When preparing for a trip lots of travellers worry about what to pack. Travelling light is key. But have you ever thought about what to pack uh bring to protect your digital life? Have you thought about how to keep your laptop and smartphone safe & secure when logging into public hotspots of accommodations and libraries overseas? We’ve got some handy tips and advice for you.

It seems so simple: you travel, bring your laptop, connect it to (free) Wi-Fi at your destination and your digital life continues as if you were at home. But you are not at home. Are you sure the Wi-Fi you are connecting to is safe to use? Maybe it is compromised. Maybe someone is eavesdropping. Maybe it isn’t what it pretends to be. At home you are in control of your Wi-Fi and your router. Overseas you are at someone else’s mercy.

Why is digital security important for travellers?

“Why do I need digital security, there is nothing interesting on my laptop?” is what some travellers immediately say when security is mentioned. Well, even if you don’t store sensitive files on your device, hackers can use your device to access your accounts, steal your identity or spread malware to your contacts.

And for Digital Nomads it goes without saying, the better you protect your devices wherever you are, the better your clients’ data is protected, especially as you'll be working from libraries and co-working spaces all over the world.

Your personal & business data are like good books. You want to cherish them, keep 'em safe and keep 'em in pristine condition so you (and only you) can use and enjoy your data. Digital security is like a solid book case, it is built to keep your data safe.

Digital security while travelling: pack the right tools

We have talked about it before, a tool like a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a handy tool to have to create a secure, encrypted tunnel where all your internet traffic goes through when connecting to public Wi-Fi. It is like a secure tunnel for your data, so even if someone tries to peek, they’ll only see gibberish.

But a VPN is only a small part of keeping your digital life secure when travelling overseas. There are more things to consider, like virus protection, backing up your data, creating unique passwords and keeping them secure and much more.

No need to create a massive packing list for your devices to keep your digital stuff secure. There are all-in-one security solutions that can take care of all of that.

Norton 360 Premium is the all-in-one solution for travellers

Norton is a well-known name in the world of security and anti-virus. Their Norton 360 Premium security tool does all the above-mentioned things and is the perfect solution for travellers and digital nomads. Well, every traveller needs to be aware of the security risks of taking your devices with you and connecting to unknown public hotspots.

But how does Norton 360 work and is it worth getting it? The proof is in the pudding. Therefore we were glad that the public relations team of Norton reached out and offered us the opportunity to test out Norton 360 Premium in our capacity as travel addicts and digital nomads.

As you know, at the TravelGeek travel blog we tell you how it is. We don’t sugarcoat things – as you can see in our honest accommodation review section - so you can expect a truthful user experience of Norton 360 Premium. It won’t be a technical review as specialised blogs and magazines are much better at that. It’s our goal to give you an overview of our real-life experience with this security tool.

What is Norton 360 Premium?

Well, it is “an all-in-one security suite” but that is what you already knew. Let’s dive into the specs list and check out its features, which can be summed up as follows.

• Device Protection: it protects up to 5 devices from viruses, malware and hackers.
• Password Manager: it securely stores and manages passwords for all your accounts, so you don’t have to remember them or write them down. It also generates strong, unique passwords for new accounts, keeping your online presence more secure. The passwords can be automatically filled in on websites and apps, saving you time and reducing frustration.
• VPN (Virtual Private Network): it keeps your internet browsing private so no one can snoop on what you’re doing online.
• Cloud Backup (100GB): it saves your important files online, so you don’t lose them if your device breaks or gets hacked.
• Dark Web Monitoring: it alerts you if your personal info (like passwords or credit card numbers) is found on the shady parts of the internet.
• AI Scam Protection: it helps spot and block sneaky scams in emails, texts, and websites.

So you could say that Norton 360 Premium is like a digital security guard for all your devices. It’s designed to keep your digital life safe online, even if you’re not tech-savvy.

Advantages of Norton 360 Premium

The biggest advantage of this Norton security suite is that it replaces a lot of separate tools. No need to get an anti-virus tool, password manager, VPN etc separately. Just one Norton tool at a great price – check deals on Norton 360 Premium – and thus one tool to install. Easy as.

Are there any disadvantages?

As an American company, Norton’s parent company may be subject to laws such as the USA CLOUD Act, which allows authorities to request user data under specific legal conditions. However, Norton emphasises strong encryption and privacy safeguards to protect your information and such requests are rare and strictly regulated.

