Crimea Winter Tour

Travel Blog - Ross French - May 1, 2021

The Crimea in winter – it’s chilly sunsets and late dawns, melting ice and snow, strange hanging waterfalls and ice-covered palm trees and cacti. If you are lucky enough to see the earliest blooming snowdrops, they usually bloom in late winter and early spring. This article will introduce you to the winter tourism program in Crimea.

The Crimea in winter – it’s the chilly sunsets and late dawns, the melting ice and snow, the strange hanging waterfalls and the ice-covered palm trees and cacti. If you are lucky enough to see the earliest blooming snowdrops, they usually bloom in late winter and early spring. This article will introduce you to winter tourism in Crimea.

Skiing

Alpine skiing is also possible in Crimea. The only alpine ski resort on the peninsula is located on Mount Epetri. The northern slopes of the mountain are suitable for beginners in snowboarding and alpine skiing, while skilled competitors can go elsewhere. Trails are open only in winter and snow is not often available in winter.

There are 6 trails with different levels of drop from 20 to 170 meters. The “Frog” track is 120 meters long and is ideal for sledding. The “Kichkine” track is 320 meters long and is suitable for alpine ski training. The “26 km” track with a length of 600 meters and the “27 km” track with a length of 1,030 meters are suitable for group family fun, with children on sleds and adults skiing freely. The 340-meter-long “Lab” piste and the 450-meter-long “Ski Park” piste are more suitable for a small group of professionals.

Even if you don’t ski, it’s well worth the trip up Mount Epetri. The viewpoint at the top of the mountain offers a panoramic view of the coastline. The upper lifts are open from 10am to 15pm and the last downhill lift is at 16:00. You can rent skis or snowboards near the weather station. The rental fee is 500 rubles per day and you can use your documents as a deposit.

Climbing the peak

There is not much snow in the Crimean mountains and it melts quickly, so winter is a good time to climb the peaks alone. You can choose to climb to the top on foot, or you can drive a jeep or ride a horse up the mountain, the main thing is to choose a good route. In winter, most of the Crimea has above-zero temperatures, and sub-zero temperatures are only encountered in some mountainous areas. For example, the snow on the summit of Mount Epetri can remain for about three months. In the southern part of the mountain peaks the climate is milder and temperatures can reach 15 degrees above zero, with average temperatures around 6 and 8 degrees above zero.

Visit the palaces

Vorontsov Palace, Rivaglia Palace, Yusupov Palace, Bakhchisarayhan Palace – in winter you can visit these palaces, which were celebrated in literature. Stained glass, floral decorative motifs, fountains, formal reception halls: the palaces of Crimean rulers are stunning and dazzling. Strolling through the palaces in winter is much warmer than outdoor activities, and the number of visitors is relatively low at this time of year, and the park is particularly beautiful after the snowfall with its cypress trees.

A must-see in Yalta is the Emir’s Palace in Bukhara, a Moorish-style building. The palace is decorated with noble carvings, complete with galleries and pavilions. However, it can only be visited from the outside at the moment, and the palace is currently a sanatorium.

Wine and dine

The “New World” Champagne House offers a wide range of tours to choose from. You can visit the winery in winter, even on weekends. You can choose the “Royal Tour” program. This tour includes a tasting of the famous “Paradisio” and “Coronation” Champagnes (based on the original recipe of Duke Lev Golitsyn), a visit to the underground cellars, a tour of the cellars, a look at the The shaking process (one of the most important aspects of Champagne production).

If you want to taste the local cuisine, you can go to the New World restaurant “Wine and Fish”, located in the “Vintage” hotel. From the terrace, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Sokol Mountain and New World Bay. The menu is mainly seafood-based, but be sure to try their branded cocktails based on champagne.

So, are you ready to visit Crimea for your next vacation? Since Crimea is not longer part of the Ukraine instated of Russia, you need to obtain a Russian visa in order to travel to Crimea. Visa Express can help you obtain the Russian visa: https://visaexpress.com/visa-for-russia-from-us/

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Where to Party Outdoor With A View in Washington D.C.

Travel Blog, Travel Tips - Ross French - March 18, 2021

From iconic monuments to stunning natural scenery, Washington D.C. has some pretty spectacular views. Why not enjoy those views at your next party? Whether you’re planning a sophisticated cocktail party, a big birthday bash, or a casual do, holding it at a great rooftop space will help elevate your event, literally and figuratively. Make your next party one to remember at one of these rooftop party venues in Washington DC with a view.

10 Best Rooftop Party Venues with a view in Washington D.C.

1. Top of the Gate

Located on the 15th floor of the historic Watergate Hotel, Top of the Gate is one of the premier rooftop bars in D.C. and can host private parties for 20 or 300. Enjoy 360-degree views of the Potomac River, Key and Arlington Bridges, the Kennedy Center, and the Washington Monument.

The bar serves handcrafted cocktails paired with delicious small bites. In the winter, there is even an ice skating rink you can party at.

