The Mysterious Kelpies of Helix Park in Falkirk | A Tour of Scotland’s Monumental Tribute to Myth, Industry, and Majesty
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

The Mysterious Kelpies of Helix Park in Falkirk | A Tour of Scotland’s Monumental Tribute to Myth, Industry, and Majesty

Towering 30 meters (100 feet) above the Forth and Clyde Canal in central Scotland, and weighing more than 300 tonnes each, The Kelpies are the largest equine sculptures in the world. These twin horse-head statues, designed by Scottish sculptor Andy Scott, stand as a modern tribute to Scotland’s rich mythological and industrial heritage. Unveiled in 2014, The Kelpies have since become a symbol of the country's artistic spirit, a beacon of local pride, and one of Scotland’s top visitor attractions. But these aren’t just horse statues. They are living steel metaphors - part myth, part machinery, and entirely mesmerizing!

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The Ultimate Edinburgh Travel Guide | 28 Best Things to Do and See in Edinburgh | Top 28 Sights and Attractions in and around Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

The Ultimate Edinburgh Travel Guide | 28 Best Things to Do and See in Edinburgh | Top 28 Sights and Attractions in and around Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

Edinburgh, the enchanting capital of Scotland, is a city where centuries of history seamlessly blend with a modern, vibrant spirit. Perched on a series of volcanic hills and dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the city has been Scotland’s capital since at least the 15th century. However, its roots run far deeper - archaeological finds reveal human settlements dating back to the Bronze Age. During the medieval period, the city became a royal residence and a center of political and religious power. The Old Town, with its narrow wynds and cobbled streets, tells tales of the Reformation, witch trials, and Jacobite uprisings, while the neoclassical grandeur of the New Town reflects the Enlightenment era, when Edinburgh earned the nickname “Athens of the North.”

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One Day in Belfast Itinerary | 10 Best Things to Do in Belfast in 24 Hours | Top 10 Places to Visit and Must See Attractions on a Day Trip to Belfast, Northern Ireland
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

One Day in Belfast Itinerary | 10 Best Things to Do in Belfast in 24 Hours | Top 10 Places to Visit and Must See Attractions on a Day Trip to Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, is a city steeped in history, culture, and resilience. Nestled on the banks of the River Lagan, Belfast evolved from a small 17th-century settlement into a thriving industrial powerhouse during the 19th century. It became famous for linen production, rope-making, and shipbuilding, with the Harland & Wolff shipyard constructing the legendary RMS Titanic in 1911.

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16 Best Things to Do in Dublin | Top 16 Places to Visit and Must See Attractions in Dublin, Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

16 Best Things to Do in Dublin | Top 16 Places to Visit and Must See Attractions in Dublin, Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom

Dublin, the vibrant capital of the Republic of Ireland, is a city where history, culture, and modern energy blend seamlessly. Nestled on the banks of the River Liffey, Dublin is a city of storytellers, where every cobblestone street and historic building holds a tale from the past. Originally founded as a Viking settlement in the 9th century, it quickly grew into an important trading hub.

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One Day in Cardiff Itinerary | 7 Best Things to Do in Cardiff in 24 Hours | Top 7 Places to Visit and Must See Attractions on a Day Trip to Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

One Day in Cardiff Itinerary | 7 Best Things to Do in Cardiff in 24 Hours | Top 7 Places to Visit and Must See Attractions on a Day Trip to Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is a vibrant city brimming with history, culture, and modern charm. With its origins dating back to Roman times, Cardiff has evolved from a small settlement into one of the most important cities in the United Kingdom. Today, Cardiff is known for its lively arts scene, stunning architecture, and world-class sporting events. The city seamlessly blends its rich historical past with modern attractions, making it an exciting destination for travelers.

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7 Best Things to Do in the Beautiful Cotswolds Village of Bibury | Top 7 Must See Attractions and Activities on a Day Trip to Bibury, England, United Kingdom
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

7 Best Things to Do in the Beautiful Cotswolds Village of Bibury | Top 7 Must See Attractions and Activities on a Day Trip to Bibury, England, United Kingdom

Nestled in the heart of Gloucestershire, Bibury is often hailed as one of the most picturesque villages in England — a timeless gem of the Cotswolds that has captivated artists, writers, and travelers for centuries. The village’s charm lies in its honey-colored limestone cottages, rolling green meadows, and the gentle flow of the River Coln, which meanders gracefully through its center. Bibury’s most iconic landmark, Arlington Row, dates back to the 14th century, originally built as a monastic wool store before being converted into weavers' cottages in the 17th century.

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Visiting Stonehenge | A Complete Guide to England’s Most Mysterious Prehistoric Monument | History, Facts, Location, and Map
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

Visiting Stonehenge | A Complete Guide to England’s Most Mysterious Prehistoric Monument | History, Facts, Location, and Map

Set amidst the rolling plains of Wiltshire, Stonehenge stands as one of the world’s most iconic and enduring mysteries. These towering stones, some weighing up to 25 tons, arranged in an almost celestial pattern, continue to fascinate archaeologists, historians, and travelers alike. As much as it is a monument to ancient engineering, it is also a spiritual and symbolic landscape that holds stories spanning thousands of years.