Our experience with Norton 360 Premium

Okay time to kick the tires of this digital security vehicle. How did Norton 360 Premium perform for us as travelling geeks? On a side note, the test of this security suite was performed by the least tech-savvy blogger in the TravelGeek family so it was done by a regular person, just like you.

The installation is pretty straightforward. The interface is really intuitive, making it easy for non-techies to install it and navigate the dashboard to use all features. All items are well-explained and icons & images are present were needed.

Once installed on your computer it is super easy to get it up and running on your smartphone as well. Just scan the QR code and all systems are go. Remember, you can secure up to 5 devices with Norton 360 Premium so that will cover all your laptops, desktops, tablets and smartphones, basically all your Windows and Apple devices.

There are no unnecessary and annoying pop-ups like some of the free tools out there have. It is literally set & forget, knowing that the Norton security guard is protecting your devices.

And when you have arrived at your next destination and connect to Wi-Fi there, the system will scan the Wi-Fi hotspot to see if there are issues. When it is convinced it is secure (done quickly so no lag) it will connect and your traffic will be routed securely via the built-in VPN. And all of a sudden you are aware that some hotspots you would normally connect to, without giving it too much thought, are basically a security risk. Luckily the Wi-Fi scan feature of Norton is always active to alert you of things like this.

It was refreshing to experience such a smooth experience, from the installation to the moment it was protecting our laptop and smartphone. No weird tech things to do. No annoying pop-ups that you often get with free anti-virus tools and no issues. Once it was running after its first scan of everything it didn't get in our way. You won't notice it is there, until a virus, scam email or malware pops up. Then the tool will kick into action. Its malware and virus protection is reliable and effective at blocking threats in real-time.

Creating your own digital packing list

With a security tool like Norton 360 Premium on your packing list, you won’t need anything else to protect your devices. It’ll be a short & sweet packing list to protect your digital life. If you are interested in a deep-dive into the tech stuff and how the malware & virus protection have been tested, check out the Christmas 2025 issue of APC Mazine. They have tested 8 security suites side by side... And – spoiler alert – Norton 360 scored 5 out of 5 stars and got awarded the RECOMMENDED label.

Check out the Norton 360 features & options to see which plan is perfect to protect your digital life on your next trip.

As a geeky traveller who values affordability, comfort and a reliable internet connection, I’ve found my go-to spot in Alkmaar: the Amrath Hotel. Here’s why it’s perfect for digital nomads, remote workers and anyone who prefers functionality over frills.

Reasons to add Alkmaar to your must-visit list

There are lots more reasons to add Alkmaar to your Dutch road trip or European holiday tour, but these are the most important - and most geeky - reasons to visit Alkmaar at least once.

1. World-famous cheese market: Alkmaar is internationally known as “the Cheese City.” Every Friday morning from April to September, the historic Cheese Market takes place on the Waagplein.
2. Charming historic centre: The city boasts a beautifully preserved 17th-century canal system, narrow streets and historic buildings.
3. Vibrant food & drink scene: From cosy cafés and traditional Dutch eateries to international cuisine and local beer tastings, Alkmaar’s food scene is diverse and inviting.
4. Easy Access to nature and day trips as the city’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Dutch countryside, including the North Sea coast, dune reserves, and nearby historic towns
5. Great gig scene as heaps of local bands & international acts stop in Alkmaar on their European tour. Check the gig calendar of venue Podium Victorie.
6. Pinball HQ has an amazing collection of pinball machines, all in FREE PLAY mode so you can play all of them for the price of a single entrance ticket: one-time fee to unlock all the pinball magic. See for more info about Pinball HQ.
7. VintaGame, the place to be for playing pinball and classic arcade games in Alkmaar.

Check out the full list of things to do in Alkmaar and see for yourself that Alkmaar is more than just a Cheese City.

How to find a hotel in Alkmaar without breaking the bank

As Alkmaar is a relative small city, walking is the easiest way to get around. Or by bike, of course, the most Dutch transportation there is. The city centre, cheese market, historic charm can all be visited on foot. And there are various hotels dotted around the city centre: from cheap hotels to more upscale.

As Alkmaar is a city I visit on a regular basis, I have stayed at a wide variety of hotels. But there is one I seem to be coming back to over and over again: Amrath Hotel in Alkmaar. I guess I should be calling that my favourite place to stay as of now. So the perfect moment to share why Amrath has become my favourite in Alkmaar.

