Statistics show that these destinations have low levels of violent crime. However, they do have a share of phone grabbing, purse snatching, and lots of pickpocketing especially near tourist landmarks.

Data collected by insurance company Quotezone.co.uk have revealed the cities and places where more holidaymakers have fallen victim to pickpocketing.

Their research classified the most visited European destinations by the number of pickpocketing mentions in reviews of “each country’s top five tourist attractions.”

Results are somehow shocking. While many tourists will tell you that Barcelona and Paris are probably the cities with the highest number of pickpockets, it turned out that the city where most travelers have lost their belongings is actually Italy.

The impressive Colosseum, the stunning Trevi Fountain and the historical Pantheon in Rome, as well as the Duomo di Milano in Milan and the Gallerie Degli Uffizi in Florence, are the most targeted hotspots by thieves in Europe. 

Paris came in second and Barcelona came in third. Hard to hear but we all saw that coming.

“Iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Trevi Fountain in Rome are particularly popular with pickpockets as they can move more inconspicuously amongst larger crowds,” said Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk.

In the eyes of thieves, tourists are regarded as easy prey because most of them are not familiar with local streets, carry large amounts of cash as well as cameras and other electronic devices and are not paying too much attention while having fun.

According to Quotezone.co.uk, these are the cities and places with the highest level of pickpocketing across Europe as of April 2024. 

Tips to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe

Armed robberies in European cities are very rare but make no mistake, pickpockets are out there waiting for you to make the smallest mistake to run away with your money and belongings. Follow these steps to enjoy a safer trip and avoid inconveniences.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially at popular tourist landmarks or crowded places.
• Don’t flash your money. Don’t make yourself a target.
• Leave your jewelry and travel documents secure back in your accommodation.
• Never leave phones, purses or other personal items unattended.
• Don’t walk around with all your money and your debit and credit cards. Leave most of them in your hotel room.
• Double-check with your insurance company what is or isn’t covered in case of robbery.

The post Data Reveals 10 European Cities with the Most Pickpocketing Ahead of Summer 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

We did a bit of research and compiled a list of the 6 cheapest beach destinations in Europe for summer 2024 where you can vacation like a king. Here they are.

Alanya, Turkey

Thousands of holidaymakers flock to Turkey every year. However, it has a very long coastline, so when it comes to choosing the right destination for you, it can be quite tricky. For us, Alanya is number one, and here are a couple of reasons why.

First and foremost, it has stunning golden sand beaches and its waters are crystal-clear, always inviting you for a refreshing dip or a little snorkeling trip. You can also take a boat ride and explore the seaside. If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins. 

On the other hand, at night, Alanya turns into a buzzing coastal town with plenty of authentic restaurants, bars, clubs, and movie venues to make memories at. 

As you can see, Alanya is suitable for people of all ages and interests. Vacation there is also an excellent value for money. Every traveler can enjoy it without compromising on quality and experiences.

• The average price for a hotel room: between $40 and $95
• A meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $8
• A beer in a bar: $4

Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

If you’re not keen on the Mediterranean, Sunny Beach is a fantastic option. As the name suggests, it’s renowned for its stunning coastline, vibrant nightlife, and a range of family-friendly attractions, which makes it one of the most popular (and budget-friendly) destinations in Europe.

• The average price for a hotel room: between $50 and $95
• A meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $8
• A beer in a bar: $2 (and it won’t be just a little bottle, but a full pint)

As with any holiday resort town, it also offers plenty of water sports and other fun activities. You can engage in jet skiing, parasailing, banana riding, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. Do you like being active but prefer to stay on the ground? How about getting your hands on ​​beach volleyball, beach soccer, or mini golf?

Albanian Riviera

Often referred to as the European Bali, the Albanian Riviera has been getting much attention in the past few years. Not only does it boast stunning beaches and clear, turquoise waters, but the coastline is also lined with excellent resorts, seafood restaurants, as well as cultural attractions. You can also take a day trip to Corfu, which is only a half-an-hour ferry ride from the town of Saranda.

