EuroTribe

your guide to Europe off the beaten path

Category: Travel Tips

Europe’s Feminist Friendly Cities Worth a Visit

The travel businesses that support women around the world and feminist travel trends, in general, are quite often missing in the mainstream travel publications.  The travel industry is still far…

The travel businesses that support women around the world and feminist travel trends, in general, are quite often missing in the mainstream travel publications. 

The travel industry is still far behind when it comes to catering to women’s needs, despite their undeniable presence in travel. 

In this post, we’ve highlighted 4 European feminist friendly cities with spots and attractions that have either played an important historical role or that are helping advance women’s rights in current times. 

Feminist Friendly Cities in Europe Worth a Visit

London

Florence Nightingale Museum 

Florence Nightingale was the founder of modern nursing who truly changed the world. A museum dedicated to this heroine was opened in 1989 and today it represents a key part of London’s feminist heritage offer. 

Being born in a wealthy family, Florence had to rebel against the norm and the trivial lives that most upper-class women led. After she expressed a desire to become a nurse, Florence’s parents were horrified. After nine years of struggle, they reluctantly allowed her to enroll as a student in Germany. 

Florence became famous for her pioneering nursing work during the Crimean War, when she organized a group of thirty-eight nurses in Scutari. 

She has an important role in English feminism, thanks to her essay ‘Cassandra’ in which she passionately protested the learned helplessness of women. 

A rejection of intellectual inactivity is perhaps the most known theme of Florence’s life. 

To find all about her achievements visit the museum that is located on 2 Lambeth Palace Road or attend a walking tour called ‘Florence’s London’ that explores her life through the places where she lived and worked. 

Address: 2 Lambeth Palace Road
Admission: £8

The Feminist Library 

This year, the Feminist Library in London celebrated 44 years of archiving and activism. The library is 100 percent run by volunteers. The vast collection of feminist books places a particular emphasis on second-wave material, from the late 1960s to the 1990s. It’s a fantastic place to stock up on some new books over a cup of coffee.  

Address: 5 Westminster Bridge Road

Velvet Underground Tattoo 

Velvet Underground is London’s first female-only staffed studio. It was founded by Roxy Velvet. The studio is among the few in London to be awarded 4/4 by the Tattoo Hygiene Rating Scheme. 

Each artist in the studio has its distinctive style. There’s no copying and no rush as everything functions by an appointment. The studio offers 30 minutes free consultation. 

If you ever wanted to get inked in the British capital, what better place than Velvet, whose artists are experts in crafting bespoke designs. 

What better ink than an empowered one! 

Address: 103 Whitecross St

Zagreb 

Centre for Women’s Studies 

City’s feminist past is marked by the presence of first-wave feminist, female journalist and romance writer Marija Juri? Zagorka.

Her statue is located near the Bloody Bridge which she often described in her novels. 

Centre for Women’s Studies is located in her apartment where visitors can see various personal items, complete oeuvre, and extensive feminist library. 

Address: Dolac 8 

Passage of Sisters Bakovi? 

Other important historical figures are sisters Bakovi? who bravely resisted the fascists and were proclaimed Yugoslav national heroes.

A passage dedicated to them is actually an alley that runs between Masarykova and Warsaw Street in Zagreb. 

Address: Masarykova/Warsaw Street 

Autonomous Cultural Center – Attack

Formerly an industrial building, Attack was occupied by punks and activists in the late 1990s. New inhabitants organized various protests and happenings, and Attack became home of pioneering all-female performance troupes and bands. 

Exhibitions, book fairs, and occasional free lunches can still be found there. Attack hosts interesting clubbing events such as queer party Zbeletron.

Address: Pierottijeva 11

Craft-Beer Spots 

There has been an increase in women-owned businesses during the last few years. Few of them make craft beer such as Brlog Brewery, which is one of the most established ones. 

Their famous beer “The Blondie” is sold in bars all over the city. Juta/Kota Bar is a charming place in the city center with a fine selection of drinks and occasional theme parties. (Address: Meduli?eva 20) 

The other great ones are Botani?ar (Address: Trg Marka Maruli?a 6) and The Beertija (Address: Pavla Hatza 16). 