2. Vela Rooftop Terrace at The Line DC

Situated in a 110-year-old historic neoclassical church in the artsy Adams Morgan neighborhood, The Line DC Hotel offers a spacious rooftop ideal for large private parties.

The fully landscaped, 5,590-square-foot space with room for up to 220 guests offers panoramic views and can be customized for your event for the ultimate party experience. The venue provides all drinks and catering, making it easy to plan your party.

3. Penthouse Pool Club

For the ultimate pool party for up to 100 guests, hold it at the Penthouse Pool Club. The private members-only club can be rented for private events and offers two convenient locations to choose from, in Dupont Circle and Navy Yard.

The Penthouse Pool Club is perfect for spring and summer parties. Your guests can cool off in the pool or lounge around in the cabanas, day beds, and sunbeds. Food and drinks can be provided.

4. Terrace Bar at La Vie

Enjoy spectacular water views and a Mediterranean-inspired bar and menu for your next party at Terrace Bar in La Vie. Set in a prime location at The Wharf, the spacious rooftop offers nearly 10,000 square feet of space. A waterfall backdrop adds an extra touch of elegance. A private penthouse space is another option and comes with a built-in DJ booth and access to the rooftop.

5. The Capitol View at 400

Located in the heart of Capitol Hill, the Capitol View at 400 offers 300-degree views that pan from Union Station to the Library of Congress and the Capitol Dome. Glass railings offer an unobstructed view.

A retractable awning, plus heating and air conditioning, makes it perfect for parties year-round. There’s space for 470 guests, or 300 when the space is enclosed. Preferred vendors provide catering and drinks.

6. Charlie Palmer Steak

Located off the National Mall, this refined steakhouse has a large rooftop terrace with fantastic views of the Capitol. This is the place to throw a big bash, as there’s room for up to 500 guests for cocktails (or 250 seated).

The rooftop space can also be tented, and heated or air-conditioned, so you can have your party whenever you want, whatever the weather forecast. Food and drinks are provided in-house.

7. Whiskey Charlie

For a sophisticated event with nautical vibes and fantastic waterfront views, plan your next party at Whiskey Charlie, the rooftop cocktail lounge of the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf.

Available for complete buyouts only, there’s room for up to 60 guests. Your guests will enjoy signature cocktails of reimagined classics, made from all types of liquors, and a variety of clever finger foods.

8. Top of the Yard

For a baseball-themed party, Top of the Yard Bar & Bites is the obvious choice. Located on top of the Hampton Inn Washington DC Navy Yard, you and your guests will enjoy great views directly into Nationals Park, as well as views of the Capitol Riverfront and Downtown DC.

Comfortable sofas, lounge chairs, and Astroturf make it a great venue for that casual party, with a ballpark-inspired menu to match.

9. Ellipse Rooftop Bar

Located downtown, just a few blocks away from the White House, Ellipse Rooftop Bar is a chic and stylish venue for your party. This classic rooftop lounge features comfy sofas and table seating.
A retractable canopy and fire pits allow you to hold your party without a concern for the weather. Enjoy a wide range of cocktails, beers, wines, and a selection of appetizers and small bites.

10. Top of the Town

Although it’s actually in Arlington, Top of the Town offers some of the best views of Washington D.C., making it a great setting for your rooftop party. The penthouse private events venue offers an outdoor terrace that will wow your guests with panoramic views of the nation’s capital. Choose from an approved list of vendors. You can even bring your own alcohol to be served by an approved caterer.

Planning ahead to book the perfect party venue in Washington D.C.

A little planning goes a long way to ensuring the perfect party. If you plan to hold it somewhere other than your home, make sure you pick your venue and book it as soon as possible, as the best venues book up far in advance.

The list above is a good starting point for rooftop party venues in Washington D.C. that offer a great view. They’re also popular spots, so if you want to hold your party at one of them, start your planning today!

Links to images:

1: https://unsplash.com/photos/EmSWJzRYxG0

2: https://unsplash.com/photos/6EgxRnKU5BI

Resources:

https://washington.org/meetings/outdoor-meeting-venues-washington-dc

https://blog.bizzabo.com/washington-dc-event-venues

https://www.partyslate.com/best-of/private-party-venues-dc

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Top 10 places to visit in Caribbean Islands

Caribbean, Travel Blog, Travel Tips - Ross French - October 22, 2020

Thinking of visiting the Caribbean Islands and wondering where to go? Here is the list of top 10 destinations of Caribbean Islands to choose from

From pristine beaches to fiery cocktails, Caribbean Islands is the epitome of good vibes, that no one can ever deny. There are many islands here in the Caribbean Islands, which will make your jaw drop. The riot of colors will brighten your mood. The beautiful sunset is a sight that you will never forget.

The Caribbean Islands can be very enticing. There are many small and large island that comprises the island country. Seems like it has come straight out of heaven. The sunset or the sunrise will give you the perfect picture of your Instagram feed.

