Category Archives: Europe

It’s a small world at Miniaturk. Well in Turkey anyway!

October 22, 2017 OurWorldinReview Leave a comment

Once again Istanbul has been a great place to stay. The culture the atmosphere and the people have been kind and gracious. If you are considering a trip to Turkey, then I would say without any hesitation, “do it!”

What to do in Istanbul? — The Galata Bridge on the Golden Horn

As Australian’s, we’ve been to Turkey for the last couple of years. Last year, we experienced the pilgrimage to the Gallipoli peninsula, which is considered a rite of passage for many Australian’s. Here we paid our respect to the fallen heroes of WWI.

Then we visited Istanbul and had an incredible meal at Mehmet Gürs marvellous Mikla. Both times have come away with the same impression of Turkey. “What a remarkably friendly place!” Although the tensions of the regions have affected Turkey we have found it to be a safe place to go. I assure you, you won’t be disappointed in the amazing history, culture, markets and food.

Therefore, why not dip your toes into Turkey? And if you only decide to visit Istanbul, there is a remarkable little place that showcases all of the major attractions within Turkey called Miniaturk.

Miniaturk, is park consisting of miniature models of the sights of Turkey. It’s located alongside a stretch of the Golden Horn and is a nice place for families and backpackers to discover what Turkey has to offer. If you haven’t finalised your itinerary whilst backpacking in Turkey, stop by at Miniaturk and discover which cities contain some of Turkey exquisite architectural history.

See places like the Galata Tower, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Green Tomb of Bursa, Cappadocia or the white terraces of Pamukkale all in the one park.

The models contained are a remarkable re-creation of these attractions and you can’t help but marvel at all the places to available to see. During our visit, we constantly commented about going to see certain attractions.

Spend some time walking up and down the walkways, it takes a good one and a half hours to traverse the entire site.

There is also plenty of things to entertain you and your family. Miniaturk also has a large playground, games arcade and a small train that the kids can ride on. For the older kids and adults, you can also try the helicopter flight simulator. Who’s the best pilot in your family?

Additionally, Miniaturk has multiple food stalls scattered around the park and a nice restaurant if you prefer something more substantial.

To finish the day, stop into the souvenir store and take home a memento of your time in Turkey.

Overall Miniaturk is a fun and amazing place to visit. Get some inspiration of other attractions around Turkey. At an inexpensive cost, Miniaturk is an ideal place for a young family to experience some of Turkey’s attractions without actually having to visit them. Of course, it is always better to see them up close and personal. But if you don’t have the time, this is the next best thing. So, if you are in Istanbul visit Miniaturk and tell them Simon from Ourworldinreview sent you!

Additional Information for Miniaturk

Address: Sütlüce Mahallesi, İmrahor Cd. 7/1, 34445 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey
Ph: +90 212 222 28 82
Website: www.miniaturk.com.tr

Cost 15 TRY per person (AUD$5)

Trading Hours:

Monday 9am–7pm

Tuesday 9am–7pm

Wednesday 9am–7pm

Thursday 9am–7pm

Friday 9am–7pm

Saturday 9am–7pm

Sunday 9am–7pm

Available accommodation in Istanbul

Looking for something else to do in Istanbul, try these tours available through Urban Adventures!

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Europe, Tours & Attractions

Sarajevo Scars and Smiles, an Urban Adventure

October 11, 2017 OurWorldinReview Leave a comment

In all our travels, Sarajevo would be one of the top 10 cities that has intrigued me the most in the Balkans. A city still rebuilding. Trying to ensure their past mistakes don’t erupt again. When speaking to its residence you can see their frustration from their “scars and smiles”. Yet, those frustrations aren’t directed towards the different ethnic groups, they are directed towards their over-governed parliament. With unemployment rising, Sarajevo is becoming more reliant on tourists visiting and understanding the beauty, culture and pain of this remarkable city.

What to do in Sarajevo? — Miljacka River, Sarajevo from the Yellow Fortress

During our stay here, we base ourselves at two completely different accommodation options. For the first part of our visit, we stay outside of the city centre at the four-starred Hotel Emiran. Then for the remainder of our stay we head into the old town and experience what hostel living is like at Hostel Franz Ferdinand. It is here that we organise the Scars and Smiles, Urban Adventures tour online.
Urban Adventures offer two quality tours, the Story of Sarajevo and Scars and Smiles.

The Scars and Smiles tour starts at 9:00 a.m and our meeting point for the tour is the impressive city hall/ national library building. Our friendly helpful guide for the tour is Almedin, who you cannot miss due to his 205cm height. Almedin is the tallest tour guide we have ever had. No need for an umbrella or a sign, because if you can’t see him, then he’s not there!

Group sizes vary from day-to-day and on our tour, we only had one other guest. Almedin spoke excellent English and was a toddler during the Sarajevo siege, so has an honest family perspective of life during wartime.

