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Looking for the best Oaxaca, Mexico food guide? I’ve got you covered! In the spring of 2024 I spent a full month living in and exploring the beautiful Oaxaca de Juarez and all of the best restaurants in the city. Oaxaca is the culinary capital of Mexico and has so much amazing food to offer. […]

The post Oaxaca Food Guide: 50+ Best Restaurants in Oaxaca, Mexico appeared first on taverna travels .

​https://tavernatravels.com/oaxaca-food-guide/ 

At the heart of Samurai country, at the end of the Tadami Line Train. Here are the best things to do in Aizu Wakamatsu.

The post The Best Things to Do in Aizu Wakamatsu appeared first on ASocialNomad.

​https://asocialnomad.com/japan/things-to-do-in-aizu-wakamatsu/ 

All the details + how to take the ferry from Union Island to St Vincent. Full details of Union Island-St Vincent ferry timetables & prices

The post Union Island to St Vincent – 2024 [Ferries, Times, Prices] appeared first on ASocialNomad.

​https://asocialnomad.com/st-vincent/union-island-to-st-vincent/ 

Posted: 3/28/2024 | March 28th, 2024

Milan is a popular destination for travelers who are into fashion and design. But there’s a lot of history and culture here too. The city was both the former capital of the Western Roman Empire and influential during the Italian Renaissance. I consider it a must-visit stop on any trip around Italy.

As the country’s second largest city (over 6 million people live here), where you stay during your visit will have a big impact on your trip. While it’s pretty easy to get around the city, you don’t want to spend all your time in transit. Instead, you’ll want to pick an area that’s close to where you want to spend the majority of your time.

To help you do just that, here’s my list of the best neighborhoods in Milan for travelers:

Where to Stay for First-Time Visitors: Centro Storico

Milan’s historic center boasts architectural gems like the Gothic Duomo, the 15th-century Sforza Castle, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (a 19th-century shopping arcade). You’ll find plenty of art here too, from the huge Palazzo Reale (an 18th-century palace turned art museum) to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie (home to Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper).

The area is extremely walkable and filled with enchanting streets, quaint cafés, bustling piazzas, and fashionable boutiques (head to the subdistrict Quadrilatero d’Oro for the best luxury shopping). It’s the ideal place to stay if it’s your first time in Milan.

Best places to stay in Centro Storico:

BUDGETOstello Bello – Located just a few blocks from the Duomo, Ostello Bello is one of the best hostels in Milan. The facilities are extensive and include a guest kitchen with free food, a bar (where you get a free welcome drink), outdoor terraces, and an indoor lounge. There’s also a great breakfast in the mornings (7 EUR). The dorms are spacious, with comfy beds and en-suite bathrooms, and the helpful staff organizes tons of free events (like walking tours).
MIDRANGEB& B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio – This three-star hotel offers simple rooms in an excellent location. The rooms feature lots of natural light, desks, smart TVs, and bathrooms with walk-in showers and bidets. The breakfast buffet is quite varied for the price (9.50 EUR) and includes lots of pastries as well as fresh orange juice. Overall, this hotel offers great value for first-time visitors who want to stay somewhere central but not spend an arm and a leg.
LUXURYPark Hyatt Milan – This five-star hotel located just off the main piazza seamlessly blends classic Italian architecture with contemporary design. Each room is spacious and elegantly furnished, with large luxurious marble bathrooms and all the amenities you’d expect from a hotel of this calibre. There are two restaurants on site, and one serves an exceptional breakfast buffet in the mornings. It’s a great place to redeem your Hyatt points too.

Where to Stay for Arts & Culture: Brera

While technically part of Centro Storico, Brera is a neighborhood that has a completely different feel than the more touristy area around the Duomo. Known for its artistic vibe, it was once a bohemian haven for Italian writers, poets, artists, filmmakers, and intellectuals in the 1960s (they all gathered at the legendary Bar Jamaica, which is still around). The neighborhood’s narrow cobblestone streets are filled with art galleries and studios, antique shops, boutiques, and trendy cafés. It’s also great for food (though what place in Italy isn’t?), with a diverse selection of eateries serving both traditional Milanese cuisine and innovative dishes from around the world.

While a lot of the charm of staying here lies in wandering these picturesque, pedestrianized streets, there are also attractions like the Pinacoteca di Brera, the city’s best art museum; and the tranquil, 18th-century Brera Botanical Gardens. Plus, the neighborhood is just a short walk from Milan’s most famous sights in Centro Storico.

