Book Review - Eleven Gods and a Billion Indians

Book Review - Eleven Gods and a Billion Indians

Eleven Gods and a Billion Indians by Boria Majumdar is a recently released book on the secrets of the second most followed sport in the world. The novel, however, is not limited to tracing the profile of the game of Cricket itself, the sportsman, or the dramas of rivalry. The author adds much more to it. The book is strewn with considerations on politics, power, and current happenings.

Match Fixing, Captain-Coach fights, ICC domination, and IPL secrets to the era of the Ranji. These are some of the themes that intersperse the chronicle and that completes the fresco of the modern day cricket. There are many pearls of wisdom offered in the novel. Here cricketers move like crazy pawns in a neo-liberal, rather anarchic system, in which cricket plays its part.

Cricket, it is known, is the sport that the British have exported to the colonies, and which is still played and followed with a certain religiosity. India climbed world cricket in a disruptive way. With a sudden entry into the scene, it displaced the old sentinels like England and Australia. The IPL has traced the boundary line of a new era, recording the rise of the T20 cricket league to the top of the list of the game.

Cricket is the most powerful game that has appeared in India and is now an essential element of geopolitics like religion and business. The BCCI is a center of power that is more and more neuralgic. Together with the latest major IPL clubs of the subcontinent, the game to preserve its purity must come to terms with the real, new, owners of cricket.

Boria Majumdar Eleven Gods and a Billion Indians
Boria Majumdar tells about the power games and the cash flows, the corruption and the scandals that hide behind the global cricket. He reconstructs the red threads of a multi-billion dollar market that involves the political and economic super houses of India. From the politicians to the business tycoons, to the Bollywood actors, the bond that unites the interests of people to this sport is increasingly strong and often turbid.

The book reveals the names of stakeholders, companies, and politicians who want to take possession of the game and its teams. It shows that the game of cricket now is not just about the administration of a sport and its championships. It is also a source of revenues and legitimacy. Because cricket leads the masses in India, it creates social consensus.

Cricket is a theater that hosts games of power and financial wars, as pervasive as they are invisible in the eyes of the spectators. If the game is even more critical to the income it generates, it has become just as crucial on a political level. The book reveals the whole truth about who really controls global cricket and behind the scenes of the most popular sport in India.

In this context, cricket becomes a key to the interpretation of the reality and the existential dilemmas of the various characters. It is a journey that takes the reader in the spaces hidden behind the dressing rooms. With a formidable mention of true incidents, there is something more in every line. Precisely for this reason, it is perhaps one of the most fascinating narrative challenges.

From Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Virat Kohli, Anil Kumble, MS Dhoni to Mohammed Azharuddin everybody is on this team. As it is understood, it is a multifaceted novel. Boria Majumdar masterfully manages to bring out a compact and complete unit, mixing realities and in a broader sense the action. It's not easy to tell cricket in a novel. The book feels like watching a film or the game itself live on TV, with its two-tone transposition of black words on a white background.

Cricket is (also) our world. The author reflects its vices and virtues. The author tells the story of an addiction, a drug for monomaniacs that is called "cricket" and that brings with it others. The book is a kaleidoscope of very vivid images, transcribed with an inventive and loose prose that is extremely natural.

Melancholy and irony, bitterness and hope, are all elements of a chorus that intones a love song for cricket, the true protagonist of the book and the glue of the whole novel. In other words, it is a great novel written by an extraordinary cricket commentator of our times.

A Travel Guide for Trekking to Kheerganga

Kheerganga trek is really an amazing experience in Himachal Pradesh. The beauty of nature, cloudy weather in the trekking route is really unforgettable. A 9 km long but fairly easy, the Kheerganga trek amidst the beautiful mountains is a delight. The Kheerganga Peak is abode to a temple of Shiva and Parvati from where the hot springs originate.

The most sought after trek is Kheerganga, nestled in the Parvati valley at 3,605 meters in a Kasol district of Himachal Pradesh. The trekking is enveloped with picturesque views of the valleys, greenery, waterfalls, panoramic skies and tiny village hamlets which is epitome of the local culture of Himachalis.

Himachal’s most popular destination, a place for numerous activities, an easy starter for first time trekkers, Kasol is a wonderful option for a summer getaway. Commit to your plan only if you have time, patience and little bit of endurance. This is also a long trek but can be completed within few hours of day. You can have fun relaxing in hot water streams or explore more places nearby.

Despite the most popular places there are in Kasol, a few including Pulga, Rashol and Malana are some lesser known yet too beautiful to miss places. Being the mini Israel as well as the trekkers point, with an enigmatic beauty and heartfelt culture, this place deserves to be on everyone’s bucket list. Famous for its herbal warm springs, Kheerganga Trek is a famous vacation spot for tourists and pilgrims. Taking you via dense forests, and picturesque villages, and culminating within the recovery hot springs of Kheerganga, this trek seamlessly blends the adventure with rejuvenation. With several attractions, this is a tremendous trip for hikers of all talent levels.

Best Places to Visit in Kheerganga Here are few attractions mentioned about Kasol, which will lure you to add this to your list:

1. Bhuntar


Catch an overnight bus from Majnu ka Tilla to Kullu that leaves around 7:00 pm in the evening. Mostly it takes a maximum of 12 hours but it’s also a part of the fun totally covered around in nature. Get down at Bhuntar circle to catch the local bus and reach Kasol (30 km from Bhuntar) in the afternoon.

Arrive at the Parvati Valley, in the region of Himachal Pradesh, with many illusions. To get there you can also take a public bus from Manali (New Manali Station) to Bhuntar. The journey is about 2-3 hours. Once you get to Bhuntar, take another bus towards Kasol.

Parvati valley lies at the periphery of Great Himalayan National Park and mostly covered with dense forest of alpines and oaks with apple orchards in between. There are multiple hotels located in a range of 2 Km in every direction but you must try to take the hotel at the edges of the Parvati river. There are a lot of bridges and people can walk above the river to reach the hotel.

While trying to reach the hotel see multiple dogs on the way like Pitbull, Husky, Lebara, Royal Retriever, American bully types and people staying here generally take care of them. This is for a little adventurous lot, due to its narrow trails and tricky roads. The summer visit offers you with another adventurous activity, white water rafting. Basheshwar Mahadev temple, Jagganath temple and Himalayan national park are other few nearby places to visit.

2. Manikaran Sahib


Wake up early. Firstly go to Manikaran Sahib road and wait for the bus for Barshaini. If you miss the bus for the first time then you have to wait for an hour for the next one. Take some snacks for your trek from the upper bus stand at Manikaran Sahib Gurdwara. With religious fervour all around, the delicious langar, the holy hot spring, Manikaran is an absolute pleasure to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Situated within the proximity of the city, there are a number of tourists coming over.

Legend has it that somewhere in the valley, more precisely in the village of Manikaran, Shiva rested after making love with Parvati.

From there, the special and spiritual nature of the place emerges. Another legend tells that Parvati lost a jewel in the river and that she got back in a hot water stream. Parvati Valley is a green and leafy valley that grows around the Parvati River. Knowing the history, the legends and the reason for the names of the places gives an extra charm.

A holy place located in the middle of a spectacular landscape and River Beas welcomes devotees throughout the year. The major reason why one should pay a visit here is the hot spring that originates from the peak which is believed to wash away the sins of someone who bathes in it. The delicious langar (free food offered at Sikh temples) that they serve is a cherry on the cake.

The most beautiful thing about Manikaran is to climb the mountain that is on the left of the village and go to Gargi and see how the people of the mountain live. In Manikaran there were no amenities for tourists, nor continental food, nor many offers to stay. But it has mysticism.

Road to Barshani goes parallel to the Parvati river and passes through Kasol and Manikaran. Barshani is the last village connected with road and lies on the bank of Parvati river. Soon after reaching Barshani, find yourself in the midst of hippie culture with stoned freaks dominating the streets and staring at something unknown. And of course there are some gorgeous beauties as well seeking something within.

Start to Kheer-Ganga just after reaching Barshani to buy yourself enough time. There are few things you should know about hippies. Hippies acknowledge you and ignore you at the same time. If you are softhearted, your chances will diminish. Hippies worship those who can arrange them something to get intoxicated. If you don’t smoke then you are not welcome.

Hippies don’t mind much if you are flirting with their girls but if you don’t go by their rules, there are least chances to get their girls. Start learning Hebrew to strengthen your chances. Forget about bragging about your possessions or knowledge, it won’t be any help. Remember not everyone in Parvati is hippie.

The trail passes through beautiful alpine meadows following the river Parvati uphill. En route come across many villages and surprisingly Hippies stay everywhere. Reach Kalga, a small village surrounded by apple gardens. If no one is watching, you can pluck the apples from the trees and eat. Also get chance to pluck apples and apricots from the orchards adjoining the trail.

Spend night at Kalga, lots of guest houses are available. They offer very yummy and cheap food to eat.

3. Kheerganga peak


One of the best trekking points, to enjoy the landscapes and the hot water spring. Also the trekking trail covers a number of beautiful villages and apple orchards. With best time to visit Kheerganga being June to September, the experience of taking a dip in the Parvati kund is the best way to energize yourself.

The most exciting part of the trek is the natural springs on the top of the valley known as Parvati Kund, the best place to take a bath after a tiring trekking and a refresh in the winter season. Kheer Ganga is at 3050 meters, lies at the extreme end of Parvati valley in the Himachal Pradesh and the last inhibited village while trekking to pin valley via Pin-Parvati pass.

