Every now and then, it is normal for everyone to crave something different and out of the way. One day, you might wake up and for no apparent reason feel like skipping work and spending the day at the movies instead. Or this need for variation may be exhibited in small, somewhat insignificant ways such as opting to order a cold latte with whipped cream instead of the usual hot decaf latte you start your mornings with or wearing white socks instead of the usual black.

Travel and vacations are considered by many as the ultimate form of deviating from the common daily routines we usually lead since it is on vacation and travel that we see new sights, meet new people, and experience new things. However, even vacationing and traveling can take on a humdrum vibe through repetition and consistency. Even you might feel bored with your vacations and travels if you visit a beach every summer, rent a cottage in the woods every winter or have dinner at a hotel every Valentine’s day.

Of course, the answer to how you can make vacations and travels more interesting is by injecting some variation and seeking the unusual. One such city that can certainly give you a one-of-a-kind vacation and travel experience like none other is the capital city of Sweden called Stockholm. Take hotels for instance. Most of the rather resemble one another, a five star hotel in this street may be quite identical with the other on the next block. So here’s a list of the top 5 most unusual hotels in Stockholm City that are guaranteed to give a pleasant and surprising twist to your usual vacations and travels.

Langholmen Hotel, Stockholm

This first unusual Stockholm hotel is not for the faint of heart. The main construction which is now called the langholmen Hotel, Stockholm was actually built for an entirely different purpose before it was converted into a hotel. Like a hotel, it once housed several “guests” too, although the reason why they are there are not really their decision and they cannot come and go as they please like in a normal hotel. Yes, the facilities which is now called the Langholmen Hotel in Stockholm was once a prison.

The Olde Crown Prison that once housed miscreants of all sorts now has a more inviting atmosphere to it since it was transformed into a hotel. Although the thick concrete walls and the heavy iron doors still remain, a lot of added comforts and conveniences, a touch of color and an overwhelming sense of history and curiosity has made this former prison a hotel you would not want to escape from.

Nordic Sea Hotel

The Nordic Sea Hotel is another Stockholm hotel that piques can easily pique the interest of tourists, travelers and vacationers. This Stockholm hotel is called the Nordic Sea Hotel because of the existence of a large, impressively noticeable aquarium in the hotel that houses hundreds of colorful fishes, plants and other marine animals.

And the presence of the Absolut IceBar definitely boosts up the popularity of the hotel too. You may need fur coats and mittens though because the entire bar, from floor to ceiling and even the glasses, are made from ice.

Af Chapman and Skeppsholmen

If you think a life at sea is both romantic and adventurous, then you might want to stay at the Af Chapman and Skeppsholmen hostel in Stockholm. The hostel is actually found in a boat, or rather the hostel is a boat. A British ship more than a century ago set is anchors along the shores of Sweden and several decades later, it was converted to the hostel we now know as the Af Chapman and Skeppsholmen. You are sure to get a good night’s sleep in this Stockholm hotel since the waves of the Lake Malaren would rock you to sleep.

Nordic Light Hotel

If ice bars and humongous aquariums do not pique your curiosity, then maybe the enchanting northern lights would. Experience a dazzling vacation if you check-in at the Nordic Light Hotel also in Stockholm since the entire hotel is based upon the beauty and fascination that the northern lights are popular for. You can easily change the mood and color of your own hotel suite or room by changing the lights at the Nordic Light Hotel. If you’re feeling light, a golden yellow lighting may be great and if you want to add a touch of romance, soft pink lights are perfect.

Vanadis Hotell & Bad

And finally, there is also the unusual and historic Vanadis Hotell & Bad which was made from a bathing facility. Bath houses are popular during the early 20th and late 19th century and one of these bath houses was converted into a hotel when the concept slowly lost popularity. The bath house theme is still present and can be seen at the amazing Vanadis Hotell pool area.

For more Stockholm hotel information, whether unusual or not, visit www.Stockholm.net now!

 

One of the best times to enjoy at Brussels is between the months of May to September. This is the ideal time when this place experiences a great influx in the visitors. It is quite easy to find different types of accommodations such as the 4 star hotels in Brussels, the Discount hotels in Brussels. Most of them can be found in plenty in the city at any time of the year!

