Europe Travels

A trip to Europe is easy to plan. I have collected the most worthwhile places to visit in Europe here for every backpacker and culture vulture. Further articles are already in progress.

Hier sind man eine surferin die am Strand von Zarautz auf ihrem weichen Softboard liegt. Sie probiert gerade surfen in Spanien aus und hat großes Grinsen im Gesicht.
Europe Travels

Surfing in Spain for Beginners – Spanish Basque Country

With a surf instructor from Peru, incredibly delicious pintxos, and a lot of respect for the powerful Atlantic Ocean, I unexpectedly fell in love with surfing again during my journey through the Spanish Basque Country. → Book surf lessons locally (Mundaka, Bilbao, Zarautz – where I surfed) → TIP: Fun tours without a car (Bilbao, Gaztelugatxe including a wine tour) When people think of surfing in Spain, most probably imagine Fuerteventura or the sunny beaches of Andalusia. That was exactly what I thought too. Before my trip, I had no idea that northern Spain had developed into one of the best surfing regions in Europe. That’s why a friend and I decided to make our way to the Spanish Basque Country – not by plane, but in a relaxed van journey. Our trip started in Barcelona and took us across northern Spain. Along the way, we made spontaneous stops, including the wine festival in Logroño and Gaztelugatxe, before we finally reached the Atlantic coast, known for its surfing culture. From that moment on, it felt like everything revolved around the tides of northern Spain. Is the Basque Country good to surf as a beginner? Proudly holding my board The short answer is: yes – but not in the way you might expect. Even though I already had some previous surfing experience, the Spanish Basque Country quickly brought me back down to earth. I caught my first waves a few years ago in Costa Rica. Later, I even spent a week at a surf school in Fuerteventura. So, to be honest, I thought I had a pretty good understanding of the basics by then. But every coastline has its own character. Surf Spot Zarautz If you want to try surfing in Spain for beginners for the first time, the Basque Country still offers excellent conditions. Especially Zarautz is considered one of the most popular surf spots for beginners. The wide sandy beach provides plenty of space, several peaks help spread out the surfers, and along the promenade you’ll find surf shops and surf schools lined up next to each other. San Sebastián with Zurriola Beach and Sopelana are also great options for beginners. Mundaka, however, is a completely different story. This is where legendary waves are created, attracting surfers from all over the world – but mostly experienced surfers rather than beginners. I was already impressed just watching the professionals from the beach. When is the best time for surfing in the Basque Country? The Basque Country is one of the best regions for surfing in Spain and can be visited all year round. However, the conditions change significantly depending on the season. My tip if you want to try surfing in Spain for beginners: Spring: Fewer visitors, pleasant conditions, and good waves. Summer: Ideal for beginners and surf courses, but with more visitors and busy bars. Autumn: The best waves for experienced surfers. Winter: Powerful swells – more suitable for advanced surfers. How to get from Barcelona to the Basque Country? Traveling with the Van Travelling by van was probably the best decision we made during the entire trip. It allowed us to stop whenever we wanted, discover small villages, and simply stay wherever we liked. Between Barcelona and the Basque coast, there are many beautiful places worth exploring. Wine Fest in Logrono and Gaztelugatxe Especially the wine festival in Logroño and the church of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe were amazing unplanned stops that were absolutely worth it. These kinds of experiences are what make a road trip truly special. How to get there by train, bus, and plane? If you don’t have a van available, you can still reach the Basque Country easily by public transport. Bilbao and San Sebastián have good train and bus connections, and there are also affordable domestic flights. BlaBlaCar is also very popular in Spain. Car sharing is widely used there and is a budget-friendly way to stay flexible without renting a car. You just need a little patience and flexibility. My experience as a beginner surfer in Spain Like i already said: since I already had some surf lessons in Costa Rica and Fuerteventura so I naturally felt a little more confident when I arrived in the Basque Country. But luckily, I wasn’t completely on my own. My road trip buddy had been surfing for several years and helped me remember the most important basics. Together, we went into the water, and with his tips, I was actually doing much better than I had expected. Do you really need a surf instructor? The next day, however, I felt a little too confident. After my first Solo Surf Try “I can do this on my own now,” I thought. And so I did. I grabbed a board, paddled out into the water, and quickly realised that the ocean had other plans. I barely caught any waves, but I still kept getting knocked off my board. At some point, I felt like I was drinking more salt water than actually surfing. After feeling like I had almost drowned five times, I was lying exhausted on the beach, seriously wondering what I was doing wrong. Rescue by a Peruvian surfer Apparently, my desperate attempts at surfing alone had not gone unnoticed. The Peruvian surf instructor from the surf shop eventually came over to me. Later, he told me with a smile that he had been watching my attempts for quite a while and simply couldn’t ignore them any longer. So he sat down next to me and gave me a few simple but incredibly valuable tips. Beach of Zarautz One of them has stayed with me to this day. The best surfing tip I had been paddling towards every wave in a complete panic, using all my strength. In my head, it was simple: the faster I paddle, the higher my chances of catching the wave. But the opposite was actually true. Because of all the frantic paddling, I was already completely out of breath

