Category: Travel

Reasons Copenhagen is Your Next Summer City Break

July 10, 2025

Copenhagen shines brightest in summer, when its cobbled streets buzz with outdoor festivals, harbor baths glisten under the midnight sun, and locals trade winter woolens for canal-side picnics. From Michelin-starred food halls to bike-friendly boulevards that lead to hidden beaches, Denmark’s capital offers a perfect blend of urban energy and laid-back Nordic charm. Here’s why Copenhagen should top your warm-weather travel list.
 

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If you’re looking for dips in the harbor, slick design, and moderate temps, this could be the place.

I’ve long been a skeptic of summer vacations in southern Europe. Beyond the high-season prices and suffocating crowds, I cannot abide sweating through a linen sundress despite doing nothing more strenuous than sipping a Campari spritz in the shade. And these days, I’m not alone. The impact of major heat waves, increasingly common across large swaths of the continent, has many travelers reconsidering destinations that are likely to suffer soaring temperatures.

The trend this summer is instead looking northward to the Nordic and Baltic regions. These destinations have already seen a 263 percent year-over-year increase in summer 2025 bookings, according to data from Virtuoso-member travel agencies, by travelers looking to climb glaciers in Iceland, laze on remote beaches in the Stockholm archipelago, or sauna in Helsinki.

Every summer for the past decade, I’ve found an excuse to hop down to Copenhagen from my home in Stockholm. And I’d argue that nowhere does summer better than the cool Danish capital, where I spent a week last June biking between swimming piers, glittering architectural landmarks, waterside wine bars, and high-gloss design museums. At its peak, the city enjoys more than 17 hours of daylight, so most mornings began early at Juno the Bakery, my favorite spot for a sweet cardamom bun or a soft brioche filled with fresh strawberries and vanilla cream.

Afternoons in Copenhagen whiz by like cyclists on a mission – I spent mine exploring new neighborhoods such as Nordhavn, an industrial port area that has been meticulously transformed into a livable waterfront district in recent years. It’s now home to hypermodern architecture, from a former grain silo reimagined as a futuristic glass-and-steel apartment complex to a panoramic playground atop a multistory parking garage. Along the way, I devoured barbacoa tacos at Hija de Sanchez taqueria, sipped espresso at Andersen & Maillard café, and sprawled on the boardwalk among sunbathers at Sandkaj Harbour.

Papirøen, the city-center island, reopened to the public last summer with cool, futuristic-looking apartment buildings, urban gardens, and large public piers overlooking the Opera House and its new waterside garden. The island’s redevelopment is the latest in a long line of projects along the city’s once-industrial waterfront. There’s an outstanding overview of this evolution at the Danish Architecture Center, housed in a building resembling a Lego-like stack of glass boxes. The permanent exhibition, So Danish!, traces Danish design from the Viking Age to its masters of midcentury modernism and today’s trend-setting brands such as Gubi and Hay.

Across the harbor in Refshaleøen, I spent sun-drenched evenings drinking lively natural wines on the quay beside La Banchina, an idiosyncratic wine bar with a swimming pier and on-site sauna. From there, it’s a short walk to Noma, the celebrated three-Michelin-starred restaurant that was supposed to close permanently at the end of 2024; it will serve one more Ocean Season through late June this year, for the lucky few who can snag seats. But my top pick for dinner is a spot locals can’t stop talking about: Alouette, another Michelin-starred favorite that recently moved from the graffitied outskirts of town to a neoclassical address next to the seventeenth-century Rosenborg Castle. Standouts on its ever-evolving, multicourse menu may include caviar-topped asparagus custard or a grilled Norwegian langoustine tail with oregano-and-elderflower beurre blanc. And afterward, on a postprandial promenade as the sun begins to set behind the castle, just remember: Mykonos will still be there in March.

Ready to experience Copenhagen’s summer magic? Start Bellhopping and book your Nordic getaway today and discover why it’s Europe’s best-kept secret! We offer exclusive discounts and cashback offers on your hotel bookings. With every booking, unlock the complimentary suite of exclusive benefits that will astound you. Bellhopping.com Check our IG for more.