My experience with the Amrath Hotel in Alkmaar

When looking for a cheap hotel in Alkmaar, you’ll almost always see the Amrath Hotel ranking well in the cheapest price range. It is the cheapest hotel among the more full-service hotels. Of course, hostels are even cheaper but that’s outside the scope of this article.

The Amrath Hotel in Alkmaar is located close to the train station – easy to reach by foot as it is a 5 to 10 minutes walk – and on the edge of the city centre. Just cross the road and a bridge to enter the city centre.

The hotel is what people often call a “classic luxurious hotel” or “old-world charm”, especially when compared to the more modern hotels in Alkmaar. But in my opinion it is the classics that never die and for a reason. Amrath gets the basics right and it just works.

What the Amrath Hotel in Alkmaar does well – Why they are my favourite now!

These are the things that Amrath does well and why I would choose to stay here on my future trips.

• Spacious rooms with windows that you can open. I prefer real fresh air over aircon's “fresh air”
• The rooms are functional... There are hooks where you would want to hang stuff. Many hotels don’t have a simple hook or rack in the bathroom.
• The beds are soft, fluffy and comfy.
• Amrath’s green policy isn’t just a policy it really works in real life. Lots of hotels have the rule “towel on the rack = no fresh towel needed” and then they still replace all towels on a daily basis. At Amrath, you simply hang the Green Stay Card on the door and housekeeping will skip your room, so you can re-use your towels. As a reward you receive a drinks voucher that you can spend in the bar downstairs. Well played, Amrath.
• Good quality coffee machine and good quality – compostable – coffee cups.
• Their breakfast buffet offers plenty of options, including freshly sliced rustic bread, bread rolls, croissants, eggs, pancakes, sliced meat, cheeses, salads and muesli & yoghurt. And yes you can add breakfast to your booking, no need to wait until check-in. Or get one of those sweet deals at Amrath that includes breakfast.
• And for those of us who prioritise a stable Wi-Fi connection over a fancy lobby, Amrath is the place to be. Perfect to get work done as Digital Nomad and play some online games or watch a Formula 1 race during your time off.
• Thanks to Amrath’s location, you’re just steps away from the city centre and geeky destinations like VintaGame or Pinbal HQ, these are just as easy to reach.

For geeky travellers, Amrath ticks all the boxes: fast Wi-Fi for work or gaming, a quiet room to recharge, and easy access to Alkmaar’s vibrant music scene at Podium Victorie. It’s not flashy, but it’s the kind of place where you can actually get things done or binge-watch your favourite series without buffering.

And the things where Amrath could improve or the things I didn’t like

Of course, nothing is perfect so even when you stay is good there is always room for improvement. Or items I didn’t like so much and that could be a deal-breaker for you.

• Shower over bath is too oldskool for me. Some people like having a bath so shower over bath is a good compromise for them, but for me it is too oldskool. Just give me a big walk-in shower with a rain shower and I’m happy.
• Hardly any vegetarian or vegan options at breakfast.
• Placement of the TV... Yeah that remains an issue for most hotels. The placement is almost always terrible (on the desk, nah no go) and the rooms at Amrath Alkmaar are no exception. Have seen the TV being placed at various locations but none were perfect. Yes it worked, so no deal breaker for me.

How does Amrath compare to other hotels in Alkmaar?

I have stayed at both the College Hotel in Alkmaar and the Grand Hotel Alkmaar so comparing these with my several stays at Amrath Alkmaar is easy to do.

A review of the Grand Hotel Alkmaar already featured on our blog so I’ll add some brief comparison info here.

Main reason to pick each of these hotels

Let’s focus on the main reason to book a stay at any of these hotels in Alkmaar.

• Amrath Hotel in Alkmaar: Its central location (close to the train station and city centre) is key, combined with spacious and comfortable rooms they offer real value for money. Yes, I would say Amrath is a good-quality yet cheap hotel in Alkmaar. They offer a wide selection at breakfast, and yes breakfast can be added when making your booking. And most importantly, they are one of the few hotels with a Green Policy that actually works - I just love hanging that Green Stay Card on the room's door as soon as I arrive.
• Grand Hotel Alkmaar is more upscale and feels more luxurious. It is located in the city centre, in a historical building. Travellers love it for its charm and central location. Have a look at the Grand Hotel's location and rooms.
• College Hotel Alkmaar is located in a beautifully renovated 19th-century school, which adds a charm so unique that the others can’t compare with it. However, due to the historic building they don’t have as many modern amenities as the others and its rooms can be smaller or less standardised. But their breakfast is just as tasty as at the other hotels in Alkmaar.

