You're viewing an email archive of Paradise Calling. 
Join free to receive the 5-min. newsletter, in your inbox & navigate your travels.

CRUISES

Cruise Ships Sinking Cities:
How Pollution & Overtourism Triggered Historic Bans!

Ever imagined your dream vacation on a cruise ship, sailing away under the sun? Well, here's a reality check: those magnificent vessels might be causing more harm than harmony. Did you know that cruise ship tourism contributes to coastal erosion, blankets picturesque towns with air pollution. It's a sticky situation cities are grappling with, and bans on these floating giants are becoming a hot topic.

Every year, more than 20 million passengers take a cruise.

Before the pandemic, that number was even higher sitting at around 30 million.

Which European cities are banning cruise ships?

• In 2021, Venice took a big step by banning large cruise ships from docking in its historic center.

• Barcelona followed suit in October 2021 when it closed its North terminal to cruise ships, redirecting them to the Moll d'Adossat pier, further away from residential areas.

Cruise ships have become a major concern in the Mediterranean, which is the second-largest cruise market globally after the Caribbean. The rising number of passengers has been placing significant strain on local populations.

• In 2022, a whopping 50,000 people in Marseille, France's biggest cruise port, signed a petition demanding stricter regulations on polluting ships. This movement was led by the campaign group Stop Croisières.

• Protests have also erupted in the Balearic city of Palma de Mallorca, leading to the introduction of new limits allowing only three ships in its port at any given time.

• Moreover, popular destinations like Santorini and Dubrovnik have imposed stricter restrictions on cruise companies to address these growing concerns.

Where else are cruises causing problems?

Outside of the Mediterranean.

1. Cruise ships visiting Scotland will be charged a new tax under plans recently announced by the country's Green Party. It says the levy will tackle the "twin challenges" of emissions and overtourism.

2. In Amsterdam, the city council has just voted to shut down its cruise terminal in a bid to curb pollution and reduce tourist numbers.

3. Amsterdam introduced a tax on cruise ship passengers in 2019 - a move that saw some companies replace or cancel stops in the city. More than 100 vessels dock in the Dutch capital every year and they have become symbolic of local overtourism issues.

Do cruise ships bring in money where they dock?

Supporters argue that cruise ships boost local economies.

• However, the largest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas, offers many amenities onboard, including 20 restaurants and tax-free shops.

• A study in Bergen, Norway, found that 40% of passengers never left the ship, and those who did spent less than €23 on average.

#Goals - Cruise industry aims to improve environmental and social impact. They're committed to reducing carbon emissions by 40% by 2030 and some aim for net zero by 2050. Electrifying ports, like Barcelona's plan to do by 2026, could help limit emissions.

Whether these efforts will satisfy unhappy locals in port towns remains uncertain.

• Tweet at us 💬

PARADISE MEMEING

How much do you know about Sweden ?

Love the email ?
Your Friends will love it even more 💖.

THE TOP STORIES
Happening
Your Weekly Travel Roundup about the best of travels

Warnings

1. The Garisenda tower, a popular ‘leaning’ tower where you can climb 48m high & view Bologna, Italy, has been closed to public till friday, due to unusual sensor activity. But not to worry as travellers can still go to the leaning tower of ‘pisa’ to hold it from falling for an insta pic.

2. Seen Frozen ? Hallstatt (Austria) the inspirational town behind the blockbuster faces a massive influx of 10,000 visitors daily during peak seasons despite a tiny population of just 800 & town locals have decided to take matters & signs in their hands blocking a tunnel through which the main road into the town runs. I guess visitors just need to let this one go.

3. Is it Sweden or Switzerland ? To dispel confusion Sweden’s tourism board has launched a humorous new campaign ‘Welcome to Sweden (not Switzerland)’. Lets join our hands for a moment & pray for all 120,000 people who ask Google whether Sweden & Swtizerland are the same country every year.