4 Star hotels in Brussels are regarded as the supreme most of the hotels as they make available sauna, pools, and health clubs, restaurant, offering an extensive option of delectable cuisine, TV, movies, mini bar, dual line telephone with voice mail, and much more. Apart from these, the hotel are known to provide the 24 hour room services, business center, guest laundry facilities, health club, conference and banquet centers. Further more 4 star hotels in Brussels are noted to offer the best ever attentive and personalized hotel facilities.

If you have never stayed at 4 star hotels in Brussels before, then you certainly do not know what you are missing out. From gazing at the sunrise over the waves the awesome pool and pool side area, relaxing spa, with an absolutely free massage is something that we all wish for each day of our life!

Discount hotels in Brussels almost proffer more than 70% off on their normal tariff that is charged by other hotels. This proves to be a great deal as a lot of money is saved on this bargain. The Discount hotels are preferred by the tourists who visit this place from all around the globe. They are appreciably renowned as the most plush and feasible hotels. If tourist and travelers are planning to stay for a while longer, then discount hotels provides the budgetary convenience and much more

 

There are several well defined hotels in terms of luxury provided and yet they come under the category of discount hotels. These kinds of hotels certainly do come close to the highly reputed and the luxury ones. When you go out to hunt for a hotel during your vacation then you barely got to put in any time as there are several discount hotels.

 

There is much more information regarding Discount hotels in Brussels as well as the 4 star hotels in Brussels and there is an option of getting prior reservations done as well!

SEXY – ANNIVERSAIRE DU PINK PARADISE PARIS – CLUBBING

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Brussels is an important city of Belgium and it enjoys a thrilling nightlife. The city is not titled “the city, which never sleeps” for nothing. Having roughly 80 bars and a similarly impressive amount of nightclubs, chances are wherever you turn out in this European wonderland; you wish to locate somewhere to have a party and a good time. The Brussels nightlife allows its guests to select entertainment options, if it is an unusual nightclub, a casino, a beer pub, or live music in an underground club. Just keep in mind, many establishments work from 8pm to 8am.

When dancing to the final hot tunes is your ardor, you will be glad to know that the city provides almost 100 dance clubs. Celebrated international DJs are at the list in any Brussels nightlife’s guide. Popular clubs take in the Bois de la Cambre, Club Bazaar, Les Jeux d’Hiver, Le Fuse, just to name several.

Belgium provides visitors with a savory assortment of beers, particularly the Kriek and Gueuze fruit-flavored brands. The few popular beer halls comprise La Bécasse that can be found at the Rue de Tabora 11, La Rose Blanche not far from the Grande-Place, and A La Mort Subite located at the Rue Montagne aux Herbes Potagères.

No matter where you are in Belgium, there’s a party going on – and you’re invited! From 8pm until 8am – in that space of time between savoring a beautiful beer and a piping hot waffle – Belgium’s exuberant nightlife will prove that sometimes it’s worth it to skip a good night’s sleep. Jazz festivals, rock concerts, exotic nightclubs, traditional brown pubs and casinos are all a part of daily life here in the heart of Europe.

Belgium is a typically stable, cautiously progressive, western European liberal democracy. The alliance with The Netherlands and Luxembourg became the Benelux Union in 1958, which, in turn, became one of the foundation stones of the European Community. Brussels is the headquarters of both NATO and the EU. Today, the anachronistic images of boring Belgium have been well and truly banished over the last decade as the country promotes its key destinations, along with a string of new attractions.

Easy to travel around, this pocketsize country is divided into the Flemish north, Flemish speaking and the Walloon south, French speaking. Brussels, the capital, is the heart of the country and the European Union. Belgium always had a lot more going for it than the faceless political and bureaucratic buildings that litter its capital with a string of engaging cities in Bruges, Ghent, and Brussels itself that offer impressive architecture, lively nightlife, first rate cuisine and numerous other attractions for visitors. Then there is reinvented Antwerp, now a hotbed of fashion and modern design, and the more bucolic charms of the beauty of the mountainous Ardennes region to the east, as well as the sweeping sand of the coastline resorts of the western seaboard. Belgium is also a land whose specialities include ubiquitous beers, delicate chocolates and Belgian waffles.

