10 Best Chalets in The world

With the winter season ahead it is time to plan a ski holiday or a festive stroll through the European Christmas markets…sipping hot chocolate or mulled wine, next to the fireplace in your private Alpine rustic chalet, or sampling hot chestnuts, grilled sausages and gingerbread biscuits…Get into the jolly winter with the Best 10 chalets in the world!

#10. Finland

Looking for the best ski resorts in Finland?No need to travel above the Arctic Circle into Lapland. Kuikankulta  is a new, cosy block in the centre of Vuokatti and only 500 m away from the ski trail. Although Finnish resorts are at low altitudes compared with those of the Alps, snow is always guaranteed and conditions are nearly always perfect. Skiing is ideal for beginners and intermediates, although advanced skiers will be challenged by the off-piste opportunities.

#9. Andorra

Andorra provides a ski experience that is unique in Europe. Looking for lively ski villages (and we mean ‘party time’), great ski schools, well groomed slopes, modern lifts and value for money? La Cortinada is a new apartment block, a throw away from the famous resort of Ordino. With reliable snow coverage, a long ski season and plenty of sunshine, skiing in Andorra remains a popular and affordable choice for many young holiday makers.

#8. Czech Republic

And where else in the world can you combine your ski holiday with a side visit to one of the most beautiful countries in Europe?Skiing is suitable for beginner and intermediate levels, and the prices for accommodation, skiing, and eating are low compared to the European Alps, making Czech Republic a good alternative for families. Why not stay in this nice and cosy chalet?

#7. The United States

Skiing in the United States is mostly split between the Rockies on the west coast - Colorado and Aspen provides some world famous skiing. Founded as a mining camp and named after the abundance of aspen trees in the area, Aspen has turned into one of the best ski resorts in North America. The atmosphere is bustling with Hollywood glitz and glamour centered around a European style ski village.

#6. Spain

Spain may not be most people's first choice when it comes to skiing, but with ski resorts in five distinct regions of the country, skiing in Spain is gaining in popularity. The terrain and consistent snow cover make the country a reliable choice - with well groomed pistes, excellent facilities, high standard ski schools, a great choice of accommodation and buzzing nightlife. Why not staying in the comfort of Pla de l'Ermita, only 2 km from Taüll and in proximity to the ski trails?

#5. Germany

Germany may not be that well known to foreigners as a ski destination, however it provides accessible, family-friendly and charming ski resorts.  If you’re interested in something new why not try skiing in Germany this winter?Try the comfort of the rustic chalet Schwänli!

#4. Italy

Italy offers plenty of good ski resorts, thanks to its geography and terrain. Italian ski resorts come to life at night and on the weekends with plenty of glitz and glamour as city folk flood in, and for foreign visitors a ski holiday in Italy has its own special charm and pace. Italian ski resorts are more laid-back than elsewhere in the Alps, as most resorts are more suited to beginner or intermediate skiers. The San Martino Casa Estate has been built in 1300 in a historic residential area. Fancy a medieval charm?We recommend it!

#3. Austria

Rustic Alpine villages, attractive wooded slopes, perfect mountain scenery and friendly locals make Austria a preferred winter sports destination. You can’t do much better for consistent snow cover, ski-in/ski-out convenience, large connected ski areas and large beers.The passion for skiing in Austria is unrivaled and the experience of Landschlösschen Luxnachmühle castle is just as unique!

#2. France

When it comes to skiing, France is arguably Europe’s top destination. While the French Alps offer the broadest range of skiing possibilities in Europe, the Pyrenees offer fully equipped downhill and cross-country ski resorts. Why not snuggle into the comfort of chalet La Bergeronnette and enjoy the beautiful panoramic view?

#1. Switzerland

Switzerland is undoubtedly at the centre of the winter sports universe - offering all types of activities from skiing to snowboarding, tobogganing and sledging. The scenic beauty of the Swiss Alps, its perfect slopes and wide range of accommodation make this country a favourite among ski enthusiasts. For beginners, all Swiss resorts have high quality ski schools where you can just turn up and pay for a day’s or week’s group or private tuition. Fancy a go on the slopes?Why not try the luxurious coziness of chalet Pomme de Pin this year?

Best Icerinks around the world

Most Europeans make for the powdery thrills of the ski slopes for their mid-winter holidays, but ice skating is fast becoming an alternative to the ski trails. Every year, some of Europe’s most beautiful cities transform into natural rinks and provide a sublime surface for the perfect winter adventure.

Northern European cities tend to offer the most magical seasonal rinks. A skating vacation needn’t be a mad dash across the ice, but an enjoyable winter city break. Whether you choose to master the art of the triple Axel on the CO2 friendly ice rinks of Scandinavia, UK hot spot (well, not literally) - London, go for the proper snow and freezing temperatures of Finland, or make a few flips at the The Rockefeller Centre, in the spirit of it all we have rounded up some of the best places in the world.

#1. London

The UK capital and its number ice rinks is no doubt the hot spot (well, not literately) for ice skating. The most popular eight (!) are Hyde PArk, Natural History Museum, Canary Wharf, Somerset Hosue, Tower of London, Kew Grdens, Greenwich and Hampton Court Palace.

