There is something magical about taking UK, European or Worldwide rail journeys. In recent years I have experienced the magnificence of the Bullet train in Japan as well as the ever-efficient services in Europe which for me always start at London St Pancras with the wonderful Eurostar service over to France.
An adventure by rail offers a unique perspective allowing you to discover countries differently. The romance as you step on board a train and travel as our predecessors did during that golden age of rail travel is a thrill that seems to grow the older you get!
Some of the most iconic journeys in the world take place by rail – how about the Flying Scotsman here in the UK, the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada, The Rovos Rail in South Africa, the Venice Simplon Orient Express in Italy or how about the Trans Siberian Railway connecting Russia to the Far East.
I wanted to add some recommendations to my website for those of you considering letting the train take the strain on your next adventure.
Trainline
You may be familiar with Trainline for booking UK rail travel but did you know you can also use them to book fantastic rail journeys abroad? Trainline works with 270 rail and coach companies to offer their customers travel to thousands of destinations in and across 45 countries in Europe. If you are looking to take advantage of Europe’s vast network of rail and coach services to get around countries or visit popular attractions and cities then I would recommend you visit this site.
Explore
Explore runs small-group adventure holidays and currently has over 600 trips available in 120 countries, offering a choice that is second to none. They have a wide range of adventure travel options including walking and trekking tours, cycling tours, polar voyages, family adventure holidays and Rail Holidays …
Their award-winning Explore leaders, commitment to responsible travel and a pinch of Explore spirit, keep their customers coming back year after year.
Saga Holidays
Saga Holidays has 70 years of arranging great value holidays for the over 50’s.
They have a fantastic collection of holidays tailored exclusively for single guests as well as a variety of excellent touring holidays, ocean cruises, river cruises, European, worldwide and UK hotel breaks, and Rail Journeys.
Many people will leave obtaining foreign currency until the last moment and arrange it at the airport. This is not a good idea as rates will often be high. You can therefore take a lot of stress away by organising your money abroad well in advance!
Check out these suggestions to help your finances go further when travelling and remember the phrase “Perfect Planning Prevents Pathetic Performance”
Travel Agent FX
Most travel agents have a foreign exchange (FX) bureau and will stock all the most popular currencies as well as be able to order in some of the more unusual ones. Rates are normally excellent with service and trust assured.
Many agents also now offer a click-and-collect facility plus special deals on changing your money back when you return. So my currency tip – visit your online or high street travel agency!
TopCashback
Founded in 2005, Topcashback provides the ability for you to earn money back on your online purchases whether it is for travel-related items like car hire, hotels, flights, trains, holidays etc or even simple everyday purchases like food, electrical appliances or utilities.
Just sign up to Topcashback and you can earn a significant amount of money in cash back or you can convert it at even higher rates into store vouchers.
There is no catch to this. Just sign up and thank me later!
Revolut Card
Both myself and over 12 million others have a Revolut card. I use it daily on every trip that I take abroad as quite simply it saves me money on exchange rates and has an app that makes managing my finances so easy.
I also use it as a holiday fund account which I add to monthly – then when it’s time to travel, you have that pot of cash ready to spend on all those experiences you promised yourself.
Exchange Money with NO Hidden Fees Budget & Analytics Discounts & Cashback Send Money All Over The World Earn Daily Interest On Savings
Hiring a car abroad should be an easy process. However, with all the different insurances, and conditions of hire, not to mention the different prices in the market, it can make it a minefield to know that you are making the right choice.
Planning is important. Arriving at an airport without a car hire booking will mean that you are not getting the best deal plus you are likely to have to wait a long time in the queue as hoards of passengers descend on the car hire desks when they arrive and it won’t just be your flight!
Add to that all the important small print on the terms and conditions which after a long flight and with a sunbed waiting for you I am not so sure you will be in the mood to study.
So as with any trip, it’s best to get it all wrapped up long before your bags are packed – here are my useful travel resources, tips and guidance for all that is hiring a car abroad.
Trabant Car Hire, Berlin, Germany
Driving in The EU
On 31 January 2020, the UK left the EU. New rules came into effect from the 01st January 2021 including which documents you need to carry with you when driving in Europe.
Green Card From 2 August 2021, a Green Card (or International Motor Insurance Card) is no longer required for travel in the European Economic Area. Check here for a list of these countries
International Driving Permit (IDP) If you have a UK photocard driving licence you don’t need an IDP to drive in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein. There are some anomalies so do check with the country’s foreign embassy here.