Would I stay at Amrath Hotel in Alkmaar again?

Yes definitely. The Amrath in Alkmaar has become my go-to hotel when visiting Alkmaar. Amrath Hotel in Alkmaar won’t wow you with luxury or a fancy design, but it delivers where it counts for independent, tech-savvy travellers. Whether you’re in town for the cheese market or a digital nomad retreat, it’s a solid, no-nonsense and super affordable choice.

I can’t stand these modern hotels where design is more important than functionality. What do you think: design over functionality or the other way around? What is important for you when looking for a hotel in Alkmaar? Post it in the comment section or ask a question if you would like to know more about the Amrath Hotel in Alkmaar.

Ever dreamt of unravelling the wonders of New Zealand? Whether you’re cruising in a campervan, zipping around in your own car, hopping on public transport, embarking on a group adventure, or catching the next bus, we’ve dissected each option to help you discover the ultimate travel experience in New Zealand. Dive in and let your journey begin!

So, you want to travel New Zealand? Great start, you’ve made the right choice! The next step is deciding how you’re going to get around. The possibilities are endless: going for a bus pass, buying a car or hiring a campervan.

Which travel option provides the best value for money and will get you to all the amazing places New Zealand has to offer? Sneak preview: they will all get you there, it is just a different way of travelling. Check out our comparison.

Renting a car or campervan in New Zealand

Getting your own set of wheels by renting a car or hiring a campervan is probably the first thing that comes to mind when planning your trip to New Zealand. It is perfect for travellers that crave flexibility and hate fixed plans or a fixed route. There are, of course, advantages but also disadvantages to renting a campervan in New Zealand.

Advantages of renting a car or campervan

• Affordable due to flexible pricing and seasonality. Check out these deals for renting a car in New Zealand. Or get yourself accommodation and transport rolled into one and book a cheap campervan or motorhome.
• Freedom: go wherever you want whenever you want.
• No need to unpack/repack luggage as your camper is not only your transport but also your accommodation (everything you need in one space). And when travelling by car and staying in motels or hostels, you just have to grab your overnight bag from the trunk and not all your belongings.
• Less money spent on accommodation: freedom camping (self-contained), cheap campsites, budget motels or cheap hostels.

Disadvantages of hiring a car or campervan

• Holiday parks – commercial full-service campsites – can be expensive.
• Freedom camping can be a logistical nightmare: where can you camp for free? Fines for breaking the freedom camping rules have increased. And to be honest, most freedom camping sites are boring parking spaces next to the road or a small muddy field in an area that isn’t even scenic.
• Big campervans and motorhomes are harder to drive than cars or compact campervans.
• It can be tiring to drive long trips, especially if you aren’t used to it.
• Driving on the left-hand side of the road can be hard for some to get used to.

Buying a car in New Zealand

Lots of backpackers that plan a trip to New Zealand, immediately want to go for buying their own set of wheels to explore New Zealand. But before you start browsing sites for used cars, check out the advantages and disadvantages below as buying a car in New Zealand can be different than buying a car in your home country.

Advantages of buying a car

• It’s a one-time purchase so there are no daily fees, except for petrol.
• Freedom: go wherever you want to go, whenever you want to go.

Disadvantages of buying a car

• You need to have some mechanical knowledge to make sure you buy a good second-hand car. Can you trust the backpacker that is trying to sell you his/her car while they are about to leave the country?
• Driving in New Zealand is different: roads are winding, narrow, and there are lots of gravel or chipsealed roads. Winter conditions can be harsh and throughout the year you can expect to see animals like cows and sheeps on the roads (the less travelled, scenic ones, not the motorway).
• Break downs: something you will have to take care of yourself. Keep in mind that there are places in New Zealand without any cell phone reception or where the nearest workshop can be 100s of kilometres away.
• Selling a car at the end can be tough, especially if you are leaving New Zealand in a month with a low number of incoming international travellers aka low demand for used cars or second-hand campervans.
• Car insurance isn’t compulsory in New Zealand, so you better make sure to get it! This means that there are lots of cars & drivers on the road without proper insurance. Even if an accident isn’t your fault you can still be liable for the damage if the costs cannot be recovered from the other party involved. This adds an extra cost to your travel budget.