All that for a fraction of the price compared to the popular Mediterranean destinations. 

• The average price for a hotel room: between $40 and $90 
• A meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $10 
• A beer in a bar: $3

What’s more, its beaches are not yet jammed with tourists. So hurry up and book your trip before others get to know about this Mediterranean hidden gem, the Albanian Riviera.

Algarve, Portugal

Compared to its neighbor, a vacation in the Algarve might be more affordable, even in peak season. 

• The average price for a hotel room: between $60 and $100 but it depends quite a lot on the exact location here
• A meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $14
• A beer in a bar: $3

And it definitely has loads to offer. It boasts incredible beaches and about 300 days of sunshine, which makes it one of the sunniest places in Europe. It’s also home to unspoiled nature and cute fishing villages full of unique charm and history.

The coastline is pretty long, so what are the spots you definitely shouldn’t miss? Visit Praia da Falésia for its breathtaking cliffs, explore the cave of Benagil, watch birds at Ria Formosa, or try some exquisite wines in local vineyards. The options are endless.

Algarve is also popular for surfing. No matter your skills, there are plenty of locations to choose from for all levels.

Budva, Montenegro

Budva is another option for those who wish to spend their vacation in Europe without breaking the bank. That travelers go there for its beaches and nightlife is nothing new. But there is much, much more to do.

Soak in the Medieval atmosphere of Budva’s Old Town, take a stroll on the lovely seaside promenade, or set off for a hiking or biking trip. A must place to visit, which is right next door is Sveti Stefan Island and spend a day on the beach there.

Oh, and did you know that Budva is nicknamed the Miami of Montenegro? Come and see why, this is how much you’ll need.

• The average price for a hotel room: between $50 and $100 
• A meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $12
• A beer in a bar: $3

Crete, Greece

Greece consists of dozens of idyllic islands perfect for summer escapes to the beach. And for being the largest, Crete is one of the most sought-after destinations there. Apart from being on the cheaper side, there are several reasons why you might want to head there this year.

First and foremost, it’s the fascinating remnants of the ancient civilizations. The archaeological ruins, such as the Palace of Knossos or Gortyna, are worth a stop, even if you’re not a history buff. 

There is also stunning natural scenery, ideal for hikes, and many traditional mountain villages where you can experience the easy-going Cretan way of living. 

Last but not least, the coastline is beautiful and will cater to anyone – you will find busy beaches and cozy coves there. And the accommodation? There are hundreds of hotels and resorts to choose from.

• The average price for a hotel room: between $60 and $120
• A meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $17
• A beer in a bar: $5

The post 6 Cheapest Beach Destinations In Europe To Visit In Summer 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Eligible applicants are aged 21-55 years old, hold a college degree, make $3,000 per month, and come from any of the above-mentioned countries.

Candidates must upload a valid passport and register in GoTürkiye, the official government website for digital nomads.

Successful applicants will be issued a “Digital Nomad Identification Certificate,” which you should present at a Turkish visa center or a consulate back in your country.

The government looks to cater to those interested in history, exotic culture and cuisine, affordable living, and strong infrastructure.

Visa holders will be able to choose among Istanbul, Dalaman, Izmir or other multiple cities ready to welcome them. 

Regarding the country’s capital, GoTürkiye says it’s “a business hub with large companies and small start-ups, a metropole of 20 million inhabitants, a meeting point of different cultures [and] a historical center where the paths of millennia-old civilizations converge.” reads the site.

Other Countries in Southern Europe Offering Digital Nomad Visas

Multiple European destinations have launched digital nomad visas targeting people who have freed themselves from 9-5 traditional jobs and boast a stable income of around $3,000 on average per month. Some of these countries include Greece, Italy, and Spain.

Greece

Apply for a Greek digital nomad visa at a consulate in your home country or for a work permit at the Aliens and Immigration Department in Greece.

Successful applicants are those who can present proof of online work-related activities indicating the type of business they focus on, corporate purpose, and a business address, along with evidence showing they make at least 3,500€ per month.