Where to stay in Sarajevo — One of the many mortar and bullet riddled apartment buildings in Sarajevo

During our tour, Almedin speaks passionately about the scars and smiles of the Bosnian people. He talks about why the war occurred, how it ended and specific tragedies that had befallen its residents at the time.

We are taken on a 3 hour journey around the city of Sarajevo and visit important places like the Sarajevska brewery, the only source of fresh water in Sarajevo at the time. Almedin then speaks about the importance of the Sarajevo roses, shows us a memorial for the children and takes us for Bosnian coffee.

An intriguing and at times moving tour, Almedin speaks about life after the conflict and finishes the tour at the Sarajevo National Theatre.

Once the tour is completed, guests can either join Almedin for a drink at a local pub or state their farewells. I suggest having a drink with this kind gentleman and learning more about Bosnian and Herzegovinian hospitality.

Overall for the price, the Scars and Smiles tour is a fantastic way of getting to understand Sarajevo and its tragic history. So, book your Urban Adventure tour today and tell them Simon from Ourworldinreview sent you!

Additional Information for Urban Adventures: Scars and Smiles

Cost: Adult – €24 (AUD$36.50) Child – €13 (AUD$20)

- Tour Highlight
  - Learn how Sarajevo has rebuilt itself since the war
  - Experience the startling contrast of war times and peaceful times, and see how locals are honouring the past
  - See important sites such as the National Library and Central Bank, and hear about the history that haunts them
  - Visit the Sarajevo Brewery, which provided the city with drinking water during the siege
  - Visit the marketplace that was the site of the 1994 massacre, and see it as it is now, with locals going about their day-to-day

Inclusions: Local English-speaking guide, entry fees to sites, food samples in the market, drink (glass of wine, beer, or soft drink) at the last stop.

Exclusions: Additional food and drinks, souvenirs and items of a personal nature, tips/gratuities for your guide.

Schedule details
- Duration: 3 hours
- Meeting point:City Hall/National Library (at the stairs), Obala Kulina bana, Sarajevo
- Starting time: 9.00 AM
- Ending point:Sarajevo National Theatre, Obala Kulina bana 9, Sarajevo

Book your accommodation in Sarajevo here!

Book another Urban Adventure tour here!

*Post Contains Affiliate Links, by booking via our link allows us to continue providing reviews for you.

Europe, Tours & Attractions

Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour

August 9, 2017 OurWorldinReview Leave a comment

If you were to tell me before we started this trip that I’d be going to visit a salt mine, I may have laughed. That would be because in Australia when I think about salt mines, I picture a stark salt pan. Therefore, when we were looking for another tour to do in Krakow we wanted something less emotionally draining than the Auschwitz and Birkenau tour we did the day before. The Krakville tour operator suggested for us to go to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. So, after a bit of umming and ahhing we decided why not?

The Wieliczka Salt Mine was listed as a UNESCO heritage site in 1978 and consists of 300kms of tunnels. The mine has been in operation since the 13th Century (that’s an old mine) and is open for visitors daily from 07:30 a.m to 07:30 p.m. The mine can be visited without a tour group, but you may have a long wait depending on the number of visitors and tour groups.

The tour starts mid-morning and our meeting point for the start of the tour is the Krakville office building in the Old Town Krakow. Once again, we are given identification stickers to ensure we aren’t separated from our group. This straight away tells us that the mine is busy. We all climb into mini vans and are driven approximately half an hour to the town of Wieliczka.

Auschwitz and Birkenau — The small office of the Krakville Tour Company in the Old Town

It’s not long before we are at the mine and climb the steps to the mines entrance. On arrival it is raining, but that hasn’t stopped the crowds from showing up. There is a large number of tour group already here and a fair contingent of lone travellers negotiating the throng of people. The mine has some additional souvenir shops and a cafe outside if you must wait for a while.

The waiting crowds have some shops to buy food before entering the Wieliczka Salt Mine — An outdoor shop at the Wieliczka Salt Mine

After a short wait, we are guided past the crowds and into the mine. We are given radio receivers so that we can hear the guide as she explains the enormity of the mine. First, we descend down 350 steps to the entry-level of the mine. Like a column staircase you’d find in a hundred-floor building we descend down and down. It is quite a work out and if you make the mistake and go to fast down, you can get quite dizzy.

Staircase in Wieliczka Salt Mine — Some of the flights of stairs going down, but these aren’t the first 350 steps.

At the bottom of the stairs the guide checks to make sure we are all alive after the workout and explains the ground rules of the tour. Like don’t wander off, as there are so many tunnels, therefore getting lost is quite easy.