Bus pass: fixed tour or hop-on/hop-off

Even if you are not a fan of travelling by bus in your home country, make sure to check out the advantages and disadvantages of travelling by bus in New Zealand that we have compiled. When we say bus, we don’t mean public transport. We mean adventure tour bus travel aka the fun & easy way to see heaps of our amazing country.

Advantages of a bus pass or bus tour

• Hassle-free: guaranteed accommodation and activities.
• You don’t have to worry about planning so you can go with the flow.
• One-time purchase – you’ll know how much it costs and can then budget your trip much easier. And as a bus pass includes transportation, accommodation, some activities and various meals you can check off all these items from your travel budget list.
• Make friends easily – you’ll meet a great bunch of people to do activities & travel with.
• Let someone else do the driving: you just have to sit back & relax. You’ll have time to daydream and get lost in thoughts and admire New Zealand.
• Commentary and tips along the way from the drivers – you’ll get top tips and insider info from the driver/guide, stuff you can’t find in any search engine.

Disadvantages of a bus pass

• You can’t go wherever you want as you have to stick to a fixed route BUT all stops and destinations are definitely off the beaten track.
• More expensive than taking public transport but these bus pass tours do include more than just transport from A to B.

Catching public transport in New Zealand - or a point-to-point bus network

Public transport might not be the same as you are used to in your country. Yes, in big cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch there is a dense public transport network, mainly consisting of buses. However, as soon as you leave the city things are quite different. But there is something like a point-to-point bus network, where you can create your own itinerary by stitching together loose trips. We'll explain it into detail...

Advantages of public transport or point-to-point bus trips

• It sure is the cheapest way to travel as it is just transportation from A to B (it’s point to point).
• You can sit back and let someone else do the driving.
• You can create your own itinerary. Well, you have to create your own itinerary as these buses just take you from A to B, you’ll have to do the rest.
• Frequent schedules on popular routes, usually there is at least one bus per day.

Disadvantages of using public transport or point-to-point bus trips

• No commentary so you’ll have no idea where you are and what you’re seeing along the way.
• Harder to meet people as there isn’t much mingling or social contact on public transport.
• It takes a long time with several stops – you can’t stop where you want to at points of interest
• You have to carry your luggage to the bus stop or train station and get your stuff to your next accommodation when the bus arrives, it isn’t door-to-door transport.
• You have to find accommodation yourself when you arrive in a town.

Now you know the best way to travel around New Zealand

As you can see, each travel option has advantages and disadvantages. Nothing is 100% perfect, but if you select the transport option that fits your travel style and wish-list you can get pretty close to perfection. It basically all depends on your travel plans, what you want to get out of your New Zealand trip and most importantly how much you are willing to spend.

It’s 2025, why are so many travellers still walking around with paper guidebooks when exploring a city? It’s time to ditch the oldskool self-guided city tour – the static & boring way to explore a city – and switch on game mode. Let’s turn any city tour into an exciting exploration game, let's turn it into a more interactive self-guided city tour.

If you are a fan of city trips and exploring cities worldwide, you will love the CityFans city tour game app; a new & interactive way to explore amazing cities worldwide. It’s more than just an app; it's your passport to unforgettable urban adventures. Created in 2023, they have revolutionised the way you explore cities for sure. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or a local looking for something new, CityFans has got you covered.

See how CityFans takes city tours to the next level

The CityFans app turns any city tour into an interactive game. Instead of walking around from sight A to B etc you’ll be solving puzzles, unlocking stories and scoring points while navigating through iconic landmarks and hidden gems in amazing cities worldwide.

No need to bring an oldskool city guidebook that is outdated as soon as it hits the bookshelf. The CityFans app is fresh and always up to date. It’s a self-guided city tour packed with fun facts, engaging stories and even Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR) experiences that bring history to life.

CityFans is created by a dedicated team of tech & travel geeks. They have handpicked the best adventures, ensuring you get the most authentic and exciting experiences no matter the city you visit, no matter the time of the year.

How to play the interactive city exploration game?

It’s super easy to get the fun started. Get the CityFans app and select a city & pick your adventure. Whether you're solving mysteries in London, uncovering secrets in Paris, or embarking on a romantic escape in Amsterdam, CityFans makes every city moment extraordinary. Here’s a sneak peek of some of the city exploration adventures that await you.