Other requirements include: 

• A letter declaring that you are not going to stay in the country after your visa expires.
• Proof of employment and income.
• A valid passport.
• Filling out and signing the Application Form.
• Rental contract or hotel booking.
• Travel Insurance.
• Clean criminal record certificate.
• Return flight ticket.
• Proof that you don’t have infectious diseases.

‍Italy

Designed for non-EU citizens “who carry out a highly qualified work activity with the use of technological tools capable of allowing them to work remotely, both as a worker self-employed or as a collaborator or employee of a company even if not resident in Italy,” says the government on its recently launched digital nomad visa.

Requirements include but are not limited to:

• Health insurance.
• Proof of accommodation for the length of your stay.
• Proof of income.

The visa is granted to those who can show “advanced technological means.” Nomads can be in the country for up to a year or renew their visas for a year more.

Spain

The Spanish digital nomad visa is meant for non-EU/EEA citizens as well as US, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada nationals. Those who have lived in the peninsula during the last five years are not eligible.

Requirements:

• Proof that you are an authentic remote worker.
• A college degree certificate or something that shows your expertise in your field.
• Proof that you have been working as a digital nomad for more than three months in a stable company or sector.
• Proof that your company has been around for over a year.
• Evidence that you earn €2,160 per month or more.
• Travel Insurance.
• Clean criminal records.
• Proof that you are willing to remain in Spain for no less than five years.

The post Turkey Joins The Hype And Launches Visa For Digital Nomads appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

This Spanish city is a highly sought-after tourist destination due to its, renowned architecture, outstanding nightlife, and sunny beaches.

But now, depending on your accommodation type, you may end up paying some $50 extra per week’s stay, as the city raised the fee for its two tourist taxes. The city and the regional one.

Starting April 1, the city tax will set you back €3,25 per night for a maximum of 7 days. This applies to all types of accommodations.

For its part, the regional tax price is accommodation-dependent. 

This way, those staying at Airbnb-type accommodations will have to fork out “€2.75 per night; €1.70 for four-star hotels, and €3.50 for five-star hotels.”

On the other hand, cruise travelers are compelled to pay €3 if visiting for less than 12 hours or €2 if staying longer.

As a result, those booking five-star hotels or glamping will have to pay a total of €47.25 per 7-day stay.

Authorities expect to collect over €100 million in tourist taxes to invest them in infrastructure and other needs. 

Other Popular European Destinations Imposing Tourist Tax

These European cities/countries are charging tourists to visit their territories. Keep in mind that these fees may change depending on the season or the city you are visiting.

• Brussels: $5, but it may be different in other cities.
• Prague: $2.
• France: Depending on your hotel, you should pay from $3 to $17.
• Berlin: 5% of your accommodation price.
• Greece:  Up to $5, depending on your accommodation price.
• Iceland: $4 for hotels, $2 for campsites, and $7 for cruises.
• Venice: $5.50.
• Italy: Between $1 and $8, depending on the municipality you stay in.
• Portugal: Around $2 per night in most of the country.
• Amsterdam: 7% of your accommodation price plus €3 more per night.
• Switzerland: Between $2.30 and $8, depending on the city you’re visiting.

The post This Popular European Hotspot Increased Tourist Tax Ahead Of Summer Season appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Since March 24, local police have increased their power to patrol and search all types of tourist, religious and sporting venues.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially when in the middle of too many people. 

The Olympic and Paralympic games that will be held in the country over the summer are expected to increase the risk of potential terror attacks. 

Since no trip to France is currently considered entirely safe, read on to learn all the considerations you should take into account if you still decide to visit this country at the moment.

LATEST NEWS From France: 

April 3, 2024: France Elevated its Terror Alert to the Highest Level

Following the terrorist attacks committed in Moscow by the “Islamic State” on March 22, France had to elevate its domestic safety system to “Attack Emergency Level.”

As a result, the country is able to allocate funds more efficiently and police are allowed to search airports, public transportation, churches, tourist venues, educational centers, sports venues and shopping malls.