Best places to stay in Brera:

BUDGET: As this area is quite high-end, there aren’t any hostels here. Your best bet is to stay at the aforementioned Ostello Bello in the heart of Centro Storico.
MIDRANGEBrera Prestige B& B – This three-star hotel is in a perfect location on a quiet street in the heart of Brera, just a 10-minute walk from the Duomo. There are only a few rooms at this boutique property and all are decorated in calming, neutral tones and have chromotherapy lights that you can turn different colors. Each is newly renovated, with soundproof windows, a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, a small fridge, and a flat-screen TV. The staff are very friendly too. Overall, it’s a nice place to stay that’s quiet yet still central to everything.
LUXURYBulgari Hotel Milano – This five-star boutique hotel is a luxurious and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. It’s right next to the botanical gardens, and the hotel has a huge private garden of its own (with a bar/restaurant). The overall design is sleek and elegant. The rooms feature deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers, comfy king-sized beds, and minibars. There’s a tranquil indoor swimming pool and spa too.

Where to Stay for Nightlife & Food: Navigli

While Venice is famous for its canals, Milan has several beautiful ones of its own. Picturesque bars and restaurants line the canals of Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese, the heart of the city’s nightlife and the best place in town to enjoy aperitivo, the Italian answer to happy hour (a buffet of small bites that come included in the price of a drink at many bars). It’s also a great neighborhood for foodies, as there are many trattorias serving up delicious Italian cuisine, including traditional Milanese dishes, fresh seafood, and artisanal pizza and pasta.

Staying in Navigli offers a unique atmosphere that’s still within easy access to Centro Storico (it’s just a quick tram ride or 30-minute walk away).

Best places to stay in Navigli:

BUDGETCombo Milan – Combo is a small Italian boutique-hostel chain. Its Navigli location offers both dorm beds and private rooms in an industrial-chic space. There’s a fantastic free breakfast spread, a beautiful inner courtyard (with a bar/restaurant), a co-working area, and a guest kitchen if you prefer to prepare your own meals. Dorm beds are comfy and have an individual outlet, reading light, and locker, though no privacy curtains. The showers have great pressure too, which is always a plus in my book.
MIDRANGEArt Hotel Navigli – This four-star hotel is full of art, and walking down the halls almost feels like you’re in a modern museum. The rooms themselves are minimally decorated and a bit dated, but they’re spacious and all have a flat-screen TV, minibar, electric kettle, and Nespresso machine. I think the bathrooms are a bit small and dated but there’s great water pressure. The hotel also has a wellness center with a salt wall, sauna, and steam room, and there’s an expansive breakfast buffet.
LUXURYMagna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum – This five-star hotel continues the tradition of the perfume factory in which it is housed, with a laboratory on-site and calming scents throughout the property. The spacious rooms are designed in soft tones, with modern art, floor-to-ceiling windows, desks, comfortable beds (you can choose your pillow from a menu), and luxurious bathrooms entirely made of marble. There’s an excellent complimentary breakfast buffet, a rooftop bar and restaurant, and a wellness center with a steam room and gym.

Where to Stay to Feel Like a Local: Isola

Historically, Isola was a working-class district, with factories and warehouses dominating the landscape. In recent years though, it has undergone a significant transformation, becoming one of Milan’s trendiest neighborhoods.

Today, the area is a hub for artists, designers, and creatives. There’s much colorful street art here, and the industrial spaces have been repurposed into galleries, studios, and creative workspaces. The neighborhood has a bohemian atmosphere, with boutique shops, vintage stores, third-wave coffee shops, and artisanal markets, including the covered Mercato Comunale di Isola, featuring fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local gourmet products.

Best places to stay in Isola:

BUDGETL’Isola di Romy – This budget-friendly guesthouse offers private rooms with shared bathrooms (which are always kept nice and clean). The rooms are simply furnished but spacious and painted in bright, cheerful colors. Each room has a flat-screen TV, wardrobe, and desk, and some even have a terrace. It’s a good no-frills place.
MIDRANGEBB Hotels Aparthotel Isola – This aparthotel offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchenettes that include a cooktop, dishwasher, and electric kettle. They are minimally decorated but have lots of natural light, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. The bathrooms are spacious too, with a bidet, a walk-in shower, and complimentary toiletries. There’s a little supermarket right underneath the apartments, making this the ideal choice if you want to prepare your own meals.
LUXURY: Isola isn’t exactly the best choice if you’re looking for luxury, as there aren’t a lot of hotels in this more residential neighborhood. If you are seeking a five-star property, though, head to Excelsior Hotel Gallia in the next neighborhood over, which boasts beautiful, spacious rooms, an indoor swimming pool, an excellent breakfast buffet, and a rooftop bar/restaurant.

***

Milan blends historical grandeur and contemporary chic. But there’s a lot more to the city too, whether you want to explore the street art scene or enjoy the energetic nightlife. By choosing one of the neighborhoods and accommodations above, you’ll be sure to have a fun stay in Italy’s fashion capital.