Attractions

🥇 BEST REVIEWED - A holidaymaker said they have visited the North Pole and Madagascar but that “nothing compares” to the tunnel. In Bude, Cornwall, there's a peculiar wonder that has taken the town by storm: The Bude tunnel. This 70-meter plastic walkway, often dubbed the "Bude tunnel," connects a Sainsbury's store to its parking lot, creating a unique shopping experience under a perspex supermarket tunnel. Surprisingly, this unassuming tunnel has become the talk of the town, drawing visitors from all corners of the country. It has earned its stripes, boasting over 1,100 reviews & a remarkable 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor deeming the Bude tunnel an unparalleled attraction in this seaside resort.

📍 FIND YOUR NEXT DESTINATION - The UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization) have added 54 new villages from across the world to their annual list of Best Tourism Villages. From Chile, Columbia & China to India, Spain, Japan, uncover hidden gems, a treasure trove of incredible destinations waiting to be discovered that you can expect a diverse range of options to explore and enjoy. So, if you're ready to pack your bags and immerse yourself in culture, delicious cuisine, and unmatched hospitality, click to see the entire list here.

🎿 SKIING FOR BEGINNERS - Imagine yourself surrounded by dramatic scenery or medieval charm, maybe relaxing in spa treatments, or gobbling on gourmet delights, and thrilling activities – all in the heart of winter wonderlands. Solo or a family looking for the perfect getaway, these selection of 7 Best Ski Resorts for Non-Skiers, that’s right for complete beginners have got you covered. So, grab your warmest mittens and prepare for a winter wonderland adventure like no other.

Deals

• Sale - One-way flights to Europe for $99.

• Reward - Europe awards starting at 15,000 miles business class from 37,500 miles

• Uptill May 2024 - Southwest offering one-way flights as low as $39.

• Tweet about it 💬

📰 Read

• Interesting How you can access airport lounges without a business class flight ticket?

👁️‍🗨️ Watch

 • Who is What ? Sweden Or Switzerland.

😲 React

 • Wierd - This museum welcomes nudist visitors to see naked statues..

MY TRAVEL BUCKETLIST

Where History Takes You by the Hand

📍 Skansen, Sweden

Over 5,900 Excellent Tripadvisor Reviews | See 360 degree video

"Ever wondered what it's like to stroll through a real-life historical panorama? charming villages frozen in the 19th century, an open-air zoo showcasing Nordic wildlife, and a vibrant cultural tapestry of artisans, performances, and traditions. Nestled on the picturesque island of Djurgården, this enchanting open-air museum spans 75 acres, housing over 150 historical buildings relocated from all corners of the country which attracts more than 1.3 million visitors each year. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey through time and culture at Skansen, where every corner has a story to tell.

🐴 Visit the Zoo: Don't miss the chance to see Nordic animals up close. From majestic bears to playful lynxes, the zoo is a delight for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.

📎 Witness Traditional Crafts: Immerse yourself in the world of craftsmanship. Watch skilled artisans carve wood, mold pottery, and weave textiles, showcasing Sweden's rich artisanal heritage.

🥧 Savor Swedish Delicacies: Indulge your taste buds in classic Swedish cuisine. From delicious meatballs to mouthwatering pastries, the food here is a treat for your senses.

🤏 Participate in Workshops: Get hands-on and join workshops where you can try your hand at pottery, candle-making, or even blacksmithing. It's a great way to unleash your creative side.

🎊 Celebrate Swedish Traditions: Depending on when you visit, you might have the chance to join in traditional Swedish celebrations. Whether it's Midsummer, Lucia, or a local festival, the festive spirit is contagious.

🎁 Shop for Souvenirs: Before you leave, make sure to visit the souvenir shops. They offer unique handmade crafts, traditional Swedish clothing, and souvenirs to remind you of your memorable Skansen experience.