The US government urges Americans to keep a low profile, stay away from crowded or touristic areas, and leave those where too many police officers are patrolling. 

It also advises citizens to register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to keep updated about the domestic situation and help locate you in case of need.

Crime Statistics in France

According to Numbeo, the world’s biggest database of cities and countries, crime in France is “Moderate,” with 58.64 points. 

Areas to Avoid

Given the current “Attack Emergency Level,” visitors to France must exercise increased caution across the country, especially in “airports, public transportation, churches, tourist venues, educational centers, sports venues and shopping malls.”

We won’t advise you not to visit them, but when in Paris, pay special attention to your surroundings when in the “18th arrondissement” (neighborhood 18), and 19th arrondissement (neighborhood 19), particularly at night. 

Violent attacks have been reported at Gare du Nord train station and 1, 2 and 6 metro lines in Paris and the metro as a whole. 

Official Travel Advisories 

US Travel Advisory

The US government’s biggest concern has to do with terrorism. According to the State Department, terrorist organizations are actively planning possible attacks in the territory. 

Attacks can occur with little or no warning on all types of public transportation, shopping malls, government venues, churches, open-air parks, sporting and cultural events, educational centers, and similar areas.

Also read: U.S. Embassy: France Raises Its Security Alert System To The Highest Level

Canada Travel Advisory

As per the Canadian government, visitors must “exercise a high degree of caution” when visiting France. This means the country is not considered entirely safe.

France is currently under “Attack emergency” alert. Thus, the government requires citizens to keep their guard high when in public places or when surrounded by crowds because “attacks are likely.”

Safety Tips for France

As of today, no travel to France is considered to be risk-free. We recommend you follow these safety tips to reduce potential risks.

• Avoid visiting or spending too much time at educational institutions, places of worship, shopping malls and popular tourist landmarks. 
• Pickpocketing is a major issue, especially on public transportation such as metro lines. 
• Make sure you have your travel documents protected or even better, secure them back in your accommodation.
• Strikes are common across France. Given the current situation avoid congested areas at all costs.
• Monitor local media and social media platforms for possible threats.
• If you see something suspicious, report it to the police at once.
• Follow police instructions and take official warnings seriously.

The post Is France Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

A country that used to be largely neglected by travelers, but has recently become one of the most promising destinations and real hidden gems of Europe.

Demand for travel to Europe increased between 2022, 2023 and 2024, especially after all health-related entry requirements were removed and normalcy was fully restored. But while tourism goliaths such as France, Italy and Spain have taken steps to reduce tourist numbers, other lesser-known countries are eager to welcome more visitors.

Albania is a small country in southeastern Europe, bordering Greece to the south, northern Macedonia and Kosovo to the east, and beautiful Montenegro to the north. But unlike many of its contemporaries, it was introduced to the public only 30 years ago.

Fastest Growing Tourism in Europe in 2023

According to Eurostat, Europe had 2.6 billion tourist stays in 2023 and compared to previous 2022 Albania had record breaking 55.6% growth.

Financial Outlook for Albania in 2024

Albania’s tourism outlook for 2024 is looking very positive. According to Statista.com, the expected revenue from tourism is US$75.49m with annual growth rate 4.56% in 2024 until 2028 resulting in revenue of US$90.23m by 2028.

Pandemic Helped Albania’s Tourism

The fact that Albania continues to expand so rapidly in the face of the return to normalcy of its fiercest competitors is further evidence that it has maintained the momentum it gained at the beginning of the pandemic.

While most of Europe was closed because of COVID, Albania remained accessible without restrictions, which probably contributed to its unexpected popularity.

Many tourists are unaware that Albania is a summer paradise

Albania, like Croatia and Montenegro, is located on the Adriatic Sea, one of the arms of the great Mediterranean, but the cost of living is much lower in comparison. You will find the same turquoise waters, white sandy or pebble beaches, and medieval towns with stone houses, but without expensive hotels and typical tourist traps.

Large parts of the southernmost coast of Albania, known as the Albanian Riviera, have remained undeveloped so that nature is intact, the beaches are undisturbed, and the traditional cobblestone towns, where generations of families have lived for centuries, untainted by outside influences.