The post Where to Stay in Milan: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.

​https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/where-to-stay-milan/ 

Posted: 3/28/2024 | March 28th, 2024

Milan is a popular destination for travelers who are into fashion and design. But there’s a lot of history and culture here too. The city was both the former capital of the Western Roman Empire and influential during the Italian Renaissance. I consider it a must-visit stop on any trip around Italy.

As the country’s second largest city (over 6 million people live here), where you stay during your visit will have a big impact on your trip. While it’s pretty easy to get around the city, you don’t want to spend all your time in transit. Instead, you’ll want to pick an area that’s close to where you want to spend the majority of your time.

To help you do just that, here’s my list of the best neighborhoods in Milan for travelers:

Where to Stay for First-Time Visitors: Centro Storico

Milan’s historic center boasts architectural gems like the Gothic Duomo, the 15th-century Sforza Castle, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (a 19th-century shopping arcade). You’ll find plenty of art here too, from the huge Palazzo Reale (an 18th-century palace turned art museum) to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie (home to Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper).

The area is extremely walkable and filled with enchanting streets, quaint cafés, bustling piazzas, and fashionable boutiques (head to the subdistrict Quadrilatero d’Oro for the best luxury shopping). It’s the ideal place to stay if it’s your first time in Milan.

Best places to stay in Centro Storico:

BUDGETOstello Bello – Located just a few blocks from the Duomo, Ostello Bello is one of the best hostels in Milan. The facilities are extensive and include a guest kitchen with free food, a bar (where you get a free welcome drink), outdoor terraces, and an indoor lounge. There’s also a great breakfast in the mornings (7 EUR). The dorms are spacious, with comfy beds and en-suite bathrooms, and the helpful staff organizes tons of free events (like walking tours).
MIDRANGEB& B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio – This three-star hotel offers simple rooms in an excellent location. The rooms feature lots of natural light, desks, smart TVs, and bathrooms with walk-in showers and bidets. The breakfast buffet is quite varied for the price (9.50 EUR) and includes lots of pastries as well as fresh orange juice. Overall, this hotel offers great value for first-time visitors who want to stay somewhere central but not spend an arm and a leg.
LUXURYPark Hyatt Milan – This five-star hotel located just off the main piazza seamlessly blends classic Italian architecture with contemporary design. Each room is spacious and elegantly furnished, with large luxurious marble bathrooms and all the amenities you’d expect from a hotel of this calibre. There are two restaurants on site, and one serves an exceptional breakfast buffet in the mornings. It’s a great place to redeem your Hyatt points too.

Where to Stay for Arts & Culture: Brera

While technically part of Centro Storico, Brera is a neighborhood that has a completely different feel than the more touristy area around the Duomo. Known for its artistic vibe, it was once a bohemian haven for Italian writers, poets, artists, filmmakers, and intellectuals in the 1960s (they all gathered at the legendary Bar Jamaica, which is still around). The neighborhood’s narrow cobblestone streets are filled with art galleries and studios, antique shops, boutiques, and trendy cafés. It’s also great for food (though what place in Italy isn’t?), with a diverse selection of eateries serving both traditional Milanese cuisine and innovative dishes from around the world.

While a lot of the charm of staying here lies in wandering these picturesque, pedestrianized streets, there are also attractions like the Pinacoteca di Brera, the city’s best art museum; and the tranquil, 18th-century Brera Botanical Gardens. Plus, the neighborhood is just a short walk from Milan’s most famous sights in Centro Storico.

Best places to stay in Brera:

BUDGET: As this area is quite high-end, there aren’t any hostels here. Your best bet is to stay at the aforementioned Ostello Bello in the heart of Centro Storico.
MIDRANGEBrera Prestige B& B – This three-star hotel is in a perfect location on a quiet street in the heart of Brera, just a 10-minute walk from the Duomo. There are only a few rooms at this boutique property and all are decorated in calming, neutral tones and have chromotherapy lights that you can turn different colors. Each is newly renovated, with soundproof windows, a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, a small fridge, and a flat-screen TV. The staff are very friendly too. Overall, it’s a nice place to stay that’s quiet yet still central to everything.
LUXURYBulgari Hotel Milano – This five-star boutique hotel is a luxurious and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. It’s right next to the botanical gardens, and the hotel has a huge private garden of its own (with a bar/restaurant). The overall design is sleek and elegant. The rooms feature deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers, comfy king-sized beds, and minibars. There’s a tranquil indoor swimming pool and spa too.