Here are 2 other destinations that complement the Skansen experience:

• Gröna Lund: For a dose of adrenaline and entertainment, head to Gröna Lund, an amusement park located nearby on Djurgården Island. With thrilling rides, live concerts, and a lively atmosphere, Gröna Lund offers a perfect contrast to the historical and cultural experiences of Skansen. Whether you're an adventure seeker or simply looking for a fun-filled evening, this amusement park promises an unforgettable time, making your Stockholm itinerary diverse and exciting.

• Royal Djurgården: Just a stone's throw away from Skansen, explore the vast Royal Djurgården park. Enjoy a relaxing day in nature as you meander through lush greenery, forests, and gardens. You can also discover several other museums and attractions, such as the Royal Djurgården's Butterfly House or the Rosendal Palace gardens, making it a serene complement to your Skansen visit.

Your itinerary could look something like this:

✔️ DAY 1-3

• Day 1: Arrival in Stockholm, Check into accommodation

• Day 2: Explore Gröna Lund - Amusement Park, Thrilling Rides, Live Entertainment

• Day 3: Morning at Gröna Lund, Afternoon at Skansen, Open-Air Museum, Nordic Animals

✔️ DAY 4-6

• Day 4: Discovering Royal Djurgården - Vasa Museum, 17th Century Ship, ABBA The Museum, Interactive Exhibits

• Day 5: Nature and Relaxation - Djurgården Park, Picnic Spot, Rosendals Trädgård, Organic Gardens

• Day 6: Djurgården Canal Tour, Guided Boat Tour, Beautiful Scenery

✔️ DAY 7-9

• Day 7: Cultural Exploration. Nordic Museum, Swedish Cultural Heritage, Kaknästornet, Panoramic Views

• Day 8: Outdoor Activities, Kayaking in Djurgårdsbrunnsviken, Cycling in Djurgården, Nature Trails

• Day 9: Farewell Souvenir Shopping, Last-minute Explorations, Departure from Stockholm

Recent Review - Absolutely amazing place, a must for Stockholm. A wide range of activities from visiting and seeing how people lived, cooked, animals, gardens, food, views, zoo, aquarium, feeding animals. We came two times and stood 4 and 5 hours respectively. We do not think the 1-2 hour visit suggestion is realistic unless you chose something to see only.

• Tweet about it 💬

EASE YOUR TRAVELS

When planning in advance

 Research, don't guess: Read up on your destination and create an itinerary. This way, you won't accidentally end up at "World's Second-Largest Ball of Yarn" instead of the famous museum nearby.

Google Maps is Your Best Friend: Use Google Maps religiously. Because nothing says “I'm a local” like confidently striding in the wrong direction for half an hour.

Learn a Few Local Phrases: Impress the locals with your language skills, even if it’s just mastering ‘hello’ and ‘thank you’. Bonus points if you can nail the pronunciation and leave them wondering if you're secretly a native speaker. Who knows if you use the wrong word & end up like the tourist in the intro.

Have a Plan, But Embrace the Chaos: Plan your itinerary, but leave room for spontaneity. Sometimes the best adventures are the ones you stumble upon while getting lost.

Want to add your own tips in here ?

• Tweet it to us 💬

TRAVEL & BEYOND
Staying Connected with the world beyond your travels..

1. The Beatles Releases “Now & Then“ Their Last Song.

2. Lebron James Historic Performance, 35 Points.

3. Trailer Planet Of The Apes New Installment.

4. Bobby Knight Legendary Coach Passes Away.

GUESS THE PLACE

This place is the
Flattest Country In The World

- A - D - - - S

Last week’s answer to:
This is the largest island in the world - Greenland.

• 836,330 sq miles/2,166,086 sq km or 3 times the size of Texas, its part of Denmark, & its famous not for being green but for its vast tundra and immense glaciers.

How Was Todays Newsletter ?

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great

• ⭐⭐⭐ Meh - was ok.

• ⭐ Not interesting to me.

THANK YOU - We are constantly trying to better the newsletter.
Your feedback would be much appreciated. Click here to ▶ Provide Feedback