with a friend or group of friends.

If you don’t hire a car, then your best place for accomodation would be in or around the town centre. This place is buzzing with shops, restaurants and pubs.

Whilst the resorts are nice and not to far from the town itself you will need transport as they can be a bit of a walk to get to the main strip, unless you plan on catching a taxi. But if you do get a car you can travel around and head out to the other small towns around the area that are equally as beautiful.

We stayed there for 2 days at the Regal Port Douglas situated on Macrossan Street (main strip) in a studio room.

The location was perfect and the studio was clean and had a great bathroom. The only bad thing was that the actual toilet had Louvre doors – so privacy wasn’t as “private” as it could have been. But when you’re with friends sharing a room, when is it ever?! If you can get past the fact that you may be able to hear a few noises from the bathroom then this is ideally the place to stay. If you can’t then turn on a tap when you have to go! Really the studio apartment was a great little spot and the complex has a pool.

The main part of the town isn’t huge and you will be able to walk around it in a few hours and have lunch then go from there.

Port Douglas. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Port Douglas is a gateway to the barrier reef , so make sure you book a tour to Agincourt Reef . This reef offers 16 different dive sites and a variety of sea life which makes it the perfect spot to dive or snorkel. Bear in mind that you will more than likely have to wear a stinger suit depending on what time of the year you go. My tip is if you do go out on a rainy day (because hey- it’s the tropics!) then take some sea sick tablets as getting out to some reefs can be a bit rough. Once you’re there however it’s a great experience.

Then there’s the rain forest. There are a few tours to choose from, you can go right up to Cape Tribulation or do more localised tours. Who knows you may even get to see a crocodile.

Daintree River Cruise. Photo Maria Schindlecker

We went on the half day tour that included a river cruise on the Daintree River and then a stope over at Mossman Gorge that took you into the stunning Daintree rainforest. The river cruise was great however there were mosquitoes so take your replant with you( again, it’s the tropics!). The highlight was seeing a crocodile that was literally meters away from the boat. Whilst we did end up going on one of the wettest days of the year the gorge was still beautiful and well worth the trip. The gorge is situated about 30 mins by car from Port Douglas’s town centre.

Mossman Gorge. Photo : Maria Schindlecker

The great thing about Port Douglas is that you can get out and explore or you can just sit back and relax and do nothing. It’s a great location for a weekend away or even a few days.

For more info about Port Douglas and its surrounding areas visit Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree.

Bon Voyage!

2017’s Top 8 Overseas Travel Destinations.

March 30, 2017May 5, 2017 / theopinionistonline / Leave a comment

Thinking of planning a trip away this year? These hot destinations are sure to get your inner travel bug excited! I’ve compiled a list of the top 8 overseas travel destinations for 2017 with the help of the Director of Smart Flyer Australia, Stuart Reay.

Reykjavik. Photo: Pixabay

Blue Lagoon. Photo: Pixabay

Skogafoss Waterfall. Photo: Pixabay

1. Iceland: Fast becoming one of the worlds hottest destinations Iceland has a range of landscapes on offer. It’s capital Reykjavík whilst not overly populated has plenty on offer from shopping to cafes, restaurants, bars and clubs along with galleries and art museums. To really experience the beauty of this country you need to leave the capital and travel to its many regions. No matter where you go there is a majesty of nature at its very best found throughout. Sites to checkout are, up north you’ll find charming little towns like Akureyri that still have wooden house that date back to the late 19th century. To the south the Blue Lagoon found in the Reyjanes Penninsula, the south of the country boasts some of natures best creations such as the Skogafoss Waterfall and Vatnajokull Glacier. In the countries east you’ll find farms, small fjords, islands and magma chambers filled with colourful mineral deposits. To the west the landscape offers so many natural wonders such as volcanoes, waterfalls that live in harmony with a variety of wildlife and fauna. No matter where you go in Iceland the beauty of its contrasting landscape is captivating. This is a perfect destination for the outdoorsy type that also likes the creature comforts of fine dinning and hotels.

