Author: Alex Kallimanis

Alex Kallimanis is an award winning travel journalist who has visited 67+ different countries, including all 27 European Union countries, across all continents except Antarctica. He has resided around the world, living in countries like Australia, the Netherlands and Ireland for over 7 years combined. Currently residing in the Tampa, Florida, area with his wife Bell, he still spends much of his time in Europe as he also holds Greek citizenship, thanks to his father. Alex is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a bachelor of arts degree in history, and was the president of Phi Alpha Theta (Honors History Society) during his senior year there. He was working on an MBA at UCF, before leaving it to reside in Australia on a one year working holiday visa, many moons ago. Alex enjoys covering wellness, gastronomy, outdoor adventures, craft beverages, history, sports and culture during his travels.

How to Spend One Day in Oslo, Norway

Posted 4th June, 2014
By Alex Kallimanis
5 Comments

Oslo, the capital of Norway, rests along the country’s southern coast at the head of Oslofjord. The ski jumping venue of Holmenkollbakken offers fantastic panoramic views overlooking Oslo and the surrounding fjord. Oslo’s harbor is a lovely place to enjoy a drink and a meal outside during warmer weather.

Oslo is popular for its ample green spaces, cleanliness and museums. Bygdøy Peninsula features the waterside Norwegian Maritime Museum and the Viking Ship Museum, with Viking ships from the 9th century.

Posted in Europe, Norway. Tagged Europe, Europe Travel, Holmenkollen, Norway, Oslo, Royal Palace, travel, Vigelandsparken, Viking Museum

Tips on Traveling with Lactose Intolerance

Posted 23rd May, 2014
By Alex Kallimanis
7 Comments

Last updated on July 15th, 2024 at 09:58 pmTraveling with lactose intolerance is as fun as having fire ants thrown down your pants. I know from personal experience. Sure Lactaid can help a bit, but the terrible side effect of it is that it does not work very well. Hence its lack of FDA approval….

Posted in Europe. Tagged allergies, Asia, Europe, Italy, lactose intolerance, non-dairy, travel, USA

What to Expect at a Travel Trade Fair

Posted 17th February, 2014
By Alex Kallimanis
6 Comments

Last updated on February 18th, 2025 at 09:59 amWe recently attended the largest travel trade fair in Spain, FITUR in Madrid. It was an interesting event, but naturally better suited for Spanish speakers or those working specifically in the travel industry in Spain. The event was a great excuse to visit Madrid though. Especially since…

Posted in Germany, Spain, United Kingdom. Tagged FITUR, ITB Berlin, Travel Show, Travel Trade, WTM

Pros and Cons of Airbnb: Host’s Viewpoint

Posted 27th January, 2014
By Alex Kallimanis
12 Comments

Last updated on July 17th, 2024 at 05:24 pmAirbnb can be a great website to save money while you travel or for earning some extra cash. For six months we listed our spare bedroom in Dublin on Airbnb to make extra euros for travel. During that time we had guests from England, Scotland, Estonia, Poland, Ireland…

Posted in Europe. Tagged Accommodation, Airbnb, Apartments, guests, hosts, reviews, tips

Vietnam Travel Tips to Explore and Learn

Posted 22nd January, 2014
By Alex Kallimanis
10 Comments

Vietnam is a fascinating country that is constantly evolving. There are a myriad of wonderful experiences to enjoy including kayaking Ha Long Bay and sailing along the Mekong Delta. Vietnam also has an excellent culinary scene that was influenced by French occupation.
Whether you want to stay on a resort or explore the countryside, Vietnam has visitors covered.

Vietnam can be a challenging country to explore, as we discovered firsthand. But we had no major problems, and found many people to be warm and welcoming.