One of the many places of worship in the Wieliczka Salt Mine

As we walk through the tunnels we encounter open chambers within the mine providing a visual aid about the construction and operation of the mine. In total there are 20 chambers available to be visited. The guide explains that the workers would construct churches, halls, theatres and specific carvings as they were down in the mine for large amounts of time.

We walk through various places of worship and are shown some of the incredible wall fresco’s etched by the workers. Photos are allowed to be taken at a small additional cost and there are photo permit places along the route. The mine also has an underground souvenir store and a large restaurant and cafeteria area.

Overall, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a worthwhile attraction with the website stating that tourists should allow three hours to visit the site. The temperature of the mine averages 14 degrees Celsius so warm jackets are handy. You will be amazed at the chambers and carvings done by the workers. Photos are a must so my advice is pay for the permit. So, book your tour today and tell them Simon from Ourworldinreview sent you!

Additional Information for Krakville Wieliczka Salt Mine

ul. Mikolajska 8, Krakow
Ph: +48 607 750 901
Website: www.krakville.com

Cost 109PLN (AUD$38)

Trading Hours

Daily from 9 A.M. to 9 P.M.
Price includes:
transport by bus to and from Salt Mine
tour attendant
guide in Salt Mine
admission fees
duration 4 h

Available accommodation in Krakow

Other tours available through Urban Adventures

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Europe, Tours & Attractions

Bran Castle the home of Dracula

August 3, 2017 OurWorldinReview Leave a comment

What are the first things that come to your mind when someone mentions Transylvania? If you are like me you think of Dracula, vampires, dark nights and scary castles. Through the popularity of Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel Dracula, Transylvania has always had an intrigue for travellers. With many fans doing the trek to visit Bran Castle, commonly known as “the home of Dracula”.

During our travels, we always had Romania pencilled in as a possible country to visit and after some investigations we decided to base ourselves in Sighișoara and do a day trip to Bran Castle. Although Bran Castle is the home of Stoker’s Dracula, Sighișoara is the actual birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration behind the character.

Vlad Dracul — A portrait of Vlad the Impaler in Bran Castle.

Arguably, one of the prettiest villages in Romania, this picturesque village is home to one of the oldest medieval citadels in Romania. With its many Church’s, restaurant’s and residences located on top of a hill the colourful town oozes character.

Sighisoara, Romania — Beautiful Sighișoara, with one of the many church’s in the medieval citadel.

For our day tour to Bran Castle we opted to go with someone who knew Transylvania well. After a quick internet search about tours from Sighișoara, we came across, Emanuel Enache. Emanuel is the owner and primary tour guide for tour business, YourGuidein Transylvania. Emanuel offers his customers personalised tours throughout Transylvania, so we booked him to take us to Bran Castle. Booking was easy through his website, and he responded back quickly to organise morning pick up’s and inclusive tour information.

The Doubletree by Hilton Sighisoara — The Doubletree by Hilton Sighișoara, our base for our stay in Transylvania

The tour commences at 10:00 a.m with Emanuel picking us up from our hotel during our stay the Doubletree by Hilton Sighișoara. After introductions Emanuel places emphasis on us becoming friends from the start. His point of us meeting possibly only once in a lifetime is a good excuse for us to be friends from the outset. It’s not hard to like him, with his bubbly character and charm.

Transylvania and Bran Castle — The Transylvanian countryside.

The drive from Sighișoara to Bran Castle takes two hours, which fly by as Emanuel provides us with the history of the Transylvanian region, economy and life. This insight gives us an appreciation of the Romanian people and its culture. Emanuel has no set schedule to his tours, he allows his guests to dictate when they would like to stop for lunch or rest breaks along the way.

Once in Bran, Emanuel allows us to walk around the souvenir tents and food stalls whilst he organises skip the line entry into the castle. The various stalls show off their Dracula inspired souvenirs, from magnets, coffee cups and T-shirts. There is something for everyone!

Some of the souvenirs available at Bran Castle — If you are looking for a Dracula souvenir, then the Bran Castle stall’s will have something for you!

Bran Castle is one of the seven castles of Wallachia, and although Vlad the Impaler ruled the region during his reign from 1448. It is unknown if he used Bran Castle. This doesn’t take away from the breathtaking visual of this castle on the hill. Today it is mainly a museum to Queen Marie of Romania, who lived in the castle during her lifetime.

A bedroom in Bran Castle — One of the bedrooms inside Bran Castle, the furniture was all donated back to the Castle.

The three level castle is impressive, like many castles throughout Europe, so if you like castles then have a visit, the picture of Bran castle on the hill is a good photo to show your friends. Emanuel is excellent explaining the rooms, and the history of Queen Marie and the royal family, there is some rooms dedicated to the vampire myth, but they aren’t that interesting.