You will also need the following:
Certificate of Motor Insurance. The logbook (V5C) for the vehicle. Driving licence. GB sticker
Car Hire Excess Insurance
Nearly all car hire firms these days expect you to pay the first part of any accident or claim unless you have signed up for their “upgraded” insurance package. Sometimes it may be better for you to arrange your car hire excess reimbursement insurance.
Insurance Extras
There are a whole heap of extra insurance policies that you may be asked to purchase. Often these are disguised with abbreviated code so here is a list to ensure you know exactly what you are being offered!
ALI – Additional Liability Insurance LIS – Liability Insurance Supplement CDW – Collision Damage Waiver LDW – Loss Damage Waiver PAI – Personal Accident Insurance PEP – Personal Effects Protection PEC – Personal Effects Coverage PERSPRO/CCP – Carefree Personal Protection SCDW – Super Collision Damage Waiver STP – Super Theft Protection TP – Theft Protection THW – Theft Waiver UMP – Uninsured Motorist Protection
Fuel
Depending on the car hire rental company you may get a couple of options regarding your fuel agreement:
Supplied full and then you need to ensure it is returned full –this involves finding a service station close to your drop-off point. If you don’t leave it full then expect a high surcharge.
Supplied full and returned empty – this involves paying upfront for a full tank and returning the car with something less than a full tank.
Driving License Papers
There is no longer a paper license counterpart as driving licence records are now all held online. However, some hire companies may need evidence of your driving record. It is advisable to print oo your driving licence record and also obtain a 3-week valid code from the DVLA’s ‘share driving licence’ service.
Checklist
Damage – ensure any damage is noted on the rental agreement.
Pictures – take a photo of the car during the collection. It may help with disputes thereafter
Controls – check all switches and controls work. Checking how the lights turn on and how the fuel cap opens have always been my issues so ask.
Fuel – keep fuel receipts in case of problems and maybe take a photo of the fuel gauge when handing the car back.
Additional insurance – if you can afford it always choose comprehensive damage cover without an excess. Some policies don’t cover damage to tyres, rims, the underbody, or stone chips.
Theft insurance – Check to see if it is included in the comprehensive insurance.
Tolls – keep toll receipts in case of a dispute later.
Mileage limits – if you have a limit then is it adequate?
Credit card and documents – you will always need a credit card to collect a car and may also need an ID card, passport, or IDP.
Age restrictions – check the minimum and maximum age limits in a country.
Breakdowns and accidents – ask what the procedure is should you break down. What number do you call and do you have your mobile?
Rules of the road – check the local rules in the country you are driving. For example, you may need a warning triangle or reflective jackets in the car.
Hidden Costs
Other costs that may need to be considered include:
Additional or young driver charges VAT Cleaning charges Additional road-use charges (other than tolls) Charges for crossing an international border Servicing and refuelling charges Extras such as child seats or satellite navigation
Airport Extras
If you need airport parking or indeed any airport extras make sure to check my recommendations.
If you are planning on getting away then there are a host of additional airport extras and add-ons you will need to consider before closing that front door, turning the key and heading off on your travels.
Here are some of the most popular elements of a trip that are sometimes overlooked or left till the very last minute by which time availability is limited and no doubt prices will be higher.
As I was once told and I have always remembered “Perfect Planning Prevents Pathetic Performance”.
Let’s dive straight in!
Insurance
The first one that should come to mind is always travel insurance.
Many of us have restarted our travel plans after having them on pause for the last year and a half. While we are all excited to enjoy new adventures to the fullest, it’s important to keep in mind that travel restrictions can change from one day to the next depending on the country you’re visiting.
Do you have a backup plan? — The unexpected can show up as trip cancellation, emergency medical expenses, or issues with baggage.
This resource provides information on the best travel insurance options available and what they offer so you can compare the policies and see what is the right choice for your upcoming travels.
Fast Track
Finding your way through a busy airport and then waiting in queues can be a stressful experience especially if you are late or experiencing delays. Airport Fast Track passes enable you to make your way through airport security, via the VIP Fast Track lane and therefore bypass the normal.
Fast Track passes are available to purchase on their own or as part of a package with existing airport parking, airport hotels or airport lounges.
Foreign Currency
Many people leave the task of getting currency to when they are at the airport – this is a bad move as rates are almost always poor not to mention the transaction fees.
You are much better off looking at these options in advance of your departure day.
Mosttravel agents have a currency exchange bureau and will stock all the most popular currencies as well as be able to order in some of the more unusual ones. Rates are normally excellent and service and trust are assured. The Post Office has always been a popular foreign exchange outlet so check out their rates. Holiday Extras is a great business offering all manner of airport extras and add ons and sure enough they have a travel money card and exchange services so check them out.