The Northern Lights over Nuuk. Photo: Pxabay

Sail around Greenland. Photo: Pixabay

2.Greenland: Ok, off the cuff the highlight for this place is definitely the Northern Lights! With most of its land mass covered in ice you’ll find that a majority of the population live along the coast. This destination is perfect for the adventurer in you. There are a range of outdoor activities such as snowboarding, kayaking, helisking, whale watching, or if you prefer to be sailed around and take in the sites there are boat tours. For more on what to do visit the countries tourism site.

Architecture. Photo: Pixabay

Local Woman in Cartagena. Photo: Pixabay

Architecture. Photo: Pixabay

3. Cartagena , Columbia: Columbias hottest destination for 2017 is Cartagena, the fishing village is on Columbia’s Carbaibbean Coast and is a historic tower with its colonial architecture. The village also has beautiful beaches and is a popular destination for tourists. The old town isn’t too big and is protected by stone walls that were built centuries ago. Not only is Cartagena seeped in its colonial history but it boasts gorgeous beaches and offers something for every traveller.

Sunset, Galapagos Islands. Photo: Pixabay

Giant Tortoise. Photos: Pixabay

4.Galápagos Islands: the Islands form part of a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean and are a province of Ecuador. Because of their isolation ( approximately 10000 km from the coast of Ecuador) they are home to plant and animal species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. If you are a nature buff than this is where you need to go. You can visit the islands anytime of the year because their location is close to the equator making temperatures fairly warm. For more on the Islands visit Galapagos Conservancy.

Havana, Cuba. Photo: Pixabay

Local Band. Photo: Pixabay

Capitol Building, Havana. Photo: Pixabay

5.Cuba: Situated in the beautiful Caribbean this island nation is a great destination for your next trip. With it’s 1950’s charm ( you’re going to see cars you’ve only ever seen in movies) and Spanish colonial architecture whats not to love about Cuba. If you want to get caught up in the feel of a country that has remained virtually untouched by big development for the last 60 years this is the place. There are also beautiful beaches to visit such as Varadero with 20km of white sand luring you into the cool waters of the Caribbean.

Ancient Ruins at Polonnaruwa. Photo: Pixababy

Tea Picking. Photo: Pixabay

6.Sri Lanka: This island nation sits south of India in the Indian ocean. Sri Lanka is famous for its ancient buddhist ruins and diverse landscape. This place will have something for everyone whether you’re a history buff, naturist, surfer or just want to relax and indulge in a spa. Things to see include the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa and the Tea picking, for more information visit the country’s tourism page.

Takshang Monester. Photo: Pixabay

Traditional costume. Photo: Pixabay

7.Bhutan: If you want to hike this is the place for you. Bhutan is a Buddhist Kingdom situated on the Himalayas eastern edge. It’s known for its monasteries and fortresses and well as its vast landscape. Emerging as a destination for adventure sports it offers activities such as hiking ( from day hikes to 31 day treks),mountain biking and fishing. If you’re more into the cultural experience there are plenty of festivals to see and monasteries and fortresses to visit. For more information on Bhutan visit their tourism page.

Bagan- Ancient City. Photo: Pixabay

Inle Lake, in the Nyaungshwe Township of Taunggyi District of Shan State. Photo: Pixabay

8.Myanmar: This Southeast Asian country (formerly known as Burma) boarders India, Bangladesh, China, Laos and Thailand. Because of the countries geographical location it has more than 100 ethnic groups. Whilst it may not be a destination you would have considered the country is rapidly becoming a top travel spot. It’s seeped in its ancient buddhist tradition and the highlights are its ancient temples that date back centuries. Considered to be a glimpse in too the “old Asia” now is the time to visit before it begins to gentrify and modernise.

If you’re planning a holiday the team at smart flyer.com have got you covered. They will personalise your holiday to make it a unique experience.

Whatever you do try to travel to a new place every year – there’s so much out there to see and explore.

Happy travels!

