Destinations Around the World Archives

The Jubilee in Italy 2024-2025: Embrace a Year of Celebrations and Reverence

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Ah, Italy—the land where ancient ruins whisper secrets, pasta plates overflow with goodness, and every corner seems to echo with the sound of joyous chaos. And then, just when you think you’ve seen it all, Italy throws another party, and not just any party—a Jubilee!

What’s the Jubilee, You Ask?

The Jubilee, or “Anno Santo” (Holy Year), is a big deal! We’re talking about a year-long spiritual event, typically marked by the Roman Catholic Church, where pilgrims from all around the globe flock to Rome. Think of it as a mystical blend of solemnity and jubilation, where history and faith intertwine.

The Historic Significance

The tradition dates back to 1300, initiated by Pope Boniface VIII. And while it was originally supposed to occur every 100 years, the excitement couldn’t be contained! Now, we celebrate an ordinary Jubilee every 25 years, with special occasions sprinkled in when deemed necessary.

What to Expect in December 2024 throughout 2025?

Italy in 2024 will be nothing short of a magical spectacle. Imagine streets buzzing with enthusiastic pilgrims, Rome’s sacred sites adorned more beautifully than ever, and the air thick with camaraderie and a sense of purpose. Here are a few highlights:

Special Events and Masses: The Vatican will host numerous ceremonies, masses, and processions—breathtaking spiritual experiences open to everyone.
Tourist Influx: Brace yourself for an influx of pilgrims and tourists. Rome will be bustling because It’s the heart of the celebrations.
Holy Doors: Get ready to step through the Holy Doors in Rome’s major basilicas. These doors are opened only during a Jubilee Year, symbolizing a path to salvation.
Cultural Events: Beyond religious ceremonies, expect concerts, exhibitions, and special tours showcasing Italy’s rich history.

Tips for Traveling During the Jubilee

Navigating Italy during a Jubilee Year requires a bit of insider knowledge, I am Tammy with Fairytales and Sunsets Travel, LLC, your Italy travel expert! Here are my top tips:

1. Book Early: From flights to accommodations, the earlier you book, the better.

2. Plan Your Itinerary Wisely: Rome will be particularly busy. Consider exploring other parts of Italy while still making time for essential Jubilee experiences.

3. Embrace the Crowd: The surge in visitors means you’ll encounter a magnificent mix of cultures and shared intentions.

4. Stay Informed: Keep tabs on official Jubilee events via reliable sources. This will help you catch all the critical spiritual and cultural waves!

Why Trust Fairytales and Sunsets Travel, LLC?

When it comes to navigating the intricacies of such a grand event, you need someone who knows Italy like the back of their hand. With extensive experience mapping out dream vacations, especially in Italy, I’m here to ensure your 2024/2025 Jubilee journey is nothing short of unforgettable. From the bustling streets of Rome to the quiet, serene corners of Tuscany, I’ve got the insider tips and top-notch planning to make your pilgrimage stress-free and delightful.

Where Should You Travel In 2023?

Travel is back and everyone is ready to get back to experiencing the world. I thought this would be a great time to share the trends we are seeing with our clientele for 2023. Let’s view our list below for all types of travel. Our best tip is to book early for the best pricing and availability. Our services are complimentary, so be sure to ask us for a quote.

Disney World and Disneyland

You can visit Disneyland in California or Disney World in Florida. Both are unique and should always be on your list to visit at least once. We have seen a huge trend in adult only vacations to both locations, so it is important to know it is not just for families. It is a bonus that you can also add on to visit other locations during your Disneyland or Disney World vacation. Take a stroll down Main Street, U.S.A. in both locations and castles will take your breath away.

Universal Orlando

Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay, have something for everyone in the family, no matter the age! We love the options for younger kids in Suess Landing, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack!, and so much more. Of course, all Harry Potter fans will love Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.

Hawaii

Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, you can visit one or multiple islands. With the option of affordable inter-island flights, it is so easy to do split stays with all the beautiful islands. We love helping our clients build these vacations because they are usually celebrating huge milestones or a once in a lifetime vacation. Volcanoes, waterfalls, gorgeous beaches and oceans, and historic landmarks, all the islands are a great choice. Your hardest part will be deciding which islands to visit, and we are here to help.

