Luxury Low Budget Hostel in Berlin

And I though the hostel “36 Rooms” is the best choice when staying in Berlin. Check out this spanking new Grand Hostel which doesn’t look and feel like a hostel at all. And yet … you are still just paying hostel prices. The new number one hostel in Berlin! And I love the fact that they rent bikes.

Accommodation Information

In the Grand Hostel Berlin you will find 32 rooms styled in a manorial way. There are beautiful "Sleeping Salons" of up to 5 persons and cozy single bed rooms. We offer community bathrooms and also en-uite double rooms.

All rooms feature lockable cupboards, a key card system and every bed has its own reading lamp. There is free use of W-LAN through out the building and a snug lounge area. We also have some bedrooms and bathrooms with disabled access. All our rooms have separate beds, no bunk beds.

Location Information

The hostel is situated in the middle of Berlin adjacent the Landwehrkanal (waterway). The suburbs Kreuzberg and Mitte meet here. You can either go to the Bergmannkiez with its noble buildings and their stylish courtyards or to Potsdamer Platz – the new Mitte of Berlin, or the multicultural area in SO 36 or to Checkpoint Charly in the Friedrich Street. Here you are in the center of everything by foot or by bike!

Book here: Grand Hostel Berlin

More pics of the hostel:

- Gift Ideas

Expedia $200 Travel Coupon

Yet an other awesome travel offer. This time from Expedia:

It's easy to save on your next trip:
Please note: To receive this coupon, you must have an Expedia Account (bookings made as a Guest do not qualify). If you do not have one, create an Expedia Account now. If you already have an account, simply follow these steps:

• Sign in to your Expedia Account
• Book a qualifying flight or flight + hotel package
• Get a $200 travel coupon in your Expedia Account
• Coupons are valid for booking January 11–March 31, 2010 and travel through April 30, 2010

More info: $200 Expedia Coupon

- Valencia Infos

Deutsche Bahn 20 Euro train Tickets

If you are happen to be in Germany these days you should consider buying one of Deutsche Bahn’s 20 Euro train tickets to celebrate the fall of the Berlin wall 20 years ago. The ticket let’s you travel Germany wide.

You can buy tickets on the November 9th 2009 (see the ticking clock on their website?).

Link: Deutsche Bahn Special

Mean thing is that they haven’t translated that offer in English yet!!! But you can basically book these special tickets. But you can either go directly to the train station on the 9th starting at 6.57 pm or book them on their website at 6.57 pm until 3 am the next morning. Act fast, these tickets will sell out fast!!!! The special is valid for journeys from November 11th 2009 and December first 2009.

- Cheap Hotels in Germany

One day in Disneyland

I just love these time lapse videos.

- Valencia Spa

Amazing: Thunderstorm Time Lapse over Hong Kong

Hong Kong is such an amazing city. If I would have the dough I would book a flight this instant!

- Hong Kong Hostels / Hong Kong Hotels

Related: HSBC and other Hong Kong Impressions / Hong Kong: Temple Street Night Market / Hong Kong Park / Hong Kong: Meeting with Tian Tan the Buddha

Saxon Switzerland

And if you think Saxon Switzerland is in Switzerland, you are wrong. It’s in East Germany.

- Hostels in Germany / Hostel in Berlin

Oktoberfest in Spain

 

How weird is this. I’m German, love beer but just went to my very first Oktoberfest ….. in Valencia, Spain. What a weird experience. The beer tent was put up right in the center of a bullfight arena.

More fun photos: Oktoberfest in Spain

-Best Hostel in Valencia / B&B Valencia / Hotels Valencia

Great Hostel in Lisbon: Alfama Patio Hostel

Romantic Lisbon – is so worth a visit. Charming hilly streets with yellow trams busting through. No other European can offer this.

The Alfama Patio belongs to one of the best hostels in Lisbon because of it’s location, price and of course it’s Patio:

Image credits: Willi Hybrid & guidguid

In our hostel we have shared dormitories with 4 and 6 beds and shared bathroom. We have one six bed dorm with private bathroom. As well we have two double rooms with shared bathroom, but with balcony and very nice view to the river and Alfama district. We can accomodate at this moment 36 persons, but we are still growing...Our rooms are very sunny and most of them have balconies.