#2. Copenhagen

The public outdoor ice rinks in the Danish capital  are usually open from December to February and they are free of charge. The most popular ones are Frederiksberg Runddel, Lindevangsparken's CO2-friendly ice rink (it is made of wax, not watt),  Blågårds Plads, Genforeningspladsen, Elsinore CO2-friendly ice rink (no water or energy is used and for the same reason it is open regardless of the weather), Havnegade ice rink.

#3. Glasgow

If you haven't had enough by the time you've spun round the two rinks in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, hop on the train and take in the one in George Square, Glasgow. If you still want more, head to Inverness after Hogmanay in the Lowlands, where they celebrate "the old new year" on January 12. The fèis gheamhraidh Inbhir Nis – Inverness winter festival – runs from November 22 to January 12 and includes an outdoor ice rink at its heart.

#4. Helsinki

If you want proper snow and freezing temperatures, Finland is the place. Ice-skating is a national pastime and, come the first freeze playgrounds, parks and tennis courts are filled with water and the country has thousands of outdoor rinks. Helsinki also opens a rink over the festive season in the city centre, next to the railway station.

#5. Paris

If skating isn't enough, try the Reve de Neige (snow dream) at the Stade de France in Paris. From December 22 to January 7 the home of French rugby is transformed into a mini-Alps with 20 activities including snowboarding ramps, skiing pistes, skating, ice-climbing, snowman building, zip-wires and sledging.

#6. New York

The Rockefeller Centre rink in New York is the USA's most famous Christmas ice rink. Since first opening in 1936 it has attracted 250,000 people a year. Open from October until April, the giant Christmas tree lights up on November 28.  Less well known is what's called Rockefeller Centre west, an ice rink surrounded by skyscrapers in Pershing Square, downtown LA. Special events like kids hockey clinics and free concerts for families.

#7. Moscow

As soon as winter sets in water is poured onto the paths of Gorky Park to make an enormous outdoor skating rink. It's very democratic: all of Moscow skates here. The city has seven indoor and 11 outdoor rinks. As well as Park Kultury (Gorky Park) particularly recommended is Patriarkhskiyi Prudi (Patriarch's Ponds).  Gorky Park is also the best place to experience a Russian ice disco.

#8. Berlin

Berlin's Potsdamer Platz doesn't only get a 40m long ice rink, it gets a snow park, Austrian ski hut for food and drink and a Christmas market too. The Rodelbahn is a 70m long sledging slope covered in 14 tonnes of snow with views to the Brandenburg Gate. Children's competitions, skiing and snowboarding demonstrations, carousels and street entertainers add to the atmosphere.

#9. Yosemite

An outdoor rink in one of the world's biggest outdoor places, Yosemite National Park. Decades ago park employees would flood the parking lot of the Curry Village campground. Now a purpose-built rink beneath the shadows of mighty Half Dome and El Capitan operates from mid November to early March.

Top 10 Hot Winter Escapes!

Whether you are tired of the long cold winters (yeah, not even eggnog and mistletoe can cancel out gray skies) or you just need to get away from the crowded Christmas shops, the festivity of the season is about blissful time, spent with friends and family and there are many ways to enjoy the holidays this year. If you fancy a bright and filled with sunshine Christmas vacation this year, why not head up for an exotic destination?
There are many fun-filled destination, where you can find your Christmas gift by the pool, not under the tree and listen to the ocean, washing on the beach, for a change. We have round up a list of the Best Sunny Destinations for this winter. Wherever you end up, we are sure that your vacation we'll be an unforgettable one.

#1. USA

Set yourself up in a comfortable holiday home amongst palm trees and enjoy the fusion dinners and the hula for a very merry holiday. Hawaii has the best and most popular beaches in the world, well equipped with all possible luxuries and waterfalls. But don't forget Florida with its hot December weather and it's colorist - is the best option for an exciting beach party during the Christmas vacation.

#2. South Africa

South African diversity starches from the hippos in the Limpopo River to the penguins waddling on the Cape, to the wildlife-stalked savanna and all the way to Cape Town's buzzing night life. Amazing scenery, splendid sunny beaches, centuries old vineyards and historical manors - all aspects of the unique vibe and social milieu of South Africa. You'll soon realize that there's everything to love about it!

#3. Portugal

Sandy islands, sun-kissed beaches, picturesque bays and the old-fashioned charm of the medieval castles. While it's true that Portugal is no longer the Iberian Peninsula's best-kept secret, it's fairly easy to escape the crowds. Even at the busiest resorts in the Algarve, it only takes a short bus ride or a walk across countryside to reveal rarely visited places that still offer the feeling of discovery - a sentiment close to the Portuguese soul.

#4. Egypt

Egypt’s ocean of sand stretches infinitely to the Sahara, with a handful of oases feeding solitary islands of green. Hivelike, medieval fortresses cower out here, interspersed with bubbling springs and ghostly rock formations. Meanwhile, the deep, crystal waters of the Red Sea lie brilliantly awash in coral, surrounded by an aquatic frenzy of underwater life.

