It is especially popular for its picturesque views of the caldera, iconic white houses with blue domes, and unforgettable sunsets. Every year, Santorini faces a massive influx of tourists who flood the narrow streets of towns like Fira and Oia.

During the summer season, visitors flock to the narrow alleyways between whitewashed houses and lookout points, often causing major congestion and long wait times. Despite its beauty and charm, the island is struggling to cope with the volume of guests, prompting Greeks in recent years to consider imposing limits and promoting sustainable tourism, as the pressure on infrastructure and the environment has become increasingly severe.

If in past years locals often complained about the overwhelming number of tourists, it seems this year they won’t have such concerns — for the first time since the pandemic, the number of visits has significantly declined. The reason? Seismic activity on the island has deterred many international travelers. Currently, the main streets are free of crowds, which is highly unusual and almost unimaginable for Santorini during the summer months — reports Nova.rs.

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Although the number of arrivals has slowly started to rise in recent weeks, it is still far below the levels of previous years. The president of the Santorini Hoteliers Association, Antonis Pagoni, told Euronews that the Greek economy will feel the consequences of this decline.

"This is a huge drop in revenue for a destination like Santorini, which attracts more than three million visitors every year. That accounts for 10 percent of Greek tourism. We’re not sure that Greece can afford to lose that kind of income," he added.

According to shop owners, tourists are spending significantly less this year — not only on food, but also on souvenirs.

Ankara, the capital of the Republic of Turkey, known for its planned urban development and modern architecture, has been included in UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List.

This raises the number of Turkish sites on the list of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization to a total of 80.

Surrounded by the fertile plains of Anatolia, Ankara was declared the capital on October 13, 1923, shortly after the founding of the Republic of Turkey on October 29 of the same year. Replacing Istanbul, the centuries-old capital of the Ottoman Empire, Ankara became the new administrative and symbolic center of the modern Turkish state.

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As a city that has been home to many civilizations over the centuries – from the Hittites and Phrygians to the Romans and Ottomans – today's capital of the Republic of Turkey offers a rich cultural heritage blending remnants of ancient times with modern architecture.

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Sites such as Gordion, recently added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List, reveal the deep historical roots of the region. On the other hand, modern buildings constructed during the post-Republic founding era reflect a new epoch and Ankara’s urban development.

Anıtkabir, the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Turkey, is one of Ankara’s most striking landmarks. Other key attractions include the Ethnographic Museum, the Museum of Painting and Sculpture, and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which was named European Museum of the Year in 1997.

In addition to housing impressive collections, these institutions captivate with their beautiful architecture. The buildings of the First, Second, and Third Grand National Assemblies, the Presidential Palace, and numerous ministries symbolize the Republic’s commitment to parliamentary values and democratic governance.

With all its cultural and historical treasures, in cooperation with the Turkish National Commission for UNESCO, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism has prepared a nomination file titled "Ankara: Planning and Construction of the Modern Capital of the Republic."

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The document highlights how the Turkish capital, shaped between 1920 and 1970, became a representative example of 20th-century modern urbanism, thanks to the construction of public institutions, cultural spaces, and open urban areas symbolizing the new state's identity.

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The file submitted to UNESCO covers key development zones of the capital – including Atatürk Boulevard (running north–south) and the Ulus and Kızılay districts.

Numerous landmarks reflecting Ankara’s planned urbanization and modernization are emphasized: the buildings of the First, Second, and Third Turkish Assemblies, the Presidential Palace, Güven Park and Youth Park, Ulus Square, Ankara’s Main Train Station, the İş Bank building, ministry buildings, and Kızılay Square.

The file was included on UNESCO’s Tentative List under cultural heritage criteria II, IV, and VI.

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey seeks to ensure the preservation and international promotion of the country’s cultural and natural heritage through active participation in global cooperation mechanisms, with a particular emphasis on UNESCO.