Vienna 

Stadthalle Hotel 

If you have ever wanted to stay at a female-owned, environmentally-friendly hotel, Stadthalle is your go-to place. 

The majority of the staff is female and the owner – Michaela Reitterer – employs people from different backgrounds. 

This is the first hotel in the Austrian capital with the zero-energy balance. The guests are encouraged to save energy and to participate in the Zero Waste project

Best of all? Stadthalle hotel offers equal pay for the same job. 

Address: Hackengasse 20 

Frauen-Werk-Stadt 

Frauen-Werk-Stadt (Women- Work-City) I & II are subsidized social housing complexes in Vienna’s 10th and 21st districts. Both of them are designed by female architects and are focused on the everyday needs of women. 

Gender mainstreaming has been in place in Vienna since the early 1990s. The city’s administrators support laws and regulations that benefit men and women equally. This is most visible in the areas of education, healthcare, and urban planning. 

Address: Frauen-Werk-Stadt I – Donaufelder Straße 95-97; Frauen-Werk-Stadt II – Troststraße 73-75 

Women of Vienna Community 

24 women from all over the world and different backgrounds came together to create a community whose only goal was – make Vienna feel like home. 

Their aim is to act as a support system and to provide the space for women to lead the way in making change. 

This community has nearly 20,000 women in their Facebook group

There’s a range of subgroups too – from literature and LGBTQ+ to culture and housing. 

Copenhagen 

Mariam Mosque 

Mariam Mosque is Europe’s first women’s mosque that challenges patriarchal interpretations of the Quran. It was established in 2016 and besides religious practice, it offers spiritual care and support through abortions, divorce and more.

The Friday prayer is reserved for women only but other than that, the mosque welcomes anyone. Currently, there is a team of 3 female imamahs. 

Sherin Khankan is controversial – not just as a female imam but also as a person who called for the reformation of Islam with a feminist agenda. The mosque’s vision is to implement 9 principles of Muslim reform

Address: Købmagergade 43, 1st floor

Warehouse9 

This small art gallery and performance space is located in the Brown Meat Packing District. Warehouse9 organizes a wide range of exhibitions, events, and concerts throughout the year. Most of them focus on queer and feminist themes. 

If you’re looking for an edgy cultural experience while in the Danish capital, this is the place to be.

Address: Halmtorvet 11C

Ved Siden Af Club

This is one of Copenhagen’s best underground clubs with high-quality music and a fantastic sound system. 

No phones are allowed on the dancefloor and the club has a safe space policy – anyone visiting the club regardless of sexuality, gender, and the outfit should feel safe and inclusive. 

Ved Siden Af is known for hosting International Women’s Day parties with an all-female DJ night.

Address: Vesterbrogade 2B  

Cafe Cadeau 

Cafe Cadeau is run by a bunch of enthusiastic and hard-working volunteers from different backgrounds. Their goal is to create a community by embracing different cultures. 

The cafe organizes a wide range of cultural events – from art and music to international-themed food evenings (yum!). 

Come for the great experience and sample some great dishes in a pleasant and friendly atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of vegan options too.

Address: H.C. Oersteds Vej 28

These top 10 free attractions in Copenhagen are also worth checking out.

No Comments on Europe’s Feminist Friendly Cities Worth a Visit

Best Carry On Luggage You Can Get On AliExpress For Less Than $100

Traveling light will make your journey quicker and easier. That’s why we have compiled a list of the best carry on luggage you can get under $100. With a small…

Traveling light will make your journey quicker and easier. That’s why we have compiled a list of the best carry on luggage you can get under $100.

With a small carry on luggage, you can bypass long queues and get to the final destination quicker than anyone else. Most airlines have almost the same regulations regarding carry on luggage. Be sure to check this before traveling as they may vary.

In this post, we have picked bags for different types of travel, budgets, and style. 

Oxford Large Weekend Bag

Waterproof Shoulder Travel Bag

Oxford Travel Handbag

MARKROYAL Travel Bag

Waterproof Duffel Bag

Trolley carry on luggage

Z.L.D Canvas Leather Bag

MARKROYAL Canvas Travel Bag

MAHEU Genuine Leather Travel Bag

Don’t forget to check out these 50 awesome travel products you can get for less than $20 too. 