5 Most Popular Summer Destinations in Albania

Saranda

Himara

Ksamil

Dhermi

Theth

Theth National Park is a real hidden gem of Europe when it comes to hiking. Often referred to as Albanian Alps, this mountain range is a truly beautiful clenot of the country. With peaks from 1,200 meters to 2,567 meters, Mt Radohima is the the highest point.

Prices in Albania

Albania has become an increasingly popular destination for holidaymakers in recent years, offering a wide range of attractions and activities at affordable prices compared to other European destinations. The cost of a holiday in Albania will depend on several factors, including the time of year, type of accommodation, and the activities you plan to do.

Accommodation in Albania ranges from budget hostels and guesthouses to luxurious hotels and resorts. Prices can vary depending on the location and season, but generally, budget accommodation can be found for as low as €10-€20 per night, while more upscale options can range from €50-€200 per night.

Food and drink in Albania are also reasonably priced, with traditional Albanian dishes costing around €5-€10 in local restaurants. International cuisine options are available in larger cities, and prices may vary accordingly.

Transportation costs in Albania are relatively low. Taxis are widely available, and the fares are reasonable, with an average cost of €5-€10 for a short ride. Buses are also a popular and cheap way to travel around the country, with tickets ranging from €1-€5 depending on the distance.

The post This Hidden Gem Is Becoming One Of The Trendiest Summer Destinations In Europe appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

The island is located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 350 miles (560km) off the coast of Morocco. It is the largest inhabited island in the archipelago with about 309 square miles (801 km). Its neighbor, Porto Santo, is also inhabited, and distinguished as having the best beaches.

Funchal is the capital of the island chain that is an autonomous region of Portugal.

Madeira is an island of eternal spring with temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit from December to April and in the mid 80 degree F range the rest of the year. The area around Funchal is more arid, with the northern part of the island receiving more rain from October to April. Europeans make frequent journeys to Madeira during the cold winters on the continent.

This scenic, year-round resort, is best known for its Madeira wine. The island also produces bananas and other tropical fruits, along with sugarcane. Madeira derives most of its economic growth from tourism, with many popular hotels and condominiums available to visitors year-round. While the northern part of the island is still rural, the southern area around Funchal offers outstanding accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment.

Activities for Everyone

Madeira Islands is a perfect vacation destination as it has something for everyone.

Charter catamarans take visitors on tours to see migrating whales and dolphins. Hikers can take tours into the mountains to visit waterfalls and peaks that offer spectacular views of the islands. A shuttle service is offered to hikers who want to watch the sunrise at Pico do Arieiro. Hikers can visit Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are walking tours of Old Town and a special Skywalk and Wine Tasting Jeep tour. Madeira also has a Carnival celebration along with an annual flower show and wine festival.

Direct Flights from the U.S. and Europe

Direct flights are available to Madeira from most major European cities. In addition, British Air and other airlines offer service from Washington, D.C., and New York to Funchal.

The post This Destination Ranks Again As The Best European Island In 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

16 million tourists visited Türkiye in 2023, a 9% increase over the previous year. 

According to a statement from the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Americans make up the fourth-largest group of visitors to the nation. 

However, this most recent visa modification does not only benefit visitors from the United States. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the president of Türkiye, signed an order exempting citizens of Canada, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Saudi Arabia from the need for an electronic visa. 

This recent development is also confirmed by the U.S. State Department website, which states that visas are not needed for stays under 90 days in Türkiye.

The destination is still under a Level 2 warning from the State Department, advising travelers to “exercise increased caution due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions.”

The advisory states that there are higher risks in some parts of the country and advises visitors to thoroughly review State Department guidelines before visiting.

Since the terrible earthquakes that struck Türkiye in February last year and claimed over 50,000 lives, the country’s tourism sector has been unable to fully recover.

Other requirements to enter Türkiye

First and foremost, your passport must remain valid for at least six months after the date you plan to arrive. Put differently, if you intend to travel for two weeks in April 2024, confirm that your passport will still be valid by the end of October 2024 at the latest.