If you're traveling by boat or ship, it's best to position yourself in the middle, as that is the most stable spot to avoid feeling sick.

In a car, it's best to be the driver, and if you have a choice when it comes to flying, always opt for a larger plane over a smaller one, as turbulence is felt less. Unfortunately, some of these triggers are unavoidable, but there are tricks that help combat motion sickness – reports punkufer.dnevnik.hr.

"Motion sickness" is best explained as a mismatch between movement signals sent by the eyes and the inner ear. Looking at objects around us – such as a book, mobile phone, or even a conversation partner – adds to the confusion. If your head remains still, the risk of nausea is lower. During conversations, we often unconsciously move our heads, so it's better to listen to music than to engage in talking. Studies show that music eases motion sickness, and to avoid searching for the right song while traveling, it's wise to prepare in advance and put your earphones in.

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Smoking or nicotine worsens the condition, just like a heavy meal or alcohol before the trip. Some people find ginger helpful, as well as proper breathing techniques.

"If you focus on your breathing, you can reduce the urge to vomit," advises British psychologist John Golding.

While traveling, try to sit upright and breathe properly, calmly, and steadily – just as you would when you're most relaxed.

Byzantion, Constantinople, Tsargrad — known by many names throughout history, Istanbul is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world — and with over 15 million residents and around 10 million tourists annually, it's a metropolis that truly bustles with life. Located on the Bosphorus Strait between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, Istanbul connects East and West, with one part of the city lying in Europe and the other in Asia. It is the largest city in Turkey.

Istanbul has something for everyone: for those exploring cities to discover new cultures, for experienced travelers, for tourists on a budget, for history lovers, for shopaholics, for foodies and dessert enthusiasts...

Some Useful Information for Touring Istanbul

Istanbul is a city where tourists won’t have trouble getting around. You don’t need a tour guide or an organized tour to explore the city — you can really do everything on your own.

The city is clearly and nicely signposted, so the chances of getting lost are truly minimal. Public transport works almost perfectly — whether you’re traveling by metro, tram, bus, cable car, or ferry, getting from point A to point B is, in most cases, fast and smooth.

If you're staying in the city center, you’ll mostly use the trams, which are modern and clean — and most importantly, you won’t wait more than a few minutes. If you’re planning a Bosphorus cruise, there’s no need to pay more than necessary to a hotel or tour operator — just walk to the dock and choose a tour you like there.

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Top 5 Must-See Attractions in Istanbul

Dolmabahçe Palace

The Dolmabahçe Palace, located in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul on the European shore of the Bosphorus, served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1887 and again from 1909 to 1922. It was home to the last six sultans of the dissolved Ottoman Empire.

After the Republic was declared, Dolmabahçe Palace became Ataturk’s presidential palace. It is highly significant for the Turkish nation as it was built during the Ottoman era and later became the Presidential Palace.

Dolmabahçe Palace has 285 rooms, 44 halls, 68 toilets, and 6 Turkish baths. A staggering 14 tons of gold leaf were used to decorate the ceilings. For the interior, 131 handwoven silk carpets were ordered from the city of Hereke to cover the floors of this luxurious palace. The crystal chandelier, gifted by Queen Victoria of England, is the largest in the world, with 750 bulbs and a weight of 4.5 tons.

Photography is not allowed inside this palace, which is considered one of the most impressive in the world. Entry is only allowed through organized tours — independent visits to the interior are not permitted.

The palace is open to visitors on weekdays except Mondays and Thursdays, from 09:00 to 15:00.

Hagia Sophia

Once the largest cathedral in the world, the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul stood for over 1,500 years along the shores of the Bosphorus Strait and was home to three different religious groups.

Originally built in Constantinople in 360 AD and dedicated by Roman Emperor Constantius II (son of Constantine, the founder of Constantinople), the first wooden Hagia Sophia was burned down during riots in 404. In 415 AD, Emperor Theodosius II ordered the church to be rebuilt, but the Nika revolt in 532 caused massive destruction and the church was destroyed again.

