| As summer approaches, we all feel the urge to jet off for some much needed relaxation. Thanks to easyJet Holidays, it has never been easier for holidaymakers to arrange their ideal trip. In this article we uncover some of the best unknown destinations, so you can discover them before the crowds catch on. |
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| 1. Turkey |
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| Due to the fantastic beaches, splendid climate and rich culture, Turkey holidays are a popular choice among holidaymakers. This huge country has a gorgeous Mediterranean and Black Sea coastline, perfect for unwinding and soaking up the sun. After a few days basking in the sun, why not go on an excursion and explore some of Turkey's incredible historical and cultural sights? |
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| A trip to Istanbul should be top of every traveller's Turkey itinerary. Formerly known as Constantinople, the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire during the Byzantine period and the capital of the Ottoman Empire, modern-day Istanbul is one of the most enchanting cities on Earth. It straddles both Europe and Asia, and as a result is a melting pot of people, culture and architecture. Its most famous landmark, the epitome of Byzantine architecture, is the incredible Hagia Sophia. |
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| 2. Montenegro |
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| For those looking for a destination that is both naturally beautiful and slightly off the beaten track, then look no further than Montenegro. One of the newest independent European nations, Montenegro has a lot in common with its neighbour Croatia, such as the pristine cyan Adriatic Sea and numerous sandy beaches, as well as having its own unique mountainous coastline which is peppered with little coves and fishing villages. Away from the coastline, the capital city of Podgorica is an up-and-coming European city, full of little cafés and nightclubs. For adventurous travellers, the Durmitor National Park presents perfect winter skiing opportunities and splendid hiking treks in the spring and summer months. |
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| 3. Estonia |
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| For travellers who want a little more than sun, sea and sand, the Baltic state of Estonia is a real gem. Bordered by the Baltic Sea, the Gulf of Finland, Latvia and the Russian Federation, Estonia is a vibrant and diverse country full of beauty and culture. Its countryside comprises of grand tranquil forests and little villages of an almost by-gone era, which are best explored on foot or horseback. |
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| When visitors have taken in enough country air, it's time to head to the capital, Tallinn. Officially named the European Capital of Culture for 2011, the medieval city of Tallinn never fails to enchant those that visit. Its historic centre which is paved with cobbled streets and lined with well-preserved churches and ruins was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. |
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| 4. Finland |
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| Just a two-hour ferry trip from Tallinn sits Helsinki, the capital of Finland. Whilst the capital is a fun, youthful place to explore, with quirky restaurants and architecture, it is Finland's countryside which defines the nation's identity. Thousands of lakes and miles of forest cover the land which changes dramatically from one season to the next. In the summer, visitors can bask in golden sunlight while come winter, expect sub-zero temperatures and winter wonderland scenery as the lakes freeze over and the forests become blanketed in snow. |
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| 5. Ukraine |
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| Our last destination is Ukraine. Inexplicably overlooked as a holiday destination, it is very hard to find a holiday that Ukraine doesn't cater for. Its capital city Kiev is a wonderful and mysterious place to visit. The golden domes of its Eastern Orthodox churches and Soviet era high-rises dot the skyline, contributing to the city's distinctly un-European feel. |
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| By contrast, the city of Lviv has an unmistakably central European flavour. With its neoclassical buildings and coffee houses, one could be mistaken for thinking they were in Vienna. Ukraine's coastal regions of Odessa in the south-west and Sevastopol in the Crimea present visitors with scenic beaches and rocky landscapes, as well as some truly outstanding architecture including the world-famous Potemkin steps. |
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