You will not be able to complete all the islands and the best spots of the island country. But it is hard to choose the best one from the so many exquisite islands. But we have done a bit of researched and noted down the top 10 destinations of the Caribbean Islands. Continue Reading

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Travel Smart – Tips to Enjoy your Travels

Europe, Travel Blog, Travel Tips - Ross French - July 13, 2020

Wasted travel is unforgivable. Far too many people take a trip to somewhere that would easily be in the top ten of many people’s bucket lists, and they return home with almost nothing to say about the place. As someone who loves to travel, I find this to be among the most outstanding failures of grownups everywhere. The conversation typically goes a little something like this:

“Oh, welcome back, nice trip?”
“ – Yes thanks, lovely weather”
“Did you get out into the old town at all? Or see the famous bridge or the…”
“ – Mmmm no, not really, we don’t really like that kind of thing”
“So, you didn’t see the Cathedral or…”
“ – Oh, yeah, you mean that church thing? We had an ice cream near there. Looked nice.”

And you feel like screaming “WHY DID YOU BOTHER”, but, sadly, if you did scream at people for doing travelling wrong, you’d be screaming most of the time. Part of the problem is that travel, I suppose, isn’t straightforward. There’s a lot of planning. There can be overseas money transfers to navigate (read up all about wire transfers), and you might feel like no matter what you do with your travel time, it could have been spent better by someone else, so, why panic, and just enjoy what comes your way. Let’s look at how to do it right.

Read read read

In the days before the internet (I’m showing my age – but I was very young), people going on vacation had to rely on travel brochures and word of mouth. Information was scarce. And what you got when you arrived was never as advertised. Fast forward to modern day access to all the information in the world at your fingertips, and you really have no excuse not to read up on your travel destination – or else you could miss out on something extraordinary.

For example, everyone has heard of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, right? But what you may not have heard about is the catacombs, deep underground, where the walls are made of human bones. There are daily tours and everything. And visitors to Disneyland theme parks will know all about the rides, but may not know about the secretive “Club 33”, where for tens of thousands of dollars, members may walk through the handful of Club 33 doors (visible inside the park but plain and unassuming looking) and experience 5-star luxury dining etc. The more you know, the more you’ll enjoy yourself.

Mix it up

Being a tourist is day one stuff – as the saying goes, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. So, yeah, I get it, take the guided tour, sit on the open top bus, sail down the river while a guide points out the various historical buildings. But on day two… this is where you need to explore a little. Find restaurants off the beaten track, etc. Don’t leave having not seen the “real” people of wherever you’ve visited.

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The Easiest Ways you can Save Money on Travelling (and still have a great time)

Travel Blog, Travel Tips - Ross French - July 2, 2020

Everyone should have the opportunity to travel the world. Sadly, for many people, it’s the potential cost of heading across the world that stops them from achieving their travel dreams. Flights, accommodation, food, activities as well as money for emergencies…the costs quickly add up.

However, despite common misconceptions about travel it is entirely possible to travel the world on a limited budget and even save yourself some money in the process. Want to know more? Here we’ve gathered some of the easiest ways you can save money on travelling (and still have a great time)!

First of all…

Creating a travel budget is something all travellers must do. Otherwise, you’ll have no idea where you can afford to go, how much you’ll have to spend and how long you can stay for before you run out of money. Creating a simple budget will ensure you make the most out of your money, avoid overspending and make better travel choices to make your money go further. Try a budget calculator to get you started.

Avoid peak times

Thinking of making travel plans for summer? Or around public holidays? It’ll cost you a fortune and you’ll probably spend most of your budget before you’ve even stepped foot on a plane. Avoiding peak times means that you’ll get to visit your intended destination but without the crowds, tourists and the hefty price tag. Do some research into the quiet months of the year and consider your options.

Be clever with your accommodation location

Sure, the cheapest hostel or hotel is on the outskirts of town, but the cost of travelling to places of interest or a nice restaurant probably negates your potential saving. It’s also inconvenient and time-consuming. When searching for accommodation, look for a location that’s within walking distance of areas you’d like to explore. Don’t forget to compare prices on hotel comparison sites.

Eat like the locals

Chain restaurants and tourist hotspots will charge a fortune. Whereas street food and smaller, local cafes and bars provide a much more authentic and budget-friendly option. Trying new cuisine plays a huge part in the travelling experience, but you shouldn’t have to break the bank to do it. Eating like a local means you get the best of both worlds. Speak with hostel/hotel staff about food recommendations.

Cook your own food

Choosing to stay somewhere that has kitchen facilities means that you can save money on eating out every single day and enjoy a home-cooked meal. If you shop at local markets – even just a few days a week – then you’ll be able to save money and eat something with some nutritional value!

And finally, consider getting a job

If you want to extend your stay overseas, then why not find some work to fund your stay? Bar and restaurant work is ideal. Alternatively, there’s fruit and flower picking, working in resorts or even working your job remotely on the other side of the world could be an option. If you’re planning on working overseas, it’s much better to secure a role before you travel.

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