Get Lost In New York City

March 13, 2017March 20, 2017 / theopinionistonline / Leave a comment

The buzz of the city’s energy hits you as soon as you walk out of the airport, there’s an undeniable energy that fills the air with a sense of excitement. It’s no wonder why New York is one of the most sung about, filmed and written about cities in the world.

Apart form it being a buzzing business hub, it is a city that promises the tourist a tantalising experience to delight all your senses. It’s a mix of the old buildings that give it character and history and the modern day high rises that leave you in awe of their architecture.

Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Whilst this piece just focuses on Manhattan- because I just didn’t get enough time. There is so much to see and do, if you’ve got the time whatever you do don’t just spend it in Manhattan explore the other boroughs. Take a ride through Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens and take the ferry to Staten Island (the ferry to the Island is free and possibly one of the best views of the Statue of Liberty- two birds one stone!).

If you’re only there for a short time or on a business trip you possibly wont get time to do everything. Trust me there is so much to see that even my five days wasn’t enough.

If you’re only there for a few days then below are my top picks for a short stay (Yes, of course you have to see the Statue of Liberty- it’s a given, so I didn’t include this in my pick of attractions), they are as follow.

Central Park, NY. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Central Park , NY. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Central Park: This park is absolutely huge. So be prepared, if you want to spend a day at the park take your walking shoes. The best way to find out what you want to see and to plan your day is with the Central Park App (the official one) that you can download for free on iTunes. Not only will this app help you plan your day but also help you find your way when you get lost- trust me you will! If you’re getting tired from walking around take a horse and carriage ride around the park, it’s a bit pricey if you’re ridding solo but well worth it. You have a few options on the length of the ride and carriages fit about 4-5 people. To catch a horse and carriage ride you can find them lined up outside the Plaza Hotel on West 59th St.

Brooklyn Bridge Walk, NY (walking towards Brooklyn). Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Brooklyn Bridge, NY. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

The Brooklyn Bridge walk: This is a gorgeous walk to do, it’ll take you about 40 minutes each way especially if you are stoping to take in the view. The bridge is beautiful and the views of Manhattan are stunning.

St Patricks Cathedral: Located on 5th Avenue and 51st Street, this neo- gothic Roman Catholic Church is breathtaking. It’s free to enter but they do work on donations. Once inside the architecture is stunning. This is still an operational Cathedral with masses taking place regularly.

One World Trade Center, NY. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

9/11 Memorial and surrounds: This is one of the most somber places I have ever been too. You can choose to go to the museum or just walk around the memorial twin reflecting pools. A walk around the site is a spiritual experience no matter how unaffected you may have been at the time of the attacks on September 11, 2001. It allows you to take in the enormity of the events that occurred and their aftermath. The reflecting pools are a beautiful dedication to the thousands of men and women who lost their lives that day and have been placed on the exact location of where the Twin Towers used to stand. The new World Trade Center- One World Trade Center, is also a high light with a viewing deck that will provide you one of the best views of Manhattan and across the rivers.

Broadway: Ok, so you need to take in a show! I think this pick is pretty self explanatory- we’re talking BROADWAY! There are so many shows to choose from so even if you’re not the most avid theatre fan you will definitely find something to watch.

View from the Empire State Building looking out towards the Statue of Liberty. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

The Empire State Building: Situatted at 350 5th Avenue, the building is an iconic monument and if this is your first trip then this is a must. Whilst not the best view of the city, the views are still simply gorgeous. Get there early in the morning because the queues to get in get lengthy as the day progresses. Or if you want to experience the view in the evening get there late at night to beat the queues. The viewing deck is open till 2am every day (that’s right- 356 days a year!).

Times Square. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Other highlights are the tour of Brooklyn and the night tour of Manhattan that run with nearly all sightseeing bus companies and of course Times Square, Grand Central Station and of course the many museums and art galleries you have to choose from.

Whatever you decide to do you’ll be impressed with this city’s attractions and social scene. Just remember to take your sneakers as most attractions are a short walking distance from each other.