Where to Stay for Nightlife & Food: Navigli

While Venice is famous for its canals, Milan has several beautiful ones of its own. Picturesque bars and restaurants line the canals of Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese, the heart of the city’s nightlife and the best place in town to enjoy aperitivo, the Italian answer to happy hour (a buffet of small bites that come included in the price of a drink at many bars). It’s also a great neighborhood for foodies, as there are many trattorias serving up delicious Italian cuisine, including traditional Milanese dishes, fresh seafood, and artisanal pizza and pasta.

Staying in Navigli offers a unique atmosphere that’s still within easy access to Centro Storico (it’s just a quick tram ride or 30-minute walk away).

Best places to stay in Navigli:

BUDGETCombo Milan – Combo is a small Italian boutique-hostel chain. Its Navigli location offers both dorm beds and private rooms in an industrial-chic space. There’s a fantastic free breakfast spread, a beautiful inner courtyard (with a bar/restaurant), a co-working area, and a guest kitchen if you prefer to prepare your own meals. Dorm beds are comfy and have an individual outlet, reading light, and locker, though no privacy curtains. The showers have great pressure too, which is always a plus in my book.
MIDRANGEArt Hotel Navigli – This four-star hotel is full of art, and walking down the halls almost feels like you’re in a modern museum. The rooms themselves are minimally decorated and a bit dated, but they’re spacious and all have a flat-screen TV, minibar, electric kettle, and Nespresso machine. I think the bathrooms are a bit small and dated but there’s great water pressure. The hotel also has a wellness center with a salt wall, sauna, and steam room, and there’s an expansive breakfast buffet.
LUXURYMagna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum – This five-star hotel continues the tradition of the perfume factory in which it is housed, with a laboratory on-site and calming scents throughout the property. The spacious rooms are designed in soft tones, with modern art, floor-to-ceiling windows, desks, comfortable beds (you can choose your pillow from a menu), and luxurious bathrooms entirely made of marble. There’s an excellent complimentary breakfast buffet, a rooftop bar and restaurant, and a wellness center with a steam room and gym.

Where to Stay to Feel Like a Local: Isola

Historically, Isola was a working-class district, with factories and warehouses dominating the landscape. In recent years though, it has undergone a significant transformation, becoming one of Milan’s trendiest neighborhoods.

Today, the area is a hub for artists, designers, and creatives. There’s much colorful street art here, and the industrial spaces have been repurposed into galleries, studios, and creative workspaces. The neighborhood has a bohemian atmosphere, with boutique shops, vintage stores, third-wave coffee shops, and artisanal markets, including the covered Mercato Comunale di Isola, featuring fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local gourmet products.

Best places to stay in Isola:

BUDGETL’Isola di Romy – This budget-friendly guesthouse offers private rooms with shared bathrooms (which are always kept nice and clean). The rooms are simply furnished but spacious and painted in bright, cheerful colors. Each room has a flat-screen TV, wardrobe, and desk, and some even have a terrace. It’s a good no-frills place.
MIDRANGEBB Hotels Aparthotel Isola – This aparthotel offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchenettes that include a cooktop, dishwasher, and electric kettle. They are minimally decorated but have lots of natural light, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. The bathrooms are spacious too, with a bidet, a walk-in shower, and complimentary toiletries. There’s a little supermarket right underneath the apartments, making this the ideal choice if you want to prepare your own meals.
LUXURY: Isola isn’t exactly the best choice if you’re looking for luxury, as there aren’t a lot of hotels in this more residential neighborhood. If you are seeking a five-star property, though, head to Excelsior Hotel Gallia in the next neighborhood over, which boasts beautiful, spacious rooms, an indoor swimming pool, an excellent breakfast buffet, and a rooftop bar/restaurant.

***

Milan blends historical grandeur and contemporary chic. But there’s a lot more to the city too, whether you want to explore the street art scene or enjoy the energetic nightlife. By choosing one of the neighborhoods and accommodations above, you’ll be sure to have a fun stay in Italy’s fashion capital.

The post Where to Stay in Milan: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.

​https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/where-to-stay-milan/ 

Posted: 3/28/2024 | March 28th, 2024

Milan is a popular destination for travelers who are into fashion and design. But there’s a lot of history and culture here too. The city was both the former capital of the Western Roman Empire and influential during the Italian Renaissance. I consider it a must-visit stop on any trip around Italy.

As the country’s second largest city (over 6 million people live here), where you stay during your visit will have a big impact on your trip. While it’s pretty easy to get around the city, you don’t want to spend all your time in transit. Instead, you’ll want to pick an area that’s close to where you want to spend the majority of your time.