Amsterdam: Romantic Outdoor Escape Game

Transform your date night into an unforgettable adventure with this self-guided city game! Solve intriguing clues, follow a mysterious map, and uncover Amsterdam’s most romantic secrets. Get ready for a journey that combines love, mystery, and the charm of one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. Check out this city tour game and all self-guided adventure tours in Amsterdam.

No matter the time of the year there's always heaps to do & see in Amsterdam, even in winter. There is a reason that Amsterdam is the most popular city in Holland to visit. Get your Amsterdam travel inspiration here and start planning your trip.

Emily in Paris: The Secret Penpal

Dive into the enchanting world of Emily in Paris and explore the City of Love through the eyes of your favourite Netflix heroine. This self-guided tour is your ticket to reliving the magic of the hit show while uncovering Paris's most iconic spots, unique sights and hidden treasures. More info about this city game and other self-guided adventure tours in Paris.

Ghosts of Sydney: The Haunting Stories

Embark on a spine-tingling adventure through Sydney’s haunted past with this self-guided ghost-hunting city game! Follow eerie clues, solve chilling puzzles, and uncover the darkest stories hidden within the city’s most notorious sites. Get ready for a journey that blends history, mystery, and the supernatural. See more info about this tour and all exciting adventure tours in Sydney.

Prague: breathtaking views and parks

Embark on a scenic adventure through Prague’s most beautiful parks, hidden streets, and breathtaking viewpoints with this fun, location-based riddle game. Solve engaging puzzles while discovering the city’s natural beauty and historic charm. Get ready for an experience that combines exploration, relaxation, and a fresh perspective on Prague’s enchanting landscape. See details of this Prague tour and more self-guided city tours & adventure tours in this amazing city.

The Headless Horseman in Seville: A ghost story experience

Explore the haunting beauty of Seville’s Old Town with this spooky, puzzle-filled city game inspired by the legendary tale of the Headless Horseman. Wander through charming alleys and hidden squares, solve interactive puzzles, and uncover the chilling secrets that lurk within the city’s historic sites. Get ready for an adventure that blends history, mystery, and the supernatural. View more info about this tour and other self-guided city tours in Seville.

Seville is one of the most amazing cities in Spain. It's something different from standard Spanish city destinations like Madrid or Barcelona. Seville has a lot to offer: culture, history and tasty food are just the beginning.

Where can you play the CityFans city exploration games?

CityFans is always on the move by adding new self-guided tours and adventure tours to their app. Right now you can play the games in the following cities but we guess that by the time we have published this blog post more cities & tours have been added.

Australia:

•  Adelaide
• Brisbane
• Melbourne
• Sydney

Austria: Innsbruck

Belgium:

• Bruges
• Ghent

Czech Republic: Prague

Denmark: Copenhagen

France:

• Paris
• Lille
• Marseille
• Strasbourg

Germany:

• Berlin
• Cologne
• Düsseldorf
• Hamburg
• Stuttgart

Ireland: Dublin

Italy:

• Rome
• Agrigento
• Bologna
• Milan
• Naples
• Verona

Korea: Seoul

Portugal: Lisbon

Spain:

• Barcelona
• Seville

Sweden:

• Gothenburg
  Stockholm

The Netherlands:

• Amsterdam
• Rotterdam
• The Hague
• Utrecht
• Amersfoort
• Arnhem
• Breda
• Delft
• Dordrecht
• Groningen
• Haarlem
• Leiden
• Maastricht
• Zierikzee

United Kingdom: London

United States: New York

See the full list of cities worldwide covered by the CityFans interactive tour app.

Bonus level: self-guided city adventures 101 (and how to save money)

There are so many amazing cities and tours to choose from. What are you waiting for? Get the CityFans app and turn your next city trip into an unforgettable adventure. It’ll be an amazing & fun experience. Guaranteed as most of their tours come with a money back guarantee. If you didn't love it you can get a refund on City Games or Self-Guided Tours.

Btw all adventures are entirely self-guided via the app. There are no on-site staff or actors. All you need to enjoy these exciting city exploration games are a smartphone. You don’t need to have internet access. Just make sure to download the game before arriving. Once that is done you can play it offline to save data.

To make it even easier and to be able to use your mobile while travelling get a cheap eSIM package for travellers. Then you have mobile data wherever you are so you can look up extra info or more things to do when done playing the self-guide interactive city game.

And the best part is that you only need to have the app and a city tour package on one smartphone so it’s even more affordable when travelling with 2 or 3 people. Go on a classic sightseeing tour of a city and you'll have to pay for each person. Now only one of you needs to have the CityFans app and select a city tour package, then all of you can enjoy it.