Jamaica

Our most requested and honestly, my favorite island in the Caribbean; Jamaica is a must! The famous Seven-Mile Beach in Negril makes the list of beast beaches in the world over and over. You can snorkel, scuba dive, sunbath on some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world. There are a lot of great all-inclusive resort options. We are here to help you find the one that fits you best.

Mexico

Cancun, Riviera Maya, Isla Mujeres, Holbox, Tulum, the list is full of amazing locations. There are great options with historic landmarks, cenotes, amazing beaches, and some unique resorts. For us, trying to figure out just one spot to visit is the hardest.

Portugal

A trip to Portugal is very magical. Walking the streets of Lisbon, riding the tram, or visiting some of the iconic places, such as, Belem Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, wine tasting abundantly, cooking classes, touring medieval districts, and shopping, are just a few of the top things to experience in Portugal. Madeira is only a few hours away from the mainland and is a short flight. You must experience the Funchal Madeira Toboggan Ride!

Ireland

When you think of Ireland, most think of Saint Patrick’s Day, Guinness Beer, and Irish Coffee. There is so much to experience in Ireland. You can enjoy a drive through the beautiful countryside, visit Cliffs of Moher, Book of Kells, kiss the Blarney Stone, and drive the Dingle Peninsula. You should also stay the night in a castle, perhaps one that is haunted? You can spend several days in Dublin because there is so much to do and see; don’t forget the Temple Bar!

These are our most trending destinations. This list is just a starting point, and we offer destinations around the world.

Savoy Palace

Savoy Palace is a great resort located in Funchal, Portugal. This resort has something for everyone and is perfect for couples, best friends’ getaway, and family vacations.

The rooms are spacious with wonderful amenities. The ocean views are fabulous with balconies made for those early morning espressos.

The resort dining options are wonderful, including room service. Everyone loves the large pools, with plenty of space for everyone. We cannot forget to mention the rooftop infinity pool because everyone loves to socialize by the pool.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a vacation without wine in Madeira. You can experience wine tasting or a wine dinner at Savoy Palace too.

Location is everything and Savoy Palace is in a perfect spot! The resort is within close proximity to lots of entertainment and close by dining options if you want something different. There is also a convenience store within walking distance. This comes in handy if you want to purchase snacks or water.

We love this resort and cannot wait to visit again! The location, accommodations, activities, and restaurants make Savoy Palace a perfect stay!

If you are interested in a vacation to Portugal, contact Tammy Richardson today.

Take the Trip

I grew up dreaming of going to Paris. The Eiffel Tower seemed like the most amazing place in the world. The sparkling lights and the ambiance that surrounded the city seemed unreal to me. I can’t even begin to count the amount of Christmas presents my grandmother would give me that had the Eiffel Tower on them with a handwritten note telling me that one day she just knew I would make it to Paris to see it for real.
When I looked into studying abroad in college and was told that I could only do my program in one country, which was nowhere near Paris, I decided that I would plan my own trip where I could finally see the city that I had dreamed of. Little did I know this decision would be the best decision I’ve made in my life so far. It was scary and I know that I worried my parents, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
The night I arrived in Paris I went straight to the Eiffel Tower. I would be lying if I told you that I didn’t shed a tear or two looking at the shimmering lights. That moment of anticipation, adrenaline, and joy all at once is a feeling I will never forget. I immediately face timed everyone I knew to show them that I was finally there. I called my grandmother first to show her the view that we had both talked both dreamed of for so long. I had done it. I could check this off of my bucket list.
If you know this feeling, then you know what I’m talking about. If you ever have dreamt of a destination to check off your bucket list, I can help. I highly suggest you take the trip you have always dreamed of. Whether it is somewhere domestic or on the other side of the world, I would love to help you experience the feeling of checking off a bucket list item.
Take the trip! It might seem scary. it might mean saving a little extra money by cutting down on something else, but trust me – TAKE THE TRIP!

Tips For Staying in a Real-Life Castle in Ireland

Now that you have decided that you want to go to Ireland it is time to choose where you will stay, and I am here to tell you that you don’t want to miss out on staying in one of Irelands enchanting castle hotels. These are all castles that have been turned into a hotel to give tourists the ultimate stay.

There are many options that meet different needs such as luxury, convivence, and an authentic experience. So, find the one that best matches your wants and dreams and let’s go!