This trek is a most sought after as Kheerganga's panoramic skies and vast greenery are a delight to the trekker's and for memories behold. As Kheerganga trekking is now one of the most sought after and there are lot of guided trek routes, as the trek starts from the beautiful hill station Barshaini which is the starting point of this trek.

Enroute explore some of the tiny village hamlests like Rudranag. This hamlet is very scenic and picturesque and epitome of the local culture of HP, as you can taste the local cuisine in the local cafes on the way, also there is a Rudra Nag temple. After crossing the the waterfall, the trek gets a gradually steeper as you walk uphill you'll sight a view of blue and yellow tops, which indicates the village.

Once you reach the Kheerganga, the trek is not complete without taking a dip in the natural hot water at Parvathi Kund. This is the most attractive in the winters, unwind your day with gossip and vocal music or just read the books and enjoy the local food and pack up with new memories.

The night trek has its own charm as it provides you with a beautiful sky. Nothing can get better than a trek where all you are surrounded by a cluster of stars and a huge abode of forests of the Khirganga National Park.

Kheer Ganga (2960 meter) lies in the extreme end of Parvati valley and is the last inhibited village while trekking to Pin valley via Pin-Parvati pass. Kheer Ganga remains snow-covered during winters and only gets temporary settled during summers which makes it a perfect hideout.

Khir ganga trek is truly a heavenly affair! There are homes, only guest-houses, and restaurants, all prepared to receive people. Khir Ganga lends itself to see nature, alternating with thermal baths. Here you can see the Rainbow movement. What is it about? A movement that was born at the end of the 1960s and takes as an object the meeting to camp and live in community.

There is shared cooking, shared music and a little meditation. The idea is that everyone can learn what they want and teach what they know. It is done on certain dates, in certain places.

A valley in the middle of the Himalayas has to be amazing. The energy of the place can be felt but cannot be seen. For hippies the place emanates a special energy. Anyone who stops in the valley can feel it. Find the magic of the place and see nature in all its magnitude. Huge mountains are separated by the force of the river.

Trek till Kheer Ganga and Tosh to get a glimpse of hippie culture and making new connections.

In the morning start for Kheer Ganga again. From Kalga it is around 11 km trek to Kheer Ganga. Following the roaring parvati river and crossing some breathtaking wooden bridges, make it to Kheer Ganga after 3-4 hours of trekking. Lots of waterfalls are there. It is a simple trek but still you have to be careful. Lots of small food stalls are available in the trek. You can have tea, hot chocolate, maggi, omlet etc.

While trekking get greeted by many fellow travelers. Kheer Ganga is a tableland surrounded by thick forest of alpine meadows. It is a mesmerizing view when clouds started enveloping the forest and the snow-clad mountains. Kheer Ganga is known for hot water stream which flows beneath the temple of Shiva. The temple is highly revered hence alcohol is not permitted in Kheer Ganga however other kind of intoxication are in surplus.

There is well made pool to bathe in the hot water stream and water is really hot. You will only get basic tent kind of accommodation in Kheer Ganga. In the evening, views of the forest and the peaks were simply spectacular. Heavy mists enclose the valley but the peaks shine while sun sets down at a distant horizon. In addition to that, the melody of Parvati River is soothing the entirety of that moment.

It is too much to absorb and appreciate for a nature lover. As night approaches, clouds disappear completely to offer the crystal clear view of sky and the stars, a view of sky which you hardly feel in towns or cities. Roam around the plateau, climb small rocks, barge into the grooves, listen to the sound of silence and realize the very freedom of this place which makes it so special.

Being in Kheer Ganga is a different feeling than what you feel while accomplishing a challenging peak or high altitude trekking or defeating harsh terrain or exploring untraveled. There is nothing to feel special about or nothing to brag about, no feeling of home or homelessness. It is just thoughtlessness. That evening is a conditioning to the mind and the soul or to the existence.

If you want to reach the state of thoughtlessness, Kheer Ganga is your destination and if you continue your trek you will reach Mantalai Lake.

Wake up and head straight to the hot springs to take a bath at the altitude of 3000 mtr. It is really hot water. Overcome the fear and dip in the hot water spring. It is a refreshing pool in the midst of nature. Although there is no problem of food or accommodation but in the absence of the tourists, Kheer Ganga is quite deserted.

4. Tosh


If you want to stay for the night, there is another Tosh town that you can also visit. Favorite amongst Israelis is the village of Tosh at the far end of Parvati Valley. The architecture of the households leaves no stone unturned in pleasing the eyes of the spectator. Locals of the village live in wooden houses with slate roofs earning their major source of income from cultivating hash and apples.

This village again has an enthralling story to narrate. Because of hash in Kasol, Tosh is becoming popular by backpackers and hippies and is now a hub of psychedelic parties in Parvati valley. Initially narrow, this valley progressively opens up and provides a scenic beauty with every stroll. The beauty here is unreal! Popular for cannabis plantations, Tosh village offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan range.

This place is not just for the holidaying group, it definitely is also for the foodies. The magic view cafe, providing the magical views of the valley along with an affordable and delicious food range, specially hot parathas. What better to offer in the winters! Another attraction that deserves to be tried, when at the Hill top cafe of Tosh is the snicker chapati. The drive from Kasol to Tosh is only about 20km and is quite picturesque.

5. Chalal


Welcome yourselves to the party place of Himachal, that happens deep inside the forest, with DJs from all over the world. Besides, chilling at parties, the place is great to relax with the gushing sounds of water near the river. With great views around and accessibility through foot from Kasol, Chalal has become quite a crowd puller.

6. Parvati river


Another mesmerising and unmissable part of Kasol is the parvati river. The river is only for experiencing tranquility all around and actually finding peace in nature. The views are more than just beautiful, the music the river creates with its flow is breathtaking and a great way of chilling.

7. Rashol pass


The place is especially for trekkers with easy and difficult paths to cover, overall a more than moderate level dangerous trek. With rhododendrons at long stretches, and waterfalls in between, a visit to Rashol will make one feel the adventure one must do while trekking.

8. Pulga


From the mysticism of Manikaran, go to see the rural life of Kalga and Pulga, two peasant villages with some guest houses lost in the forest.

To go to these towns it is as easy as waiting for the public bus opposite Kasol and getting off at the last bus stop, Barsheni. Once there you have to walk, the beauty of these towns is that you can make a route, first visiting Kalga, a mountain town full of pomeros and Mariguana plants, with a restaurant for a drink.

Then follow the path indicated by red arrows towards Pulga, crossing rivers and contemplating beautiful landscapes. Pulga has given us some beautiful views of the valley, which will be in our retinas for a long time. If you want to stay for the night, there is another Tosh town that you can also visit.

9. Malana


Way up in the hills, in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh is a small village called Malana. It is isolated from rest of the world. A small hamlet, with enchanting views and tranquility to offer, Malana village is a pure delight. It is situated on the banks of river Parvati and shadowed by its own natural guards, the Chanderkhani and Deo Tibba peaks. Malana is famous for Malana cream, a strain of Cannabis hashish. Malana cream is also the most expensive hashish in the Amsterdam menu. It is also one of the oldest democracies of the world with a well-organized parliamentary system, guided by their devta (deity) Jamlu rishi.

The Malana village is much more than a small town attracting hash lovers but is one of the popular places to visit in Kasol for backpackers. It is a total case study in itself. The Malanese think that they are the descendants of Alexander the Great and have rituals and rules of their own and their local court system even today reflects the ancient Greek system.

The green eyes and sharp features lay the claims that they belong to the Aryan race. Its culture is completely isolated from the rest of India which makes it perfect for explorers to unveil the mysteries of this village. The story of Malana will keep you hooked! Stay in the Waichin valley also known as Magic valley in a warm and cozy room. An additional day in Malana may also be worth learning the customs and unique traditions of the people.

Malana has many interesting stories associated with that. Some people claim that it is the oldest democracy in the world, while others trace the remote village to a wandering group of soldiers of Alexander the Great's army. Drink some unpasteurized milk obtained from Gujjars. Run into an isolated Malana dogri (part-time in the fields) and experienced the wonderful hospitality that simple rural people provide to complete strangers.

Malana has its own code of conduct for outsiders. In the village, strangers are expected to stay on defined paths. Visiting temples or even touching temple walls or stone slabs is prohibited. Violation of the rules results in a fine. In many places, there are tables that show warnings. Malana is a good place for those who want to spend a relaxed moment away from the crowds of the city. This place situated in the middle of the village is very beautiful.

The outsiders cannot touch them or their belongings without their permission. Outsiders are told to keep distance and not touch anything in the village. The shopkeepers will ask you to keep the money on the counter and place the goods on the counter, without any physical contact. In case of any contact, they will rush for a bath.

In recent years, the fame of Malana cannabis has also brought unwanted habits and, occasionally, unpleasant visitors. Outside the main village, on the south side, there are some guest houses and a tent settlement where the accommodation and boarding house are located.

11 Packing Tips to Travel Light

Are you wondering about how to pack for a week in a backpack and how to travel light for a week? A week long trip means you are going to take a lot of luggage with you which include different clothes, shoes, etc. But do not forget that how difficult it will be for you to carry that big luggage backpack in those 7 days.

So to avoid that difficulty you should always try to take only important things with you and avoid taking large number of clothes and shoes and other useless things in your lightweight travel backpack.

The less clothing you bring the better it will be for you. I advise you to take 5 shirts with you wear each of them twice. But there is no need to bring 5 different pants to match with those 5 shirts. A pair of pants will work for you. Similarly two pairs of shoes will be enough for you, don’t overload it by putting number of shoes.