The principal domestic problem is continuing tension between the Flemish speaking north and the French speaking south of the country, known as Wallonia, not forgetting the capital Brussels. However, throughout the years, Belgium has evolved towards an efficient federal system. Five reforms have been necessary to achieve this in 1970, 1980, 1988, 1989, 1993 and 2001. In 2005, Belgium celebrated 25 years of federalism and for the first time ever, article one of the Belgian Constitution stated that Belgium is a federal state made out of communities and regions.

Enjoy the many Brussels museums such as the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Modern Art, the Comic Strip Museum and the Museum of the City of Brussels.

Relax over a meal of moules frites in one of the many reasonably priced restaurants of Brussels Rue des Bouchers, close to the Grand Place. Most have tables outside in the summer, from which to watch the world go by while dining.

Pay homage to chocolate, which is one of Belgiums best known products, with a visit to the Chocolate and Cocoa Museum off Brussels Grand Place, or Choco Story in Bruges.

Take a canal boat ride along the waterways of Bruges sometimes described as the Venice of the North, an excellent and relaxing way to appreciate the medieval architectural splendours of this historic Flanders city.

Sample some of Belgiums many fine beers at tBrugs Beertje a characterful bar in Kemelstraat in the centre of historic Bruges. It offers a choice of literally hundreds of varieties.

As you might expect from a city that’s dubbed “capital of Europe”, Brussels enjoys strong transport links – not only within Belgium and Europe but throughout the globe. Brussels has strong rail links with other European countries (including Eurostar which even links to London) and the city has an efficient internal public transport system that uses underground, trams and buses.

Getting To Brussels By Air

Brussels most prolific airport is “Brussels International Airport” (located in Zaventem) and is 13km away from Brussels city centre. The majority of airlines fly to this destination and as you would expect it has the features & facilities you would expect from a major international airport. From Brussels International, you can reach your ultimate destination by train, taxi or bus.

Alternatively, Brussels second airport is Brussels Charleroi, which is significantly further away from the city centre. The airport is linked to Brussels midi train station.

Getting To Brussels By Bus

Brussels is well connected to various European destinations including the United Kingdom by Bus. Most coaches terminate at Bruxelles Nord, after which the traveller can take a train or taxi onto their final destination.

Getting To Brussels By Train

The Eurostar operates a full service to Bruxelles Midi, and the Thalys Express also runs between Brussels and destinations including Paris, Amsterdam and Cologne.

Getting Around Brussels – Trams, Trains, Buses & Taxis

It’s fairly easy and inexpensive to move about within Brussels. A single ticket can be purchased for under 2 euros and can be used anywhere on the STIB network (metros, trams and buses). The network is quite comprehensive so it’s fairly easy to hop from one location of Brussels to another. Once you purchase a ticket, you’ll need to stamp it using one of the machines located at the station, tram or bus. Don’t forget to stamp your ticket – if you’re caught without a valid ticket there are hefty fines of up to 55 Euros imposed. There are various options for discounted tickets depending on your length of stay – for around 30 Euros you can grab a “Brussels Card” which allows unlimited public transport travel for three days as well as free admission to various landmarks.

Public transport in Brussels is made up of a comprehensive yet easy to navigate train system that’s well supported by a further network of trams and buses.

The Tram network is a good way of navigating around the city centre. Trams are quite frequent and not only meander through Brussels town centre but also reach much of the deeper suburban areas. Pick up a free map/timetable from the information point in Gare du Midi, Porte de Namur and Rogier.

The STIB also operates a bus network throughout the city and this operates at night-time (with less regularity).

Getting Around Brussels On Foot

For the active tourist, navigating through the city on foot is a distinct possibility. Many of the interesting landmarks are located fairly close together which makes walking a pleasurable way of seeing the town, particularly in the warmer months. Be sure to grab a map before setting out.

A bookshelf is a bookshelf, is a bookshelf. Can creativity turn a concept as commonplace as a bookshelf into a timeless masterpiece? In 1988, a slender glazed bokskåpet, with a capacity to hold 25 copies of the magazine, National Geographic, lacquered to match the yellow color of the magazine cover, debuted heralding the dawn of a new age in Swedish design history. This is Mats Theselius for you.

A renowned Swedish interior designer, Mats Theselius was born in the capital city of Stockholm in 1956 and studied small scale architecture at the Industriel Design School, Konstfackskolan in Stockholm. In 1984, he finished training at the Higher Art and Design School in Stockholm and taught at the School of Design and Crafts at Gothenburg University during 1995-96. Currently staying in the idyllic Tomelilla, he is, for various reasons, the pioneer of modern Swedish designing scene.