Girls don´t worry! Mirror in every room! Small lights and box for your small personal stuff available for every bed. Our rooms are mostly decorated in eclectic style - modern mixed with antique things.

Location Information

Some of the most visited monuments are at walking distance: Lisbon Castle, Se Cathedral, National Pantheon, S. Vicente Fora Monastery and many more.
Even today, as in the past, white clothes hang at the windows to dry, colorful flowers sit on ledges and legendary yellow trams wind their way up Lisbon's narrow streets.
Our hostel has a private grass courtyard with barbecue and hammocks, and a terrace with stunning views over the Alfama district, the Tagus River and the S. Vicente de Fora Church and Monastery.

 
We have a very familiar atmosphere and we are friendly. You will immediately feel like home. We will help you plan your stay and guide you through the city’s hot spots. You will not miss the best that Lisbon offers.

Alfama Patio Hostel is definitely the right place for you! Though we like to have fun, we are not mainly a party hostel (even if we are having our world famous barbecue party every Saturday). Our aim is to provide a quiet and relaxed atmosphere in the hostel, so if you’d like to party after midnight, it is possible to go to the clubs and bars nearby.

More info: Alfama Patio Hostel in Lisbon

- Great Place to stay in Barcelona

25% Off Easyjet Sale

HURRY – Sale ends midnight on Tuesday. So book without any delay.

Not familiar with easyJet? easyJet is a low budget airline operating throughout Europe. So if you are Backpacking and need to stay within a budget, this airline is perfect for you.

Link: easyJet Sale

An other European low budget airline: Ryanair

- Cheap Hostels in Europe

Best Carry On Suitcase

 

This is awesome – I have checking my luggage and I my checking in suitcases disappeared too many times.

This carry on holds an entire weekend's worth of clothes yet folds to merely 3" thick for unobtrusive storage. A patented accordion frame expands and folds in seconds; simply press a button on the frame to engage or release the hinges and the frame opens and closes with ease. When open, the carry on has a 1,560" Cu. main compartment that allows you to quickly pack and remove travel items.

An integrated garment carrier accommodates a full suit and dress shirt and keeps delicate garments separate from the contents of the main compartment, and eight smaller pockets keep travel items organized. The frame is made from durable fiberglass that can support up to 100 lbs., and the 1680-denier ballistic nylon exterior resists tears, punctures, and water. Four wheels, a telescoping handle, and the carry on's streamlined rectangular shape allow you to easily navigate aisles and terminals.

More into: Best Carry On

- Travel Gadgets

Venice Video Tour

Venice is on top of my list of European places to visit. Watch this incredible video of Venice. But be warned!!! It will make you book a flight and hotel in Venice.

- Hotels in Venice

Super Solar Shower Bag

Out in the wild and just have the urge to take a hot shower?

Being dirty is not where it's at. That's why showers were invented. Unfortunately, unless you're into freezing your you-know-whats off, showers require power. And that means you can't have a nice hot shower when you're stuck in the middle of the wilderness. Or does it?

Step forward the ingenious Super Solar Shower. This incredibly useful, eco-friendly shower system has been specifically designed for those moments when you want a shower but you're miles from power. And that's because it is heated by everyone's favorite bright orangey thing.

More info: Super Solar Shower Bag

- Ireland in 12 Days in one Video

Niagara Falls Video

Wow – this really once of the better travel videos I have seen in a wile.

- Video Portrait of Ireland

Budget Stays at Niagara Falls

Boutique Hotel Athens: Fresh

Decently priced ( starting at 85 Euros a night) great location and neat design. What else can you ask from a boutique hotel?

Hotel Fresh is an extremely stylish and modern hotel located in central Athens. Enjoy the many wellness facilities and the fresh and luxurious atmosphere.

The hotel offers large, colourful and luxurious rooms. All have air conditioning, private bathroom and designer fittings.

Guests can enjoy a full breakfast buffet each morning in restaurant Magenta. The choice includes a healthy corner for guests who are on a diet or like a well-balanced meal.
The Air Lounge Bar serves you gourmet Greek and Mediterranean cuisine and quality entertainment.

The outdoor swimming pool is open from mid May (weather permitting) until the end of September. Furthermore you can make use of the sauna, fitness centre and hammam.
The hotel is centrally situated across from the Parthenon and within walking distance of other historical monuments, such as the Greek Parliament Square and Plaka, the old town of Athens.