When it comes to the digital nomad packing list, the key is to focus on what you really need but how to pack in a backpack for a week. Forget about the stuff that is not vital, and make a plan. It is all about thinking smart and being versatile. The more multi-tasking items you can take the better, even if that means you are leaving some of your favorite things behind.

Traveling light and digital nomad lifestyle is not about being haphazard but it is about being smart. For example, just because you might not be taking your most stylish outfit does not mean you should not be careful when packing your clothes. Make sure toiletries and pens are sealed so they do not leak.

Other than clothing there are also some important factors that you should consider while packing a backpack for a long trip. Now let us look at some summer road trip packing tips to help you travel light.

how to pack light

Check the useful things you will need once on the road like the travel documents, insurance papers, means of payment, clothes, medicines, toiletry bag, electronic devices!

1. Traveling papers


You should have your VISA (if needed), Plane and transport tickets, Informational Guides, and maps of the areas you wish to visit. If traveling internationally, it is essential that you carry photocopies of your passport and other important documents. It is a good habit which can help you especially in case you lose your documents. Even while traveling locally, you should carry copies of your documents in a separate bag.

Scan and keep all your documents in your emails or on cloud like in Google drive. For destinations where the connection will be poor, take photocopies!

2. Toiletries


Collect travel-sized toiletries when you have the chance because with a carry-on you won’t be able to bring your full-sized products. You should carry soap, conditioner, shampoo, body lotion, toothbrush, deodorant, and toothpaste.

3. Medications


This is really important if you or your loved one take prescription drugs. Make sure not to forget our medications and to ask for a prescription ahead of time. It is also best to let your physician know where you're heading. He or she might suggest you bring something useful and beneficial to your health while they are out of reach.

Keep your medicines in a ziplock bag. Make sure they are clearly labeled, and you have a proper prescription with you.

4. Keep water bottle


Hydration is critical you wish to be healthy and achieve young and beautiful skin all summer long. However, some activities can you sweat a lot more. The heat of the sun won't be helping either, so make sure to keep a water bottle with you at all times. Choose a reusable one and refill it as needed. This way, you get to lessen your trash plus lend a hand in reducing plastic waste.

Wherever you go in the world water is something that you will always need. Having water bottle in your backpack is always a good thing. With this you do not have to waste your time roaming here and there in search of water at the time of thirst. You can simply bring your water bottle out of your bag and drink water. You can also refill it again and again from wherever you find water.

5. Keep umbrella


Who wants rain to destroy their adventure? Absolutely no one. For that it is always a good habit to put umbrella in your backpack because with volatile weather it can be sunny in one minute and have torrential downpour the next. So if you want to protect yourself and your stuff from getting wet you should have umbrella in your bag.

It is not necessary to have a big one. You can have a small folding umbrella which can fit easily in your bag. Umbrella can also protect you from the heat of the sun on a hot sunny day by providing you shadow.

6. Keep Portable Charger


A portable charger often acts as a life savior as it provides life to your phone battery. On a trip or an adventure to an unknown place your mobile phone is your guide. It helps you provide access to the map or to connect with other people. Ever wondered what will you do if you are lost between mountains and you are using the map in your phone to find way and your phone battery dies?

There is nothing you can do except from regretting yourself. To escape from such situation portable charger is not less than a blessing.

7. Keep Sunglasses


With weather being so unpredictable a gloomy day can turn into a bright sunny day in a matter of minutes. So to shield your eyes and retinas from burning in this type of situation you need to have sunglasses in your backpack.

8. Keep Snacks


Hunger can hit you anytime anywhere. Having a pack of snack in your backpack can help you from untimely hunger.

9. Embrace technology


Your phone and tablet are not only highly useful, and some would say essential, they can also help you pack light. As long as you download the relevant apps there is no need for travel guides or phrasebooks. It is much easier to watch all of your favorite films and shows on a handheld device rather than having to carry around your tablet or mobile or laptop.

You could even download plenty of books to choose from, rather than having to fit them all in your case.

Bring an unlocked phone with you. When you arrive in a new country get a SIM card with data for that country. Airports will have slightly inflated prices but the difference is so small that convenience > savings (at least in Asia). Prices for data plans in Asia are super cheap and getting international minutes is a huge waste of money.

Get Google Maps and Apple Maps (believe it or not, Apple Maps covers some random areas that Google doesn't). On Google Maps, download offline maps for all the places you're planning to go to. This means you can use the app without data or wifi in an emergency. Always keep on wifi because it significantly improves mapping accuracy.

Get an external phone battery charger. They're much cheaper online or in Asia. It's far better and cheaper than the others. The apps that we usually use in our trips and that we also recommend for Europe are Uber, offline Google Maps, public transport, or Zomato. They still work with the GPS but do not incur roaming charges, when abroad. Print off all documents.

Mobile phones now have convenient apps which display e-tickets. But your phone might stop working just as you need it. Also bring printed schedule.

A time saver, this one! If you do not have the internet abroad, or you plan to use it only for navigation (but do not want to spend money), do not worry anymore. While you still have a connection, draw a map where you need to navigate and type "OK maps" in the search box. This saves the screen for offline use.

You can also drop pins or mark specific places of interest as you will not be able to search for them offline. For added security, you can even take multiple screenshots of specific areas at different zoom lengths. This should save you time moving from point A to Point Z.

You need pens to do some documentation almost everywhere you go. Carry a pen. Also, carry photos and other documents if the country is visa on arrival.

10. UnderPack


Sail with a carry on roller bag and a day bag. Seriously. No one cares if you wear the same pants 2 or 3 times. This is not a fashion show. This is your vacation. Free yourself of the burden of too much shit, and enjoy life. This way, you can also walk off the ship whenever you please during disembarkation. They will give you a time frame to disembark, but really - go whenever you want.

Just be sure you’re not there when you hear an understandably annoyed cruise director over the PA saying Ladies and Gentlemen, this is your absolute and FINAL call to disembark the vessel at this time! There’s a laundry onboard! A lot of people don’t know this, and it’s surprising. There might even be 2 or 3, just ask your stateroom steward!

11. Clothes


When traveling, you should pack light. Don't pack too many clothes or pack items that you won't require. It is absolutely fine to roam around a city in the same shirt for two days. Your main goal is to experience your destination. It will help to buy a small suitcase or bag as it will restrict you from placing too many items.
Pro tip: Socks in an exception to this rule.

Pack at least 2-3 pairs of socks as extras as walking or hiking will make your socks sweaty and dirty.

• Take enough socks and underwear
• A light jacket may come in handy wherever you go
• Raincoat
• Swimwear
• Boots

Your pockets are also great for carrying small extras like pens, glasses, notepads and even socks. Now that you know how to pack a backpack for a week long trip and are armed with some top tips for traveling light you can put them into action on your next trip.

5 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary

Visiting Copenhagen in 5 days is a luxury that you can grant yourself this summer, during your trip of more than two weeks in Denmark. Copenhagen is a beautiful city in Denmark. It is full of wonderful places to visit, many of them related to the magical world of fairy tales. But Copenhagen is also the enchanting nature of Jutland, the Danish peninsula of which the city is the capital.

Go sightseeing, see castles, parks and statues in the water. Copenhagen is for those who want to have fun, eat well and enjoy life - and in the summer you can even swim in the center. The villages that right on the outskirts of the city, offer glimpses of northern life to the tourist, the villages in which the Viking epic has been cemented.

Since 1443, Copenhagen, is the capital of the country and owes much of its fortune and its wealth to the presence of a very large and well organized port where hundreds of ships arrive every day. It is considered one of the most cosmopolitan and vibrant northern cities. Clean and tidy, it also boasts efficient and functional means of communication and is easily traveled by bicycle.

Denmark’s capital is the most visited city in Scandinavia. It has been popular among tourists for several years, and that will remain the case in future. Copenhagen is a city of wonders on the edge of Baltic Sea. It is the capital of Denmark and is a perfect place to enjoy quality time, away from your daily glitches.

The city of Andersen, its immense port, is also the ancient landing and berth points of the glorious Viking ships. Copenhagen is not far from the neighboring Scandinavia to which the city is connected with a long bridge that leads overland, suspended over the North Sea, to southern Sweden. Find out how to visit Copenhagen in 5 days thanks to this simple guide.

The attractions there are so many to see and it is rather difficult to make a selection by eliminating some. Here are a few things to see in Copenhagen in 5 days and without haste, using in the itinerary through various means of transport. Rich with historical sites, and defined with an infinite impression of calm places, truly hospitable and happy crowd, and significant landmarks, it should be your next to-do-thing. Copenhagen is full of great attractions.

Denmark’s capital Copenhagen is packed with leisure, entertainment and so much more to eat, drink and spend a leisure holiday with your loved ones. Copenhagen with a variety of beauty is a marvelous city to bike and explore.

Itinerary to Copenhagen

Day 1

On the first day if you arrive in Copenhagen in the afternoon, spend the rest of the day discovering its immediate surroundings. From Copenhagen airport it takes a quarter of an hour by train to get to the central station of the city. You'll have just enough time to reach if you have booked your accommodation in the Frederiksberg area, and leave to explore the city for the remaining hours.

1. Stroget


The first day you could visit the city starting from Stroget, the large pedestrian area in the historic center but also the longest pedestrian street in Europe. It unites the main square, Radusplatzen, considered the pulsating center of the place and the Kongens Nytorv, the largest square, where you can find bars, restaurants, bookstores and shops for shopping.