Inside Bran Castle — The interior of the three-levelled Bran Castle

Overall, Bran Castle by itself is something I wouldn’t do by myself. It is a nice drive but the castle is just another castle, if you don’t have the story about it. What made this tour especially worthwhile was Emanuel’s information and conversation about Transylvania, the castle, Dracula and the vampire myth. Emanuel’s engaging personality makes is tour worthwhile. Emanuel offers plenty other tours throughout Transylvania and will pick you up from your accommodation.

Transylvania itself is a beautiful part of Romania and a definite place to go with its history and pretty towns like Sighisoara and Sibiu. So, contact Emanuel and YourGuideinTransylvania and book your Transylvanian tour today. And tell them Simon from Ourworldinreview sent you!

Do a day trip from Sighisoara with Emanuel, YourguideinTransylvania to visit Bran Castle the home of Bram Stoker's Dracula — Pin Me!

Additional Information for YourGuideinTransylvania’s Bran Castle Day Tour

Strada Ilarie Chendi 35, Sighișoara 545400, Romania
Ph: +40 745 501 861
Website: www.yourguideintransylvania.com

Tour Information

Duration/Distance:

7 – 8 hours / 282 km

Price: 79 euro/person*

* minimum 2 pax

Included:

– Pick up / drop off at your hotel

– Transportation

– English licensed guide

– Permanent assistance

Available accommodation in Transylvania, Romania

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Europe, Tours & Attractions

Never Forgetting Auschwitz and Birkenau, Oswiecim Poland

July 5, 2017 OurWorldinReview Leave a comment

Poland is a wonderful country, full of history and tragedy. From the outset of this 55 week journey, Poland was probably one of the first countries listed as a must go place. The main reason behind this was so we could remember the tragedies that befell the country during World War II. This beautiful countryside just out of Krakow in the town of Oswiecim was a major area for Nazi Germany’s horrible agenda of genocide and ethnic cleansing. What we know throughout history as the Holocaust!

Since our current worlds in turmoil, we toured Auschwitz and Birkenau with local tour company Krakville to remember the innocent lives affected by this inhuman treatment. Hoping that history doesn’t repeat itself once again.

Krakville tour company located in the Old Town offers a range of small and large group tours to various attractions around Krakow. We arrive at the Krakville office early the next morning to meet our tour group and are given Krakville identification stickers. After checking in we are escorted to the tour bus and driven to Auschwitz first, then Birkenau.

The drive through the countryside to Oswiecim takes about an hour and the first thing that catches your eye is how green and beautiful the landscape is.

On arrival to Auschwitz you instantly realise why they use identification stickers, because it is packed with tour buses and other tour groups. We are escorted to a staging area and enter through a security checkpoint to our awaiting English-speaking guide. Each participant is given an audio receiver so you can hear the guides presentation clearly whilst the information is given.

Auschwitz’s brick buildings still stand as they did back then in WWII. The internal structures have been restored to give the visitor of the conditions prisoners were kept in. The barbed wire fences, guard towers all remain to provide an eerie feeling. Yet the lush green grass hides the tormented past.

Auschwitz concentration camp — A guard-house and barbed wire fences surrounded by lush green lawns

As you enter the main camp the words “Arbeit macht frei, Work sets you free” are positioned above the main gate. Unfortunately, unknown to the prisoners, the only way they would be free from Auschwitz was to work themselves to death or be killed.

The knowledgeable guide expertly explains the use of the buildings, the conditions the prisoners were exposed to and the devilish treatment and things the Nazi’s did to break the spirits of the people.

One building has framed pictures of the prisoners who died on the walls, including name, occupation, religion, date of arrival to Auschwitz and date of death. The photos stretch along a corridor leading to glass rooms full of personal items, from suitcases, shoes, and hauntingly a room full of hair.

Visitors then proceed to the underground solitary confinement cells, the firing squad wall and the original experimental gas chamber and crematorium.

Our guide delivers all of the information with as little emotion as possible which creates a sense of loss and awkwardness. We then head back to the bus and head to Auschwitz II, Birkenau.

Auschwitz II known as Birkenau is approximately a ten minute drive from the Auschwitz main camp. Compared to the first camp, Birkenau concentration camp is enormous. Although many of the wooden buildings have perished due to reclaiming of timber after the war and destruction of the camp on the last days before liberation. It is amazing to see the old chimneys dotting a large field where prison housing existed.

The infamous rail gate, where the train enters Birkenau still stands and the selection area and officers building remains. Our guide explains the selection process and the long march to the gas chambers and crematorium.

Not much stands of the gas chambers and crematorium as the Nazi’s tried to destroy the evidence of their crimes just before liberation.

Overall, Krakville’s tour to Auschwitz and Birkenau was an eye opener. Personally, I believe it’s a must do so you can pay your respects to the victims of Auschwitz. So, book your tour today and tell them Simon from Ourworldinreview sent you!

Seeing human tragedy is uncomfortable, but we should never forget what happened at Auschwitz and Birkenau — Pin Me!