To help you do just that, here’s my list of the best neighborhoods in Milan for travelers:

Where to Stay for First-Time Visitors: Centro Storico

Milan’s historic center boasts architectural gems like the Gothic Duomo, the 15th-century Sforza Castle, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (a 19th-century shopping arcade). You’ll find plenty of art here too, from the huge Palazzo Reale (an 18th-century palace turned art museum) to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie (home to Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper).

The area is extremely walkable and filled with enchanting streets, quaint cafés, bustling piazzas, and fashionable boutiques (head to the subdistrict Quadrilatero d’Oro for the best luxury shopping). It’s the ideal place to stay if it’s your first time in Milan.

Best places to stay in Centro Storico:

BUDGETOstello Bello – Located just a few blocks from the Duomo, Ostello Bello is one of the best hostels in Milan. The facilities are extensive and include a guest kitchen with free food, a bar (where you get a free welcome drink), outdoor terraces, and an indoor lounge. There’s also a great breakfast in the mornings (7 EUR). The dorms are spacious, with comfy beds and en-suite bathrooms, and the helpful staff organizes tons of free events (like walking tours).
MIDRANGEB& B Hotel Milano Sant’Ambrogio – This three-star hotel offers simple rooms in an excellent location. The rooms feature lots of natural light, desks, smart TVs, and bathrooms with walk-in showers and bidets. The breakfast buffet is quite varied for the price (9.50 EUR) and includes lots of pastries as well as fresh orange juice. Overall, this hotel offers great value for first-time visitors who want to stay somewhere central but not spend an arm and a leg.
LUXURYPark Hyatt Milan – This five-star hotel located just off the main piazza seamlessly blends classic Italian architecture with contemporary design. Each room is spacious and elegantly furnished, with large luxurious marble bathrooms and all the amenities you’d expect from a hotel of this calibre. There are two restaurants on site, and one serves an exceptional breakfast buffet in the mornings. It’s a great place to redeem your Hyatt points too.

Where to Stay for Arts & Culture: Brera

While technically part of Centro Storico, Brera is a neighborhood that has a completely different feel than the more touristy area around the Duomo. Known for its artistic vibe, it was once a bohemian haven for Italian writers, poets, artists, filmmakers, and intellectuals in the 1960s (they all gathered at the legendary Bar Jamaica, which is still around). The neighborhood’s narrow cobblestone streets are filled with art galleries and studios, antique shops, boutiques, and trendy cafés. It’s also great for food (though what place in Italy isn’t?), with a diverse selection of eateries serving both traditional Milanese cuisine and innovative dishes from around the world.

While a lot of the charm of staying here lies in wandering these picturesque, pedestrianized streets, there are also attractions like the Pinacoteca di Brera, the city’s best art museum; and the tranquil, 18th-century Brera Botanical Gardens. Plus, the neighborhood is just a short walk from Milan’s most famous sights in Centro Storico.

Best places to stay in Brera:

BUDGET: As this area is quite high-end, there aren’t any hostels here. Your best bet is to stay at the aforementioned Ostello Bello in the heart of Centro Storico.
MIDRANGEBrera Prestige B& B – This three-star hotel is in a perfect location on a quiet street in the heart of Brera, just a 10-minute walk from the Duomo. There are only a few rooms at this boutique property and all are decorated in calming, neutral tones and have chromotherapy lights that you can turn different colors. Each is newly renovated, with soundproof windows, a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, a small fridge, and a flat-screen TV. The staff are very friendly too. Overall, it’s a nice place to stay that’s quiet yet still central to everything.
LUXURYBulgari Hotel Milano – This five-star boutique hotel is a luxurious and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. It’s right next to the botanical gardens, and the hotel has a huge private garden of its own (with a bar/restaurant). The overall design is sleek and elegant. The rooms feature deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers, comfy king-sized beds, and minibars. There’s a tranquil indoor swimming pool and spa too.

Where to Stay for Nightlife & Food: Navigli

While Venice is famous for its canals, Milan has several beautiful ones of its own. Picturesque bars and restaurants line the canals of Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese, the heart of the city’s nightlife and the best place in town to enjoy aperitivo, the Italian answer to happy hour (a buffet of small bites that come included in the price of a drink at many bars). It’s also a great neighborhood for foodies, as there are many trattorias serving up delicious Italian cuisine, including traditional Milanese dishes, fresh seafood, and artisanal pizza and pasta.

Staying in Navigli offers a unique atmosphere that’s still within easy access to Centro Storico (it’s just a quick tram ride or 30-minute walk away).