Reference: [https://www.virtuoso.com/travel/articles/is-copenhagen-the-next-great-summer-spot]

Harbour Island: Your Secret Bahamian Getaway

June 1, 2025

Harbour Island in the Bahamas offers a quieter alternative to the more popular islands. Known for its pink sand beaches and relaxed atmosphere, it provides a charming and authentic Bahamian experience. Read more to explore the allure of this under-the-radar escape.

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The vibe is much calmer. Though savvy travelers may know Exuma and Eleuthera,  Harbour Island remains even more blissfully secret. Travelers can only get to the walkable, five-square-mile island – called Briland by locals (say “Harbour Island” three times fast, and it’ll make sense) – by boat, a ten-minute ride from Eleuthera. But don’t confuse remote for rudimentary: Harbour Island is a favorite escape for celebrities such as Taylor Swift, George Clooney, and Mick Jagger, who have been spotted on its gorgeous beaches and in its chic restaurants and boutiques.

What to Do

Three-mile-long Pink Sand Beach is the island’s most beautiful attraction – its blush hue comes from microscopic coral insects whose pink shells get crushed into the soft sand. Calm waves from the Atlantic roll up on its quiet shores – only three boutique hotels line the beach.

Beyond the rose-colored beach sessions, travelers spend time popping into art galleries in Dunmore Town (the island’s only town) or chartering boats to explore the surrounding snorkeler-friendly waters filled with sea turtles, sand dollars, and colorful fish. Many British loyalists fled the U.S. for the Bahamas during the Revolutionary War, and several of their eighteenth-century, gingerbread-style cottages remain – one of the oldest, the white-and-turquoise Loyalist Cottage, has been carefully restored and is open to visitors.

Where to Eat and Shop 

The action revolves around Dunmore Town, where the lineup of stylish boutiques and restaurants rivals those of Saint Bart’s. Former model India Hicks, who spent time in the Bahamas as a child and now lives on Harbour Island, owns The Sugar Mill, an intimate space that’s filled with beachy home goods, accessories, and clothing from around the world. A five-minute walk down Bay Street toward the fishing dock leads to Shine, whose two outlets sit across the street from each other, showcasing locally made jewelry, clothing, pottery, and furniture. At A and A Hidden Treasures, visitors can have one of the shop’s handmade straw bags embroidered, and it will be ready for pickup before they leave the island.

Mornings begin at Cocoa Coffee House, with its tree-house-like ambience, or Bluwatur Bakery, whose organic pecan sticky buns could compete with any of-the-moment NYC bakery (note that it’s closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays). For lunch, Queen Conch, which overlooks the bay, has the island’s must-try conch salad, while the more upscale Rock House, inside a former British colonial home, serves excellent cocktails (try the rum-forward Goombay Smash) and locally sourced seafood dishes such as stone crab claws and blackened grouper. The Landing, the island’s oldest restaurant, makes a killer spicy crab capellini and grilled lobster, which pairs well with a crisp white from its 800-bottle wine cellar.

Where to Stay 

The 40-room Coral Sands recently underwent a major renovation by its new owners that saw a splashy redesign of all 14 cottages, plus fresh looks for its lobby, boutique, and two restaurants and bars. The pink-and-turquoise palette complements the resort’s perch on Pink Sand Beach, and the mermaid, rooster, seashell, and seahorse motifs throughout help give the place a playful feel. Conch fritters and Pink Mermaid cocktails (gin, Lillet, pink grapefruit juice, and ginger beer) from the Coral Sands Beach Bar await at the multilevel pool, while The Pink Mermaid restaurant focuses on Italian food with a Bahamian influence in dishes such as a spicy seafood pizza with lobster sauce. The resort will open a new wellness center later this year. Virtuoso travelers receive breakfast daily and a $100 resort credit.