Both myself and over 12 million others have a Revolut card. I use it daily on every trip that I take abroad as quite simply it saves me money on exchange rates and has an app that makes managing my finances so easy. I also use it as a holiday fund account which I add to monthly – then when it’s time to travel, you have that pot of cash ready to spend on that all-important holiday.
Check out my dedicated page on obtaining and looking after your money abroad.
Hotels At The Airport
Booking an overnight airport hotelthe night before is a great way to start your holiday as it means you will be relaxed and refreshed ready for the excitement of jumping on that jet plane the following day.
There are significant airport extra savings to be made if you book your airport parking and hotel together. Sometimes there is very little difference between booking the Airport hotel and car parking as a package versus the car parking on its own so do consider this option. It also means you won’t have any last-minute problems when trying to get to the airport on the day of departure.
Lounges
Why not start your holiday at the airport with a little stress-free luxury? Pre-bookedairport lounges are great for relaxing and having a drink, meal or snack in comfortable surroundings often with views across the airport runways which only goes to building the excitement.
Airport lounges are available at 22 UK airports so you should have one available for your next trip.
Parking At or Near The Airport
Securing a great price at the airport car parks is best done some weeks in advance as leaving it to the last minute can hurt your wallet.
Key factors to consider are do you want to Park and Ride where you park further afield and take a transfer bus into the airport – that is normally the most cost-effective option.
Then there is On Airport Parking where you can quickly get into the airport without the need of a transfer bus.
Finally, the most expensive but convenient method is the Meet and Greet where you drive to the airport drop-off point and there is a driver to take your car to the car park and then greet you on arrival back.
Rail To The Airport
An airport by rail transfer takes the stress away from driving to the airport especially when you consider the stresses that traffic jams and parking may have.
Taking the train will allow you to hop off directly at the airport terminal making the experience quick and easy.
It may be you are a rail enthusiast in which case check out my page dedicated to Rail Journey holidays.
To many of us, Slovenia is a little bit of an unknown country and is often confused with Slovakia. One of the reasons for this lack of understanding, aside from the similarity of name, is that direct flight access from the UK has been pretty limited in recent years. Airlines and tour operators have focused on Croatia’s beach resorts rather than Slovenia’s lakes, mountains, and coast. Back in the late nineties, Slovenia came on my radar as the tour operator I worked for started to sell, Croatia and Slovenia two-centre holidays.
The first problem I had in those days was learning to spell the capital – Ljubljana – I think I have finally mastered it. An unusual fact I recall from back in those days was that the outline of Slovenia is that of a chicken. I would say a portly mother hen actually but there you go. You were not expecting that nugget of information, were you?
I will be the first to admit that when I was first introduced to the country back in the late 1990’s I knew very little about it. However, over the following 20 years, I have grown to adore this undiscovered European gem.
So who goes to Slovenia today – well I do for starters – I have had many a business trip to the country but also I have had a New Year skiing holiday in the mountain resort of Kranjska Gora. I have taken a city break in Ljubljana, a lad’s golfing break to Bled and also a weekend self-drive tour of the lakes and mountains – not bad for such a little country!
Back in 2013 one of the UK’s leading travel groups hosted their overseas conference in Lake Bled – unbeknown to many it was my suggestion and I presented the initial pitch with the wonderfully supportive Slovenian Tourist Board to the organisers. I guess that demonstrates how much I like this country.
A year later ABTA – the Association of British Travel Agents hosted its annual conference in the capital city of Ljubljana. This was a great success and opened the eyes of many in the travel industry to the delights of this sadly overlooked country.
I think many people believe Slovenia to be that dull grey eastern European country with little to do aside from consuming cheap beer. How wrong they are! For the adrenaline junkie, there is a rich list of attractions – caving, skiing, rafting, rock climbing, canoeing, and even bungee jumping. I remember my first and only taste of white water rafting on the Sava river – great fun and through the well-organised sports companies that are peppered around the area you can be sure of an amazing experience but with your health and safety assured.
I often think of Slovenia as a mini Switzerland however there is a saying about being small and perfectly formed plus Switzerland does not have a coast and it’s blinking expensive! Slovenia is also a country that is embracing sustainability with many projects ongoing to protect nature and surroundings – this can only be a good thing and another reason I share a connection with the country.