Best places to stay in Navigli:

BUDGETCombo Milan – Combo is a small Italian boutique-hostel chain. Its Navigli location offers both dorm beds and private rooms in an industrial-chic space. There’s a fantastic free breakfast spread, a beautiful inner courtyard (with a bar/restaurant), a co-working area, and a guest kitchen if you prefer to prepare your own meals. Dorm beds are comfy and have an individual outlet, reading light, and locker, though no privacy curtains. The showers have great pressure too, which is always a plus in my book.
MIDRANGEArt Hotel Navigli – This four-star hotel is full of art, and walking down the halls almost feels like you’re in a modern museum. The rooms themselves are minimally decorated and a bit dated, but they’re spacious and all have a flat-screen TV, minibar, electric kettle, and Nespresso machine. I think the bathrooms are a bit small and dated but there’s great water pressure. The hotel also has a wellness center with a salt wall, sauna, and steam room, and there’s an expansive breakfast buffet.
LUXURYMagna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum – This five-star hotel continues the tradition of the perfume factory in which it is housed, with a laboratory on-site and calming scents throughout the property. The spacious rooms are designed in soft tones, with modern art, floor-to-ceiling windows, desks, comfortable beds (you can choose your pillow from a menu), and luxurious bathrooms entirely made of marble. There’s an excellent complimentary breakfast buffet, a rooftop bar and restaurant, and a wellness center with a steam room and gym.

Where to Stay to Feel Like a Local: Isola

Historically, Isola was a working-class district, with factories and warehouses dominating the landscape. In recent years though, it has undergone a significant transformation, becoming one of Milan’s trendiest neighborhoods.

Today, the area is a hub for artists, designers, and creatives. There’s much colorful street art here, and the industrial spaces have been repurposed into galleries, studios, and creative workspaces. The neighborhood has a bohemian atmosphere, with boutique shops, vintage stores, third-wave coffee shops, and artisanal markets, including the covered Mercato Comunale di Isola, featuring fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local gourmet products.

Best places to stay in Isola:

BUDGETL’Isola di Romy – This budget-friendly guesthouse offers private rooms with shared bathrooms (which are always kept nice and clean). The rooms are simply furnished but spacious and painted in bright, cheerful colors. Each room has a flat-screen TV, wardrobe, and desk, and some even have a terrace. It’s a good no-frills place.
MIDRANGEBB Hotels Aparthotel Isola – This aparthotel offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchenettes that include a cooktop, dishwasher, and electric kettle. They are minimally decorated but have lots of natural light, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. The bathrooms are spacious too, with a bidet, a walk-in shower, and complimentary toiletries. There’s a little supermarket right underneath the apartments, making this the ideal choice if you want to prepare your own meals.
LUXURY: Isola isn’t exactly the best choice if you’re looking for luxury, as there aren’t a lot of hotels in this more residential neighborhood. If you are seeking a five-star property, though, head to Excelsior Hotel Gallia in the next neighborhood over, which boasts beautiful, spacious rooms, an indoor swimming pool, an excellent breakfast buffet, and a rooftop bar/restaurant.

***

Milan blends historical grandeur and contemporary chic. But there’s a lot more to the city too, whether you want to explore the street art scene or enjoy the energetic nightlife. By choosing one of the neighborhoods and accommodations above, you’ll be sure to have a fun stay in Italy’s fashion capital.

The post Where to Stay in Milan: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.

​https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/where-to-stay-milan/ 

Posted: 3/28/24 | March 28th, 2024

Prague is one of my favorite cities in Europe. Ever since my first visit in 2006, I’ve loved coming here. The winding cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and spacious squares give the city an unrivaled historic allure.

Since my first visit, the city has skyrocketed in popularity. It gets crowded in the summer and there are now tons of hotels to choose from. I’ve stayed in a bunch of them over the years, so to help you plan your visit, here’s my list of the best hotels in Prague:

1. Hotel Metamorphis

This four-star hotel is located in a historic building right near the Old Town Square. The rooms are bright, spacious, and airy, with a lot of natural light. The décor is a little dated, but the rooms feature light colors and distinct touches, such as exposed beams or unique tiles. Rooms also include a flatscreen TV, minibar, desk, and coffee maker. The bathrooms look a little dated but they are super spacious. A tasty breakfast with eggs, meat, and fresh bread can be included (though it’s located in a nearby building so you have to walk a couple minutes to access it).

What makes this hotel an excellent choice, aside from the convenient location, is that there is a beer spa on-site. Guests can soak in a wooden tub filled with beer while also enjoying unlimited beer to drink. It doesn’t get more Czech than this!

Book here!
 

2. Czech Inn

This three-star hotel is part hotel, part hostel, so there are both private rooms and dorms here. It’s a solid no-frills choice that’s more social than your average hotel, with free walking tours and a lively on-site bar where it’s easy to meet people. The breakfast buffet is filling and has a lot of variety (it’s affordable too). There’s also a well-equipped kitchen in case you want to cook your own meals.