Escape the ordinary. Discover the serene beauty and authentic charm of Harbour Island. We offer exclusive discounts and cashback offers on your hotel bookings. Check our IG for more.

Reference: [https://www.virtuoso.com/travel/articles/our-guide-to-harbour-island-the-bahamas-under-the-radar-escape]

Athens’ New Heights Discover the Highest Mountains in the UAE

April 1, 2025

There’s nothing quite like standing atop a mountain peak, taking in breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see. The rugged mountains of the UAE are an unforgettable experience, with dramatic landscapes, crisp air, and the thrill of conquering new heights. And now, there’s an even bigger reason to plan your next getaway — valued Bellhopping members can enjoy even more cash back when booking a stay! Until April 20th, members receive 50% commission fees as cashback instead of our usual impressive 30%. Don’t miss out on this incredible deal, along with all the other perks of being a Bellhopping club member — because the best views deserve the best rewards! Discover more about the highest mountains in the UAE, and start planning your next getaway for great rewards with us!

A Closer Look at the UAE’s Mountainous Wonders

The UAE’s topography is adorned with an array of mountains that are as diverse as they are majestic. Here’s a snapshot of what these natural giants have to offer:

Hajar Mountains

The Hajar Mountains represent the longest mountain range in the UAE, stretching into Oman. They are a geological wonder, blending history and nature’s beauty. The mountains’ rugged peaks and deep canyons are a testament to the earth’s incredible power, offering breathtaking views that have mesmerised nature enthusiasts and geologists. The range is a true gem for adventurous souls or those seeking a peaceful escape from city life.

Jebel Jais

Jebel Jais is the tallest mountain in the UAE, standing at 1,934 meters. It is a popular destination for adventure sports and nature experiences. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, from the thrilling via Ferrata to the world’s longest zipline. For those who prefer a more peaceful experience, there are plenty of tranquil spots to enjoy a picnic, stargazing, or watching the sunrise over the Hajar Mountains. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or looking for a serene escape, Jebel Jais has something for everyone.

Jebel Hafeet

This mountain’s winding road is famed for its breathtaking views, rising 1,249 meters near Al Ain. Jebel Hafeet’s winding road to the summit is an experience in itself, providing panoramic views that stretch to the horizon. It’s a place where the beauty of the desert landscape can be absorbed in all its glory. Beyond Jebel Hafeet, mountains like Jebel Mebrah,

Jebel Yibir, and Jebel Hatt each contribute to the UAE’s mountainous tapestry with their own stories and vistas, waiting to be discovered by those who wander their paths.

Essential Tips for Mountain Adventures in the UAE

Embarking on a trek to explore the highest mountains in the UAE is an adventure that promises breathtaking views and a thrilling connection with nature. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

Plan Ahead: Research your chosen trail and plan your route before you go.
Start Early: Beat the heat and the crowds by beginning your hike at dawn.
Check the Weather: Mountain weather can change quickly, so be prepared.
Dress Appropriately: Wear sturdy hiking boots and breathable clothing.
Stay Hydrated: Carry ample water to combat dry climates.
Safety in Numbers: Hike with a companion for safety and company.
Inform Others: Let someone know your plans and expected return time.
Respect Nature: Follow the recommended principles to preserve the environment.

The View at The Palm: A Vista Not To Be Missed

The highest mountains in the UAE are a great way to experience nature’s beauty. But if you’re looking for a luxurious way to enjoy breathtaking views, you should check out The View at The Palm. This observatory offers a unique perspective of Palm Jumeirah, one of Dubai’s most impressive architectural feats, and the stunning skyline beyond.

Like the mountains, The View at The Palm is a testament to human ambition and achievement. It’s a sight you won’t want to miss.

Capture the Moment

When you visit the highest mountains in the UAE, make sure to end your journey with a visit to The View at The Palm. Here, you can capture a moment of awe as you take in the breathtaking views. These views are not the result of geological forces but rather the vision and aspiration of those who created this stunning location.