More info: Hotel Fresh Athens

- Cheap Flights to Athens / Greece Cheap Places to Stay

Gaudi Barcelona – Guell Park

Awesome Hostels in Barcelona

This park is one of the must see things in Barcelona. Enjoy the video and if you want to see pictures instead visit here: Barcelona Pictures

- Ireland Tips

When Backpacking Europe Leave your Phone on

See more funny videos and TBT Videos at Today's Big Thing.

Or buy prepaid cards ;)

[via: classic fun]

Best prices on Hostels

Great Hostel in Prague: Miss Sophie’s Hostel

I have been to Prague several times and loved it. Mostly for the beer and food though … ok, just kidding. But every time I go back Prague seemed to have changed a little bit. I think next time thought I’m going to check out Pilsen … emm .. for the beer ;) !

Tucked away on a charming street just minutes away from Prague's historical sights, Miss Sophie's offers a peaceful retreat from the tourist hustle and bustle. It's the perfect place for resting after an exciting day of exploring Prague - with free internet, a cozy lounge, and helpful staff. We offer hotel-quality accomodation at hostel-style rates to make your stay comfortable and convenient.

Situated in the New Town, within walking distance of the important Old Town sites on your list, Miss Sophie's is a boutique hideaway from the frequent crowds of tourists that gather in this city having heard of its unique soul in the heart of Europe.

The New Town is the genuine commercial, social and cultural heart of Prague the city as Czech people know it firsthand. The neighbourhood harbours a variety spanning from local Czech pubs to hip ex-pat hot spots. Whether you are a world traveller, a weekend getaway kind, or a working visitor confined to a suit, feeling young or feeling old, we open our doors to offer you an enjoyable stay.

More info: Miss Sophie’s Hostel

More Hostels in Prague and Hotels in Prague

- Self Heating Food Cans

Hotels for you and your pet

We have a little doggy too and I always just feel way too guilty to go on vacation and leaving the puppy at home. Thought this pet friendly hotel search engine is a great idea.

Here some pet travel tips from their site:

• Before leaving, check to make sure the hotel accepts pets. And check either our on-line advertisements or directly with the hotel, to find out any restrictions, fees, etc.
• Also find Emergency Veterinary Clinics in the area to which you're headed.
• If the pet travels with you, it will retain a sense of identity. However, pets can become frightened and bolt away from you out of open doors and windows. Keep your pet on a leash when outside your car or hotel.
• Occasionally traveling can upset your pet's stomach. Take along ice cubes, which are easier on your pet than large amounts of water. It is recommended that you keep feeding to a minimum during travel. If you are traveling by car, a light meal for your pet two to three hours before you leave is advised. If you are traveling by air, a light meal four to six hours before departure is recommended. Allow small amounts of water periodically in the hours before the trip.
• Whether your pet travels with you or by another means it should wear a special identification tag in addition to its regular one. Write the pet's name, your name, the person to contact at the destination, their phone number, a destination address, or that of a friend or relative, in case you want to be reached.
• Rabies vaccinations are a must for all travel abroad. Many airlines also require vaccinations. Check with your vet for the complete range of vaccinations required, and of course, check with the airline and country to which you're heading.
• Check the airline's requirements to see if your pet can travel in a carrier that can be kept under a seat in the cabin or must travel by air freight.
• Get the pet to the air terminal in time. Get there 45 minutes in advance if the pet is accompanying you. If shipping the pet, get to the flight terminal two hours in advance of your flight

More info: Pet Hotel Search Engine

Europe Hostel Summer Sale

 

No budget to travel this year? Maybe you can reconsider now – since you some hostels in Europe will be 70% off!

These last-minute bargains mean there's no reason not to get away in 2009 – whether you're looking for a cheap weekend break or 7 days relaxing by the sea, the HostelBookers summer sale can help you escape to Europe on a budget! From 45% off a city break in Florence to saving 30% on sun holidays to the Costa del Sol and Canary Islands, HostelBookers have the best deals and discounts on budget accommodation in Europe in August.