On December 27, 537, Justinian inaugurated the newly built Hagia Sophia, the most important religious structure in his empire. Columns from the long-abandoned Temple of Artemis in Ephesus were used to strengthen and beautify the interior. Other materials may have come from ancient sites in Baalbek and Pergamon. The church, which later became a mosque and remains breathtakingly beautiful, is a stunning example of Byzantine art and architecture.

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Remains of the Hippodrome

Right next to the Blue Mosque, in Sultanahmet Square, are the remains of the Hippodrome of Constantinople. After conquering Byzantium in the early 3rd century, Roman Emperor Septimius Severus built many structures in the city, including the Hippodrome.

However, the arena he built was small and unfinished, and it only gained full splendor after Constantine came to power and declared the city the capital of Byzantium.

During the Byzantine Empire, the Hippodrome — which could hold over 40,000 people — was the center of Constantinople’s social life for almost a millennium, hosting chariot races, gladiator games, official ceremonies, celebrations, protests, and more.

But that wasn’t the Hippodrome's only purpose. It was also adorned with artworks brought from across the empire, serving as a display of the empire's wealth and power.

After the fall of Constantinople, the Hippodrome continued to be used — but only as a city square. Unfortunately, during the construction of Ibrahim Pasha’s Palace (now the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts) in the 16th century and the Blue Mosque in the 17th century, the arena suffered significant damage. By the 18th century, it was completely abandoned and eventually destroyed.

Today, you can see only remnants of this grand structure — but what remains is enough to help you imagine how the arena once looked.

On the square, you can see the Egyptian Obelisk, brought from the temple in Karnak (present-day Luxor) by Byzantine Emperor Theodosius, the Serpent Column celebrating the Greek victory over the Persians brought from the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, and the Column of Constantine Porphyrogenitus. Additionally, the square features the German Fountain, a gift from Emperor Wilhelm II to Sultan Abdul Hamid II.

Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace, or Seraglio, is a large museum located in the eastern part of Istanbul’s Fatih district. It was the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for about 400 years of their 624-year reign. It is also the largest and oldest surviving palace in the world. The palace was the heart, brain, and center of the Ottoman Empire. As well as being the sultan’s residence, it was the center of administration and the highest educational institution in the empire. The palace population was usually around 5,000 but could double during festivals.

The palace is located just behind Hagia Sophia and was built on the site of the acropolis of the ancient Greek city of Byzantium. The imperial mint, located in Topkapi Palace, produced Ottoman coins and later coins of the Turkish Republic until 1967.

Up to 300 concubines lived in the palace harem. In the early days, white eunuchs were the guardians of the harem, but later, black eunuchs sent as gifts by the Ottoman governor of Egypt took over. Up to 200 eunuchs lived in the harem. The palace kitchen staff of 1,000 prepared 6,000 meals daily.

When the sultans moved to Dolmabahçe Palace in 1853, Topkapi lost its significance as the official royal residence. Atatürk ordered it to be turned into a museum in 1924.

Blue Mosque

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is a stunningly beautiful historical imperial mosque from the Ottoman period, located in Istanbul. This functioning mosque attracts a large number of tourists. It was built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Ahmed I. The construction was completed in 1619 by Sedefkâr Mehmet Ağa, a student of Mimar Sinan, the favorite architect of the Ottoman sultans.

The mosque is best known for its six minarets, one large central dome, and eight smaller domes. The Blue Mosque has 260 stained glass windows, and the 20,000 blue tiles that decorate the interior were made in İznik, a region known during the Ottoman Empire for expert tile production. These tiles gave the mosque its name. The architecture is a blend of Ottoman and Byzantine styles.

The Blue Mosque is open every day of the year, but it is closed for 90 minutes during prayer times. Muslims can still enter the mosque outside of prayer times, and visitors are kindly asked to respect prayer times and avoid flash photography.