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14 Best Things to Do in London including Day Trips from London | Top 14 Places to Visit and Must See Attractions in and around London, England, United Kingdom
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

14 Best Things to Do in London including Day Trips from London | Top 14 Places to Visit and Must See Attractions in and around London, England, United Kingdom

London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a city steeped in history, culture, and innovation. Founded by the Romans as Londinium in AD 43, it quickly became a thriving trade hub. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the city evolved through Saxon, Viking, and Norman rule, with landmarks like the Tower of London symbolizing its medieval strength.

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The British Isles in 2 Weeks | 4000 km Road Trip across Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales) and Ireland (Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland) from the Netherlands | Itinerary, Tips, and Tricks
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

The British Isles in 2 Weeks | 4000 km Road Trip across Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales) and Ireland (Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland) from the Netherlands | Itinerary, Tips, and Tricks

Today, I’m going to tell you an epic story of a cruise and road trip across all 5 countries of the British Isles, namely England, Wales, the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Scotland from the Netherlands.

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Art Below Zero Amsterdam Ice Sculpture Festival 2024-2025 | Art Below Zero Ijsbeelden Festival Amsterdam, Netherlands 2024-2025 | Europe’s Largest Ice Art Exhibition
Netherlands Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Netherlands Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

Art Below Zero Amsterdam Ice Sculpture Festival 2024-2025 | Art Below Zero Ijsbeelden Festival Amsterdam, Netherlands 2024-2025 | Europe’s Largest Ice Art Exhibition

Welcome to the unique ice sculpture exhibition Art Below Zero Amsterdam, where top ice artists (also known as ‘carvers’) from across the globe come together to transform 500 tons of ice and snow into 135 breathtaking artworks that honor Amsterdam's colorful past and rich cultural legacy. Featuring breathtaking ice sculptures, an audio tour, a 4D experience, and entertainment for all ages, it is the largest ice exhibition in Europe that commemorates the city's 750th anniversary!

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The Dutch Ice Sculpture Festival 2024-2025 | Netherlands Ijsbeelden Festival Biddinghuizen 2024-2025
Netherlands Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Netherlands Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

The Dutch Ice Sculpture Festival 2024-2025 | Netherlands Ijsbeelden Festival Biddinghuizen 2024-2025

Welcome to a magical frosty wonderland where ice crystals melt your heart; where world’s top 45 ice artists (also known as ‘carvers’) from 16 different countries come together to transform 550 tons of ice and snow into 100 breathtaking artworks. Welcome to the Dutch Ice Sculpture Festival!

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Dickens Festijn Deventer 2025 | World’s Largest Charles Dickens Festival in Deventer, Netherlands 2025 | Walking Route Map, Practical Information, Tips and Tricks
Netherlands Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Netherlands Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

Dickens Festijn Deventer 2025 | World’s Largest Charles Dickens Festival in Deventer, Netherlands 2025 | Walking Route Map, Practical Information, Tips and Tricks

Before we begin our story today, let me ask you a “Did you know?” question. Did you know that the world’s largest Charles Dickens Festival takes place in the Netherlands, and not the UK? And that too it is just a fan festival without having any documented historical connection to the author? If you didn’t, then this article is for you!

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8 Best Christmas Markets in France | 8 Top Destinations to Visit in France at Christmas | 8 Must See French Towns to Spend a Magical Christmas
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

8 Best Christmas Markets in France | 8 Top Destinations to Visit in France at Christmas | 8 Must See French Towns to Spend a Magical Christmas

With an age-old tradition dating back to the 14th century, France is one of those countries in Europe, where celebrating Christmas with zest and fervor is deeply rooted within its national culture. And since the concept of the world's first ever Christmas Tree originated from here, France has as much right to the title of ‘The Home of Christmas’ as the North Pole. Owing to the diverse geography running from the French Alps to the Mediterranean, France follows different Christmas customs in different regions. But there is one thing in common - the Christmas Markets!

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Top 15 Exciting Things to See and Do in Valkenburg aan de Geul on a Day Trip | 15 Best Activities and Sightseeing Attractions of Valkenburg, the Netherlands
Netherlands Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Netherlands Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

Top 15 Exciting Things to See and Do in Valkenburg aan de Geul on a Day Trip | 15 Best Activities and Sightseeing Attractions of Valkenburg, the Netherlands

Located in Limburg, the southernmost province of the Netherlands, Valkenburg, a marlstone hamlet nestled amid moss-green hills in the heart of the 'Heuvelland' nature reserve, is the country's oldest tourist destination and one of the few places in the country with actual mountains. It has been a landmark for nearly 130 years with its undulating terrain and picturesque surroundings, as well as its two major attractions - the famed castle ruins and marlstone caves. Even though just the remains of Castle Valkenburg exist, it is nonetheless worth a visit because it is the country's only castle built on a hill and therefore offers a panoramic view of the city from its broken ramparts.