Three years before the bokskåpet, Mats Theselius made a mark with his first creation, Älgskinnsfåtöljen, also known as the “Across the Hall.” It was a prototype of the “English Across the Hall” that later became an international phenomena. It was a simple yet elegant cylinder-shaped club in steel, designed for a royal and comfortable seating. Later versions of this, the Rex, the El Rey, and the Embassy accessorized none other than the Swedish embassy in Berlin in the years 1994, 1999, and 1999 respectively. Theselius created some of the most noted and talked about Swedish furniture during the 1990’s and won himself the worldwide acclaim few have. He also worked on the furniture Källemo in Sultan Kudarat in 1989 and later, a vikskärm that today is a cherished auction rarity like most of his other works. The uniqueness of this screen is that it looks like soft, glistening silver silk but in reality, it’s made of aluminum and fitted with rivets to give it the padded look! Theselius is capable of masterpieces as a gift of nature. Today, he is working on designing not only furniture, but also pottery, jewelry, and carpets!

Traveling the Southern United States in the fall of 2000, Mats studied the American craft and the so-called, “western style” of designing. Among many other articles, Mats designed a pair of boots with the help of skilled Texan leather and silver craftsmen. Later the very same season, Mats came out with his first unique armchair to be produced by Texan craftsmen that needs little mention. That was also, coincidentally, the time of the historic first ever US presidential visit to Sweden and Gothenburg prepared to welcome the visitors in the right zest. Soon, grapevines had it that Mats was handling Swede-American Cultural Cooperation and the words reached more than some major Swedish design firms.

It is said that a thing of beauty is joy forever. And that’s exactly what Theselius’ furniture is about. It is -what we can, for now, call and eye-feaster. Every design of his depicts his yearn for modernity and grace. While most furniture designers classified furniture as Renaissance, Gothic, 20th Century and modern, Theselius had two categories – useful furniture and non-furniture. Of course he stuck to the former classification. That is what makes him the futuristic architect with a vision to build what matters.

The Baltic might not be the first place that comes to mind when considering a luxury yacht charter vacation, but during the short Scandinavian summer, it’s a magical place with warm breezes and almost 24 hours of daylight. Even as far south as Stockholm, summer nights never get completely dark, the sky just takes on a deep blue tint for a few hours before the sun comes back up again. The best time to visit is June to September, and like everywhere else in Europe, July and August are the most crowded. For a totally Swedish experience, visit during Midsummer (usually around June 20), the longest day of the year and one of the most celebrated holidays in Sweden. To avoid the crowds, visit in September (or even at the end of August) when the warmth of the summer still lingers and you will have more space to yourself.

Begin your trip by spending a few days exploring Stockholm, the beautiful capital of Sweden, before heading out on your yacht. The Stockholm Archipelago is about 150 miles long by 50 miles wide and contains around 30,000 islands and islets, some verdant with luxury hotels, shops and restaurants, others just a bare rock. You don’t have to go far to get to Fjaderholmarna (the Feather Islands). These 4 islands lie 25 minutes from Stockholm, and you might be tempted to keep cruising since you only just started, but they are well worth a stop. Fjaderholmarna is home to several restaurants, cafes, a seafood smokehouse (with a restaurant and take-out shop), shops, local artisans, an outdoor theatre, and Mackmyra whiskey distillery, where you can tour the facilities and try their products.

Vaxholm, about an hour by boat from Stockholm, was founded in 1647 and has been an archipelago hub since the late 1800s when it was discovered by wealthy Stockholmers who built vacation homes on the island and started spending their summers here. Today, Vaxholm has about 10,000 year-round inhabitants and many visitors, especially during the summer. The harbor is right in the center of this very walkable town, so you can easily stroll around and take in the sights. There are several shops, restaurants, cafes, a few grocery stores, a liquor store and a pharmacy. Notable sights include Bogesund Castle (built in the 1640s) and the Vaxholm Citadel (built 1833-1863) which is no longer used for military purposes but instead houses a museum, shop, bistro and B&B.