Shopping is also a popular activity in Copenhagen. Walking through the streets you will see stunning decoration and home shops. Clothing stores, boutiques or souvenir shops are available throughout the historical center, which by the way has Stroget as the largest pedestrian street in Europe. Strøget is the best place to go, but there are several malls and department stores you can visit when it gets too cold outside.

When it comes to restaurants, Copenhagen houses some of the best in the world. It gets expensive, but you will find great dining options in all parts of the city! You can enter bars and restaurants perfectly decorated and better acclimated. Here design is almost a religion and you can take ideas if you are passionate about the subject.

There are great bar options for after dinner too. If you are in to dancing, there are a hundred clubs (someone else will have to recommend which is the best). There are also some great places to hear music. The Dubliner on Stroget has live music every day, or the Dubliner Downtown on Ny Østergade (great atmosphere in this place) has music on the weekends.

If you are in to billiards, there is Australia Bar. There are also a million great little watering holes, that are quieter.

2. Kongens Nytorv


Here, freshly graduated students arrive by means of transport to celebrate, and in winter a large skating rink is set up. You should know that one of the most ecological and healthy ways to travel around Copenhagen (as in many other northern European cities) is by bicycle.

3. Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek


With a ride of about half an hour, reach the only attraction that you can visit in the evening, namely the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, specially selected for that day because it remains open until 10 pm on Thursday. The museum was founded in 1888 by Carl and Ottilia Jacobsen, patrons and owners of the Carlsberg breweries.

It consists of two buildings joined by a Winter Garden, in which more than ten thousand works are collected, including sculptures and paintings. The first section focuses on civilizations that flourished in the Mediterranean and in the Fertile Crescent, while the second is dedicated to modern French and Danish art.

It presents a collection of ancient Greek and Roman pieces, a permanent exhibition of sculptures by Auguste Rodin, an exceptional collection of works by Gauguin and works Degas, Pissarro and Van Gogh.

4. Statens Museum for Kunst


Statens Museum for Kunst is, instead, located in a building built at end of 1800 and is the most important museum of fine arts in Scandinavia. It boasts works from the Italian school (Tiziano, Tintoretto and others), Flemish (Brueghel, Rembrandt), and Scandinavian. Munch's well-known paintings are not missing.

In my opinion, visiting a museum in the evening is really suggestive, and I suggest you always take advantage of this possibility in the attractions that allow it.

5. Nyhavn


End the day in Nyhavn, the ancient port. Here are colorful houses, in three of which the writer Andersen lived. Visit the charming Nyhavn canal boats. You can finish your day with a cold beer in one of the bars in Nyhavn.

Day 2

6. Experimentarium


Experimentarium, is a center dedicated to science and technology, which is more suitable for families with children.

In fact this impression becomes a certainty once inside. The exhibition space is in any case avant-garde and very interactive. If you travel by public transport, you can reach the Experimentarium with bus 1A departing from the central station, while if you are driving like us, the parking of the nearby shopping center will allow you 3 hours of free parking.

7. National Aquarium


The next destination will be National Aquarium of Copenhagen, which is the biggest aquarium in Europe. Move to the Blue Planet - The Copenhagen National Aquarium, considered the largest in Europe with more than 400 different species from all over the world. Here the distinctive element is the spectacular tunnel in which it really seems to walk at the bottom of the sea.

Eat in the internal cafeteria. As for the parking find one near the park where you can leave the car for free for 4 hours.

8. Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum


Ripley's Believe It or Not!, is the bizarre collection of Robert Ripley with the strangest and most absurd objects from all over the world. Hans Christian Andersen Fairy-Tale House, is an interactive exhibition focused on the famous Danish writer, which is accessed from the same entrance.

9. Guinness World Records Museum


Besides these there are two other attractions on the genre in Copenhagen, namely the Guinness World Records and the Mystic Exploratorie. If you like the unusual and you intend to discover all 4 of these places, you will want to buy the cumulative ticket, which will allow you to save a little on individual entrances.

Day 3

10. Rosenborg Castle


Cycle all the way to the center to reach Rosenborg Castle, a luxurious residence built as a place of pleasure by Cristiano IV at the beginning of the 1600s. The visit is a succession of salt, a more opulent salt. another, and in the basement there is the Treasure, composed of a sumptuous collection of precious objects of the kings. The complete tour of the interior rooms of the castle and its gardens lasts about an hour and a half.

11. The Round Tower


Not far from Rosenberg Castle is the Round Tower, characterized by a helical ramp that makes the climb not tiring (ideal for me!), except in a short stretch of stairs at the end of the route.

In the middle of the tower is the Library Room, now home to exhibitions and cultural events, while from the top you can enjoy a 360-degree view over the roofs of the city. In the afternoon we went to the discovery of a hidden treasure of Copenhagen, the Victorian Apartment. To visit it, you have to buy tickets at the ticket office of the National Museum, then wait for a guide to pick you up in the lobby, and take you on foot to destination, which is a couple of minutes away.

The groups are small (about 10-20 people), and on Saturday at 2 pm the visit is done in English. The complete route lasts an hour and winds through 17 rooms, the first of which are set up in full Victorian style to amaze guests, while the others are kept more sober.

12. Tivoli Gardens


Spend a couple of hours at Tivoli Gardens, the most famous amusement park in the capital, which for 175 years has cheered the days of adults and children. The entrance to the park alone is 20 Euros, to which you will have to add the rides on the individual rides if you want to try some of them, and also the prices of the restaurants inside it are quite high.

Founded by Georg Cartensen in 1843 on an area of eighty thousand square meters, it has millions of visitors a year from all over the world, both adults and children. Everyone comes to them and is fascinated by the beauty of the places, especially for the Christmas markets that are among the most suggestive in Denmark.

Do not miss the opportunity to climb the roller coaster to enjoy a view of the city from losing your head. The gardens are beautiful during the day but at night they offer a wonderful spectacle of colored lights. However, you can't really leave Copenhagen without taking a walk through its avenues.

Day 4

Also the fourth day began with one of the royal residences of the city.

13. Christiansborg Palace


The next thing on the list will be Christiansborg Palace basement, which is almost a millennia old.

Take into account an adequate time to visit this attraction, which consists of 4 parts. It is worthwhile to buy the cumulative ticket for the royal apartments, the ruins (the castle is in fact burned for 2 times), the kitchens and the stables (but pay attention to the latter because they are only open between 13.30 and 16.00). Right in the middle of the building, the tower also stands out, reachable only by elevator.

You can then visit Oresund Bridge, which connects Sweden with Denmark over the Oresund Strait.

14. Amalienborg Palace


You can start off by visiting the Amalienborg Castle where the Queen resides. The refinement of the rooms on the royal floor is certainly worth a visit inside. The entrance ticket is therefore lower than the average of Danish attractions. Follow it up by visiting Frederiksborg Palace, which was built for the King and the royal family of this Kingdom. To end the day, take the one-hour tour on its canals which is also free with the Copenhagen Card.

The route allows you to get to know the historic center from a different angle. It is possible to open the roof of the boat in order to enjoy the view or take better pictures.

You can then visit the Freetown Christiania, which is a self-proclaimed autonomous district, located in the heart of Danish Capital. Go to Christiania, called the Free City. It is a hippy, colorful and unusual district of Copenhagen where about 1000 people live. Before entering it is advisable to consult the list of what you can and cannot do and it is good to know that you should not take pictures, especially near Pusher Street. In Copenhagen the clubs close at 1, except those in the Meatpacking district that stay open longer.

Day 5

15. Copenhagen Zoo


Just adjacent to the Botanical Garden is a Zoological museum. See many animals. The car can be left in the parking lot next to the entrance for 2 hours free. Proceed to Visit Carlsberg, the brewery that produces the most famous Danish beer, in which it is possible to make a guided tour of about an hour, to discover the fermentation processes of the same and make a small tasting.

With the entrance ticket, in fact, you will have a free beer or soft drink. The parking of the attraction is unfortunately only for a fee (20 DKK per hour). Visit the Planetarium, catching up with the 9A bus.

The ground floor exposure is a bit disappointing, with some non-functioning games, while the short video about space is not bad.

16. National Museum of Denmark


The National Museum of Denmark holds the country's most famous cultural and historical display, which attracts tourists and people from across Denmark as well. The Design Museum Denmark is a work of art itself.

17. Botanical Garden


Copenhagen’s botanical gardens have the largest Danish collection of living flora and are home to more than 13,000 plant species. Release all the stress you had from your work life back in the busiest city in the world and absorb some sunrays. You can then visit Geological Museum, which is a part of Copenhagen Botanical Gardens. The best thing about this city is that everything is near.

18. The Little Mermaid


The Little Mermaid is also worth seeing. Head out in the morning and begin with the Little Mermaid Statue, which was created by Edvard Eriksen in 1913. This fairytale statue is a big tourist attraction in Copenhagen, so a few snaps are in order. Follow it up with Botanical Gardens, and enjoy a walk in the peaceful gardens.

One of the undisputed symbols of Copenhagen is its Little Mermaid. The bronze sculpture located at the entrance of the port depicts the protagonist of one of the most famous fairy tales by Hans Christian Andersen. The statue rests on a stone in the middle of the water, and is certainly one of the most photographed attractions in the city.

Copenhagen is the fairy-tale world of fairy tales. This is, in fact, the city that saw Hans Christian Andersen grow, author of a wonderful narrative for children like The Little Mermaid - the famous statue lying on a rock is dedicated to her - The Emperor's New Clothes, The Ugly Duckling, The Steadfast Tin Soldier and others, including the sad story of The Little Match Girl.