You can add an unforgettable memory to your UAE adventure by visiting The View at The Palm. The stunning views will leave you with a sense of wonder and amazement, much like the majestic mountains. Book your visit today to experience the pinnacle of urban beauty.

There’s never a bad time for a getaway, but there’s never been a better time to book than now! With Bellhopping, you can turn your next trip into an even sweeter deal — reserve your stay before April 20th and receive 50% of commission fees as cashback. As a Bellhopping member, you access some of the best and most exclusive perks in travel, from unbeatable rewards to premium experiences. Don’t miss out — plan your escape today and make the most of this limited-time offer! Start earning money back on your next adventure — become a Bellhopping Club member here. Follow us on IG.

Reference: [https://www.theviewpalm.ae/en/blog/details/the-view-blog/2023/11/04/new-heights-discover-the-highest-mountains-in-the-uae]

A Guide to Istanbul’s Charms

March 1, 2025

Istanbul offers a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking beauty. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage, indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine, and explore its vibrant neighborhoods. This guide will take you through the city’s top attractions, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences.

Living traditions and eco-innovation meet in Turkey’s most cosmopolitan center.

Istanbul’s waterways and narrow streets thread Europe to Asia in a tapestry of Ottoman palaces, slender minarets, and soaring plane trees. Yes, life in Turkey’s most storied city is breezily bicontinental, and locals have an enviable knack for layering fresh culture atop ancient heritage.

Sustainable journeys to Istanbul draw on that confluence. Here, travelers can merge ecological innovation with tradition, whether by sampling Anatolian wines at a Michelin Green Star restaurant, strolling between antique stores in stylish Cukurcuma, or buying artisan crafts from Balat district workshops.

And while Istanbul’s recent entrée into the EBRD Green Cities program signals a growing commitment to environmental design, its savvy travel advisors and guides have long championed eco-conscious exploration. The meandering streets in the city’s oldest neighborhoods, for example, are best visited on foot, and a network of public ferries, far from perpetual traffic snarls, links Bosporus-side districts. Below, more ways to plan an Istanbul trip while making conservation and local craftsmanship a priority.

High-end craftsmanship at Neolokal.

Eat and Drink

The Michelin Guide made its long-awaited Istanbul debut in 2022, awarding Turkey’s first Green Star to chef Maksut Askar’s Neolokal, a restaurant serving contemporary takes on the country’s rich gastronomic heritage. “To create a better future, we need to make our traditions sustainable,” says Askar, who sources ingredients for dishes such as morel-stuffed manti dumplings from small producers and strives to make his kitchen zero waste. Neolokal’s wine list highlights Turkish wine regions from Anatolia to the Aegean coast, showcasing rare and endangered grapes such as hasandede and cakal. At sister restaurant Foxy, a beloved wine bar in the Nisantasi neighborhood to the north of the old city, aficionados order from a bottle list sourced entirely from within Turkey.

Shop

Istanbul’s antique shops are a trove for sustainably minded travelers, who upcycle or preserve their finds. “Turkish culture has always prioritized beautiful design, exquisite craftsmanship, and high quality,” says Artisans of Leisure CEO Ashley Isaacs Ganz. “Shops and bazaars feature items that were meant to be passed down for generations.” Ganz recommends the chic A la Turca showroom, which curates precious carpets and kilims within the Cukurcuma antique district. Nearby, strolling through the cosmopolitan Beyoglu neighborhood leads to Sofa Art & Antiques, a thrilling jumble of gold jewelry, oil paintings, and brass sculptures.

While Turkish towels are plentiful in the labyrinthine fifteenth-century Grand Bazaar, travelers seeking artisanal versions should visit Jennifer’s Hamam in the smaller Arasta Bazaar near the Hagia Sophia. When owner and longtime Istanbul resident Jennifer Gaudet founded the shop in 2009, she discovered just a few weavers still hand-looming towels with techniques developed during the Ottoman Empire (factory-made textiles had pushed the craft nearly to extinction). Today, the shop and its three-story showroom support a network of in-house weavers creating sumptuous and colorful flat-woven towels, looped towels, and other textiles, all from organic Turkish cotton.