No Comments on Best Carry On Luggage You Can Get On AliExpress For Less Than $100

The Best Bike Locks You Can Get On a Budget

If you plan to go on a cycling trip ordering a bike lock will be the first and most important step towards protecting your bicycle. If you’re hunting for the…

If you plan to go on a cycling trip ordering a bike lock will be the first and most important step towards protecting your bicycle. If you’re hunting for the best cheap bike lock look no more. Here’s a list of the best bike locks you can get on a budget.

PAW 2019 Foldable Bike Lock With 2 Keys

ROCKBROS Mini Portable Password Bike

INBIKE Anti-Theft Bike Lock

Universal stainless steel anti-theft bike lock

Universal anti-theft bike lock with 2 keys

INBIKE Bike Lock 0.85m Waterproof with 3 keys

Bike Lock with 5 Digit Code Combination

Anti-Theft 5 Digit Combination Password Chain Lock

INBIKE Bike lock for MTB Road Bikes

No Comments on The Best Bike Locks You Can Get On a Budget

The Ultimate Cruise Packing List For a Relaxing Holiday

Cruises can be some of the most enjoyable trips you’ll ever take. The feeling of trusting someone with the complete organization of your travel, while always being at sea is…

Cruises can be some of the most enjoyable trips you’ll ever take. The feeling of trusting someone with the complete organization of your travel, while always being at sea is incredibly liberating.

You can spend the day lounging in a deckchair or, perhaps, taking part in some activities. The fresh scent of sea air and sunshine will work their magic!

If you’ve picked a good cruise operator, you’ll be able to dedicate all your time to self-care and relaxation. Basically, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is packing ahead of the trip.

Although it sounds easy, sometimes it’s tricky to determine what you actually need and what is simply excess baggage.

We’ve prepared a very useful guide for all of you that plan on going on a cruise any time soon. This cruise packing list will help eliminate any trouble you might have while preparing for your voyage.

The first thing you must know is how much baggage you’re allowed to take. Usually, you’re allowed to bring two large suitcases (23 kg each), but rules do vary. Pack all the essential things in your carry on bag and follow our list of categories below!

Basics

Travel Documents

The first and most important thing on your cruise packing list are your travel documents. Make sure your passport and visas (if you need them) are in your purse or your pocket. It’s good to make copies of them, too. Although everyone knows it’s the one thing you can’t leave without, it often happens that people end up forgetting them.

Money

Also, bring your wallet, but don’t carry all your cash inside it. Always keep your money in more than one place! That way, if you end up losing it or being robbed, you won’t be penniless.

Prescription Medications

If you’re taking any prescription medications, bring them along. Also, don’t forget the earplugs! All this could be part of a first-aid kit (more on that below).

Electronics

In this day and age, it is very important to charge all your electronics. Therefore, bring your cellphone charger, as well as any other charger you might need. Although vacation is the perfect opportunity to limit screen time, we all love taking photos, so chargers are a must! Check this list of 50 fantastic travel products under $20

Print Your Travel Packing List

At last, definitely write down or print your cruise packing list. Having everything on a piece of paper will help with the planning!

Summary: documents (+copies), money, medications, chargers, cruise packing list

Clothes

You probably already know the first thing on this list – bathing suits! Yes, plural, since it’s better to have at least one spare swimsuit, while the other one is drying. Many boats have their own pools, while some cruise operators have swimming in the ocean as part of their program.

Other than that, make sure that you pack some lightweight and comfortable clothing. You are on vacation, after all! So, bring a couple of t-shirts, dresses, a pair or two of comfortable pants (depending on the duration of the cruise).

If you like dressing up for dinner or certain events, pack a formal outfit. However, don’t bring too many options, since you won’t end up wearing them and they’ll just take up space. Sometimes, some cruise events require formal wear, so check with your cruise agent in advance.

Another thing to remember is to not bring your most expensive clothes and jewelry. It’s just too much of a responsibility and cruises are all about winding down. 

Make sure you pack a jacket or a few sweaters, because the nights at sea can get very chilly. Even if it’s the middle of August, you must have something to throw over your shoulders. A rain jacket would be a perfect choice!