Additional Information for Krakville Tours Auschwitz and Birkenau Tour

ul. Mikolajska 8, Krakow
Ph: +48 607 750 901
Website: www.krakville.com

Cost 99PLN (AUD$35)

Trading Hours

Daily from 9 A.M. to 9 P.M.
Price includes:• transport by bus to and from Auschwitz and Birkenau
• tour attendant
• guide in Auschwitz – Birkenau
• admission fees
• duration: 6 h

Available accommodation in Krakow

Other tours available through Urban Adventures

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Europe, Tours & Attractions

Sightseeing Krakow, Take a Segway Tour

June 18, 2017 OurWorldinReview Leave a comment

It was touch and go if we would make it to Krakow after leaving our accommodation in Berlin. Our original plan was to take a train from Berlin to Krakow, but due to some unexpected line repairs we had to quickly purchase some flights instead. Once at the check in counter at the airport we were told the flight had been overbooked and we were now on the standby list. Oh No! Read about what happened to us on Josie Wanders.

When we finally made it to Krakow, we checked into our AirBNB apartment, and got organised for our stay. The next bright and early morning we made our way into the old town to explore the sights. Over the years, we’ve always said to the girls that we should do a Segway tour and as we walked into the old town there were Segway’s everywhere! So, we decided, today was the day. At the local Segway Tour office, we had a look at the available tour options and ended up selecting the Krakow Old Tour Segway Tour.

Segway Tours Poland — The impressive Slowacki Theatre

The Old Town tour costs 160 PLN (approximately AUD$55) per person. The only issue was that the Segway tour office only accepts cash, so we had to detour to the nearest ATM. Luckily, there is an ATM machine across the road from the office, if you don’t happen to be carrying that much cash around with you.

Once the payment was made our English-speaking guide Alex, taught us how to ride the Segways. Now, let me be honest here! The first time you hop onto a Segway, it feels a little weird. Unnatural. It’s all about balance and your centre of gravity. By adjusting your centre of gravity forward and you move forward. Lean back on your segway and you will either slow down if moving forward our start to go backwards if stopped. To turn, you move the handlebar to the left or right, unlike a bicycle which you turn the handlebars. Once you get used to it and lose that awkwardness, it is probably one of the most fun things you can do.

Krakow Segway Tour — The girls listening to Alex talking about Krakow’s Old Town

After everyone was feeling comfortable and we were off on our 90 -minute tour of the old town. Our guide Alex, is a friendly likeable guide who ensured that we were looked after and fully in control of our Segways through Planty Park and the various traffic crossings.

The tour took us through the Main Square, St Mary’s Church, Wawel Castle and much more. Taking his time to explain the history and importance of each site. Once all the touring was over he then took us to a large square, and let us have some individual fun on the Segways, weaving in and out of the concrete fixtures and making those Segways dance.

Overall the Segway Tour, would have to be one of the best ways to explore Krakow. They are incredibly fun! I would recommend on milder days that you take some gloves, as your hands do get cold. Our tour lasted a little over 90 minutes and the information and guidance provided by Alex was excellent. Krakow Segway Tour’s have five tours available or if you just want to take one for a ride they have 15 – 90 minute rental plans. So, when in Krakow take a Segway tour and tell them Simon from Ourworldinreview sent you!

Looking for a fun tour to around Krakow? Then make sure you do a 90 minute Segway Tour — Pin Me!

Additional Information for Krakow Segway Tour

Florianska 37, Krakow 31-019 & Sienna 17
Telephone: +48 500 001 032 & +48 500 001 023
Website: www.segwaytour.pl

Cost:

Segway Tours start from 80PLN – 300PLN
Segway Rental start from 50PLN – 150PLN

Book your stay in Krakow now with Booking.com

Book your Urban Adventures tour in Krakow here

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Europe, Tours & Attractions

Animals and Aquariums – The Berlin Zoo and Aquarium

June 16, 2017 OurWorldinReview Leave a comment

If you have had the pleasure of travelling with children, you would know that sometimes it’s hard to keep them happy. In their minds, Museums and Art Galleries can be boring. That’s because most young children don’t appreciate looking at the ancient pottery from Pompeii or the subject and detail of Rembrandt’s The Nights Watch. Basically, unless there are dinosaurs or places with amazing interactive fun, children become disinterested quickly. They want to go to places like Disneyland, Sea World or the other major amusement parks. But, at times we all become those little kids and desire that entertainment. Feeling in a fun and happy mood we head off for a day at the Berlin Zoo and Aquarium.

After a lovely breakfast at Cafe Clave, we decide to walk the 1.1 km from our Scandic hotel to the Berlin Zoo and Aquarium.