Grinda lies about 2 hours from Stockholm and its several sandy beaches and rocky outcrops make it a popular swimming destination for Stockholmers. The island is small, only a 15-minute walk across, and has a pub, grocery store, and a well-known hotel and restaurant, Grinda Wardshus, housed in an Art Noveau building from 1908. There are kayaks available for rent from the hotel, and they can also arrange activities such as rock climbing or archery.

Sandhamn (Sand Harbor) on the island Sandon (Sand Island) is the “yachting capital” of Stockholm’s archipelago. The Royal Swedish Yacht Club (KSSS) built their club house here in 1897 (still in use) and their many annual races attract sailors from around the world. The most well known is perhaps the 2-day race “Gotland Runt” (Round Gotland). This particular event is also famous for the many parties taking place in Sandhamn both before and after the race. The town has many restaurants, bars and shops, as well as a few hotels and museums. There are also several sandy beaches on the island, and the largest, Trouville, is only a 20-minute walk from downtown.

With more than 60 guest harbors in Stockholm’s archipelago, there are many more places to visit and sights to see, but these are a few places to get you started in your planning.

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden and part of the Stockholm Municipality, is located on Swedens East Coast where Lake Malaren meets the Baltic Sea. There are numerous high-tech companies headquartered here. In spite of a full four season climate that includes substantial rain, tourism has doubled since 1991. So, there must be something about its people and places to attract so many visitors.

Heres a look at Stockholms luxury hotels, best restaurants, and what to see and do while visiting. The progressive city is on the rise and definitely a worthy destination for world travelers to notch on their boards.

Luxury Hotels in Stockholm

The First Hotel Reisen has been a center of refined hospitality since the 1700s. Aside from offering the best view of Old Town Stockholm from its waterfront location, there is the sauna, the swimming pool, and the sensational restaurant all set beneath 17th century vaults.

The Victory Hotel is part of the Bengtsson familys hotel chain. It is named after the English naval hero Lord Nelsons flagship the HMS Victory. Adjacent to Victory Hotel is the renowned restaurant, Leijontornet (the Lion Tower), which is named after a 14th century fortification wall that is on display in the main dining room. The decor of each room has a little captain in it with a portrait of Lord Nelson. Good Lord! The Hilton Stockholm Slussen is located in the center of Stockholm.

It, too, offers incredible views of Old Town Stockholm. The hotel was noted for being the best business hotel in 2003. The gym and sauna are world class facilities. Additionally, the hotel is a civic leader for its commitment to environmental safety issues.

Best Restaurants in Stockholm

Den Gyldene Freden is an 18th century establishment of great historic and epicurean proportions. The esteemed Swedish Academy holds its meetings here for members to enjoy the restaurants well made local dishes. Lux Stockholm is annually commended in the highly valued Michelin Guide for its excellent seasonal offerings and service.

Renowned architect Peter Hallen designed crystal lamps to lighten up our tables and color changing walls. Wardshuset Ulla Winbladh is an open air restaurant that serves gourmet lunches and dinners of Swedish fare. Due to the eaterys enormous popularity, making reservations in advance is strongly advised. The owners have five additional restaurants in Stockholm.

To Do in Stockholm

Checking out the Kulturhuset Cultural Centre is a good way to get better acquainted with the citys cultural offerings. There are exhibitions, theatre, dance, music, and other types of performing arts. Additionally, there is a library with a reading lounge and several restaurants in the vicinity. Skansen Open Air Museum is an open air museum that presents 150 historical buildings of Sweden.

The museum was founded in 1891. There also is a zoo with wild and tame Nordic animals onsite. The Skansen hosts many annual festivities and events. Here is a place where kids of all ages remain young and foolish forever. The Tivoli Grona Lund is among the favorite amusement parks with its adrenaline pumping roller coasters. The entertainment center proudly proclaims that it has the highest free fall ride in all of Europe. It is a big on fun boutique amusement park with approximately 30 compelling attractions.

Notes on Stockholm

What has six stories and 100 separate departments under one roof? It is the Nordiska Kompaniet. Many call this the greatest shopping center in the world. Products by Hermes, Mulberry, Prada, and YSL are represented as well as an array of well known Swedish brands, such as J Lindeberg and Flippa K. The majestic food market is fit to be graced by royalty with a variety of pubs, bars, cafes, and restaurants. This is a favorite destination of the locals.