Mesmerising Kefalonia, Greece

February 27, 2017March 13, 2017 / theopinionistonline / Leave a comment

Used as a backdrop for films such as Captain Corelli’s Mandolin this stunning island boasts many unique locations that will leave even the most avid traveller breathless.

Now, before I go on I must admit there is a little bias here (OK, a lot of bias) as this is my mothers birth place and I visit the island every time I’m in Greece.

Kefalonia( or Cephalonia) is situated west of mainland Greece in the Ionian Sea and is the largest island of the Ionian Islands, approximately 786.6 km² with the town of Argostoli being the islands capital.

Because the island is so big you’ll be spoiled for choice as to where to stay and what to do. Renting a car is a must if you’re planning on visiting.

There are so many places to see; amongst the biggest attractions are caves, villages ( approximately 365 of them) and beaches. Since there are so many – you can virtually write a book on the island, I’ve listed my favourite spots below.

The Caves

Melissani Cave. Image credit : Pixabay

Melissani Cave: This is truly one of natures greatest productions. The cave is located at Karavomylos near Sami and was discovered in the early 1950’s. Since then has become a popular tourist destination. The rays of sunshine that enter the cave through its collapsed roof glisten off the cool blue waters that fill the cave.There are boat rides that take you around allowing you to get a closer feel for this nymphs playground.

Drogarati Cave: A short distance from Melissani cave, this marvel of nature is filled with stalactites and stalagmites. You can walk through this cave and take in all its splendour. It also has great acoustics and has had many concerts held in its entrance chamber.

The Villages

Assos. Image credit Pixabay

Assos: This small picturesque village is situated on the northern side of the island on cliffs along a peninsula with the same name not very far from Myrtos beach. The town is set amongst cypresses and pine trees with houses painted in many different colours. There aren’t many shops there, the village is small with a few local handcrafts. It’s charming and quiet, a nice place for a romantic over night stay. My tip is go for a day trip you swim and also have lunch at one of the few taverns that sit by the water. You’ll need a car or motor bike to get here.

Fiscardo: Another picturesque village situated on the northern tip of the island , and was built around a harbour. The village was left virtually unscathed from the earthquake of 1953. The buildings you see here are old, original and like Assos they are colourful. A stroll around the harbour will leave you breathless at the yachts of the rich that frequent the the place for its tranquility.

The Beaches

Myrtos Beach. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Myrtos: This has to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, it’s located 30kms north from the islands capital Argostoli. The white rock cliffs and hills that surround the beach provide a stunning back drop for the cool blue waters and white pebbles (no sand here folks) that make this beach one of the best in Greece. The best place to take a photo is at the top just before you head down to the beach.

Xi: OK, so this beach is a bit different to the others. Forget the whit sand or pebbly beaches, its sand is red and it has clay cliffs. But don’t let that deter you. This is your 2 in one day spa and beach experience. You can break the clay from the cliffs that surround it and rub it on your skin or face (as most of the locals do). The beach has water activities and hosts a few tavernas and cafes. This gorgeous beach is located about 10 km from the town of Lixouri or about 40 kms from Argostoli.

Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos: these beaches are right next to each other in Lassi which is south of Argostoli on the way to the airport. If you’re in Argostoli its a short cab ride away . Both beaches are surrounded by rich lush vegetation. Makris Gialos however is more for the party goer, it has a variety of water sports and beach bars – Costa Costa being the most popular. Platis Gialos is quieter and out of the two beaches most locals can be found there.

There are many more beaches, villages and attractions to visit and way too many to list .

Wherever you decide to stay in Kefalonia you will have a range of places to visit and activities to choose from.

Happy Travels!

Majestic Vienna, Austria

February 13, 2017March 13, 2017 / theopinionistonline / Leave a comment

Close your eyes and tell me whats the first thing you think of when you hear the word Vienna. Is it Mozart? Old cobble stone streets? Perhaps it’s the Viennese coffee houses found scattered around the city? Or is it all of the above ?