Now, if this is your first trip to Berlin, you may want to think about purchasing the Berlin Welcome Card. This transport tourist card lasts up to 6 days and covers all your public transport options. It also comes with a booklet containing discounts to many of the major attractions, including the Berlin Zoo and Aquarium. Additionally, it comes with that all important city map, so you can see the various tourist sites and construct your touring itinerary accordingly.

The Berlin Welcome Card covers transport and discounts to many major attractions, including the Berlin Zoo and Aquarium. — The Berlin Welcome Card Booklet

If you are short on time, you can do the Berlin Zoo and Aquarium separately. We opted to combine the two at a discounted price (See below). Since the zoo is the larger of the two complexes we do the zoo first.

As mentioned the zoo is large, exhibiting a wide range of animals from around the world. Our recommendation is to examine the zoo’s map provided and work out a plan of attack. That way you won’t be backtracking and possibly missing some of the animals. Of course, the information is in German so have your translating app available if you can’t read German.

The zoo has set times for feeding and information on the animals (again in German), but it was still interesting seeing them being fed. From wolves, elephants, gorillas, rhinos, lions, zebras and giraffes it was amazing to see the children’s young faces light up in awe of these magnificent creatures.

Finding food is not an issue at the zoo as they have a large cafe, a restaurant and many food carts scattered around the park.

Exciting times are ahead for the Berlin Zoo as they are finishing their new Panda enclosure as they are expecting them to arrive in June 2017.

Once you’ve finished in the Berlin Zoo make your way to the Aquarium. Here you will find an arrangement of diverse types of fish, amphibians, reptiles and creepy crawly insects.

This three-story building holds a vast quantity of fish species of assorted sizes and incredible colours.

There is a warm, humid, central forest area that has some crocodiles, which was inviting on a cooler Berlin day. Like the zoo the aquarium has a cafe, in case you want a snack or coffee.

Overall, both the Berlin Zoo and Aquarium are wonderful places to visit in Berlin. By using the Berlin Welcome Card, we had a 25% discount on the combined price, so great value for money. There is enough fun and intrigue for children to enjoy the day. The zoo also has a large playground area, so your children can burn off some extra energy if required. Visit the zoo and aquarium today and tell them, Simon from Ourworldinreview sent you!

Additional Information for the Berlin Zoo and Aquarium

Berlin Zoo

Hardenbergplatz 8, 10787 Berlin
Ph. +49 30 254010
Website: www.zoo-berlin.de

Opening Times

	ZOO	CASH POINT
1. January – 26. February	9:00 am – 4:30 pm	9:00 am – 3:30 pm
27. February – 26. March	9:00 am – 6:00 pm	9:00 am – 5:00 pm
27. March – 24. September	9:00 am – 6:30 pm	9:00 am – 5:00 pm
25. September – 29. October	9:00 am – 6:00 pm	9:00 am – 5:00 pm
30. October – 31. December	9:00 am – 4:30 pm	9:00 am – 3:30 pm

*Note:

The Zoo closes at 2 p.m. on 24 December.

Please note that the ticket offices close approx. one hour before the zoo closes. The animal houses close 30 minutes before the zoo itself closes.

Aquarium Berlin

Budapester Straße 32, 10787 Berlin
Ph. +49 30 254010
Website: www.aquarium-berlin.de

Opening Times

	AQUARIUM
1 January–31 December	9 a.m.–6 p.m.

TICKETS – Berlin Zoo and Aquarium

	Aquarium & Zoo – Separate	ZOO & AQUARIUM Combination
Adults	14,50 €	20,00 €
Children 4 up to 15 years	7,50 €	10,00 €
Small Families (1 adult and his or her children up to 15 years)	25,00 €	33,00 €
Large Families (2 adults and his or their children up to 15 years)	39,00 €	50,00 €
Concession* students, apprentices, ALG I+II recipients, the severely disabled and their accompaniment, accompaniment if explicitly required on the disabled visitor’s ID	10,00 €	15,00 €

Welcome to Berlin Card

For more information on the Welcome to Berlin Card , click here

Book accommodation in Berlin via Booking.com

Book UrbanAdventures guided tours in Berlin

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Europe, Tours & Attractions

Do you want to go to Disneyland Paris?

May 31, 2017 OurWorldinReview Leave a comment

As a family, we have had some wonderful adventures. We have been lucky enough to take our girls to many overseas destinations. So, why not let them choose some of the things we do! In 2015, we did a trip to Hong Kong and the girls selected to go to Disneyland. We spent two full days there and they were hooked. Therefore, when they first heard we’d be visiting France on this journey they were definite that they wanted to visit Disneyland Paris and do it all again.

