Top 10 Castles to Stay in Europe

Ever fancied having your own castle and pretending you are a princess or Sir Lancelot? Well, you can have that dream fulfilled and actually rent or buy a beautiful castle in Europe, and at affordable prices (or so the property experts say). For the rest of us we’ve put together a list with our top 10 castle hotels in Europe, and a little bit about each to ease your decision if you consider booking a room, or why not – plan a wedding:

1. Amberley Castle, England

amberley castle

http://www.amberleycastle.co.uk/

The lovely 900-year-old medieval castle in England is perfect for a slow vacation. The castle has a legendary history, including ownership by Queen Elizabeth I from 1588 to 1603; visits from Charles II; and a bout in the civil war, when Cromwell attacked its walls. Nowadays the 19 rooms are luxurious and enchanting, boasting elegant four-poster beds, rich wall hangings and carpets, antique frills, and a few modern additions like en-suite jacuzzi, TVs and VCRs. A standard B&B double room can be your for about 440 EUR.

2. La Bourdasiere Castle – Val de Loire

la bourdasiere castle

http://www.labourdaisiere.com/

Constructed in the 15th century for the royal mistress of King François I, the castle today is a popular honeymoon destination (for officially married couples). Located less than an hour from Paris, and surrounded by 140 acres of enchanted woodlands, Château de la Bourdaisière lets guests live like royalty, with 11 luxurious rooms (and three apartments), outdoor heated swimming pool, tennis courts, and more.  Price of a standard room: 142 EUR.

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Traveling with your dog this summer?

Friends, we’ve been asked recently about how someone should prepare if he wants to travel with the pet. And though we’re mostly into sheep, we’ve put together some quick travel tips to help you when you’re planning a road trip with your precious:

- Be sure to pack all his things he’d normally use when at home – food, water, bowls, snacks, leash, collar, medicine, toys, bedding;

- Besides the essentials, you should have with you the dog’s ID & health certificate, paper towels, stain remover and some anti-diarrhea and car sick pills;

- Plan longer breaks while driving, and keep the dog in the back seat; consider some sedatives if he is very active, but be sure to check it with the vet first; (more…)

Chicago card from Nick

I just picked up from my mail box a lovely card from Nick Hawkins‘ hometown, Chicago :) I’ve been watching Nick’s blog and his TWT/FB traveling stuff for a while now, and I must say he’s one of my fav travelers. Not just because he’s traveled the world so many times, but because he tells the stories in his own personal style.

Here’s the card below. Thanks Nick & promise to visit your town sometime soon.

chicago