If you like or your date likes movies, there are some great different theater experiences. Palads is the world´s first multiplex and has both large and small theaters on the premises (movies on their way out go down to the basement, where there are 40–50 seat theaters). And it is an experience seeing the crazy paint-job on the exterior. It is not long for the world sadly, so see it while you still can.

The lobby is all marble and is a crazy contrast to the outside. There is also The Imperial, which is a classic movie palace with a single screen. It is a great place to see something on opening night!

Close the last big day, with a dinner at street food and an evening at the Tivoli Gardens.

Unmissable is the spectacle of lights, fumes and colors projected every day at 10.45 pm on the lake, a really good way to worthily bid adieu to the Danish capital!

10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Vietnam is a pleasant as well as a peaceful country around the Southern East of Asia. Vietnam, one of the most unique countries in South-East Asia, is a promising destination for those looking for a perfect mix of culture and heritage. With an extended coastline line from the North to the Southeast along with high foothills as well as highlands, Vietnam offers both beaches as well as mountain scenery.

Vietnam is among the many densely-populated nations on earth. The Vietnamese New Year is by far the biggest celebration in Vietnam. In Giao Thua, midnight of New Year's Eve, the whole family meets at the table, lights incense for the ancestors. Every year, millions of people fly, drive and float to their hometown to spend quality time with their friends and their families.

The meals are great, the songs are noisy and everyone is in a good mood. The Tet in Vietnam coincides with the Chinese Lunar New Year, which falls around the end of January or the beginning of February. A week before the arrival of the Tet, the families rejoin and together prepare the traditional food in Vietnam like the typical dessert of the party called Banh Chung, a typical cake with rice attached, boiled soy and pork.

In addition, another important moment, typical of the Tet are the Lucky money or Li Xi sachets, which are a gift for people close by and for children. They are strictly red and yellow, the colors of luck and prosperity, and contain new banknotes. With many islands of Southeast Asia, you will find fantastic vacation spots you could wish to visit while traveling Vietnam.

Vietnam is the very beautiful country with it beaches, rivers, pagodas and mostly for the war with America. Vietnam is now fast growing as you can enter over land from China, Laos and Cambodia. Vietnam is cheap and you can taste varieties of fruits.

Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh city (Saigon), Da Nang, Hue, Hoi An, Hue, Sa Pa, Dalat, Nha Trang, Hanoi and others. it depends how much time you have, if you have short time fly to Hanoi and vsit Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba islands. you will love it.

Best Tourist Destinations In Vietnam

Take a look at a few of the many tourist destinations and things to do in Vietnam which provide exceptional types of encounters which you will not find anywhere else in your life. Here are the best places to visit in Vietnam.

1. Sa Pa


Visit Sapa (northern region) where you can meet with tribal people, enjoy mountainous fairs and festivals, and hike easily. Nestled in the North West of Vietnam, Sapa Valley was once a road less traveled. It is home to some of the lushest trek routes, scenic views of the local villages, and home to the tallest mountain in Vietnam: Fan Si Pan. It is also well known in the travel world for responsible and sustainable tourism practices!

Close to the China border, it is a quaint but beautiful space. Take a walk around this lovely town, enjoy some street food, unwind in a spa, ride across the countryside in a luxury train. Take a road trip to Sapa but in a comfortable limo van that will take you gliding from the capital to the valley. April is perfect timing because the mountains will be in bloom with white pear flowers and peach blossoms.

Once a French hill station, now a gorgeous valley, home to multiple ethnic tribes of Vietnam, Sapa Valley is one of the most underrated and overlooked spots of South East Asia. Undulating hills of green, terrace farms with paddy fields, and the rolling fog parting around the tallest peak of the country - Fan Si Pan - are what await you.

Home to the highest mountain in Vietnam - Fansipan, Sapa should be your next holiday destination especially if you are a mountain lover. Cat Cat Village and Ta Phin Village are also a part of this park along with the cave which are all tourist attractions. So with hiking options, the beautiful mountain, Hoang Lien National park and an opportunity to visit tribal villages - Sapa makes for the perfect travel destination.

2. Ho Chi Minh City


For many years it was the main port of Cambodia before the region was annexed to Vietnam. Saigon was the old name of the capital of South Vietnam. But after the war in Vietnam and the triumph of the north (communism), Vietnam reunified, Hanoi became the capital and Saigon was renamed Ho Chi Minh, in honor of the communist leader. It mixes European designs with Asian culture.

There are many road vendors and late night meals stalls that smell quite great. The food is perfect, which infuses the same perfect mix. The coffee, is mind blowing.

Ben Thanh Street Food Market is a food court with a delicious, inexpensive and infinite offer of Asian food.
Precisely the Backpacker Quarter is another place you should visit in Ho Chi Minh City. Here the offer of accommodation, restaurants and entertainment and services is inexhaustible. Beer is cheap, t-shirts are nice and photocopied travel guides are on offer.

Bitexco Tower, at 260 meters is the highest in Ho Chi Minh City. Although by day they attract a lot of attention, at night it is truly spectacular. The city at night is just as chaotic as at 8 in the morning, but it has a certain touch of elegance that is almost invisible during the day. It is impossible to understand this city without the Saigon River, the absolute protagonist of Ho Chi Minh's daily life.

Mekong Delta tour is a couple of hours by bus from HCMC and offers you a understanding of daily lives of river people. Go to the floating market, observe men and women create neighborhood meals (like coconut candy, vermicelli, rice-paper).

The passport must have a minimum validity of six months. In the case of having planned more than one entry within that period or a stay of more than 15 days, a visa must be obtained. Vietnam is one of these weird countries that has a complicated Visa process that everyone games. Officially you're supposed to apply for a Visa at the Vietnamese consulate in your home country. That takes time and planning and work.

Instead, what most people do is get a variant of a Visa on Arrival. There are agencies on the web where you submit your information (passport number, etc), and for a nominal fee they issue you a certificate saying that they are a travel agency that is sponsoring your travel to Vietnam. Then you present this at the border, and you're issued a Visa right there and then.

The online process takes like 10 minutes, and the border process takes another 30 minutes or so while you wait for the border control to process you.

If you travel more than 15 days to Vietnam you need a visa. And to get it you have to request an invitation letter, fill out an infinite document at the airport, hand in a passport photo and pay 25 dollars. At least the airport of Ho Chi Minh do not accept credit card. AirBnb is a great option to sleep cheaply and meet local people.

The climate in southern Vietnam is very suitable for tropical fruits, and fresh fruits are sold on the roadside. Mui Ne is the source of dragon fruit, in addition to jackfruit, mangosteen, durian, etc. are very good choices. The price of fruit is low, the price is lower than that in China, and the taste is several times better than that in China.

French loaf is a hard loaf of bread, which is made by adding cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, ham or fried eggs. There are many French stick stalls on the roadside in Mui Ne, so it is best to come early.

Shrimp cake is also a famous snack in Vietnam. The method of shrimp cakes is to wrap fresh prawns in the seasoned batter, and deep-fry them in a frying pan. After they are out of the pan, they are fragrant and crispy and delicious.

Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Da Nang, Halong Bay and other cities close to the sea, you can eat the most famous lobster. When night falls, seafood stalls in a humble environment and delicious barbecue lobsters attract a large number of tourists. Smear the local special sauce, and eat it with sweet sauce after barbecue, which has a special flavor.

Interesting Reads: Best Beaches in Vietnam

This applies to everywhere in Asia, but get Uber or Grab (formerly Grab Taxi) on your phone. The difference between those apps and taxis is staggering. Not only are they cheaper, but they are often faster, and you don't feel like you're being ripped off.

3. Ninh Binh


We started a new route to Ninh Binh, a town south of the capital. The surroundings of Ninh Binh hide dream landscapes. Many call it Halong Bay in land. The well-known Vietnamese bay is famous for its karstic islets jutting out from the sea, with a vegetation of such intense green that when you visit it it seems that you have strained into Jurassic Park.

The difference with Halong Bay is that here the sea gives way to the rice fields. Trang An located about 8 kilometers from Ninh Binh is a natural park declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. To visit Trang An, you have to do it by boat. The boat will take you go inside some caves and temples to explore. Some caves are dark and dangerous.

Moreover, the caves were very low as the water level was high after all the flooding so that was a bit scary. Especially, your head should be low if you do not want to hit the ceiling of the caves. The boatman will also drop you at the temples where you can get down to get some photos and then hop back the boat again. Tam Coc is the sister landscape of Trang An. Just do not hesitate to take a bike ride around Tam Coc.

There are beautiful landscapes between rice fields and mountains, and other places of interest, such as Bich Dong or Mua Caves, are nearby. It does not hurt either to shop around the town because it is very lively. The grace of Mua Caves is to climb the 500 steps that cross the zigzag mountain and reach their viewpoints, from which you have spectacular views.

Near the start of the climb to the Mua Cave viewpoint is a lotus pond with a wobbly bamboo bridge on top of it. Even if it is not the season for lotus to bloom, the entire experience of walking on top of a wobbly bamboo bridge over a lotus pond is very exciting, to some extent even better than the trek.

You will see the Tam Coc river and the boats that make the walk, which are tiny from the heights. Also, if you like dragonflies, you will go crazy because it is plagued! With 700 hectares, temples of Bai Dinh is the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam. The site is so large that it is recommended to take a minibus that transports you to the lower part or symbolic entrance.