Then finally there are the people. They are great fun and quirky. This is displayed both in their art, their fashion, and then in their fun-loving slightly mischievous sense of humour. I remember one evening in Bled with the local Major – you might expect a stuffy regimented kinda guy but no he was at the bar singing and telling jokes all night long… Slovenes are truly lovely and will welcome tourists with open arms.
So there you have it – a sustainable focused green country with the cleanest freshest air, beautiful scenery, superb locally produced cuisine and lovely friendly warm-hearted people. It’s a country I have always loved and will return to at the drop of a hat.
Kranjska Gora, Slovenia
Getting Around
Adria Airways, the country’s national carrier, British Airways, and a host of low-cost airlines including Wizzair, Easyjet and Ryanair all have various services from the UK to Ljubljana.
Many visitors to Slovenia also fly into Graz in Austria for Eastern Slovenia, Maribor or to Klagenfurt in Austria for Bled, Bohinj and Kranjska Gora or Pula in Croatia or Trieste in Italy for the coast.
If the direct services to Slovenia from the UK don’t work for you then with a little research into the geography of the region you may find some useful alternatives.
I would recommend hiring a car in Slovenia as driving is easy, the roads are not that busy once you are out of Ljubljana and once behind the wheel, you will have the freedom to visit off-the-beaten-path places which ultimately will save you money.
The easiest place to hire a car is at Ljubljana airport. Here you will find all the major companies, like Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Enterprise or Sixt. The rent-a-car building, where all the car rental offices are, is across the street from the arrivals terminal.
You can also rent a car in Ljubljana or other smaller cities, like Bled, if that’s the start journey of your trip. Some companies do provide a pickup and collection service some at cost.
You need to be at least 18, have a driving license for at least 2 years and have a credit card with you. You will be asked for your passport as well when you pick up the car, and it needs to match your driving license.
Hiring a sat nav will cost you another £8-10 per day. Do you need it – well I didn’t however if you are travelling alone it is probably a good idea as looking at a map while driving is not recommended!
If you are driving up into the mountains and perhaps doing my recommended road trip along the Sava River to the Vrsic Pass then I would get an automatic as the mountain bends are tiring.
The most popular ferry in Slovenia is the one used by locals and hordes of tourists from Piran to Venice for a day trip. The Venezia line ship takes about 310 passengers with the crossing 3 hours and costs about 70-75 euros per adult and a 50% reduction for children.
There is the option of a VIP ticket which provides the VIP Salon – an exclusive area on the top deck of the boat seating a maximum of 30 people. It has leather seats and lounge-style seating plus a higher view from the elevated position. Guests travelling in the VIP Salon will depart the boat first plus are offered a free welcome drink.
Taxis are a good way of getting around although I much prefer my car. A word of warning though in the major tourist areas such as Bled or Ljubljana, it is always best to get an upfront price. A journey from Ljubljana airport should cost approximately 40 Euros to Bled.
In the more remote mountainous or smaller towns taxis are limited and can be expensive. My advice is to plan so you don’t need one or have your car.
I love Ljubljana railway station and seem to have spent quite a lot of time there over the years. It is a short ten-minute walk from there into Ljubljana centre. The capital has direct train services to all the major neighbouring European cities and a few more besides. Here is a little guide as to what is available. I took the train to Budapest a few years back and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
You may want to consider an Interrail Slovenia Rail pass or an Interrail Global pass with access to 33 countries – it just depends on how much you plan to use them.
Places To Stay in Slovenia
You will find accommodation to suit every budget and every taste.
If you want indulgence and luxury then there is a choice of excellent hotels along with standard 2 and 3-star options which represent good value for money, One thing you can be sure of is excellent food as Slovenes take great pride in what they serve up on your dinner table!
For a more authentic experience where you can mix with the locals then guesthouses, pensions or private rooms are a good choice.
There are also numerous camping grounds both in the valleys and mountains and these cater for the hikers, walkers and many cyclists that enjoy the country’s natural assets.
Among the themed accommodations, the natural health resorts and thermal spas tend to be more popular with Europeans as opposed to those travelling from the UK.
For all those who want to save when travelling, but also value comfort and orderliness, hostels are another option and are intended for all age groups as well as families. Many hostels offer the same comfort as hotels but often with no restaurant.
Some more obscure options are a stay in a castle, a mountain refuge or you can even rent a vineyard cottage.
Top 20 Things To See & Do in Slovenia
Explore the enchanting capital city of Ljubljana, with its charming old town, iconic Ljubljana Castle, and vibrant riverside cafes.
