Latest news with #Doge'sPalace
Euronews
03-07-2025
- Euronews
Expert tips on how to cruise around Europe responsibly
More and more popular tourist destinations in Europe are introducing cruise ship restrictions and passenger taxes as they face increasing pressure from overtourism Some are cutting the number of liners permitted to dock each day, while others have imposed levies on passengers. For travellers wanting to take a cruise but looking to avoid contributing to the negative impacts of oversized vessels, tour operator Riviera Travel has shared how to responsibly visit destinations by water. European destinations bring in cruise ship taxes Norway recently announced plans to implement a tourist tax on cruise passengers. Starting next summer, municipalities will be able to apply a three per cent levy on overnight stays and cruise ship arrivals. From next year, the French Riviera resort of Cannes is also imposing what its city council calls 'drastic regulation' on cruise ships, halving the number of very large ships allowed in its harbour and capping the daily number of passenger visits at 6,000. The nearby Mediterranean city of Nice announced limits on cruise ships earlier this year, which came into force on 1 July. The Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini also brought in a tax on 1 July, with cruise ship passengers now required to pay €20 during peak season. And Venice banned large ships in 2021, followed by Barcelona in 2023. Amsterdam is also gradually phasing out cruise ships in its harbour, aiming for an outright ban by 2035. How to cruise around Europe responsibly Will Sarson, product director at leading cruise and tour operator Riviera Travel, says travellers looking to cruise responsibly don't have to avoid destinations with restrictions or taxes. 'While cruise ship policies pose restrictions for larger ships such as ocean cruises, there are alternative ways of visiting these locations by water,' he says. The answer is to choose smaller, less damaging types of boats. See Venice's sights on a yacht Venice has banned large cruise ships over 25,000 gross tons from entering its historic Giudecca Canal, with ships now diverted to alternative ports like Marghera. 'Fortunately, there are alternative ways to visit Venice by water,' Sarson says. 'Sail in style in a smaller vessel like a yacht. A yacht cruise is the perfect way to explore Venice as you sail to the historical city on board a luxury vessel.' On this kind of boat, you can get up close to iconic sites like the Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Basilica and the Bridge of Sighs - now off limits to larger ships. Sail around the Balearic Islands on a clipper cruise The Balearic Islands are also among the destinations that have implemented restrictions on large cruise ships. Palma de Mallorca has limited cruise ship arrivals to three per day, with only one allowed to carry more than 5,000 passengers. 'While this restriction may be an issue for larger vessels that hold thousands of passengers, there are alternatives,' Sarson says. 'A Clipper cruise [a fully-rigged tall ship] to the Balearics promises an unforgettable trip as you sail on a charming vessel that takes you back to the nautical golden age for an authentic sailing experience.' On this kind of boat, you have no docking restrictions and you can hop off to visit Palma's Gothic cathedral, stroll through the city's Old Town, and appreciate the views from the seafront. Take a sailing trip to Dalmatia and Dubrovnik To combat overtourism, Dubrovnik limits cruise arrivals to two ships daily, with a combined maximum of 8,000 passengers. However, this doesn't have to be a deal-breaker for visiting this Croatian city, according to Sarson. Instead, opt for a sailing trip on a yacht, like Riviera Travel's Dubrovnik & Splendours of Dalmatia. This way, you can journey down Croatia's sun-drenched Adriatic coastline before heading to Dubrovnik and visiting its Old Town.
NDTV
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Jeff Bezos And Lauren Sanchez To Get Married In Venice: Why It's The Ultimate Travel Escape
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his fiancee Lauren Sanchez are reportedly set to tie the knot in Venice, the romantic heart of Italy, in late June. The couple, who got engaged during a European vacation in May 2023, have kept most of the wedding details under wraps. Speculation is rife that the ceremony will take place aboard Mr. Bezos's lavish $500 million superyacht. The guest list is expected to be an intimate yet star-studded affair, with around 200 attendees. Why Are People Choosing Venice As A Wedding Destination? Venice is one of the most surreal and romantic places on Earth. With its shimmering canals, lantern-lit evenings, and old-world charm, it's no wonder couples are drawn to the idea of a wedding here. For Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez, choosing Venice as their wedding destination seems only fitting. From private gondola rides under the iconic Bridge of Sighs to lavish palaces lining the Grand Canal, the city is grand and beautiful. Often called "The Floating City," Venice is built on 118 small islands linked by winding canals and charming bridges. Its historic churches, dreamy waterways, and timeless beauty continue to attract A-list couples seeking a truly unforgettable setting. Hollywood royalty George Clooney and human rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin also chose Venice for their wedding. Also Read: 6 Common Travel Scams Every Tourist Should Know About (And How To Outsmart Them) Places To Explore In Venice Venice is home to beautiful churches, palaces and bridges like St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace and Rialto Bridge. If you are visiting Venice, then don't forget to visit Murano and Burano islands, famous for glassmaking, colourful houses and lacework respectively. One of the most iconic things you can do in Venice is take a gondola ride. You float past historic buildings, quiet alleys and vibrant neighbourhoods, which makes a perfect atmosphere for couples, especially during sunset. You might also want to visit Basilica di San Marco. It is adorned with 24-carat gold mosaics and intricate paintings. If you are looking for panoramic views and photo places, then you must visit the Ponte di Rialto bridge, as it offers a serene ambience. Some of the other attractions include Canal Grande, the city's main water thoroughfare, Piazza San Marco, famous for iconic landmarks and vibrant cafes, Teatro La Fenice, the world's famous opera house, Mercati di Rialto, a market famous for fresh seafood, and Santa Maria della Salute, iconic domed church at the entrance of the Grand Canal. Best Food To Try In Venice 1. Bigoli in Salsa: A traditional Venetian pasta dish made with thick whole wheat noodles. 2. Sarde in Saor: It is fried fresh sardine fillets marinated in softly cooked white onions, raisins and pine nuts. 3. Fritto Misto: It is a crispy and light fried seafood like shrimp, squid and small fish. Best Time To Visit Venice The best time to visit Venice is April, May, June, September and October. The temperature between April and June is pleasant, with blooming gardens and fewer crowds than peak summer. This weather is ideal for gondola rides. The weather in September and October is generally mild and pleasant. It is the perfect balance, neither too hot nor too cold, as it is sunny to partly cloudy most days. It is ideal for sightseeing and casual strolls through the city. Also Read: July and August are hot and humid, while the months from November to February bring winter chills, and some attractions may be closed due to possible flooding.