More info: Europe Hostel Summer Sale

Valencia Formula 1: Michael Schumacher

For our German speaking readers: Tipps zum Michael Schumacher Rennen in Valencia

Photo: Christian Janke

The crisis and the the small amounts of sold Tickets for the F1 race in Valencia for 2009 made the the City of Valencia and the organizers for Formula1 pretty nervous. Now Schumi will race and will turn this event probably into the biggest Formula 1 race ever.

Planning to see Schumi race in Valencia? Here is a guide on how to book flights to Valencia, hotels and that site also has general Valencia infos, including tips on tapas bars and restaurants.

Link: Schumi in Valencia

- Photographer in Valencia

Link: Formula 1 Tickets on Ebay

A walk through Paris in HD

A neat travel video showing the journey of an American going to Paris.

Hotels in Paris / Hostels in Paris

Why Visit Valencia, Spain?

Because it’s just plain awesome!

For more info visit: Valencia Blog

- Hotels in Valencia / B&Bs in Valencia and Hostels in Valencia

And the main Question: What is Fallas?

Collection of Love Hotels in Japan

I admire the designs of these Hotels where you can rent the rooms by hour. Yet, an other great photo project I would like to do. Click on the images for more information.

Why should stay in one?

There are lots of reasons! First, they are typically a good value. For less than a tiny efficiency at a business hotel, you can get a decent sized room, a queen bed and a luxurious shower and bath. Even better, the love hotel is intended as a spontaneous - and secret - getaway, so you're not expected to have an overnight bag. To compensate, you'll often find a wide selection of hair products, face creams, toothbrushes, and pajamas for you and your friend, as well as bath and shower necessities. It's easy enough to leave your backpack in a train station locker, spend the day out, and crash at a love hotel without having to carry a ton of stuff with you.

Did we mention you'll get free movies on your TV? Okay, sometimes the selection is limited to censored porn, but the upscale places will have on-demand movies, video games, karaoke, and, well, a wide porn selection. You might get pachinko in your room, or special lighting effects with mood music. Many love hotels feature a pretty extensive menu of food, drinks, and fetish toys you can order for delivery or purchase in your room. Condoms are provided bedside, but we can't vouch for their safety - the word is that they are locally made and probably not too reliable. Pack your own!

Bathing is important in Japan and love hotel shower rooms are like mini-onsen. Most have standard Japanese showers with the little plastic stools, and a bathtub built for two nearby. More fun places will have rain showers, Jacuzzi tubs with colored lights, aroma and bubble bath options, or a TV facing the tub.

Needless to say, if you're traveling with a paramour, love hotels are worth checking out. However the same romance-focused elements that could make it a sexy getaway for you and a partner might make it a little awkward with a friend. Many hotels use glass between the bedroom and shower room (not to mention mirrors on the ceiling) so privacy is hard to come by.

Some travelers have reported that hotel proprietors may not be willing to sell a room to a same-sex couple. To the extent that we receive reports about hotels that are gay-friendly and "lovely," we'll happily post them, but be aware that same-sex couples might be turned away. Source: Aron Boros

Hotel Mickey Cookies

Hotel Silk Road

Hotel Aland

More info: Wire Magazine & Wikipedia

More cute Hostels and Hotels in Japan:

• Sakura Hotel in Tokyo
• Kurhaus Ishibashi Ryokan
• Many More Budget Stays in Japan

J-List is a peaceful island of Japanese pop culture for you

Cute Hotel in Marrakech: Riad Lena

Marrakech is the place to be. It’s always hip and it is on top of the list of places to visit. The Riad Lena has been recommended to us and it is offering everything you need for the dreams of 1001 nights to come true.

Riad Lena Hotel is located eight minutes away from the markets and Place Jeema el Fna. The riad has been traditionally renovated with much thought given to your comfort.
A first class riad in the heart of the Medina and markets, with terraces, a swimming pool and easy car access.

The riad consists of 11 air-conditioned bedrooms, furnished in pure Moroccan style. All rooms look onto the patio and the swimming pool permitting you to cool down after sunbathing on the terrace with views of the High Atlas Mountains.

Breakfast (included), a tea, an aperitif, a lunch or a dinner, prepared by our Moroccan cook, can be taken on the terrace, in the dining room, in the salons and in the bhou (outside living room).

More info: Riad Lena in Marrakech

Other Hostels and Budget Accommodations in Marrakech:

• Equiti Point
• Riad al Faras

Cheap tickets to Morocco: