As Schengen zone countries are still figuring out their border reopening plans for the 2021 summer season, some European destinations are already welcoming qualified travelers.
Croatia is currently open to US leisure travelers with access requirements in place. More entry details at the US Embassy.
Croatia is located at the crossroads of Central Europe, the Balkans, and the Mediterranean. The country is blessed with a beautiful coast, which stretches over 1100 miles on the eastern side of the Adriatic Sea.
Located near the very south of the coast, the city of Dubrovnik is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. For centuries, the city’s prosperity has been attributed to its role as a major seaport in the region. Today Dubrovnik is also one of the most elite destinations in the Mediterranean.
Some 1200 islands are located near the shores of Croatia. In the 19th century dozens of lighthouses were constructed to improve the safety of the waters amid those islands. In recent years, many lighthouses and the apartments that were once home to the lighthouse keepers’ families were converted into inns. Tourists can book those apartments to experience the isolated life of a lighthouse keeper (and enjoy social distancing at an entirely new level).
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Circular Quay from the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Sydney, Australia
Visiting Sydney during off-season could be a good way to avoid crowds. Here are some sightseeing ideas for your trip.
Excellent transport system and tailor-made tours make it easy to enjoy Sydney’s natural and man-made assets. Bustling Circular Quay is home to the city’s main ferry terminal and a launching point for popular Harbor cruises.
The Rocks
The nearby Rocks with its cobbled laneways is the place of Australia’s first European settlement. Check out the Rocks Discovery Museum, which traces the area’s transformation from traditional aboriginal lands, to convict slum, to tourist hotspot.
Sydney Opera House
The instantly recognizable Sydney Opera House is one of the city’s busiest music, arts and performance venues. To learn about the inner workings of this icon, you can take a backstage tour which is available in several languages.
Sydney Harbor Bridge
Nicknamed “the coathanger”, the Sydney Harbor Bridge was opened in 1932. It spans across the Sydney Harbor offering some great views. You can walk, cycle, and even climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge.
Royal Botanic Gardens
The beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens is a 30-hectare site located nearby. There are walking paths and scenic train rides for kids, plus special Aboriginal Heritage Tours and sample tasty bush foods.
Beaches and Blue Mountains National Park
When it’s time to cool off, head to any of the world-class beaches just minutes from downtown. If you in the mood for some wildernesses, take a day trip to the Blue Mountains National Park. The UNESCO World Heritage Area of breathtaking beauty is just a few hours away from the city.
Stay Connected
And of course, remember to bring your OneSimCard, which comes with an optional free Australian number that can be extended or added at any time. Multiple Discount data plans are also available in Australia.
Cherry blossoms start blooming in Taiwan as early as February and last through April. Smaller crowds and lower prices than more popular destinations, like Japan, attract many savvy Sakura viewers.
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Zone A on eSIM and Universal includes over 80 countries Zone B on eSIM and Universal includes over 120 countries
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Many consider the best time to visit Rio is between December and March, when the weather is warm and sunny enough to hit the beaches.
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South Africa offers something for every type of traveler.
From cosmopolitan cities to lush national parks; beautiful beaches to stunning wine regions and historic sites. This site has been self-proclaimed as The Cradle of Humankind. It is here that the first hominid, Australopithecus, was found in 1924.
The Cradle of Humankind occupies 47,000 hectares (180 sq mi) and contains a complex of limestone caves. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage site in 1999.
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Very few cities can match Istanbul’s historic heritage. Founded in 660 BCE as Byzantion, it became Constantinople in 330 CE and finally Istanbul in 1923. Strategically located between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, the city has been highly influential in geopolitical and cultural affairs.
Many cultures left their mark on the city during this long period: from architecture to cuisine and everything in between. For this reason some say that Istanbul isn’t just one city, but many cities in one.
Whichever way you decide to explore Istanbul, OneSimCard can provide you with different options to stay connected.
Data, Voice and Text connectivity for less money is just the beginning. OneSimCard offers 14 data plans for Turkey which can be added to your SIM card including eSIM at any time. You can even add a local phone number to your OneSimCard in addition to the phone numbers already on it.
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Morocco is now included in both “Zone A” and Zone “B” Data Plans on eSIM and OneSimCard Universal. Enjoy data rates as low as $0.018 per MB in Morocco as well as in many other countries around the word!
Zone A on eSIM and Universal includes over 80 countries
Zone B on eSIM and Universal includes over 120 countries
Discount Data plan is an optional service that provides extra savings on high volume data usage. Great for gaming, maps, video, social media and everything in between.
Local phone numbers are also available in Morocco (proof of residency may be required).
For the second time in fifty-six years, Tokyo, the Japanese capital, will host the Summer Olympic Games. The Olympics are set to take place over two weeks, which gives you ample time to take part in the Games and do a bit of exploring in this great city. Tokyo is one of the biggest and vibrant metropolitan cities in the world and it’s no surprise that it provides an experience like no other. It accommodates the usual sights like museums, unique restaurants and temples but also offers non-traditional experiences that are even more alluring. Why not get enchanted with the beautiful mix of past, present, and future that is Tokyo? Here is a list of unique sites and activities you can indulge in while taking a break from the bustle of the games.
1. Cosplay While Driving a Mario Go Kart On The Streets Of Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan – Mario street kart tour
This is one of the most thrilling activities you can do right in the streets of Tokyo. That’s right…you can rent and ride a real-life Mario Go Kart while dressed up as your favorite character. You’re assured of an adrenaline kick from driving past skyscrapers and passing other cars and buses on the road in your tiny go-kart and your cool costume. The karts are easy to run, and all you need is an international driving permit. The ride takes you through areas like Akihabara and Shibuya where you see a variety of sights from quiet residential regions to viewing the bustling city crossings. The views as you cruise around Tokyo Tower and go across the massive Rainbow Bridge are breathtakingly picturesque. Be sure to choose the two-hour course which is enough to get you comfortable driving the go-kart and give you loads of time to visit as much of the city as possible.
2. Experience the Otaku and Kawaii Culture
Akihabara, Tokyo, Japan
In Akihabara, anyone who’s obsessed with electronics or a particular culture such as Anime (AKA the “Otaku”) finds a home. The area features cosplay shops, maid cafes, video game shops and all things colorful and bizarre. There are also a couple of filming locations here that anime fans would find rather exciting. The female version of the experience – Butler cafes – is offered over at Ikebukuro.
Kawaii, the rampant obsession of everything cute, has its own culture and is brought to life in maid cafes. Here the maids dress in slightly risqué cosplay costumes as they serve you. Every cafe has different policies and fines. It’s smart to ask about what you’re allowed to do in the Maid Cafe, like taking pictures, lest you find yourself with a big fine. Otherwise, enjoy your cutely plated meal and relax.
3. Shop Till You Drop at Don Quijote, Harajuku and Uniqlo
Takashita Street, Harajuku, Tokyo, Japan
Shopping will be high on your to-do list because of the large number of big department stores and sprawling shopping malls all over the city. The first and most natural choice in shopping would be the quirky discount store that is Don Quixote (aka DONKI). This 24-hour store has locations in several areas with its most significant branch (which stands at seven stories) located at Shibuya. It sells everything imaginable from snacks, household goods, traditional souvenirs, clothes, cosmetics, and many more items.
If your tastes run towards the Kawaii culture and all things chic, Harajuku is the place for you. Harajuku is the heart and soul of hundreds of stylish and trendy boutiques that feature high-end street clothing brands. Its streets, like Omotesando Street and Meiji Street, have large shopping malls that cater to adults and Japanese fashion. The teenage culture is covered on Takeshita Street at the center of everything (pictured above). Harajuku also has numerous cafes and food stands ready to offer you tasty treats as you take a break from your hunt of trendy items.
The flagship store of Uniqlo, a Japanese casual-wear designer, is in Ginza. The store covers sprawling 12 floors and offers inexpensive, but high-quality, clothing essentials. So, drop by and see what’s on offer if you find yourself in the neighborhood.
4. Give the Pachinko Parlors a Try
Pachinko parlour
Located all around the city, Pachinko is known as the top gambling game in Japan. What started as a pinball-esque children’s game in its development skyrocketed into a not-so-legal hypnotic game. The Parlour owners have worked a loophole that lets them skirt the laws on gambling and continue staying open. Join the frenzy that attracts practically everyone in Tokyo and seat yourself in front of a Pachinko machine.
5. Visit the Japanese Animation Studio Ghibli Museum
Ghibli Museum, Mitaka, Japan
Japan is head over heels for anime, so your trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to where the magic happens. Ghibli Studios are the creators of the classic films Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro. Get ready to get a glimpse of Hayao Miyazaki’s works and drawings together with set props from your favorite movies. They show short Japanese animation and give you in-depth information on the history and techniques of bringing animation to life. Make sure you book a ticket early because they get sold out weeks in advance. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss!
3 things that will make your stay in Tokyo run smoothly
The summer Olympics is an exciting experience on their own, but it doesn’t hurt to apply some skill and caution while in the city. Here are some ways you can make your stay better.
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Just because you are traveling doesn’t mean that you should stay off the grid. With OneSimCard international SIM card, you can stay connected with your friends and family as you explore Tokyo and make memories.
The Express train is the easiest way to get from one station to the next within Tokyo. A Suica card will work as a ticket on all trains and metro lines and even work on vending machines when you need to buy something. Some shops also accept it as payment which makes it very handy!
Don’t forget travel insurance
Japanese health care is rather costly, so make sure your travel insurance is enough to cover you over your stay.
Tokyo has so many quirky & cool things to offer so don’t just stop at our shortlist of adventures. Feel free to make your stay longer or plan another visit to this attractive city to cover more activities and fun!