The décor is rustic, with lots of exposed brick throughout. The private rooms are colorful but simple, with lots of natural light that contrasts with the darker colors and furniture. Some rooms even have hardwood or parquet floors. Rooms include a TV, coffee/tea maker, and desk. It’s also just a one-minute walk to the city center. Overall, it’s an inexpensive choice for budget travelers who want a central location.

Book here!
 

3. Augustine

Set in a still-working monastery from the Middle Ages, this posh five-star property has 100 large rooms spread out over seven buildings. There’s a luxurious spa on site as well as a 24/7 fitness center with a sauna and steam room. Each room is large and airy, with lots of natural light. Rooms feature stylish furniture, including sofas or armchairs, and historic touches like exposed beams. The beds are super comfy, and rooms also include a flatscreen TV, minibar, and coffee/tea maker. The bathrooms are large and elegant, with beautiful tilework, great water pressure, and even a bidet.

There’s a beautiful courtyard on-site as well as a delicious breakfast (though it’s not cheap). What really sets this hotel apart though is that the basement bar serves homemade beer brewed from the recipe of the monks who live in an adjacent building.

Book here!
 

4. Botanique Hotel

Located in Karlin, a popular foodie neighborhood, this four-star hotel is chic and minimalist, with an eco-friendly focus. The recently renovated rooms feature lots of light wood, soft colors, and large windows that invite in lots of natural light. The rooms are spacious too, and include a flatscreen smart TV, desk, minifridge, Nespresso machine, and complimentary bottled water. The bathrooms, which are also spacious and modern, include organic bath products as well as rain showers with great pressure.

There’s both a fitness center and a restaurant on-site that focuses on local and seasonal ingredients. They also serve an excellent buffet breakfast each morning that has a ton of variety (including plenty of gluten-free and vegan options).

Book here!
 

5. Art Hotel

This arty property is located near the National Gallery. The avant-garde hotel has its own collection of Czech modern art too. Each boutique room has unique art and stylish décor featuring lots of neutral tones and wooden furniture. The rooms are really big and have large windows that bring in lots of natural light. They also include comfy beds, desks, flatscreen TVs, minibars, and coffee/tea makers. The bathrooms are simple but have excellent water pressure. The breakfast has decent variety too, though the veg options are a bit limited.

This hotel is a good choice for travelers looking to indulge in the city’s nightlife, as the hotel is located in Vršovice, a popular neighborhood for bar hopping that gets busy on the weekends.

Book here!
 

6. Dancing House

This is the most unique hotel in Prague. A four-star property, it’s set in a dynamic Frank Gehry-designed building that offers views of Prague Castle and the Old Town (the iconic building looks like it’s moving, hence the name). The upscale rooms are elegant and minimalist, featuring stylish neutral tones. The beds are super comfy, and rooms also include a flatscreen TV, coffee/tea maker, electric kettle, desk, minibar, and excellent soundproofing so you can get a decent sleep. The bathrooms are large and include complimentary toiletries, a bidet, and showers with detachable showerheads and excellent water pressure.

The breakfast has a lot of variety, including lots of fresh fruit, and there’s both a bar and restaurant on-site. The hotel is located in Naplavka, a neighborhood situated right by the river that’s brimming with bars and restaurants. This is the perfect choice for travelers who want a unique and memorable stay (it’s surprisingly affordable too).

Book here!

***

Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. That means the city is super popular, with a ton of hotels to choose from. Pick one from the list above and you’ll be guaranteed to have an amazing visit to this postcard-perfect city, no matter your budget.
 

The post The 6 Best Hotels in Prague appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.

​https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/best-hotels-prague/ 

What to know about buying a JR Pass and using it. This JR Pass guide tells you what you need to know about travelling on Japanese trains.

The post 2024 Guide to the JR Pass and Japanese Train Travel appeared first on ASocialNomad.

​https://asocialnomad.com/japan/jr-pass/ 

Come aboard the Tadami Line train – the gloriously scenic 135 kilometer route from Fukushima Prefecture to Niigata Prefecture.

The post Take the Tadami Line Train [Tickets, What to See & Itinerary ] appeared first on ASocialNomad.

​https://asocialnomad.com/japan/tadami-line/ 

Posted: 3/28/24 | March 28th, 2024

I didn’t know what to expect when I first visited Budapest. I thought it would a drab, bland city, owing to its Communist past.

Fortunately, I was wrong.

Once under the radar, Budapest has been growing in popularity thanks to its affordability and its lively nightlife. The city also has photogenic architecture and layers of interesting history, making it a well-rounded choice for anyone visiting Europe.

I’ve been visiting the city for over a decade and always have an amazing time. I love the city so much I used to run tours here!