Your cruise packing list should also include underwear and pajamas (so, bras, panties, pajamas and socks). You should get a robe when you get to your room, but make sure to check. There’s nothing better than those lazy bathrobe vacation coffees. 

Summary: a few t-shirts, some dresses, a pair of pants, rain jacket, underwear, pajamas

Shoes

It’s crucial that you pack a pair of comfortable shoes that you can walk in for long periods of time. Some sneakers or running shoes are your best option, so consider perhaps packing multiple pairs.

Flip flops are necessary, no matter what type of a cruise you’re on. Wear them on the beach, on the pool, or just getting out of the shower. They also don’t take up a lot of space. 

If you have some extra space, pack the shoes you’d like to wear on special occasions and when going out. You are on vacation, after all!

Summary: comfortable shoes, flip flops

Toiletries

Although most things will be provided, you should still pack a cosmetics case. Bring your toothbrush, dental floss and anything else that’s a part of your dental hygiene routine. Speaking of hygiene, put deodorant on your cruise packing list. 

Also, don’t forget about skincare. Travelling can be rough on the skin, so bring some type of a face cleanser and moisturizer. Most importantly, pack some sunscreen. Sunburns could potentially ruin your vacation, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Bonus tip: bring some kind of insect repellent!

Summary: toothbrush, deodorant, face cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, insect repellent

Miscellaneous

If you’re travelling to a warm location, definitely pack a hat and some sunglasses. If you have room, pack a small umbrella as well.

Bring a scarf, since you’ll most likely need it. Some places you’ll visit will require you to cover your shoulders or you might just get cold.

Although you’ll spend most of your time enjoying the sights or activities, you’ll definitely have time for a good book. However, don’t bring too many, and, if you have a Kindle, just pack that!

Summary: hat, sunglasses, umbrella, scarf, book

First-aid kit

Last but not least, make a small travel first-aid kit. Pack some motion sickness meds, painkillers and bandages. Probiotics could help with digestive issues many people face while travelling, so bringing some would be a good idea.

Your prescription medication should be in your carry on or your purse. Make sure you don’t accidentally put it in your checked luggage. Once again – have your cruise packing list on paper!

Summary: motion sickness medication, painkillers, bandages, probiotics

So that’s it! You can make a cruise packing pdf list out of this blog post and bring it with you! Happy vacationing! But, if you haven’t made a choice yet, here are best cruises to take this year!

No Comments on The Ultimate Cruise Packing List For a Relaxing Holiday

EHIC After Brexit: What You Need to Know

With the UK’s eventual departure from the European Union looming large, travellers on both sides of the Channel will no doubt be asking – will I soon need to buy…

With the UK’s eventual departure from the European Union looming large, travellers on both sides of the Channel will no doubt be asking – will I soon need to buy travel insurance for trips from the UK to continental Europe, and vice versa?

The reason this question is being raised is because ‘Brexit’ could well mean the UK leaves the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) scheme, which guarantees card holders free or subsidised access to state-provided healthcare wherever they travel in the European Economic Area (EEC), plus Switzerland.

With the EHIC no longer valid in the UK and no longer available to its citizens, the assumption is that travellers from Europe to the UK, and from the UK to Europe, would need travel insurance to cover any potential medical costs.

While this is true, it is wrong to think of the EHIC and travel insurance as either-or options. As things stand, travellers should carry both. The EHIC is a scheme for medical costs only. Travel insurance, whilst it includes medical cover, also protects you for a variety of other things, such as loss or theft of personal belongings and luggage, delays and cancellations to flights and other pre-arranged transport and so on.

It is also a common misapprehension that the EHIC entitles you to free healthcare. It does not, because every country in the scheme does not offer free care to its own citizens. If you travel to a country where all medical treatment is paid for, you have to pay too, regardless of carrying a EHIC card, although it is likely to be at a heavily subsidised rate. But the fact you have to pay at all is another reason why you need travel insurance as well.

Pre-existing medical conditions

Standard travel insurance medical cover is not as comprehensive as the EHIC. If you have a pre-existing medical issue, you need to be aware that travel insurance policies do not automatically cover you for treatments related to your condition. This is different to the EHIC, which covers all forms of medical assistance, whether general or specific, whether an emergency or just a check-up.