So which city will you explore via using the CityFans app? You'll have more fun and will see more than when using an oldskool travel guidebooks or a traditional city tour. Unlock the hidden gems. Game on!

There are many reasons to visit Wanaka on your New Zealand road trip, but we’re not going to talk about these obvious reasons now. This blog post will focus on what happens late afternoon or evening in Wanaka. When it is time for some tasty NZ craft beer.

Once you’ve seen the famous Wanaka Tree, hiked up Mt Iron, jumped out of a plane and got your adrenaline kick on the jet boat ride – yes there is a lot to do in Wanaka - it is time to relax. Time for some tasty food and maybe a few craft beers. So the big question is: are there any breweries in Wanaka that we can visit? YES YOU CAN!

Tasting craft beer and visiting breweries in Wanaka is definitely possible. There’s one street where you can find two great craft beer breweries. Easy to reach – leave your car or campervan at your Wanaka accommodation - and walk, ride a bike or get yourself an Uber.

So let’s go to Gordon Road in Wanaka to check out these craft beer breweries.

Ground Up Brewing in Wanaka

Let’s start at Ground Up at 4 Gordon Road in Wanaka, which is my favourite Wanaka brewery. Their Punks in the Barrel Brett IPA was epic and has landed Ground Up the top spot on my Wanaka breweries list.

Ground Up is relatively small but cosy. They’re open daily from 2pm with plenty of beers to choose from, including some experimental & new brews: 10 to 15 taps. Food is available as well. The atmosphere is super relaxed and the staff fun & friendly. It’s a great place for a relaxed afternoon while enjoying tasty food and great beers.

Ground Up’s brews are always spot on. They offer a variety of styles, from IPAs to stout. Punks in the Gym is a tasty IPA, which formed the basis of the famous Punks in the Barrel – aged in ex-Pinot barrels containing Brett. Unfortunately, the Punks are no longer in the Barrel, but only in the Gym, but as fanboy you can’t stop hoping that maybe one day the Punks will ditch their gym membership and move to the barrel for one more round of awesomeness. But no worries, Punks in the Gym is great IPA.

Rhyme & Reason Brewery in Wanaka

Across the street you’ll find Rhyme & Reason Brewery at 17 Gordon Road in Wanaka. Their taproom is much bigger and they have an outdoor beer garden. They have 14 locally brewed beers on tap. Of course, food is also being served.

Rhyme & Reason has some great core beers but have also ventured into more experimental brews, for example some collabs with Craftwork in Oamaru. Not all of these sour or barrel aged beers worked out perfectly but they were tasty for sure. For example their Tripel Treat – a whisky barrel aged Belgian Tripel – was so boozy that it overpowered the spices & subtle tripel flavours. But their Don’t Wine It’s Beer – oak aged farmhouse ale – was awesome, it combined the buttery floral flavours of the Chardonnay oak with the biscuitty flavours of the golden sparkling ale.

Their flavours are always bold and some are a hit while others are more of a miss. But there are also lots of IPA styles being brewed and served. There will be something for everyone.

Wanaka is also the place to be for tasting craft beer

Gordon Street in Wanaka, keep that street name in mind. It’s the place where all the breweries in Wanaka are located. And when you’ve visited these breweries, feel free to leave your feedback below in the comment section. Can’t wait to hear which craft beer brewery and which brew you favoured on your visit to Wanaka.

Winter is coming to the Netherlands and it is a magical season to visit Holland. Maybe December isn’t the first month that comes to mind when planning a trip to Europe but there are many reasons to visit Amsterdam in winter.

One of the most fun reasons is that you get to experience some amazing special days that are typical Dutch.

• Saint Nicholas aka “Sinterklaas” (Dutch version of Christmas)
• Christmas
• New Year's Eve

Keep reading to discover what these public holidays are all about and what to expect during the Dutch festive season.

Winter in Holland: what to expect

To keep things simple we'll consider the months of December, January, and February to be the winter months. That's the meteorological way of defining winter in the Northern Hemisphere. In astrological terms winter starts usually around 21 December. And that's all the theory for today. Let's focus on the fun stuff that you can do and see in winter in Amsterdam.

Is winter in the Netherlands snowy and icy?