Naturally, I’ve stayed at countless hotels over the years. Here’s my list of the best hotels in Budapest:

1. Bohem Art Hotel

Staying here feels like you’re staying in an art gallery. This four-star hotel has a very retro design. I especially love the art in the lounge and rooms (there are lots of unique photos and murals). The hotel is right near the river too, as well as the popular Váci utca pedestrian shopping street.

The beds here are comfy and the rooms have plenty of outlets, as well as an electric kettle, AC, minibar, desk, and flatscreen TV. The rooms aren’t huge, but they feature lots of natural light from the large windows. The breakfast is great and has lots of options (including a freshly squeezed orange juice machine) and the showers are super powerful too. Overall, it’s a solid midrange choice in the heart of the city.

Book here!
 

2. Matild Palace

Centrally located in the popular District V, this luxe five-star hotel looks like a palace. The ornate Belle Epoque complex boasts an expansive breakfast spread, a large gym, a sauna and multiple restaurants. There’s even a nightclub on-site too. It’s a massive property and you’ll feel like royalty staying here.

The rooms are lavish, blending historic charm with modern design. There are stylish chairs and plush velvet sofas, comfy beds with thick mattresses, and a large bathroom with beautiful tiles. Rooms embrace light and neutral tones and also have AC, flatscreen TVs, desks, and coffee/tea makers. If you want to splash out, this hotel will not disappoint.

Book here!
 

3. Monastery Boutique Hotel

Located in a 300-year-old abbey, this four-star hotel features original exposed brick and stone walls in many of its rooms (as well as in the restaurant area, which looks really cool). The décor is simple and minimalist, with a relaxing light palette. The breakfast is delicious, featuring fresh pastries, fruit, yoghurt, eggs, veggies, and lots of fresh bread. The hotel is right near Fisherman’s Bastion and Castle Hill too, making it a convenient base for sightseeing.

The beds here are comfy and the rooms are bright and airy, with lots of natural light. The bathrooms are spacious, with towel warmers and showers with good water pressure. There are desks, electric kettles, and flatscreen TVs in each room too. Overall, it’s an elegant property in a convenient location with a price that won’t break the bank.

Book here!
 

4. Mirage Medic Hotel

Located in District VI on the Pest side of town, this four-star hotel is housed in a massive, regal 19th-century mansion. The rooms may feel a bit dated, but they’re clean, spacious, and the beds are comfortable. Rooms also have a desk, flatscreen TV, and electric kettle and the water pressure in the showers is good too. There’s a simple free breakfast of bread, coffee, and cereals each morning as well. It’s not fancy, but it is included in the price, which I appreciate.

The hotel also offers holistic healing programs, such as herbal remedies and acupuncture. The main draw, however, is how close this hotel is to Széchenyi, the most popular thermal spa in Budapest. It’s just a short 7-minute walk away.

Book here!
 

5. Vagabond Grand’Or

Located in the Jewish Quarter, this modern apart-hotel features spacious rooms with balconies and kitchens, perfect for families or travelers who want to cook their own meals. There are sofas and flatscreen TVs (with Netflix), a dinner table if you want to eat in, and a washing machine. The rooms have comfy beds and the overall design is stylish but minimal, featuring lots of light tones with splashes of color. The bathrooms aren’t huge, but they are clean and the showers have good water pressure. There’s a simple breakfast offered each morning too (with veg options). Overall, it’s a comfortable, no-frills spot near the must-visit Dohany Street Synagogue.

Book here!
 

6. Anantara NY Palace

This is an immensely lavish five-star hotel. It has an opulent interior and palatial lobby, featuring massive ornate pillars and a lofty ceiling that looks like it belongs in Versailles. The property has an indoor pool, sauna, steam bath, and large fitness center. I especially love the hotel’s historic 20th-century café (it’s a gorgeous coffee house). As a guest, you can enjoy an extraordinary breakfast spread here before the café opens to the public each day. There’s also an elegant bar, which has live piano music and serves excellent drinks.

The rooms are huge and airy, with lots of dark colors and sleek, stately décor. Each room has super comfy beds, desks and sofas, a minibar, and a flatscreen TV. The bathrooms are also huge, with gorgeous tiles and marble, massive bathtubs, and a separate walk-in shower. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more luxurious hotel in the city.

Book here!

***

Budapest is an eclectic, lively city with amazing ruin bars, stunning architecture, and growing foodie scene. Just make sure to pick one of the hotels above for your stay. Do that, and you’ll ensure you have an amazing visit, regardless of whether you’re on a budget or looking to splash out.
 

The post The 6 Best Hotels in Budapest appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.

​https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/best-hotels-budapest/