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Christmas market, Deutscher Dom and konzerthaus in Berlin, Germany
The holiday season is a favorite time of year to travel for many people around the world, and we are convinced there’s no better way to celebrate the holiday season than a visit to Christmas Markets in Europe.
Thanks to the many Christmas Markets, towns in Europe look like scenes straight out of your favorite movie during this festive season. The snow-capped cathedrals, the wooden chalets, the different twinkling lights, and other street decorations are quite a sight to see. You also can’t miss the seasonal cookies and cakes that are on display in stores all around the town.
People from Europe undoubtedly know how to do Christmas in style, and if you are there during this period, be sure to check out the markets. They often open at the end of November, so we thought it wise to give you a headstart of the best Christmas markets.
Are you heading to Europe this season? Don’t leave before you check out these top 5 Christmas markets.
1. Berlin, Germany
If you are looking for a place to buy some trendy gifts, the artsy Berlin scene should be your first stop. The city gives a modern approach to a long-standing tradition in over 80 Christmas markets. The markets are open from November 25th through December 31st this year.
Covering the 80 markets won’t be easy, so here are a few tips. Spandau is the biggest, so there are plenty of activities to occupy your time. Weihnachtszauber, in Gendarmenmarkt Square, is the prettiest with the Charlottenburg Palace in the background. With the decorative fences and lights in the market, you are sure to enjoy a warm festive glow. Your toddler could even try some arts and crafts in the Fairy Tale Tent at Gendarmenmarkt. That’d make a great souvenir of your adventure!
Are you bringing your kids along? The winter forest, Winterland at Potsdamer Platz, is an excellent place for them. They could get free lessons at the ice-skating rink, head over to the small railway, or the air swing, which are just a few of the activities there.
2. Vienna, Austria
Are you looking to have some magical Christmas time with your family or spouse? Then you should head over to the Vienna Christmas markets.
From 15th November to 26th December, the beautiful squares in Vienna will transform into delightful Christmas markets.
Belvedere Palace will leave you in awe, thanks to the handmade gifts and the traditional wooden toys in the stores around.
The City Hall is home to Vienna’s Christmas Dream and is the ideal market if you are bringing your family along. The kids could have some time in the Ferris wheel or on the ground floor where they learn how to make Christmas candles.
Be sure to visit the market at Vienna’s old general hospital for some lovely Christmas gifts. Try out the traditional Gluhwein while there. You’ll love it.
3. Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is also known as France’s Capital of Christmas, and it is clear why once you visit. Dating back to 1570, Strasbourg is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe and is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Christmas Markets began in Strasbourg, so the historic center gives a magical feel. You can get some wooden Christmas decorations in the 300 traditional chalets lining the city’s central square.
The Strasbourg Cathedral is a sight to behold. The Gothic towers and the famous astronomical clock will make your visit worthwhile.
If you want some uninterrupted Christmas shopping, avoid the markets in the evenings and during the weekends. Try out the gingerbread bakery and other delicious treats that are available all around the markets.
Christmas in Strasbourg is a magical event. If you are ever in France anytime between 22nd November and 30th December, visit the place. If you are lucky, you could be part of a street parade.
4. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Christmas markets run into January, so they are ideal for some after-Christmas shopping when there aren’t as many people. Open-air concerts, dance performances, and beautiful Christmas decorations in the streets give the city an unforgettable atmosphere.
The live animal stable scene at the Old Town Square is quite a sight. If you are bringing your kids, this will undoubtedly capture their imagination. The gingerbread cookies will also be a great treat for them.
You can try out some of the renowned Czech Beer from the stalls in the streets. There’s also plenty of mulled wine to go around, but why not mingle with the locals over a glass of grog? The drink, which is made of rum, water, lemon, and sugar, is a favorite for many around here.
If you want to catch the lights at the city’s marvelous Christmas tree, head over to Wenceslas Square at 5 o’clock every evening.
5. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen boasts of several Christmas markets, but the heart of all the buzz in the city lies in Tivoli gardens. From November 16th to January 5th, the gardens will be lined with Christmas trees and decorations that bring the city to life. The markets create a cozy atmosphere for travelers and locals to enjoy a special time with their loved ones.
The mouth-watering aroma of roasted almonds and mulled wine in the streets will bring you joy as you walk through the markets. Be sure to have some before heading over to the ice rink. For the ultimate spectacle during your visit to Copenhagen, be sure to visit Kronpinsensgade and see the floating ceiling of Christmas lights.
If you need a break from all the festivities, you can head over to the Meatpacking district and spend some time in the bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Vacationing in Europe during this period can be exciting. But keeping in touch with your loved ones may be difficult because of expensive international roaming rates. OneSimCard offers several international SIM cards to help you stay connected abroad included a dedicated Europe SIM card with very low rates. Get your OneSimCard and get up to 85% lower charges.
Whether you are in Europe for just a few days or the entire holiday season, the Christmas markets are a must-see. Bring back your loved ones some souvenirs from the magical cities and get to experience Christmas in the European style!
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