#5. Cyprus

The culture of Cyprus has been shaped for centuries by the Western European cultural influences and its geographical proximity to Asia and Africa. Although an odd kaleidoscopic mixture, the small island has its own definite and beguiling character. Wander through the sea of wildflowers covering the island in spring, and Cyprus will take your breath away. With good walking shoes, a swimsuit and some sunscreen in your bag, you can have a Christmas you’ll remember for years.

#6. Malta

From its North African and Arabic influences to the Sicilian-inspired cuisine, Malta is a microcosm of the Mediterranean. Few European countries have such concentrated history, architecture and, yes, beaches in so tiny an area.There’s been an eclectic mix of influences and a roll-call of rulers over the centuries, but be in no doubt: Malta is not just a notional outpost of Italy or a relic of colonial Britain, but has loads of unique charm.

#7. Spain

From sizzling paellas, spicy chorizos and chilled sangria to amazing architecture, cutting-edge modern art and flamenco dancers in colorful costumes - Spanish cultural palette has a lot to offer to vacationers. Sun, sparkling waters and sandy beaches in vibrant modern cities, or green hills, tucked away fishing villages and rugged mountain ranges - experience the magic of Spain and enjoy the beauty of the country staying in comfort - browse through thousands of holiday apartments in Spain now to find your vacation home!

#9. Morocco

If you really want to escape from everything, Morocco still has a couple of trump cards. The High Atlas mountains seem custom-made for hiking boots, with endless trails between Berber villages, and North Africa’s highest peak ( to conquer. Or if you prefer someone else to do the walking, simply saddle up your camel and ride it straight into the Sahara, to watch the sun setting over an ocean of sand.

#10. Thailand

Exotic, modern, exuberant: Thailand has many faces. Gleaming Bangkok offers irresistible cuisine and a devout Buddhist culture; ancient Chiang Mai is spa central. Cloudy mountains and sandy beaches provide the tropical bliss. Thailand is often referred to as a golden land, not because there is precious metal buried underground but because the country gives off a certain lustre, be it the fertile rice fields of the central plains, white sandy beaches or the warm hospitality of its citizenry.

Or if you a looking for a truly exotic adventure, why not get a taste of glamorous Dubai, colorful Tunisia, passionate Dominican Republic, tropical Seychelles or sunny Jamaica.

Christmas in Tivoli

Prague, Czech Republic

Christmas is a special time of year in Prague and the Christmas markets are a key ingredient in the Czech festive magic. Prague is a fairytale city and the city markets bring visitors and locals together to share the holiday spirit in a true 'winter wonderland' setting. The rows of brightly decorated wooden huts, selling Czech handicrafts, hot food (corn on the cob, sausages and local specialties) and hot wine to make outdoor shopping is much easier!Some interesting Christmas stocking fillers can be found in the markets, which stock a variety of Czech glass, wooden toys, scented candles, Christmas tree ornaments, hand-made jewelry and, of course, puppets, always puppets!The two best Christmas markets are on the long slope of Wenceslas Square and in the medieval movie set of the Old Town Square formed around a giant Christmas tree, manger scene, and small petting zoo. The markets' brightly decorated stalls sell wooden toys, Bohemian crystal, handmade jewelry, classic Czech marionettes, and plenty of potential for tooth decay: honeyed gingerbread, vánocvka (a braided pastry studded with raisins), and vosí hnízda' ("wasps nests," nutty cookies heavy with rum). Wash it all down with mead and svarene vino (a sweet mulled wine). Christmas Eve dinner consists of wine sausages and carp—you'll see barrels of the fish everywhere. Slip a carp scale into your wallet to ensure an adequate cash flow for the upcoming year.

Austria

The alpine towns and villages in Austria, invariably host markets, which although are not that large are oozing character and atmosphere, but the capital Vienna with its 25 markets, ranging from the large to the small, is unraveled in the festive atmosphere that all the seasonal decoration and lights create around the city. No wonder that three million visitors flock here each year for beeswax candles, wooden toys, and glass ornaments. Shoppers snack on cream-filled pastries, candied fruit, roasted chestnuts, and Weihnachtspunsch (a spiced "Christmas punch" of wine, brandy, or schnapps sweetened with warm fruit juices).Get into a Christmas mood with the delicious aroma of punch, traditional gingerbread, roasted almonds and honey.

The enchanting atmosphere of the traditional Christmas Markets scattered throughout Europe is attracting more and more visitors every year.

Under the spell of mulled wine, hot chestnuts, grilled sausages and marzipan sweets, it is hard to resist the various types of hand - made gifts. Half-timbered buildings are festively lit and the aromas of mulled wine out of the local vineyards and cinnamon permeate the air at traditional Christmas markets and the festive decoration of the towns and cities provide an idyllic setting for a romantic winter break. Snuggle up at your private home, tucked away in the labyrinthine of old quarters, medieval market squares and striking cathedrals. Buildings steeped in history are illuminated by thousands upon thousands of fairy lights, while the aroma of gingerbread wafts through the air.