Additionally, you risk being denied entry at customs if your passport does not have enough room for entry and exit stamps. With the exit stamp, you can help ensure that you won’t be fined and can return to the country in the future. 

You must apply for a residence permit if you want to work or study abroad, or if your stay will be longer than 90 days.

You’ll also save some money thanks to this change, as the visa previously cost $52. 

Furthermore, despite being close to Europe, Türkiye is not a member of the EU, so you won’t need to worry about applying when the EU’s ETIAS visa program launches in 2025. 

The post This Popular European Nation Removed Visa Requirement For American Tourists appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Travelers are attracted to Spain due to its culture, history, climate, and magnificent beaches. The most popular destinations for tourists are Barcelona, the Canary Islands, and the Balearic Islands, and here is why:

Barcelona

Barcelona is a vibrant city on the Iberian Peninsula with museums, luxury shopping, history, and lively nightlife. Here are just a few reasons to visit Barcelona:

• The majority of the famous architect Antoni Gaudí’s works are found in Barcelona. Their unique, colorful, exotic designs complement the city’s personality and charm.
•  Barcelona is a shopper’s paradise. Whether you are looking for antiques, bohemian finds, or luxury items, Barcelona’s eight shopping districts will surely delight everyone’s taste and personality. 
• The food in Barcelona is perfect for foodies. It ranges from fresh seafood to local delicacies like paella. 
• After dinner, many options exist. From traditional flamenco clubs to high-energy nightclubs. There is something for everyone in Barcelona.

Canary Islands

Known as the “Sunshine Center of Europe,” the Canary Islands are a popular choice for Northern Europeans who want to escape to warmer weather. The seven islands have stunning beaches, explorable volcanoes, dense forests, and more.

Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, including Majorca, Minorca, Formentera, and Ibiza, are famous among the rich and famous. Known for its nightlife, Ibiza also has gorgeous beaches, beautiful scenery, and laidback street markets. If you are looking for less of a party atmosphere, Majorca has caves to explore, lighthouses to claim, and turquoise water to enjoy with your toes in the sand. If you want to escape crowds, Minorca and Formentera are smaller islands that pack unforgettable sites and delights.

Planning a Trip to Spain

A trip to Spain is unforgettable. The options of places to see and things to do are endless. There is a reason this country continues to rank among the top travel destinations in the world, and its popularity will only increase with time.

The post This European Country Set New Visitors Record Of 85M Last Year appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

The entry fee is intended to lessen crowds, promote longer stays, and enhance the standard of living for locals. 

When will admission to Venice be charged to visitors?

Visitors will now have to pay €5 to enter the city. 

Between April and mid-July, a total of 29 days—peak weekends and other days—will be subject to the fee.

During the peak hours of 8:30 am to 4 pm, there will be a day-tripper fee; however, visitors who come to Venice for dinner or a concert will not be required to pay.

For whom is a ticket to Venice mandatory?

The day-tripper tourist tax is not levied on locals, visitors who are Venetian natives, workers, students, or travelers who have made hotel or other lodging reservations.

How can I book my ticket for Venice?

Visitors can reserve their day in Venice as of January 16 on this platform. 

After paying €5, visitors will receive a QR code that must be scanned at seven different locations throughout the city, including the main train station, to gain entry.

When a visitor with a reservation enters their hotel, they also receive a QR code to display. But since a Venice lodging charge will already be included in their hotel bill, they are spared the cost.

How is Venice making tourism more sustainable?

Venice has been attempting to reconsider its relationship with tourists more sustainably since COVID-19 lockdowns destroyed its tourism industry.

The constant emigration of Venetians to the mainland has compelled the city to act. 

UNESCO and environmentalists’ pressure eventually forced the authorities to forbid large cruise ships from passing through the Giudecca canal.

Longer-staying visitors have been identified by Venice as essential to its survival, given that they typically spend more.

The post This Popular European City Is About To Roll Out A New Tax To Reduce Overtourism appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.