Here are a few of my favorites:

Ashford Castle is one of the oldest and most famous castle hotels in all of Ireland. It is over 800 years old and is one of the most romantic and luxurious. Only hotel guests are allowed to check out the property which makes it quite exclusive. This castle gives off fairytale vibes.

Adare Manor could be considered one of the nicest castle hotels in Ireland. Its unique feature is that it is a “calendar house”; there are 365 windows, 52 chimney stacks, 7 pillars, and 4 tours that represent each season.
It has been fully updated with automatic motion lights, automatic key cards, and a fine dining option that offers 5 course dinners.

Cabra Castle Hotel is a great option if you are trying not to break the bank but still wanting the full experience. Cabra Castle Hotel still has the 18th-century castle vibes but with the modern touch from its amenities. Guests here will experience the great staircase, the long hallways, high ceilings, and the countryside view from the patios and terrace.

No matter which one of the castle hotels that you choose you will be glad that you got to experience this bucket list item!

The Top Three Ireland Pubs You Need to Visit

If you are interested in visiting Ireland or have been before then you know that the #1 thing you must do is visit an Irish pub. Here are the top 3 pubs in Ireland that you won’t want to miss!

Top of Coom: This is Ireland’s Official Highest Pub (OSI verified) at over 1045ft above sea level. Located in Kilgarvan, just a short, scenic drive from Killarney. This is a family-run establishment which has been with them for five generations and hopefully many more to come. Whether you’re looking for a creamy pint of Guinness or a comforting cup of tea, you’ll find it here. As Ireland’s highest pub, a visit to Top of Coom is sure to deliver stunning views which you would not find anywhere else.

The Brazen Head is Irelands oldest pub. In fact, there has been a hostelry here since 1198. The present building was built in 1754 as a coaching inn. However, The Brazen Head appears in documents as far back as 1653. The Brazen Head offers live music as well as offers renowned storytellers that tell tales of Irish life in past times. So, make sure to swing by and check out a piece of history while you grab a drink.

The Church: If you are a fan of Guiness then this is the spot for you. Why? Well, St Mary’s Church on the corner of Mary Street and Jervis Street in Dublin city center happens to be where Arthur Guinness was married in 1761, exactly 2 years after Guinness was first founded. And what was once a church, in true Irish style, is now one of Dublin’s most stunning bars. Complete with original stained-glass windows and organ, it’s basically still a church just with the seats removed and a large bar in the center.

If you are looking for a place in Dublin to experience a real Irish night out, then head to the Temple Bar District. There is a good chance you will hear lots of Irish music, come across great food, and plenty of local pubs.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the city of over 1500 bridges, more bicycles than you could ever count, and everlasting canals. This is one of the most famous and exciting cities in Europe and I’m about to tell you why.

The official language is Dutch, but almost everyone speaks English as their second language! So, no worries there.

The most important piece of advice you will need to successfully and safely navigate this wonderful city, is PEDESTRIANS YIELD TO BIKES! There is someone on a bike everywhere you look, and they will not stop for you. If you choose to rent a bike during your time in Amsterdam, which I highly recommend, then I also highly suggest you stay in your lane, peddle fast, use hand signals, and try to take in all the sights from your bike without getting looked at funny from a local! All jokes aside, it is the best and quickest way to get around Amsterdam.

Must See Locations

Dam Square is located right in the heart of the town and although it is often covered in tourists, it is an Amsterdam essential so grab a coffee and join in on the people watching.

The next location is one that is not recommended for all ages and might be best for a Girls Night Out or maybe a date night. There are not many words to use to accurately describe The Red-Light District except for an EXPERIENCE! Here you get to see when a country legalizes prostitution and maybe even attend a show if you’re up to it!

For a more educational and somber experience, you must visit the Anne Frank House. This preserved piece of history is one that you will NEVER forget. You will get to climb the same stairs to the annex that the Frank family hid in for 761 days. There are original pages of Anne’s journal as well as rooms of items left behind. Although the museum sells tickets online up to 2 months ahead, they only save a certain amount that they release the day of so make sure to buy your tickets ahead of time!

And Finally, you can’t visit Amsterdam and not buy yourself a bouquet of the gorgeous tulips. To do this you will need to go to Bloemenmarkt. Bloemenmarkt is the only floating flower market in the world!! Treat yourself, you won’t regret it!