For example, if you have a lung or a heart condition and suddenly symptoms flare up while abroad, the EHIC means you can be rushed to hospital and will only be charged the domestic rate – nothing, in some countries. The same applies if you just want to visit a doctor for a once-over or a new prescription. Travel insurance, on the other hand, is designed mainly to cover general illness, accidents and emergencies. Standard policies will not pay out on treatment for specific conditions.

This is something to be aware of if you suffer from a long-standing illness and have been used to relying on the EHIC, if and when it is no longer used in the UK. To get adequate protection, you will need to source a bespoke travel insurance policy that includes your condition in its medical schedule. There are many specialist providers out there who cater for people with pre-exisiting conditions, who offer good value and comprehensive protection for your specific needs. Click here to find out more.

No Comments on EHIC After Brexit: What You Need to Know

8 Less-Known and Alternative Things To Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an alternative city compared to many other European capitals. But what if you want to see the more alternative side of an already alternative city? If you’ve checked…

Amsterdam is an alternative city compared to many other European capitals. But what if you want to see the more alternative side of an already alternative city? If you’ve checked off all of your travel guide’s recommendations and are at a loss what-to-do-next, follow this list for more less-known and alternative things to do in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam Magic Show

The Amsterdam Magic Show is the only theater act performed in English that showcases magic and comedy. It’s set in a 20’s styled cabaret theater (think wood paneling and lush, red velvet curtains). The show is unique and stays current as the act changes every month. Every month world-class mentalists, illusionists and magicians from all over the world come together to awaken our childhood beliefs.

It takes place on the first or second Tuesday each month. There are only two shows a night (the early and late show), so make sure to book in advance as tickets sell out quickly!

Small Museums

Cat Cabinet

Katten Kabinet

Internet was founded so it’d connect the global community over a shared adoration for felines. Well not really. But, we can say for sure that some of the most viewed content on the web is in fact, of our furry masters. Anyone who has a cat knows that you do not own one, but it owns you. 🙂

Kattenkabinet is set in a fully restored, beautiful house from the 17th century. Besides being a historical landmark on its own, it hosts an incredible collection dedicated solely to cats in art, culture and history. Even if you’re not an avid cat enthusiast, it’s a welcomed break from the norm.

Electric Ladyland

Phosphorescent sculpture

Commonly known as ‘The world’s first museum of fluorescent art’, the Electric Ladyland is a museum set in a basement. The museum displays a collection of fluorescent minerals, “thermal expansion” paintings (a painting technique discovered by the owner) and mineral artwork. You too, are an active part of the art, in the segment called “participatory art”.

The only thing that overshadows the museum is its owner, Nick Padallino. His vast knowledge on the subject and charismatic personality makes you want to listen to him for hours. If you want to bypass the magic truffles but still experience an Amsterdam trip – this museum is a perfect pick.

Other unusual museums are the Pipe museum, Vrolik Museum, Venustempel Sex Museum, Museum of Bags and Purses, Ripley’s Believe it or Not! and Red Lights Secrets – Prostitution museum.

Amsterdam Light Festival

Amsterdam Light Festival  2

Another attraction that puts Amsterdam on the map as the capital of magical entertainment. There aren’t any illusionists/magicians involved into organizing this festival as international architects, artists and (light) designers bring the real magic. Festival is held every winter, and it brings together new talent with a unified goal, to make Amsterdam vibrate warmth and pulsate with color during the coldest, darkest nights.

There are a lot of interesting tours on offer. Bike tours or culinary boat tours, just to name a few. Enjoying dutch delicacies and craft beer is a perfect addition to a light spectacle that’s displayed right in front of your eyes.

Neighborhood: NDSM

ndsm-amsterdam-noord-21

Probably one of the coolest neighborhoods in Europe, NDSM is a former shipyard now transformed into a creative hub. Kunststad (Art City) is located in the NDSM hangar where artists are continuously keeping busy creating. Alongside the riverbank there are a lot of restaurants, pubs and clubs. Visit IJ-kantine,Greenhouse Café Noorderlicht or try bungee jumping from a crane.