Discover the stunning landscapes of Lake Bled, with its picturesque island church, medieval castle, and opportunities for hiking, cycling, and boating.
Visit the underground wonders of Postojna Cave, one of the longest cave systems in the world, and marvel at its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Take a scenic drive through the Julian Alps and Triglav National Park, stopping to admire the breathtaking scenery, hike to stunning waterfalls, and explore charming alpine villages.
Wander through the fairytale-like village of Škofja Loka, with its medieval castle, colourful houses, and well-preserved old town.
Maybe as part of a road trip, experience the adrenaline rush of white-water rafting or kayaking on the emerald-green waters of the Soča River.
Visit the picturesque coastal town of Piran, with its Venetian architecture, narrow streets, and stunning views over the Adriatic Sea.
Explore the fascinating history and architecture of the medieval town of Ptuj, with its well-preserved castle, town walls, and ancient Roman remains.
Hike to the summit of Mount Triglav, the highest peak in Slovenia, for panoramic views of the Julian Alps and beyond.
Relax and rejuvenate in the thermal waters of Terme Olimia or Terme Čatež, two of Slovenia’s top spa resorts.
Discover the traditional craftsmanship of the Škofja Loka region, known for its skilled woodcarvers, beekeepers, and lace makers.
Explore the charming wine-growing regions of Slovenia, such as the Vipava Valley or the Goriska Brda, and sample delicious local wines and cuisine.
Visit the stunning Predjama Castle, built into the mouth of a cave, and learn about its fascinating history and legends.
Take a scenic ride on the historic Solkan Bridge, the world’s longest stone arch railway bridge, and enjoy panoramic views of the Soča Valley.
Explore the unique underground world of the Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vast chambers, underground rivers, and impressive rock formations.
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Slovenia at the National Museum of Slovenia in Ljubljana, with its extensive collections of art, archaeology, and ethnology.
Cycle along the scenic trails of the Slovenian countryside, through vineyards, orchards, and picturesque villages.
Experience the magic of winter in Slovenia with skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing in the stunning Alpine resorts of Kranjska Gora, Vogel, or Mariborsko Pohorje.
Attend one of Slovenia’s many festivals and events, such as the Ljubljana Jazz Festival, the Maribor Festival, or the Kurentovanje carnival in Ptuj.
For activity holidays visit Lake Bohinj, for walking, hiking or skiing opportunities.
Pre-bookable Excursions in Slovenia
More Information
Contact I Feel Slovenia or your local travel agent for more information on holidays to Slovenia.
As the world starts to travel again I have been scouring the news and social media watching various travel agents, tour operators and hotels re-launching their businesses into what is to be called our new normal. One piece that has certainly caught my eye this week is the “Cannot Wait” video produced by the Hilton Northolme Resort in the Seychelles.
For me, it encapsulates everything you want to see, hear and ultimately experience from a resort and that will entice you back to reset, recharge and go again.2
Paradise on Earth
I visited the Seychelles in 2018 and will soon be sharing on this website the amazing experiences that I enjoyed travelling around these unique and beautiful Indian Ocean Islands. It was however while watching this short video that I was taken back to that time and so inspired me to write this little post as it highlights so much of what the Seychelles is all about.
There is the warmth and friendliness of the Seychellois – the people of the Seychelles who are this unique blend of Créole, Indian, Chinese, French and British. Nothing is too much trouble and the opportunity to showcase their homeland with their beaming smiles is one of their greatest pleasures. I found Danielle Fabbri, the General Manager to be welcoming, genuine, friendly, proud and passionate of his lovely team and hotel…. that’s surely all you need!
The importance this hotel and many others in the Seychelles place on sustainability and responsible travel is music to my ears. Did you know that the Seychelles has banned the importation, sale and commercial use of plastic bags, plates, cups and cutlery……. not difficult is it !! The Hilton Northolme Resort & Spa on Mahé Island has an ongoing project to develop a coral nursery at nearby Beau Vallon Bay where they look to protect the marine and reef life along the island’s northwest coast. For me thats the reason to support the hotel in itself !!
The hotel has been making improvements during the forced closure with newly renovated spaces. Couple that with fine service, cuisine and a dreamy location, it is sure to be as popular as ever for tourists.
Our greatest gift…
It’s truly great to see and hear of a hotel embracing the environment and this gift they have on their doorstep. I believe that in this short video it has inspired many including myself to get back to travelling, to nature and to enjoy and protect through partnerships, our greatest gift – the natural world – I for one cannot wait.
Click here to watch the video and contact your local travel agent to get your Seychelles holiday booked!