Other artisans sell right from their studios. “In Balat, there are small pottery shops and small leather shops. You can sit and see how they’re doing it – they like to chat,” says Yavuz Salataci, an Istanbul local and operations specialist for G Adventures. He recommends that guests on the four-day Classic Istanbul Mini Adventure use their free time for a craft-themed stroll through the vibrant Balat neighborhood overlooking the Golden Horn. For fine tiles and ceramics, Salataci prefers Firca Seramik in the neighboring Fatih area, where buyers source traditional pieces directly from the lakeside town of Iznik. Or head to Beyazit’s coppersmith market for another craft at risk of factory-made replacement: hand-hammered copper kitchenware from eastern Tukey’s renowned Gaziantep workshops.

Bosporus views from The Peninsula Istanbul.

Experience

Not all heirlooms fit in a carry-on: Souvenir minimalists and culture-curious visitors have ample opportunities to support traditional ways of life in Istanbul. The 65-room Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet books tickets for travelers to watch Sufi practitioners’ (aka whirling dervishes) dancing meditations at Hodjapasha, a cultural center housed in a fifteenth-century hammam.

And as international travelers catch on to the breadth of Turkey’s patrimony, hotels across the city are introducing creative hands-on experiences. Guests at the 100-room Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul can take glassblowing workshops to create personalized versions of the good-luck charms known as “evil eyes,” a tradition rooted in ancient Mesopotamia. And in the bustling Galata neighborhood, the 177-room Peninsula Istanbul ushers visitors to the sixteenth-century Caferağa Madrasa to learn the art of ebru – a style of marbling perfected by calligraphers during the Ottoman period – now featured on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.

Book your dream trip today! Explore our curated selection of the finest luxury hotels and resorts in Istanbul with exclusive rates, plus get cash-back hotel bookings. Discover more at Bellhopping’s IG.

Reference: [https://www.virtuoso.com/travel/articles/green-city-guide-istanbul]

Exploring Kanazawa’s Charming Neighborhoods

January 1, 2025

Kanazawa, a hidden gem on Japan’s west coast, is a city steeped in history and tradition. Its well-preserved neighborhoods offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. As you read our tips below, you’ll encounter stunning traditional architecture, exquisite gardens, and delectable local cuisine.

Where to eat, shop, explore, and relax in the capital of the country’s Ishikawa Prefecture.

Traveling to Kanazawa, the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture on central Honshu (Japan’s main island), feels like discovering a slice of untouched Japan. Steeped in history, the city is a thriving hub for traditional arts and crafts and the cultural jewel of the Hokuriku region – an area that encompasses the Ishikawa, Toyama, Niigata, and Fukui prefectures, bordered by the Sea of Japan to the west and the Japanese Alps to the east. Here, travelers explore beautifully preserved samurai and geisha districts, striking temples, and refined museums. Kanazawa is reminiscent of Kyoto, yet there are far less visitors reaping its bounties.

It’s easy to add a stay in Kanazawa onto a trip to Japan – the city is just over two hours by bullet train from Tokyo and about two hours from Kyoto. Plan on spending at least three days in Kanazawa to wander its food markets and museums, explore the abundant nature of nearby Hakusan National Park, and take in its centuries-old architecture, such as the Kanazawa Castle. Here are the experiences to add to your list.  

Jibuni, a Kanazawa staple, is made by coating duck meat in flour and simmering it with vegetables in stock.

Japan National Tourism Organization

Dine on Fresh Yellowtail and Traditional Kaiseki

Kanazawa rose to prominence under the rule of the powerful Maeda clan, which governed the Kaga domain – known now as Ishikawa – during the Edo period from 1603 to 1868. The city’s large samurai community drew skilled craftsmen and merchants, who flourished due to the Maeda clan’s substantial patronage of the arts. Along with its artistic legacy, the city’s culinary heritage is also revered, showcasing fresh seafood sourced from the Sea of Japan as well as traditional regional dishes such as jibuni, or duck hot pot.