To climb up to the different temples there is a way in which 500 statues of Arhats (in Buddhism, someone who has gained a deep understanding of existence) accompany you at every step. I would recommend that you take your time and go see all the temples and pagodas that you find on the way.

The temples of Bich Dong are not as spectacular as those of Bai Dinh, but they also have something that makes them special. Its peculiarity is that this small complex is formed by 3 temples, which are located in natural caves of the mountain. Very close to Trang An and Bai Dinh is Hoa Lu, which was the former imperial capital of Vietnam in the 10th century.

Nestled between the mountains of the Pu Luong nature reserve in Vietnam, Kho Muong village charms the visitors with a wild landscape and well-preserved cultural traditions. The local food here is so good that you should order is Dê núi means goat meat and Gà đồi means chicken meat. You can try them with a local wine and fried rice.

From Ninh Binh you will easily find transportation to the busiest places, such as Hanoi, Halong Bay, Cat Ba, Sa Pa or Hoi An.

4. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park


Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Sanctuary offers much scenery. However, nothing is indeed well-liked as the caves. The Phong Nha Caves consist of many cave systems, lots of which are massive enough to contain whole town blocks. The greatest, as well as most remarkable, is Hang Son Doong. The Son Doong cave is the result of the local karstic geology. Access to the caves is Son Trach, an ample township which is the center of many transportation links all over Vietnam, local dining places as well as conference places for directed trips to the caves.

5. Hue


The world is full of unknown places, lost corners to discover, wild scenes that have never before known the human presence. It seems surreal that there are still places around the globe, virgins, that do not know what that is about the human footprint. Humans believe that we have control over all things, but, luckily, the planet is still a little more powerful than we are.

Also, there are abandoned places, where man has left his trail without any purpose. It seems that we enjoy the idea of transforming things to our liking, as if only the evolution of the planet depended on us. We are not alone in this world. We are not the owners of anything.

We are known for getting tired of things quickly. Why do we build something, often we do not even finish it, and we abandon it? This is the case of the Ho Thuy Tien water park, just one of the many thousands of abandoned places that exist. In the center of Vietnam, between the cities of Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi is an abandoned water park, a rather terrifying place that has become a must-see for the most daring adventurers and travelers.

This place is practically unknown, because neither the travel agencies know that it exists, but Ho Thuy Tien is there. Its existence is transmitted from backpackers to backpackers and thanks to the photographs of the visitors. Its location does not appear in Google Maps and not even the inhabitants of the area know where it is.

It is an authentic ghost park in the middle of the wildest jungle in the area. It is located near the Thien An monastery. Among the jungle undergrowth, the visitor can discover in the center of Ho Thuy Tien a giant sculpture of a dragon from which to see the wildlife that surrounds the Park.

6. Bach Ma National Park


The 26 years old, country Local Park boost of rich floras plus faunas with 233 varieties of wild birds. It has also fifty-five varieties of mammals, more so it has over five hundred plant varieties. The Bach Ma National Park covers 22, 031 hectares; the sanctuary is among the biodiversity sites of Indochina. Guests have been touring locate since the 1930's. This Park offers you the best Vietnam Travel experience. A visit to the park comes with lots of benefits to say the list.

7. Da Nang


Many travelers eliminate Danang from their travel list or simply use it as a stopover to get from Hue or Hoi An. Is it worth visiting Danang? The answer is yes. Here are my reasons and what you need to know to visit one of the most unknown places in Vietnam. There are five marble mountains, as the name says, hiding caves, temples and Buddhas. They are inside the city of Danang.

Bảo tàng Đồng Đình is a museum that goes unnoticed but that is worth including in your Da Nang itinerary. It shows the evolution of the homes of the inhabitants of Da Nang.

There are 5 different types of houses surrounded by a magnificent garden. It is on the way to the famous sculpture of Lady Buddha. Da Nang Museum is a very interesting museum to know the history of the Cham ethnic group, majority in this Vietnamese region. You can see traditional costumes and ancient sculptures.

Ba Na Hills is a complex that combines Buddhist temples, a replica of a French village, pagodas and themed gardens. And, if that were not enough, all this is reached by traveling on the longest cable car in the world. The river walk in which the Dragon Bridge reigns is ideal for walking or working for a while in one of its cafeterias.

Hai Van Pass is just around where you can enjoy stunning views over the city and have an unforgettable driving experience. Also, Son Tra peninsula is just around with numerous hidden beaches, breathtaking views from various places, a lot of hiking trails and just amazing driving experience.

Also, Quang Nam province is just next to Da Nang and the nature there is simply amazing! It’s very convenient to just jump on the bike and drive one of many loops around Quang Nam.

Da Nang coffee and cashew nuts are also worth giving to friends and relatives. Two coffee beans like Arabica and Robusta are roasted with special cream, so they will give out rich cream when they drink. Fragrance; and cashew nuts are a specialty of Vietnam and a specialty product of Da Nang. Perfume reflects a person's taste. As the world's main producer of natural fragrances, it is a good choice to buy perfumes in Da Nang. For example, some famous perfume brands in France are basically imported from Vietnam.

Tourists who like jewelry and other crafts come to Da Nang to shop are very valuable, especially the low cost, various styles of gold and silver jewelry, etc., which are beautiful and affordable; and silver crafts are also The best souvenir when traveling in Vietnam. Through this exquisite craftsmanship, you can see the strong Vietnamese style, but when buying it, it is best to look at whether it is pure silver or silver-plated; the so-called coal carving crafts are mainly used Hongji and Jinpu are made of raw materials and have many styles.

Danang is a relatively hot city. Slippers are a must-have item for locals, especially rubber slippers. However, it is difficult to buy more natural rubber slippers on the market. There are still several shops in Da Nang that sell more genuine rubber slippers, so tourists can go shopping. However, it must be remembered that rubber slippers are only black in color, and rubber slippers in other colors must be fake.

Of course, in addition to knowing to buy these things, tourists also have to go to the duty-free shops in Da Nang. They are full and the prices are very reasonable, so tourists should not forget to check out the duty-free shops. In short, shopping in Da Nang is a crazy thing. Tourists can buy things to buy something soft, but their wallets may be deflated. If Da Nang can harvest so many good things at once, I believe it is also very worthwhile.

In addition, there are other delicacies in Vietnam, such as mung bean cake, which is handmade by local residents, as well as fruit candy, coconut sugar, etc. In addition to delicacy in Vietnam, you can also buy perfume here, which is very unique. There are also many handicrafts in Saigon and Hanoi that are good, and you can buy a lot of good products with Vietnamese characteristics, so it is easy to solve what to bring back when you come to Vietnam, mainly buying food or souvenirs at all prices It's very cheap, so don't miss the opportunity.

Compared with other countries in Southeast Asia, the food in Vietnam is more refreshing and delicious. Fresh ingredients are steamed, cold, grilled, braised, etc., combined with lighter flavors such as lime, herbs, coriander, and fish sauce to cook delicious Vietnamese dishes. The food style of Vietnam is deeply influenced by foreign culture, and Chinese and French food have a greater influence on it.

Vietnamese rice noodles are made from high-quality rice, with beef or chicken, various coriander and spices. Among them, beef pho is the most popular, and it can be described as a representative of Vietnamese cuisine.

Spring rolls are the most popular dish in Vietnam. The spring rolls are made of glutinous rice, wrapped in bean sprouts, vermicelli, shredded squid, shrimp, green onions, etc., and fried in a frying pan until they are crisp and brown. Dip it with seasonings such as fish sauce, sour vinegar, and chili.

Coffee is to Vietnam, just like tea is important to the Chinese people, it is a deep penetration into the bones. The style of Vietnamese coffee also lies in the special brewing process. It is not brewed with a coffee pot, but a special drip coffee cup, which is pressed tightly with a thick layer of coffee powder, poured into hot water, and waited patiently. The coffee falls into the cup drop by drop, and a cup of coffee may have to drop on...

Rou Zong is a traditional Vietnamese delicacy. In the past, the average Vietnamese could only eat it during festivals. This kind of meat dumpling is not what we imagined, it is made entirely of meat. Whenever festivals, especially before the Spring Festival, every household makes meat dumplings. Add good lean pork with various spices, put it in Ishida and make a paste, then wrap it with banana leaves or lotus leaves...


8. Hoi An


Over 1,600 years back, the Cham folks from Vietnam started building on several Hindu shrines around the township of Duy Phu. Under the shadow of Cat's Tooth Mountain, which is enclosed by an eco-friendly valley, many of these historic temples still endure. Well-known jointly as My Son, lots of the historic temples are, yet that naturally enhances the ambiance.

Touring My Son is a lot like walking way back in time, thanks to the out-of-the-way location with insufficient touristy system. Cau Lau is a typical dish of the city of Hoi An made with noodles, pork and vegetables. Apparently they cook it with water from a well of Cham, whose location is completely secret somewhere on the outskirts of the coquette Hoi An.

In all the restaurants of Hoi An they include it in the menu and they will say that it is the best Cau Lau of all! White Rose are a specialty of Hoi An. In almost all restaurants in Hoi An you will see them announced. It would be sacrilege to talk about Vietnam, without mentioning it’s culinary delicacies. You won’t find better street food at lower prices elsewhere. Vietnamese food is cheap, healthy, diverse, and of course, tasty.