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Valkenburg Christmas Market 2025-2026 | Kerststad Valkenburg 2025-2026 | Christmas Town Valkenburg 2025-2026 | The Unique Christmas Cave Markets of Valkenburg, the Netherlands
Netherlands Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Netherlands Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

Valkenburg Christmas Market 2025-2026 | Kerststad Valkenburg 2025-2026 | Christmas Town Valkenburg 2025-2026 | The Unique Christmas Cave Markets of Valkenburg, the Netherlands

If you plan to stroll incessantly through gorgeous winter landscapes and enchanting Christmas decors, you need to be at Kerststad Valkenburg. Having seen a lot of Christmas Markets around the globe, I can safely proclaim that Valkenburg Christmas Market is hands down the best Christmas Market in the Netherlands and one of the most unique Christmas Markets on the planet. After all, it's not every day that you get to a Christmas Market within a marlstone cave!

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The Dutch Christmas Markets | 9 Best Places to Visit during Christmas in the Netherlands | Top 9 Things to See and Do in the Netherlands during Christmas
Netherlands Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Netherlands Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

The Dutch Christmas Markets | 9 Best Places to Visit during Christmas in the Netherlands | Top 9 Things to See and Do in the Netherlands during Christmas

While the whole world is already busy shopping in Advent Markets from mid-November, the Dutch have yet to set up a Christmas Tree! Strange but true, the country starts brimming with Christmas joy only from the second week of December when the town squares convert into grand markets selling food, trinkets, glühwein, oliebollen, and all kinds of gifts that bring smiles to the faces of your friends, family, and folks you care about.

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The Christmas Markets of Stockholm | Top 5 Things to See and Do during Christmas in Stockholm | 5 Best Places to Visit during Christmas in Stockholm, Sweden
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

The Christmas Markets of Stockholm | Top 5 Things to See and Do during Christmas in Stockholm | 5 Best Places to Visit during Christmas in Stockholm, Sweden

Christmas in Stockholm is a time of coziness, shimmering lighting, copious amounts of food and drink, and a few unique traditions ranging from solemn to hilarious. Stockholm's Christmas markets await exploration, with a million Christmas lights adorning the streets and a chill in the air filled with seasonal cheer.

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The Christmas Markets of Helsinki | Top 6 Things to See and Do during Christmas in Helsinki | 6 Best Places to Visit during Christmas in Helsinki, Finland
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

The Christmas Markets of Helsinki | Top 6 Things to See and Do during Christmas in Helsinki | 6 Best Places to Visit during Christmas in Helsinki, Finland

While the sun may be reluctant to rise as winter settles in on Helsinki, the aroma of mulled wine, or glögi, and shop window decorations warm the heart as the holiday season approaches. People take advantage of pikkujoulu, or "little Christmas," when they celebrate in pubs and restaurants, because Christmas is normally a quiet family affair. Despite the fact that the temperature drops below minus 10 degrees Celsius at this time of the year, the atmosphere still remains one of warm conviviality. Even when the temperature drops, shops and restaurants gleam with a warm glow, and Finnish structures are known for their ability to withstand the worst frost. When you add carol concerts in churches to the mix, it's hard to believe Helsinki wasn't built for the sole purpose of celebrating Christmas.

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The Christmas Markets of Tallinn | Top 7 Things to See and Do during Christmas in Tallinn | 7 Best Places to Visit during Christmas in Tallinn, Estonia
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

The Christmas Markets of Tallinn | Top 7 Things to See and Do during Christmas in Tallinn | 7 Best Places to Visit during Christmas in Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn's medieval Old Town takes on a particularly romantic look in the winter, when a new dusting of snow covers its rooftops and candles cast a flickering glow across its cobblestone alleyways. Tallinn is at its most enchanting during the winter, despite the dark nights. From ice skating on the Old Town's outdoor rink to sipping mulled wine on the ancient Town Hall square at one of Europe's best Christmas Markets, it's a true winter wonderland!

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The Christmas Markets of Riga | Top 8 Things to See and Do during Christmas in Riga | 8 Best Places to Visit during Christmas in Riga, Latvia
Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta Europe Travel Blog Shirshendu Sengupta

The Christmas Markets of Riga | Top 8 Things to See and Do during Christmas in Riga | 8 Best Places to Visit during Christmas in Riga, Latvia

With a strong pagan and Christian streak, Latvians commemorate Christmas (or the Winter Solstice) with zest and fervor. And since the world's very first ever Christmas Tree was put up in Riga back in 1510, Latvia has as much right to the title of ‘The Home of Christmas’ as the North Pole. At Riga, even if it's not a white Christmas, you can easily enter the seasonal spirit by simply following the aroma of gingerbread and mulled red wine and charming stalls selling hand-knitted shawls, mittens, socks, fragrant candle lights, artisanal spoons, and other woodwork in the Christmas Markets in the center of the Old Town. And don't forget to give yourself some rest from shopping with authentic delicacies like grey peas and bacon, best on a chilling winter day.

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