Some of Kanazawa’s best restaurants, such as Kataori and Zeniya, specialize in kaiseki, a classic Japanese multicourse dinner. Steps away from the Saigawa River, Zeniya’s owner and executive chef, Shinichiro Takagi, sources ingredients from local markets, and his signature dish, abalone steak, takes ten hours to cook. About a 20-minute drive southwest, chef Takayoshi Yamaguchi perfects the art of sushi at the Michelin-starred Sushidokoro Mekumi. A reservation is a must at this eight-seat restaurant, where Yamaguchi handcrafts every sushi dish.

Omicho Market, a 300-year-old covered market that’s a 15-minute walk from the Kanazawa train station, offers a lively introduction to Kanazawa cuisine, with stalls hawking a cornucopia of the area’s prized Kaga vegetables, street-food favorites, confections such as mochi ice cream, and freshly caught seafood. In summer, search for locally grown lotus root, pumpkins, Japanese whiting fish, and rock oysters. Winter is the prime season to sample delicacies such as fatty yellowtail and snow crab.

 

Intricately decorated shikki lacquerware.

Japan National Tourism Organization

Create Your Own Kanazawa Ceramics

During the Edo era, local Kanazawa artisans began painting patterns on tableware and objects with lacquer, then sprinkling them with gold or silver dust. The process, known as shikki, symbolized the town’s wealth and influence. Travelers can bring home shimmering examples of shikki from Nosaku, a lacquerware shop and manufacturer in the city’s downtown Korinbo district. Established in 1780, Nosaku also offers a 90-minute workshop where travelers can adorn their own bowls or dishes.

Known for its vibrant colors, bold patterns, and high-quality craftsmanship, kutani-yaki pottery originated in the Ishikawa village of Kutani in the 1650s and was revived in Kanazawa by the Maeda clan in the early nineteenth century. Kosen Kiln, which dates to 1870, is one of the city’s only remaining kutani-yaki ceramics makers, specializing in intricate, hand-painted porcelain. The kiln also offers pottery workshops for travelers.  

 

A geigi outside of a teahouse in Kanazawa.

Japan National Tourism Organization

Immerse Yourself in Japanese Art

Art is everywhere in Kanazawa: in the food, the tableware, and especially the architecture. Wander through the narrow, cobblestoned alleys of the Nagamachi district to the Nomura-ke samurai residence, where the meticulously maintained Japanese gardens and Edo-era architecture transport travelers to the city’s feudal past. About a ten-minute drive east in the lively Higashi Chaya neighborhood, one of Kanazawa’s three historic geisha districts, the Machiyajuku Wa-no-Jiku experience offers lessons in the artistry and etiquette of the Japanese tea ceremony inside a 100-year-old renovated wooden townhouse.

For a deep dive into traditional Japanese entertainment, attending a geigi, or geisha, performance is a must, says Virtuoso travel advisor Luke Breaux: “The mesmerizing dances and music reflect Kanazawa’s commitment to preserving its cultural legacy.” Your Virtuoso travel advisor can help arrange access to one of the city’s most popular geigi dinners and performances.

The D.T. Suzuki Museum in the Hondamachi neighborhood is dedicated to the modern Zen Buddhist philosopher Daisetz Teitaro Suzuki. The space – which encompasses three rooms designed for exhibition, spiritual education, and contemplation – will reopen after a renovation in spring 2024. And in the city center, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa features interactive installations, permanent collections, and special exhibitions, with a famed swimming pool installation by Leandro Erlich as its centerpiece.

Discover the timeless beauty of Kanazawa. From visiting ancient places to tasting traditional cuisine, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime. Enjoy exclusive discounts and cashback offers on your hotel bookings with Bellhopping. Check our IG for more.

Reference: [https://www.virtuoso.com/travel/articles/exploring-kanazawa-japans-charming-traditional-neighborhoods]

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