Local vendors generally price food at around 1–5 dollars in Vietnam. This depends if you’re in a metropolitan area or in the countryside. Vietnamese cuisine is heavily influenced by France during the colonial period. This means that westerners can easily adjust to trying Vietnamese food because there are aspects that they are already used to such as bread (Bánh mì), chocolate (Sô-cô-la) and coffee (Cà phê) and chances are you can enjoy something similar in Vietnam.

Vietnam has one of the best street food in the world and nothing is better than a well-made Banh Mi, it is in fact a work of art. Banh Mi is a typical Vietnamese food cataloged at the top of the best cheap restaurants in each city. Banh mi is a type of sandwich on a baguette, and it doesn’t take long for locals to cut a baguette and put the good stuff inside.

You can try traditional dishes, such as typical Hanoi spring rolls or a delicious Vietnamese mango salad. Vietnamese like to eat green mangoes as a snack, soak in chili salt and chop into a hearty mango salad (goi xoai). The classic fried rice that is in any Asian country, is also eaten in Vietnam at any Vietnamese restaurant. And special mention deserves the Bia Hoi, which is said to be the cheapest beer in the world.

Vietnamese coconut candy is rich and delicious, using fresh coconut and glucose as raw materials, refined by tradition, and has a pure taste. Vietnam is the largest coffee producer in Southeast Asia. If you like the convenience of instant coffee, you can buy some G7 coffee. It is the most famous brand. In addition, if you like coffee powder or coffee beans, you can go to the chain of Highland coffee shops to buy, quality and price are guaranteed.

The Hoi An and Nha Trang areas in central Vietnam are rich in agarwood, which is called the Champa country area in Ming history. Since ancient Vietnamese incense wood was traded in Hoi An, the distribution center, Vietnamese agarwood is also commonly known as Hoi An agarwood. Nowadays, due to the decreasing output and the rising prices, the illegal vendors are making fake sales. Therefore, it is not recommended for inexperienced people to buy it here. If you use it yourself, you can buy entry-level agarwood with less than 50 dollars.

Walking on the streets of Vietnam, you can see many lanterns with Chinese style at the door of the house. This is also a major specialty of Vietnam. The hometown of lanterns in Vietnam is Hoi An. Hoi An lanterns are very famous, with a wide variety of colors, very good workmanship, and full of Hoi An characteristics. Just be careful not to buy a lantern that is too big, it is not convenient to carry.

In Vietnam’s tourist attractions, especially the ancient city of Hoi An, Hue, and Hanoi, which have a long cultural history, there are many galleries run by folk art masters. Many of these studios are hidden in the alleys for creation. Not to be disturbed by the outside world, famous charcoal paintings and finger paintings can be found in such galleries. If you lack a characteristic painting to decorate the wall at home, you may wish to consider taking one back home here.

Vietnam is rich in precious wood. You can see exquisite woodcarving works in shops, ancient houses and temples on the streets and lanes. There are also many shops selling these woodcarvings. The skills of Vietnamese craftsmen are inherited from ancient China. Because of the settlement of Chinese caravans, they began to use wood carvings to decorate the interior on a large scale. Some of these ancient craftsmanship have long been lost in China, but they are well preserved here.

9. Dalat


Bao Loc, in the heart of a fertile region, is known above all for its silk factories, although what attracts tourists are the Dambri waterfalls. The torrent rises from a bamboo forest to fall 60 meters below with a deafening clatter. An elevator (for a fee) allows you to get off without any effort, although the truth is a bit of a sight to the landscape.

10. Cat Tien National Park


The Cat Tien National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Here, in the tropical forests of southern Vietnam live some of the most threatened species in the world. Apart from the great variety of unique and endemic species, Cat Tien is perhaps most famous for its Java rhino herd, which for 40 years was thought to have become extinct.

What Makes a Good Travel Consultant

Business consulting can be a good option for your career. It is not surprising that the best students of our universities are recruited as consultants by companies. If we talk about consultant salaries, in general, the consulting sector is characterized by having salaries above the average. However, it is a demanding profession, physically and intellectually. It needs a good qualification and special personal skills for which you will need to prepare.

Being a business consultant is not an easy task. It involves a great effort to be up to date, and at the same time understand the client's business and its mentality. An added difficulty results from the opacity with which sometimes the client shares its internal information. The consulting work then becomes a futile and frustrating task for both parties.

What Makes a Good Consultant

Who is a consultant?

A consultant is a professional who offers expert advice. He advises companies in a certain area so their specialization is usually high. It is a generally well-paid profession but is demanding. Being a consultant has very high requirements at the level of knowledge as well as personal skills. He has to have strong relationship management and communication skills.

Why are consultants required?

Any business needs to increase its competitiveness, productivity and initiate an intense process that diversifies its market. Facing these challenges means a profound change in their business models and processes. It has to change their way of operating, and their way of doing things. It means betting on innovation and the talent of its professionals.

To achieve this transformation, the company needs to address the change following a method that ensures success. It needs fresh ideas to do things in a different way, infuse new knowledge to adapt the business to the new reality of the market. It has to have impartiality in the analysis of any situation and reflect on the present business approach.

All this is what a consultant offers. He brings experience and specialized knowledge to a company. Most importantly he brings an approach that, sometimes, may not be found within the organization in the current way of doing things.

How to be a successful consultant?

A good consultant in addition to the capacity, expertise and technical knowledge must have among others the following qualities:

Ability to listen: Only in this way a consultant can understand the situation and requirements of each company and the keys to address the problem. He must be able to understand all the constituents of the business from workers, suppliers, customers to even competitors.

Flexible and patient: The consultant has to develop his work by involving the key members of the organization but without altering the day to day of his functions and responsibilities. A good consultant must achieve the objectives and perform after adapting to the dynamics of the business and the client, but while respecting the defined work plan.

Objective and impartial: The consultant must analyze the situation by extracting any judgment and propose all possible solutions. A consultant's mission is to perform an objective analysis, from a position of independence. He has to detect the most viable solutions, avoiding random judgments or biases during the process.

Analytical: The consultant must be able to obtain analytical information that supports their proposals. He should research, generate and relate different data and decision elements. He has to arrive at alternatives that are feasible and rationally supported. A consultant has to be able to identify the essential functional areas of the business. He has to ascertain its processes, importance, and way of relating.

Generator of alternatives: This is a fundamental quality in the consultant. Any client expects valid alternatives for their company and its environment. These alternatives must be innovative, useful, practical and concrete. There should be a clear justification of their genesis and their feasibility and suitability.

Communicator: A consultant has to be able to speak fluently and be able to be understood. It is the only way to ensure that proposals are understood and accepted by the client organization.

Organized and methodical: The consultant must be able to manage a project as a whole or the activity entrusted to him. He has to organize his tasks or those of a team of people to achieve his goal. That is why a consultant has to be able to decompose the work into phases, activities, tasks, and steps.

A consultant should establish the deadlines. He should acquire the necessary resources and adequately distribute the responsibilities. Time management is fundamental to the performance a good consultant.

What Makes a Good Consultant

How to be a good travel consultant?

A good travel consultant should be able to put together a perfect experience in a city or in a country. He has to do everything to make the travelers connect with the best of the local flavor of the chosen place to spend a vacation.

Whether it's a family trip or a photo safari in the savanna. Whether it's a visit to encourage an exclusive shopping experience or an immersion in a little-known aspect of a local culture. A good travel consultant has to give what the words of a travel blog will never give.

A good travel consultant has to be in continuous training. He should attend workshops and travel conferences, and participate in familiarization tours. He should visit hotels, restaurants, and attractions with the objective of knowing more. He should be able to advise with the perspective that a traveler needs.

A good travel consultant strives to understand the accommodation needs or very personal culinary aspects. He has to combine times, stays, visits, excursions and experiences.

But do not deceive yourself. There is no secret to be a good consultant. Everything is reduced to the dedication, time and hours of work.

4 Best Places to See Northern Lights in Scandinavia

Where the hell are the best places to see the northern lights? Can you see the northern lights anywhere in Scandinavia? Fed up with typical travel experts? We present you here few of the best places to observe the northern lights with complete peace of mind. Although it is not always possible to do it, one of the great dreams of travelers is to be able to witness the Aurora Borealis in Scandinavian countries like Norway.

The weather in Norway is usually milder than in other parts of the world where you can admire the northern lights, whether you are in Lofoten, Tromsø, North Cape or surroundings, in the mountainous plateau of the Sami in Finnmark, or in Svalbard.

The Aurora Borealis only happens above the magnetic poles of the planet. In the northern hemisphere they are called Aurora Borealis, and in the southern hemisphere, they are called Aurora Australis. The spectacular colors are formed when the particles of the sun that are electrically charged enters the atmosphere of the Earth. The display is often referred to as dancing lights. Some people say the lights of Scandinavia swirl and seem to wave at you.

The colors of the Northern Lights vary. The most common are pale yellow, green, and blue. You may also see shades of pink. The most unusual color is red. The colors are determined by the types of gases in the air when the particles collide with the atmosphere. Regardless, you will see an incredible and otherworldly display.

In Finland, visit the Lake areas, or take a ferry from Turku to Stockholm, through a fabulous archipelago. In wintertime visit ski resorts, preferably in Lapland. Swedens capital Stockholm is probably the most illustrious city in the North, rivaled only by Copenhagen in Denmark. Both countries have great beach resorts.

Norway might be the most expensive Nordic country, but it features incredible scenic routes and spectacular mountains and fjords, not to be missed by any traveler. And last but not least, you can also head towards Nordkapp via Norway, Sweden or Finland and take in the sceneries on your way to the Northernmost point of the European Continent!