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Europe Travels, Hungary, Plan the Trip | Travel Hacks, Travel Gadgets, Travel with Train | Bus | Airplane

Train to Budapest – 10 € Ticket incl. Coffee

If you’re wondering about the best way to travel from Germany or Austria to Hungary, you’re certainly not alone. It’s a question I’ve been asked countless times over the past few years. As a car-free commuter who regularly traveled between Upper Austria and Budapest, as well as between Germany and Hungary, I’ve tried almost every train and bus connection available. ➜ These are the booking platforms I personally use: Omio*, ÖBB, MÁV and DB* ➜ In this guide, I  mainly recommend direct train connections to Budapest. Eventually, I realized that taking a train to Budapest isn’t just one of the cheapest ways to travel to Hungary, it’s also the most relaxing and authentic. Instead of dealing with long airport security lines or traffic jams, you can sit back, enjoy the changing landscapes, and arrive right in the heart of the Hungarian capital. But which connection to Budapest is actually worth taking? How long is the journey? How much does a train ticket cost? And what practical tips should you know before boarding? Why Is the Train to Budapest Such a Great Experience? If you’re looking for an affordable, comfortable, and stress-free way to travel, it’s hard to beat the train. Hungary is exceptionally well connected to both Austria and Germany, making it one of the easiest countries in Central and Eastern Europe to reach by rail. (The only exceptions are my last-minute money-saving tricks later in the article.) A train journey to Budapest isn’t just about getting from A to B—it’s an experience in itself. I always enjoy watching the scenery slowly change as the train crosses into Hungary. Then there are the passengers you’ll meet along the way. Some of them are unforgettable, like the people who casually ask you to look after their fluffy dogs for a few minutes (more on that later). Once you arrive in Budapest, you’ll step directly into the city center at either Keleti Railway Station or the famous Nyugati Railway Station, designed by Gustave Eiffel—yes, the same engineer behind the Eiffel Tower. Practical comparison platforms such as Trainline and Omio make booking incredibly easy. If it’s your first time booking through Omio, you can even save up to €10. Budapest Train perfect for Coffee Lovers Since I spent several years commuting between Austria and Hungary, this is by far the route I’ve traveled most often. Most of the time, I take an ÖBB Sparschiene ticket to Vienna and continue from there on the Czech RegioJet to Budapest. In my opinion, it’s the cheapest option—and it even comes with complimentary Illy coffee. I’ve marked both stations below so you can quickly check whether the RegioJet service with the free coffee is available on your travel date. Classic Route – Vienna to Budapest Train with RegioJet Is RegioJet Worth It? Absolutely. The Czech railway company RegioJet doesn’t just offer some of the cheapest train tickets to Budapest—it also includes complimentary Illy coffee and bottled water with its standard ticket. The only downside is that RegioJet only operates this route twice a day. The good news is that you don’t need to install another app. These tickets are also available through Trainline and Omio. Every trip I’ve taken with RegioJet has left me with great memories. Sometimes the journey was completely relaxing, other times it turned into a little adventure. I almost always met interesting people along the way. Most passengers are young, open-minded, and friendly. And as I mentioned earlier, some of them are so trusting that they’ll happily ask a complete stranger to watch their adorable puppy while they grab a coffee. Running Late and no Ticket? Last Minute Trick If you’re the spontaneous type—or if you’re anything like me and occasionally forget to book your ticket until the last minute—don’t worry. You can still travel to Budapest without spending a fortune. Whenever direct Vienna to Budapest train tickets suddenly cost between €40 and €60, I use this simple trick: ➜ Buy a ticket only as far as Hegyeshalom (the Hungarian border station).➜ From Hegyeshalom, buy a separate Hungarian ticket through the MÁV website or app (usually around €11.50). Important: For this trick to work, you’ll need to change to another train in Hegyeshalom. Apparently, Hungarian Railways have a rule that I still don’t fully understand. If you stay on exactly the same train while using two separate tickets, the conductor may issue a hefty fine. One more piece of advice: don’t spend too much time asking the conductors why this rule exists. In my experience, it tends to make them rather grumpy. Linz to Budapest Train – Direct Connection If you’re traveling from Upper Austria, the Linz to Budapest train is another convenient option. This route is particularly practical because it is a direct connection and doesn’t require changing trains. Linz to Budapest Train I personally find this connection very comfortable. However, to get the best prices, you should try to book relatively early, ideally one to two months in advance. Graz to Budapest Train – What You Should Know Before Booking The Graz to Budapest train connection requires a little more attention when booking. Many search engines automatically suggest a route via Vienna, including a transfer in Vienna. However, there is also a direct connection available via Szentgotthárd, a small border town in Hungary. Graz to Budapest Train Also make sure you carefully check that you are actually booking a direct connection to Budapest. You really don’t want to accidentally end up somewhere in the middle of Hungary. Train services in rural areas are much less frequent, and at smaller stations, you can quite literally find yourself “in the middle of nowhere”. Another thing to consider: in rural Hungary, fewer people speak English. So if you don’t know any Hungarian, communication can become challenging. Traveling from Germany to Budapest by Train Germany is also extremely well connected to Budapest, whether you’re traveling from Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, or northern Germany. If you’re coming from further away, taking an overnight train can actually