After looking at our schedule we decided that this time we would only spend a day at Disneyland. With the theme park only opening at 10 am we could take our time getting there. From our accommodation at the B&B Hotel Paris Porte de la Villette we jump onto the Metro to Chaussee d’Antin La Fayette. From there we take the 5-minute walk to the Auber RER station and purchase our train tickets for Disneyland Paris. Disneyland is about 45 minutes out of the city in Gare de Marne la Vallee Chessy. The cost of the train ticket from Auber to Disneyland is €15.20 one way per person.

Once arriving at Disneyland Paris, if you haven’t purchased your tickets, then head over to the ticket office. Just so you are prepared the Parks offer various entry options. Now, you would have just heard me mention “parks”, because Disneyland Paris contains two parks; Disneyland and Walt Disney Studios. You have the option of visiting one or both parks. We of course decided to visit both.

Excitedly we entered Walt Disney Studios and had a look around. Our first stop in the park was to visit the animation theatre. Here we discovered how the Walt Disney studio created their animation and creature effects. Only lasting about 10 minutes is gives us some valuable information about animated production and set design.

Much of the Walt Disney Studio’s areas are based on a certain theme. Be it Ratatouille, Toy Story, Lilo and Stitch or Armageddon, the sections have rides and theatre shows based around these popular Disney Studio titles.

We found that it was quite easy to fly through Walt Disney Studios and quickly moved to the Disneyland Park.

Like the Studio, the Park is separated into defined areas. There’s Frontierland, Adventureland, Fantasyland and Discoveryland. These lands are separated by a central plaza and main street containing the various Disney retail and food outlets. Also scattered throughout the park are food stalls and restaurants.

A family could easily spend a day or two exploring these two sites. We spent most of our stay in Disneyland Park and whilst there probably tried out every ride and feature available. Unfortunately, some of the park is still under construction, with a Pirates of the Caribbean area still being developed. Saying this though doesn’t take away from the intrigue of the park.

Now for the important detail, which will determine if you elect to stay or go to Disneyland Paris. The cost… It can be expensive, we were there for a twelve-hour day and spent close to €600 for a family of four. So, I would consider that an expensive day out.

Disneyland Paris also has accommodation available in their hotel, with room packages including access to the Disneyland Parks. So, it may be a better option to book your accommodation at the hotel and access the parks that way. This way you don’t have to worry about transport to the parks and accommodation in Paris. Likewise, you could find some cheap accommodation in Marne-la-Vallée and just worry about tickets into the park.

Although expensive, we had an awesome time at Disneyland Paris. Disneyland holds some fascination and wonder to people of all ages. It is an extremely fun day, although sometimes you may need to line up to access the more popular rides. They offer a “Fast Track” ride option which costs a little extra, where you are given a time to go on a particular ride. This way you can have fun elsewhere in the park and when your time gets closer you just go to the fast track lane and hop onto the ride.

Overall, Disneyland Paris is an amazing place. My recommendation is that if you are planning on going, make sure you have saved your pennies. But sometimes, spending quality time and enjoying a fun-filled day is more valuable than the cost. Because I know, these memories will last forever. Therefore, when you are in France, pencil in Disneyland Paris for a day or two, enjoy an incredible experience and tell them Simon from Ourworldinreview sent you!

Additional Information for Disneyland Paris

77777 Marne-la-Vallée, France
Ph. +33 1 60 30 60 53
Website: www.disneylandparis.com

Price

Prices range from € 42.00 – € 223.00 for Passport ticket entry
Full ticketing information available here

Opening hours

Disneyland® Park	10:00 to 23:00	Extra Magic Hours 8:00 to 10:00

Walt Disney Studios® Park	10:00 to 18:00	—

Book accommodation near Disneyland Park, Marne-la-Vallée.

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Europe, Tours & Attractions

French Royalty and the Palace of Versailles

May 25, 2017 OurWorldinReview 2 Comments

No matter what your first thoughts of France are, it is undoubtedly full of history. The opulence of France is on full show and there is probably no better place to see this wealth than the Palace of Versailles.

The Palace of Versailles taken from the golden gates

Like many tourists to France we decided to make our way to the Palace to spend a day visiting the royal residences and relaxing in the gardens.

After leaving the B&B Hotel Paris Porte de la Villette a little later than we had hoped for, we hop on the 9 am train to Versailles. Train tickets can be purchased from the train stations. Just tell the ticket office we’re you are going and they will give you the right ticket. Likewise, you can use the automated ticket machines to select your required tickets. Please note; conductors do check your tickets so if you select the wrong one you may find yourself being fined or paying for another ticket. This depends on how the conductors are feeling on the day.

When arriving at Versailles station it is a short walk around to the Palace. Just follow the signs and masses of other tourists. Online purchasing is a good idea as you won’t need to line up for tickets at the ticket office. Unfortunately, you will see need to wait in the entry line unless you’ve purchased a “skip the line” ticket, through a third-party operator, for an extra cost.