Best Places to See Northern Lights in Scandinavia

Here are some of the best place to see the northern lights in Scandinavia.

1. Östersund


This is absolute Norrland - the empire of forests, reindeer, northern lights, darkness, silence, and weirdness. It’s the real Sweden, with extraordinarily warm people, and incredibly slow clocks everywhere.

Finally, for a more manageable hiking in northern Sweden that should only take a few days to complete, the Jamtland Triangle is a popular option. The entire walk is 47 km and runs through various mountain stations with plenty of cabins, saunas, and good places to eat along the way. It is an option that combines adventure with a bit of recreation.

There is a ski tunnel inside a mountain in Jämtland. It is in fact the world’s longest ski tunnel. It’s inside a hollowed out mountain that used to be used as a fuel storage during the Cold War era. I went there for the opening, and it’s really a surreal experience to go there on a warm, sunny summer’s day, only to find yourself in minus four degrees, surrounded by snow and skiers.

There is something James Bond-ish about it, in fact.

In Pilgrimstad, there is a brewery there, and a marina, and a holy spring, hence the name. But that’s it. Not even a convenience store. If you are stuck there, all you can do is sit by the lake, watch the boats, pray a bit, and think about all that beer in the brewery.

2. Finnmark, Norway


Finnmark is one of the best places in Scandinavia to see the Aurora. The main advantage of coming to Finnmark to observe the Northern Lights is that this area is much less publicized than other Northern Lights destinations with which it rivals. There are also a lot fewer people who live here and a lot of unaltered nature and observation points full of peace. The center of Karasjok is so small that you only have to get away from the main street for clear views of the northern lights.

Regardless of the distance, remember to take warm clothes. In winter it can get very cold in this mountainous plateau in the interior. The coldest day was registered in February, at -38 degrees. The colder, the better. When temperatures are low, the chances of having a clear sky are greater. Despite being cold and small, Karasjok has three hotels and camping areas with modern cabins perfect for winter. The main Norwegian road, the E6, also passes through this town.

Within an hour's drive from the city of Lakselv you will find a signposted lookout that is also a fantastic place to observe the northern lights. On the same E6 main road, but in the other direction, towards Finland, you will find other lookouts just as good. Of course, when in January the sun announces the beginning of the end of the polar night, this event is considered of great importance.

3. Lofoten, Norway


Few things can be compared to the feeling of kayaking while watching the northern lights on you and also under you, in the water, a light effect that in Norwegian is called morild. Morild is an effect in which the sea becomes milky, a phosphorescent phenomenon caused by bioluminescent plankton. At the end of the night tour, you can decide whether to return home or simply spend the night outdoors, in hammocks with sleeping bags in total isolation.

4. Andøya, Norway


Seeing waves of light above you while you're surfing in the sea is a really special and also rare experience. The biggest challenge is, in addition to the darkness of the season, the fact that the only light that you glimpse when you are trying to maintain balance on the board is often that which comes from the northern lights.

The useful rules of the Norwegian mountain code about wearing clothes suitable for unforeseen weather conditions, or doing everything possible to stay safe can also be applied to the sea. The largest breakwater in northern Europe, which is located in the port of the city. Of course, there are many more ways to see the northern lights.

Photographing the Northern Lights Know your gear: Capturing the northern lights means working efficiently under dark skies. In order to make the most of each opportunity, train yourself to adjust gear and camera settings in the dark quickly - even if it means practicing in a dark room or beneath a starry sky.

Use your histogram: One of the most common pitfalls is photographers get home with underexposed images because the LCD can look much brighter than it actually is in total darkness. Learn to rely on your histogram for proper exposure for any kind of astrophotography.

Be flexible and patient: The aurora is a fickle phenomenon that constantly appears and disappears if it even shows up at all! If you miss the shot because the lights disappear or dance out of frame, don’t be discouraged. Consider it as time invested into becoming a versatile and adaptable photographer.


Scandinavia Travel Tips


Because this part of the world is unique, most people travel here and secure what they need upon arrival. The trip can take a while, so savvy travelers look for ways to transport their luggage. Having your bags sent to your destination is easy and safe.
  • Book your accommodations before you go. Look for hotels, lodges, hotels, and rentals that are centrally located so you can have daytime adventures and return to your base in the evening. This is far less costly. Use the 2-mile rule. If the attraction is less than 2-miles from the room, walk.
  • Determine your food budget before you go. Eating out is a major expense. Even grabbing fast food can break your budget at their inflated prices. Prepare your meals yourself. Make a trip to the grocery store and buy foods you can prepare in your room.
  • Book your travel well in advance. In places like Norway, you can get economy fares on trains if you buy them a couple of months in advance. The planning time is well worth the savings.
  • Carry enough money with you. Who knows, there may be bank holidays in Scandinavia at the time you arrive.
  • Do not get trapped in tourist attractions. There are many natural wonders that are free. Take the time to plan your adventures. Use the internet and guidebooks for recommendations.

Obviously, this is trip of a lifetime. It can be costly. However, with planning and research, you can have a wonderful time without breaking the bank. The holiday season is just around the corner. The time for planning this trip is now.

How to Get from German Airports to City Centre

Are you looking for some Germany travel tips or traveling to Germany for the first time? Germany is one of the best places to visit in December as it has many Christmas markets spread throughout the country. Contrary to what you may think, Germany is cheap, especially if you move through rural areas as is our case. The ideal is to enter some Gästehaus (tavern) of some town.

Have you booked a flight to Berlin, Dortmund, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Munich, Cologne or Hamburg for a visit to the Black Forest area? Are you wondering now how to get from the airport to the city center at the cheapest and without unnecessary additional costs? The major airports in Germany are served by many different means of transport.

It is sometimes not so easy to find out which option is the fastest and cheapest. However, this article explains exactly how travelers can best reach the city center from each airport. The various options are clearly displayed in the respective illustrations.

How to Get from German Airports to City Centre

1. Berlin


The federal capital Berlin has two airports: Tegel and Schonefeld. There are various options to get to the city center from Tegel Airport with a variety of attractions and sights. By taxi, you can get to Alexanderplatz in less than half an hour, but the approximately 10 kilometre drive is not quite cheap at around 30 euros.

Much cheaper, namely for only 3 euros, travelers can reach the center by public transport. Two bus lines go within 35 minutes to Alexanderplatz, and an express bus puts the route back at the same price even faster.

Slightly further away from the city center is Schoenefeld Airport. It also offers excellent access to the public transport network. Travelers can also choose to use the taxi as a means of transport. You can go at much less than 50 euros in the approximately 25 kilometre route if you take the bus or the S-Bahn instead.

For the 45-minute the bus ride rate is 3 euros. The same price is payable for the S-Bahn, which, however, only takes 35 minutes to Alexanderplatz. The regional train Airport Express offers the fastest connection to the city center with a travel time of only 30 minutes.

2. Munich


Munich Airport has already been voted the most popular airport in Europe six times and is one of the best airports for a stopover during flights cancelled due to weather. If you want to see the many attractions in the Bavarian capital, there are several ways to get into the center.

After your flight in the Lufthansa A350 premium economy class, the best way from Munich airport to city centre for the 35-kilometer route is best traveled by Lufthansa airport bus for 10.50 euros or by taxi for 70 euros. The journey takes only half an hour.

Only for a few minutes longer, you can take the S-Bahn train from Munich airport to city center, with which you can reach the main station for 10.80 euros within 45 minutes.

3. Frankfurt


Frankfurt is the largest financial center in Europe and the 5th largest city in Germany. You can find banks and big businesses as well as explore trade shows, shopping, culture and tradition in this main metropolitan city. Frankfurt is not only the financial capital of Germany but also has many perfect tourist destinations for travelers all over the world.

Just 40 km from the geographical center of the European Union, the city attracts many visitors with its trade shows and cultural diversities. Frankfurt am Main offers excellent international connections through two airports. Frankfurt am Main airport is one of the largest airports in Europe. It is located southeast of the city and is easily accessible by public transport.

To get from the airport to the city center, you can take the S-Bahn, which covers a distance from Frankfurt airport to Frankfurt city centre of about 25 kilometres to the main station for 5 euros in just 15 minutes.

For the same price, but 5 minutes longer, you are traveling by train. A taxi ride to the center takes 16 minutes and is the most expensive option with a price of around 30 euros. You can book cheap flights to Frankfurt now.
A little further away from Frankfurt am Main is Frankfurt-Hahn Airport. It is located 124 kilometres west of the city center and is also well connected to the public transport network.

You can travel by bus for 15 euros that take 1 hour and 45 minutes from the airport to Frankfurt main station. The trip to the city center is a little faster by taxi, but it is not the cheapest option with around 220 euros.

4. Dusseldorf


Only about 10 kilometers north of Dusseldorf is the airport of the city. A ride to the center takes about 15 minutes by taxi and costs 25 euros. S-Bahn as a means of transport costs 3 euros only and at a fraction of the price you can still arrive just as quickly at the main station.

Cologne city center is also within easy reach with about 45 kilometers from Dusseldorf Airport. Travelers to the center of Cologne can travel for only 3 euro in an hour and eleven minutes by suburban train. The regional train backs the route a bit faster: for 10 euro Cologne Central Station can be reached in just 55 minutes.

5. Dortmund


Dortmund Airport is only about 15 kilometres east of the city center. The quickest way to get to the center is by taxi, which takes only 20 minutes for the ride, but with 30 euros, is not the cheapest option. For just 8.50 euros, but almost as fast, travelers can cover the route to the Dortmund main station directly with the Airport Express.