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Streunende Katze in Zypern
Cyprus

The Story of the Cats of Cyprus – Island of Cats

Welcome to Cyprus, the island where golden sunshine meets turquoise waters and where purring surprises await you at every turn. The famous cats of Cyprus! Cyprus isn’t just known for its ancient treasures and breathtaking landscapes. It’s also home to countless lovable, furry island cats. Spoiler alert: petting cats in Cyprus is absolutely a thing! Whether you’re wandering through the narrow alleys of old towns or lounging on dreamy beaches, spotting cats is as much a part of everyday life here as the sound of the waves. Come with me on a journey through the streets of Cyprus, where these cuddly furballs stretch out lazily in the sun, curiously peek into cafés, or strut majestically through ancient ruins. So grab your sunglasses and get ready for an adventure where we’ll not only discover the beauty of Cyprus but also find out why the cats of Cyprus hold such a special place in everyone’s heart. What makes these cats so unique and loved? And more importantly, what’s the story behind the cats of Cyprus and how did they become so numerous? Petting the Cats of Cyprus Everywhere The moment you arrive in Cyprus, you’ll quickly notice that these cuddly cats are absolutely everywhere. You’ll spot them wandering through charming old streets, relaxing beneath ancient olive trees, stretching out along the beach, or quietly sitting outside cafés waiting to be petted. Sometimes they doze off in the warm sun, other times they watch passing visitors with curious eyes. Their independent nature, combined with their affectionate personalities, makes them impossible to ignore. Before long, you’ll probably find yourself stopping every few minutes to stroke another one of the adorable Cats of Cyprus. Travel Tip for Animal Lovers:If you love being surrounded by animals while traveling and want to keep your trip budget-friendly, housesitting might be just the thing for you.(→ Check out my article on Housesitting here) The Story of the Cats of Cyprus As a backpacker exploring Cyprus, I didn’t just stumble across jaw-dropping landscapes and forgotten ruins—I also encountered the island’s extraordinary relationship with its cats. You simply can’t miss it: they’re everywhere. Along the way, three questions came to mind, and I’d love to answer them for you here: Why are there so many cats in Cyprus? How did these furry creatures get to the island? What role do they play in the history of Cyprus? A Journey Through Time The story of the cats of Cyprus begins in a monastery in 327 AD. During the Middle Ages, when Cyprus was under Byzantine rule, many monasteries and churches were established across the island. Legend has it that Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great, helped found a monastery here—but the island was plagued by severe drought and venomous snakes. According to the travel guide Lonely Planet, Saint Helena supposedly tackled the snake infestation by bringing in cats. Boatloads of them from Egypt to Cyprus. The monks welcomed the cats, not just for their company but also because they proved to be indispensable hunters, protecting food supplies and crops from rodents. The cats weren’t just tolerated, they became a vital part of daily monastic life. Their presence was even considered a blessing. Over time, a deep bond formed between the cats of Cyprus and the monastery residents. The Cat Population Booms on Cyprus As time passed, the cat population on the island grew exponentially, turning these fluffy companions into an ever-present sight. One major reason for this boom? A lack of spaying and neutering. Without population control, the cats multiplied freely, which eventually led to overpopulation and health issues among the little island dwellers. Additionally, the cultural love for cats helped their numbers grow. Locals have long considered the cats loyal companions, often treating them as semi-pets and feeding them even when they roamed free. Cats of Cyprus in Need – Challenges for the Island Despite their laid-back, independent image, many cats in Cyprus face tough challenges. Many are homeless, without steady food sources or shelter, and must fight daily to survive. Because the cat population has grown so large, natural prey has become scarce, making the cats increasingly reliant on human kindness for food. Thankfully, the island is home to many dedicated animal welfare organizations and volunteers who feed, care for, and provide medical treatment to these cats. Many of these groups also run spay and neuter programs to help control the population and ease the suffering. Want to help?Cats in need can be found everywhere, from busy city streets to remote mountain villages. If you find a sick or injured cat, bring them to the nearest animal shelter. They’ll get the help they need and maybe even a second chance at a better life. A Cyprus Vacation – Always a Cat Close By While the rising number of cats has created challenges for the island, for cat lovers, it’s nothing short of a dream. On your Cyprus journey, you’re almost guaranteed to meet a friendly feline around every corner. Whether you’re strolling through the charming old town of Paphos or having breakfast in a traditional Cypriot stone house, the curious, adorable cats are never far away. One little troublemaker even tried to steal our breakfast. Lesson learned: never leave your food unattended on Cyprus! But honestly, those unexpected encounters with the cats of Cyprus created some of our favorite memories from the trip. Conclusion – A Cat Lover’s Dream Vacation Cyprus is a paradise for travelers who adore animals—especially cats! Beyond the stunning beaches and incredible sights, there’s something even more magical waiting for you: the chance to cuddle, pet, and simply enjoy the company of the beautiful cats of Cyprus. Their friendly, relaxed nature adds something truly special to the island, letting you experience Cyprus in a whole new, heartwarming way.

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