Walking around this city there is an air of romance and majesty that seeps out of every corner you turn. From old houses, historic buildings to the gothic architecture of St Stephens Cathedral you’ll be captivated at every turn.

A short walk from the cathedral, statues and fountains adorned in gold can be found all around The Stephansplatz (a square at the geographical centre of Vienna), standing side by side with fashion chains such as Mango, H&M and Steffl (Vienna’s oldest department store).

There’s plenty to do in this city. Every side alley has something interesting to go see and there are so many museums and palaces scattered throughout.

The city caters to all types of people and their holiday needs. Personally I’m more of a history buff so for me there was just so much to take in. My top must do’s (yes, they’re historically focused) are:

Kaisergruft. Photo:Maria Schindlecker

Kaisergruft (Imperial Crypt): Also known as the Capuchin Crypt is not for the feint hearted. After descending down a set of stairs you make your way through chambers that house the coffins and remains of Emperors and Empresses of the Habsburg Dynasty. You may think how morbid! But this is really fascinating stuff.

Inside St Stephens Cathedral. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

St Stephens Cathedral: This is stunning architecture dating back to its construction in the 12th Century! You need to walk around the cathedral to get a feel of its enormity and then go inside to marvel at the stunning architecture, relics decorated in gold and precious stones and liturgical texts and books that reside there. Once you’ve done that there’s a tour you can do (again not for the faint hearted) that will take you deep into the catacombs of the cathedral. You’ll see skulls and bones and a coffin from a Roman soldier dating back over 1000 years as well as being the resting place of Vienna’s cardinals and archbishops.

Gardens of Belvedere Palace. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Belvedere Palace: Take a walk through the lush gardens of this beautiful building. This can take a few hours out of your day, so be prepared. Today the building houses Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present day, as well as the world’s largest Gustav Klimt collection, featuring the golden paintings “The Kiss” and “Judith” as it’s highlights.

Gardens leading to Schonbrunn Palace. Photo Maria Schindlecker

Gloriette Photo: Maria Schindlecker

The Palace maze. Photo: Maria Schindlecker

Side view of the palace and one of its many gardens. Photo : Maria Schindlecker

Schönbrunn Palace: Ok! This has to be one of the nicest palaces I’ve come across (with the exception of Versailles in France). You can’t go past its garden maze, the Gloriette (with amazing views of Vienna from the top) and its room of Millions. You’ll need at the very least half a day here.

Whilst I can keep going on and on about where you should go lets not forget about the music. Known for it’s music the city boasts many concert halls that cater to all music lovers. If you’re a lover of classical music, then definitely attend a concert featuring Vienna’s finest orchestras and solo artists at either one of the palaces of Schönbrunn or the Imperial Palace ( it’ll make you feel like a princess or prince).

Then there’s the food, well don’t even get me stated on that! There are little carts scattered around the place that sell hot dogs and pretzels. Trust me you’ll befriend them after all the walking you’ll be doing (oh and the hot dogs are delicious). With a various selection of cuisines ranging from traditional Austrian, Greek and Italian plus many more you’ll be spoilt for choice.

The best way to see the city is to either walk or cycle. The fun starts when you get lost and wonder into unexpected streets and lose yourself marvelling at the beauty around you. I had blisters on my feet from walking so much, so remember to take proper walking shoes with you because you’ll need them.

If you do get a chance and you’re not completely out of time jump on the train and get out of Vienna and go visit the little towns that surround the city.

Without doubt a visit to Vienna will leave you with a new found love for a city that oozes a charm and sophistication that can’t be found anywhere else.

For more information on all the sights: https://www.wien.info/en/sightseeing/sights

Happy travels!

Beautiful Skiathos Island, Greece

February 2, 2017February 3, 2017 / theopinionistonline / Leave a comment

The Greek Islands, they’re the play ground of the gods. Every island has its own unique beauty and soul.

Whilst I’ve been to few of them nothing has taken my breath away such as Skiathos. Situated in the Northwest Aegean Sea the island is part of the cluster of islands known as the Sporades archipelago.