At the top of Santorini’s steep cliffs lies a world-renowned tourist destination in the Aegean Sea. But beneath it lurks the risk of a devastating volcanic eruption, reports the BBC.

A few thousand years ago, the island experienced one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in history. It shaped today’s caldera – a vast crater surrounded by a chain of horseshoe-shaped islands. Today, experts are issuing serious warnings: the next eruption could be equally destructive, according to Politika.

BBC News journalists spent a day aboard the British royal research vessel Discovery, which is searching for answers.

“Submarine volcanic eruptions can be massive and extremely destructive,” warns Professor Isobel Yeo from the UK’s National Oceanography Centre, who leads the international scientific team on the Discovery. That very ship is now mapping the dangers lurking beneath the surface of Santorini.

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The concern is not theoretical. Just a few weeks earlier, nearly half of Santorini’s 11,000 residents fled the island in fear, after a series of earthquakes paralyzed daily life. It was an alarming signal that beneath the fairytale villages, gyros restaurants, pools, and vineyards on the fertile volcanic soil, two tectonic plates are colliding, writes the BBC.

Scientists are now using underwater robots, sophisticated maps, and even listening to the “sounds” of the Earth – microfractures in rocks that indicate the movement of fluids through the subsurface.

“We know more about the surface of some planets than about this seafloor,” says Yeo, adding that their goal is to gather data that would allow for timely warnings and protection of people.

Megaeruption on the Horizon

Santorini’s volcano is not the only threat. Not far away lies another submarine volcano, Kolumbo, which is also active. Scientists do not believe an eruption is imminent, but they warn that it is only “a matter of time.”

Professor Paraskevi Nomiku, a member of Greece’s Civil Protection Agency, explains that the project is crucial for the safety of local residents. “The research will designate zones that will be off-limits during an eruption and identify which parts of the seabed are the most dangerous,” she says.

The impact of volcanic activity on the economy is already being felt. Many tourists have canceled their summer reservations, and local businesses are suffering.

The study included over 50 countries, and Albania appeared twice in the top five.

While popular destinations like Ibiza and Barcelona continue to attract large crowds, new research by Wizz Air highlights the contrast between overcrowded European tourist hotspots and lesser-known gems that offer pure beach enjoyment without the masses. By analyzing over 50 European countries and calculating the average number of daily visitors and how much towel space each person typically gets, the study ranked beaches across the continent based on how crowded or peaceful they are.

"From a secluded, untouched bay in Croatia to a hidden sandy stretch in Albania, there are plenty of lesser-known seaside spots where you can relax far from the busy crowds," says András Rado, Head of Communications, as reported by the Daily Mail.

At the top of the list is Durrës, whose beach is the least crowded among all those surveyed, despite being one of the most popular in Albania. Wizz Air’s calculations reveal that each visitor has plenty of space—just under 65 beach towels per person—making it an ideal spot for families and those who enjoy peaceful relaxation.

In second place is Camber Sands in East Sussex, England, known for its wide sandy beach stretching along the English Channel, where each person has enough room for up to 61 beach towels. Third is Zlatni Rat beach in Bol on the island of Brač, famous for its horn-shaped stretch of golden pebbles extending into the turquoise Adriatic Sea, offering room for 54.1 towels per person. Interestingly, Albania appears again in fourth place, this time with the stunning pebbled beach of Borsh in the south, surrounded by green hills and olive groves, with enough space for 43 towels per person.

The top five is rounded out by France’s Plage de Pampelonne, which—despite its fame and the nearby buzz of Saint-Tropez—offers enough space for just under 34 beach towels per person and is perfect for those seeking a mix of luxury and fun without the crowd.

On the other end of the list, the most crowded beach in Europe turned out to be Playa Sa Caleta in Ibiza, where you get room for only half a beach towel. Spain, in fact, took 8 out of the top 10 spots—see the full lists below.

