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.

Lübeck, Germany: Highlights of a Charming UNESCO Town

Posted 30th June, 2023
By Alex Kallimanis
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Beautiful Lübeck (Luebeck), Germany is a UNESCO World Heritage surrounded by the Trave and Wakenitz rivers. It’s located 42 miles (67 km) northeast of Hamburg, and 12 miles (19 km) from the Baltic Sea beach town of Travemünde.

Founded in 1143, Lübeck was nicknamed “the Queen of the Hanseatic League” during the 14th century. The Hanseatic League was a trade network of Northern European towns. Its impressive gothic brick architecture towers into the sky, along with nestling alongside its waterways.

Posted in Germany. Tagged Cafe Niederegger, Fangfrisch Luebeck, Germany, Heiligen Geist, Holiday Inn, Holstentor, Loewen Manufactur, Lübeck, Marienkirche, Newport Restaurant

Grecotel: A Luxury Olympia Riviera Stay

Posted 2nd June, 2023
By Alex Kallimanis
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Last updated on July 16th, 2024 at 02:58 pmThe Olympia Riviera offers an idllyic seaside vacation, located in the beautiful Ilia region of the Peloponnese, in southern Greece. Vast stretches of sandy beaches offer a relaxing reprieve for couples and families, with sweeping views of the Ionian Islands of Zakynthos and Kefalonia. Grecotel features a…

Posted in Greece. Tagged Ancient Olympia, Chlemoutsi, Grecotel, Ilia Palms, Kyllini, Mandala Rosa, Olympia, Olympia Oasis, Penguin Travels

10 Days in Poland: Krakow, Warsaw, Wrocław

Posted 20th April, 2023
By Alex Kallimanis
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Poland is one of Europe’s most underrated countries for visitors. Its picturesque cities showcase some of Europe’s largest and most beautiful market squares, dotted with unique architecture. This 10 days in Poland guide covers highlights of Krakow, Poland’s most visited city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also covers the capital of Warsaw, which offers a unique juxtaposition between its charming historic center and towering skyscapers. Another popular destination we enjoyed visiting is Wrocław, a charming city in southwest Poland.

Posted in Europe, Poland. Tagged couples travel, Europe, European travel, European Union, Krakow, Lodz, Poland, travel, Warsaw, Wroclaw

Great Small Ship Cruises Around the World

Posted 6th April, 2023
By Alex Kallimanis
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An advantage of small ship cruises over large ships, is a more intimate setting. The focus is on gorgeous destinations, carefully curated excursions, locally sourced dining and your surrounding company. It’s a far different experience compared to mega ships with casinos, waterslides and thousands of people on board. That can be fun for travelers, but it’s not for ideal for everyone, including popular destinations and the environment. These are some of the best small ship cruises spanning European river cruises to the Alaska fjords!

Posted in Europe. Tagged Alaska, Caribbean, couples travel, cruises, Danube river, European travel, Mediterranean, river cruise, South America

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Italy

Posted 14th March, 2023
By Alex Kallimanis
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Italy is a beautiful country that attracts millions of tourists every year. With its rich history, stunning architecture, world-famous cuisine, and scenic landscapes, there’s no shortage of things to experience. One of the hardest parts of planning a trip to Italy is deciding on where to visit, since the country offers a wealth of highlights. Here’s tips and recommendations for how to spend 2 weeks in Italy based on several visits to the country!