This small island with an area of less than 50km² is a holiday makers paradise. It’s a fusion of the Greek culture blended with the nightlife of the party islands. The Island virtually caters to everyone no matter what you’re planning on doing. Whilst it keeps it’s old school charm with it’s traditional arts and crafts, houses and taverns, it’s also buzzing with clubs and bars.

Traditional house

View from Old Kastro down to Kastro Beach

Banana Beach Bar

Theres a small section right at the old port side of Skiathos Town called Maxilares that hosts some of the islands best bars. There are literally cushions (maxilares) that line the pavement leading up to the Cathedral of the Three Hierarchs. Whilst its busy during the day, it transforms at night to this boho chic space that offers some of the most amazing cocktails.

But we’re talking about an Island right?! So I have to gloat about the beaches. The beaches are amongst some of the most stunning I’ve seen. There are so many to explore- more than 60 in fact!

The beach of Koukounaries also referred to as “Chrisi Ammos” (golden sand) has to be one of my favourite places on this earth. The sand literally glistens with what seem to be flecks of gold.

source: http://www.best-beaches.com/europ/greece/greek-beaches/koukounaries

For the party goers, there is Banana Beach. Now please don’t get this confused with Little Banana Beach just to the right of the main beach. Little Banana Beach is a nudist beach – you might get a surprise accidentally turning up there (unless that’s your thing- no criticism here). Banana Beach is the party beach it offers water sports, cafes and bars. The music is great and the atmosphere is vibrant.

Let’s be honest, this is just my opinion but this has to be on of the most beautiful islands I’ve come across to date! Well, maybe it’s not just my opinion. The Beckhams have been there and Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell frequent the island every year. Now that’s got to count for something right?

Oh, I forgot to mention you may recognise the island when you arrive at the port in Skiathos Town as it was used as a backdrop for the movie Mama Mia.

If you’re looking for an island with everything than this has to be it! Plus it’s only about a 30 minute plane flight from Athens.

For more details on this gorgeous island visit: http://www.skiathos.gr/en

Bon Voyage!

Pacific Harbour, Fiji- Beautiful One Day, Adrenaline Rush The Next.

February 1, 2017February 2, 2017 / theopinionistonline / Leave a comment

On the doorstep of Australian shores, just a short three-hour flight from Sydney, lies beautiful Fiji. Surrounded by pristine clear waters and lush green tropical forest.

Whilst many tourists and honeymooners know the smaller Islands of Fiji the East side of Fijis big Island- Viti Levu, is relatively not known.

Pacific Harbour which is situated approximately 40km south of Fijian capital Suva, is a thrill seekers haven. The area hosts an assortment of activities that allow for holidaymakers to experience their wild side.

Amongst the many things to do are the Zip Line, taking you through the canopy of lush thick forest, white water rafting and kayaking on the Luva and Navua rivers.

Not the adventurous type? No need to fret! Fiji is known for laying back and taking it slow. So if you’re not walking on the wilds side then you can kick your shoes off and relax beach side with a cocktail in hand or massage, at one of the many resorts that are found within Pacific Harbour.

The area may have all the activities to get the blood pumping but yet it stays true to the Fijian way of life. Little villages surround the area and its outskirts and you get a feel for the way of life that is essentially Fijian.

There is an Arts Village that also hosts a Fijian Village tour where you are transported backing time to the early 1800’s. You will experience war dances, Tapa painting and other old traditions and customs.

The locals are the friendliest people in the world. Every person that has come back from visiting the Islands agrees. They welcome travelers with open arms and hearts, opening their homes to you. There is a sense of community and family that you experience which will stay with you forever.

The slow pace of life known as “Fijian time” is one of the draw cards to all the Islands that make up the country. Time goes at whatever pace you want it to go at. So if you feel like doing something adventurous or kicking back and relaxing with a massage overlooking the clear blue waters, Pacific Harbour is the place to be.

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