We were lucky on the day we were there as everyone wanted to buy tickets from the ticket office. Therefore, no one was using the hidden ticket machines in a different room. We quickly purchased our tickets for the palaces and gardens and headed to the huge line up.

Now, we were prepared for the wait, we had some water, some snacks and our entertainment devices to keep us occupied. If fact Josie and I used to time to write a few posts whilst we waited. The girls listened to some music and sang, harmonising the day away.

It was a 2.5 hour wait but the lines constantly moved, so there was a sense that you were going somewhere. Group tours through travel agencies are always available. These tours get you into the grounds quicker, but you have a limited time for your visit to the Palace and gardens. And the Palace of Versailles is a take your time attraction.

When you make it to the front of the line, you will need to pass through a security checkpoint. So, make sure you are sensible and leave any sharp implements in your room. We have seen people try to enter with their favourite Swiss Army knife, only for it to be confiscated.

Once you’re past the security check the Palace of Versailles shows you its wealth around every corner. This Palace has seen Kings and Queens grace these beautiful halls and their need for luxury is incredible.

Once through the Palace buildings you cannot help but be overwhelmed by the enormity of the Palace grounds. Water fountains, sculptures, manicured lawns and flower exhibits are everywhere. Make sure you grab a map so you don’t get lost.

As mentioned earlier, you should make a day of it. The gardens contain a cafe and restaurant if you are feeling hungry. We ate a nice lunch in the La Girandole Versailles garden cafe at a slightly elevated price. However, it was great to relax for a little while before exploring the gardens more.

Our Passport Ticket also gave us access to the Petit and Grand Trianons, which once housed the Queen’s, Princess’ and Princes of France.

These Trianons are located outside of the main palace grounds with separate security checks being performed at each site.

A fantastic day, the Palace of Versailles is an ideal day getaway from Paris. So, spend a day or book some accommodation in Versailles and tell them Simon of Ourworldinreview sent you!

Additional Information for the Palace of Versailles

Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
Ph. + 33 1 30 83 78 00
Website: www.chauteauversailles.fr

Price

Prices range from € 20.00 – € 30.00 for Passport ticket entry
Full ticketing information available here

Opening hours

Palace
from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm
closed on Mondays

Estate of Trianon
from 12:00 pm to 6:30 pm
closed on Mondays

Gardens
from 8:00 am to 8:30 pm

Coach Gallery
from 12:30 pm to 6:30 pm
closed on Mondays

Book accommodation in Versailles here.

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Europe, Tours & Attractions

German History, a Storyline of Berlin

May 22, 2017 OurWorldinReview Leave a comment

Before this big adventure started, we knew we’d have to plan some activities before we arrived in Europe. After doing some research we booked some tours with Urban Adventures. One of those tours was a Storyline of Berlin.

Urban Adventure’s Storyline of Berlin is a 4-5 hour walking tour, around the streets of Berlin. Germany has had an infamous history and Berlin has been at the heart of those historic tragedies. This tour gives, visitors an honest historical insight into the heartbreaking treatment of the people of Europe by Hitler’s Germany. It then details the subsequent division of a city after World War II ended. The tour does need a little fitness to complete the 5 hour walk. But your tour guide will control the pace of the walk depending on speed and health of their guests.

Our meeting point for the tour is at the large flag pole in front of the Reichstag building. Here we are greeted by our guide for the day, Sara. Sara is an Italian archaeologist with an extensive knowledge and love for Berlin. Her passion for this city is evident in how she delivers her knowledge to her guests.

From the Reichstag, you walk the streets and visit some of Berlin’s main attractions. The Holocaust Memorial is a large eerie art display, that makes you feel trapped the deeper you walk in, with imposing walls on either side. The stunning Brandenburg gate with its horse and chariot to the Topography of Terror, which has a timeline of the horrific treatment of the innocent.

Not only does the tour take in all this history, Sara also ensures that you have a couple of rest stops. A stop at a local café for some refreshments and a toilet break. Then another pause later when you visit Rausch’s, an incredible chocolate store with samples and magnificent chocolate displays.

A Storyline of Berlin tour completes at Lustgarten, next to the Berlin Cathedral. Here Sara will give you advice on where to eat and what else to do with your time in Berlin.

Our small group of four found the tour very interesting and well worth the cost. Sara was an excellent guide, easy to understand with a well measured delivery of her knowledge. We have no issue in recommending this excellent tour through Urban Adventures. So, book your next tour today and tell them Simon from Ourworldinreview sent you!

Berlin is a place of History, let Urban Adventures take you through the Storyline of Berlin! — PIN ME!

Additional Information for Urban Adventure’s Storyline of Berlin

To see available tours in Berlin, click here
To book a Storyline of Berlin here: www.urbanadventures.com

Price

Adults: € 61.00
Child: € 31.00

Departure time: 10:00 am

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Sunday	9am–7pm

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