Restaurants

Restaurant de Kas

De Kas interior

Majority of the time we completely desensitize from the food on our plate. How much effort and time it takes for that one potato to be on our plate. Restaurant de Kas puts you in a setting where you’re surrounded by the produce that’s going to end up on your plate. They differ from other restaurants, as their menu is created daily and only consists of things in season and harvested from their garden.

The restaurant is inside of a greenhouse that used to belong to Amsterdam’s Municipal Nursery. They describe their cooking style similar to the cuisines of the rural Mediterranean. The vegetable dishes are served in combination with meat or fish from local suppliers, but there are vegetarian options available.

Ctaste

ctaste

The “dark dining” concept originated in Switzerland in 1999., with Blinde Kuh. Since then it has spread all over the world, from New York to Beijing.

The question you might be posing to yourself is, why would anyone desire to not see what they’re eating? Well, eliminating sense of sight, your other senses of taste and smell are heightened. At the Ctaste, the visually impaired staff will lead you to your table in a dark room. Before you enter you’ll choose a prefixed menu from a selection of cuisines, but the dishes they’ll be serving you are a surprise.

The Butcher

A burger joint located near Albert Cuypstraat in de Pijp. If the name of the restaurant is not self explanatory enough there’s a cow hanging upside down in the window display. So yes, beef burgers all around. What separates the Butcher from other burger joints is the secret bar located in the back. The same concept that made the cocktail bar Please Don’t Tell in New York City thrive among its competition. In order to be granted an entrance to the secret bar – you need to know the daily changed password.

Markets

Thanks to globalization, whatever country you’re in, you’ll find an H&M or a Forever21 anywhere. So why buy something at H&M in Amsterdam, when that same collection is probably displayed back at your home country? If you enjoy the hunt of something unique and want to purchase something characteristic of the country you’re visiting – you can never go wrong with street markets.

Antique market Amsterdam

Flea Market - Antiques

Serious collectors fly to Amsterdam just to navigate through its 1750 square feet of lost artifacts. Don’t bring too much money as you won’t be able to resist.

Noordermarkt

Noordermarkt

Here you can get anything from jewelry, clothes to books or art pieces. If you’re in need of some organic ingredients for your dinner – you’re in luck as here you can find a vast array of different organic foods.

Albert Cuypmarkt

If street markets are your scene then you’ve probably heard of the Albert Cuypmarkt, Amsterdam’s busiest market. Whatever you’re in need of, the chances are you’ll find it here. I’d say that to make the most out of it spend at least half a day exploring. If you get hungry there are snack vendors, eateries and cafes all over the surrounding area. Haggling in Netherlands’ largest antique market is an experience of its own.

Other markets worth a visit include Waterlooplein Flea Market and of course Bloemenmarkt.

De Hallen

Amsterdam DE Hallen

De Hallen is an early 20th century industrial building, now a center of the arts, fashion and most importantly, food. In this complex you can find a cinema (largest independent cinema), a boutique hotel, stores and Food Hallen – indoor food market with around 20 street vendors and a bar.

Alternative Housing

As mentioned, Amsterdam and its forward thinking inhabitants are great at putting old, unused spaces to new purposes. These are some of the noteworthy mentions that you should check out or even better stay at, for a different experience.

Faralda Crane Hotel is set in a 50 metres high harbour crane in NDSM shipyard.

Amstel Botel is a floating hotel in NDSM shipyard.

Amstel Botel

Hotel de Windketel is a private tower and once part of the municipal waterworks.

‘Hotel de Windketel’ Watertorenplein Amsterdam

The Lloyd, world’s first 1-5 star Hotel. Its role throughout the years has been changed often, serving first as a refugee center, detention center, juvenile detention center and artist studios.

Lloyd Hotel

Amsterdam is on the pricier side and unfortunately not all of us can afford to stay at Hotel de Windketel. However there’s always a demand for cheap short stay Amsterdam accommodation, so you’ll surely find something suitable for your budget.

Photo Credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15

4 Comments on 8 Less-Known and Alternative Things To Do in Amsterdam

Type on the field below and hit Enter/Return to search