Top 10 Least Crowded Beaches in Europe

1. Durrës Beach, Albania

2. Camber Sands, England

3. Zlatni Rat Beach, Croatia

4. Borsh Beach, Albania

5. Plage de Pampelonne, France

6. Brighton Beach, England

7. Praia da Falesia, Portugal

8. Mogren Beach, Montenegro

9. Nissi Beach, Cyprus

10. Playa d’en Bossa, Spain

Top 10 Most Crowded Beaches in Europe

1. Playa Sa Caleta, Spain

2. Cala Macarella, Spain

3. Barceloneta Beach, Spain

4. Mellieha Bay, Malta

5. Cala Goloritzé, Italy

6. Isla Canela, Spain

7. Playa del Duque, Spain

8. Playa de Maro, Spain

9. Puerto de la Cruz, Spain

10. Sant Sebastia Beach, Spain

Luggage storage company Radical Storage conducted a study on which popular global destinations most disappointed tourists – and Cancun, Mexico topped the list.

Instagram, picturesque travel guides, and cinematic portrayals often awaken a desire in travelers to visit certain places. However, sometimes these popular destinations can lead to major disappointment.

One such example is the so-called "Paris syndrome" – a real psychological condition that affects some tourists upon their first encounter with Paris. Their expectations of the French capital are so romanticized that they feel deep disappointment when faced with reality.

However, this phenomenon is not limited to Paris. Experts from Radical Storage found that numerous tourists around the world were dissatisfied with their travel experiences.

An analysis of 97,409 Google reviews of the 100 most visited cities in the world revealed which destinations tourists rated as the most disappointing:

1. Cancun, Mexico

In first place is Cancun, with as many as 14.2 percent negative reviews. Although it is considered home to some of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches and a destination specially designed for tourists, Cancun disappointed for several reasons.
Tourists most often complain about high prices, aggressive vendors, and a lack of authenticity. Many leave with the impression that they didn’t get value for the money they spent.

2. Antalya, Turkey

In second place is Antalya. Visitors cited excessive commercialization, overcrowded beaches, and poor customer service as the main reasons for dissatisfaction. Many left the city feeling exhausted rather than refreshed.

3. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Third place goes to Punta Cana. Although known for its "all-inclusive" resorts, many travelers described the experience as generic, expensive, and monotonous. Complaints included poor infrastructure outside the resorts, a lack of cultural attractions, and pushy street vendors.

4. Beijing, China

In China’s capital, tourists were most frequently troubled by pollution, crowds at landmarks like the Great Wall, language barriers, and bureaucratic obstacles when entering the country. The sense of control and surveillance further contributed to negative impressions.

5. Orlando, USA

Although Orlando is often referred to as the theme park capital, tourists were often disappointed. Long lines, high prices, extreme heat, limited attractions outside the parks, and heavy traffic disrupted the overall experience.

The rest of the list includes the following cities:

Mumbai, India

Honolulu, Hawaii

Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Kyoto, Japan

Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

The island offers a wealth of cultural tourism, where every corner hides layers of history, from the oldest megalithic temples to heroic battles during the Middle Ages and World War II.

Malta, a small island located in the heart of the Mediterranean, has always been a crossroads of civilizations, blending past and present in a unique way.

With its strategic position near the coasts of Italy and North Africa, Malta has always been a desirable place for living, trade, and powerful empires.

Today, the island offers a wealth of cultural tourism, where every corner hides layers of history, from the oldest megalithic temples to heroic battles during the Middle Ages and World War II. Malta is a paradise for history and culture enthusiasts.

Megalithic Temples: Traces of the Oldest Civilizations

The first thing to mention when exploring Malta are its megalithic temples, which are not only a key part of Maltese cultural heritage but also among the oldest structures in the world. These impressive temples date back more than 5,000 years, making them older than the pyramids in Egypt and Stonehenge in England.

The most famous megalithic temples are located on Malta and the nearby island of Gozo. The Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples on Malta are considered the pinnacle of megalithic construction. Ħaġar Qim is situated on a cliff overlooking the sea, and its exceptional position adds a mystical touch to the site.

These temples were dedicated to unknown deities, and archaeologists believe they were used for rituals related to fertility and astronomy.

On the nearby island of Gozo, the Ġgantija Temple also holds a significant place in world history. This complex, built around 3600 BC, is among the oldest architectural structures in the world, and many consider it a true wonder of the ancient world due to the massive stone blocks weighing several tons.

The Middle Ages and the Knights of Malta: Guardians of the Mediterranean

In the Middle Ages, Malta became home to one of the most famous and influential military orders – the Knights of Malta. Officially known as the Knights of St. John, they arrived on the island in 1530 and soon began transforming Malta into a fortress in the heart of the Mediterranean.

During the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, the knights played a key role in defending the island from an Ottoman invasion, becoming symbols of resistance and bravery for the small Mediterranean island.

The greatest legacy left by the Knights of Malta is the city of Valletta, Malta’s capital, which became their political and military center. Valletta is a true gem of Baroque architecture, with St. John's Co-Cathedral and the Grandmaster's Palace testifying to the wealth and power of this military order.

Walk the city streets, explore the fortresses, palaces, and museums, and immerse yourself in Maltese history through stories of knighthood, bravery, and the struggle for dominance in the Mediterranean.

World War II: Malta’s Resilience and Heroic Spirit

Malta was not only a center of power in the Middle Ages but also played a crucial role during World War II. Due to its strategic location, Malta became a key target for Axis forces.

The island was subject to constant attacks, but the local population offered strong resistance.

The so-called “Great Siege of Malta” during World War II left a deep mark on Maltese history. Valletta, along with other parts of the island, suffered heavy bombings.

Bunkers and underground tunnels used to protect the population during air raids are now open to tourists. These historical sites allow visitors to experience the atmosphere of those difficult times.

One of the most important historical monuments from that period is the Headquarters of the Maltese Defense Committee, from which operations such as Operation Husky were led—key to the Allied invasion of Sicily, which reclaimed this strategic part of Europe from Axis forces.

Visiting this headquarters and its underground chambers offers an incredible insight into military strategy and the courage that enabled Malta to endure during its darkest times.

A Place of Accessible Luxury

Although Malta is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage, the island offers much more. After exploring ancient temples, medieval fortresses, and war memorials, it's time to relax and enjoy everything Malta has to offer in a modern context—gastronomy, luxury tourism, and unforgettable vacations.

Malta is home to excellent cuisine that blends traditional Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist. On the island, you can enjoy top-quality meals featuring fresh seafood, olive oil, rabbit, local cheeses, and herbs.

Michelin-starred restaurants and local bistros offer dishes that are a real treat for all the senses. Don’t miss trying specialties like roasted rabbit and traditional Maltese pastizzi (puff pastries filled with cheese, peas, and Mediterranean spices).

For lovers of luxury tourism, Malta is a true paradise. The island offers luxury hotels, beautiful seaside villas, and exclusive spa centers.

What’s even more interesting is that many of these luxury facilities are more affordable compared to other Mediterranean destinations. Whether relaxing on a terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea or enjoying a private yacht, Malta’s luxury offerings are remarkable.

For those seeking fine dining, Malta offers a wide range of options with top-tier service and perfect ambiance. You can unwind in a Michelin-starred restaurant or enjoy the intimate setting of local family-owned restaurants serving specialties with locally produced wines, renowned for their premium quality and character.

The Perfect Blend of Past and Present

Malta is a unique destination that offers the perfect blend of past eras and modern luxury. From historical temples and medieval fortresses to culinary delights and luxury tourism, this island can satisfy all types of travelers.

Layers of history at every turn intertwine with modern amenities, creating an unforgettable experience. Malta is not just a place to explore the past but also a destination that invites you to relax, enjoy, and experience luxury at its finest, as reported by kulturizam.com.