There is always the possibility of snow and ice in winter, also in The Netherlands. But there is no guarantee. Dutch winter months are chilly and cold, often because of the wind, especially in coastal areas. The wind chill makes it feel colder than it is.

Many years ago when 'climate change' were words not many had heard of, Dutch winters were more snowy and icy, but even back then there were winters with hardly any snow or ice. Nowadays, the time that ice skating tours like Elfstedentocht – Eleven Cities Ice Skating Event – took place is long behind us. The last edition of the ice skating tour took place in 1997.

Experience the Festive Season in Holland

December definitely is the season to be jolly, also in Holland. Yes, the Dutch celebrate Christmas – there are even 2 official days of Christmas: 1st Christmas Day on the 25th of December and 2nd Christmas Day on the 26th of December.

But there are more festive days taking place in December, the month that kicks off winter in Holland.

“Sinterklaas” (Dutch Christmas) in Amsterdam

On 5 December the Dutch celebrate Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas aka Santa Claus), more or less a Dutch version of Christmas. As Sinterklaas is somewhat of a special day for kids, not everyone celebrates the festivities of Sinterklaas. Some choose only to celebrate Christmas and some celebrate both.

Sinterklaas is all about a saint arriving on a boat (packed with presents) from Spain to celebrate his birthday on 5 December. He and his helpers (all spotted with ashes & dirt because they go through chimneys to bring presents to the kids) arrive about three weeks in advance. From that day anxiety builds for kids, as they look forward to 5 December and can't wait to see what presents Sinterklaas brings them. In between the kids get small presents in their shoes (set by the fireplace or door at night), when they leave a drawing for Sinterklaas or some snacks for Sinterklaas' horse.

If you're heading to Holland to experience winter in Amsterdam, you'll see, hear, and will be able to taste the stuff that they have for the Sinterklaas holiday. For instance, you'll be able to see Sinterklaas and his helpers make appearances in shopping centres and stores from mid-November till 5 December. Or you can taste the spiced biscuits called “pepernoten” (little round ones) or “speculaas” (chunks). Plus you'll hear the Sinterklaas songs in heaps of stores.

Christmas in Amsterdam

As mentioned, in Holland they celebrate two days of Christmas: 25 and 26 December (both official public holidays). On the first day of Christmas (25 December) most Dutch people organise a dinner party for family. The day after many go out for dinner - beware: crowded restaurants - or have a dinner party with friends. Presents are given either on Christmas Eve or the first day of Christmas.

From 6 December all shops in Holland convert their stores to the Christmas season, meaning as soon as Saint Nicholas ("Sinterklaas") has left the country. From then on it's time for Santa Claus. Christmas songs can be heard everywhere, like basically anywhere in the world.

If the weather gods are in a good mood it might be cold and frosty in Holland around Christmas time. It doesn't happen that often but if it does almost everyone will take their ice skates and head to lakes and canals for some ice skating. But luckily there are many artificial (smaller) ice rinks in cities like Amsterdam. Make sure you head over to an ice rink in Amsterdam, hire ice skates, and enjoy winter in Amsterdam like the Dutch do.

New Year's Eve in Amsterdam

Celebrating the new year in another country is always such a fun & interesting experience. So when you decide to top off your winter in Holland trip by celebrating New Year’s Eve there you’ll be in for a treat. A sweet treat.

The Dutch are famous for serving up hot & greasy yet delicious treats like "Oliebollen” (Dutch Doughnuts: round doughballs with raisins then fried in oil) and “Appelflappen” (apple slices covered with sugar & cinnamon then battered and fried in oil).

You can buy these sweet treats from vendors or food trucks you’ll come across in every Dutch town and city. And you’ll find them in supermarkets but buying them fresh from a food truck or vendor on the street is always better and tastier.

Expect lots of fireworks when celebrating New Year’s Eve in Holland. In big cities, there will be public fireworks shows but you’ll also see lots of people lighting up fireworks – throughout the Netherlands. It is allowed to light up fireworks in the streets of Holland. However, nowadays more and more people prefer that all towns and cities move to a firework ban and organise a public show.

How to save up to 50% on Amsterdam attractions

If being outdoors on a rainy or snowy day in Holland isn’t your thing, then no worries. There are so many amazing indoor things to do in Amsterdam. Our little secret to visit museums and attractions at a discount also works in winter. This means that you can save up to 50% on Amsterdam attractions, also in winter. Experience the most magical time of the year to visit Amsterdam at a lower price. Win-win. How to get the discount on Amsterdam attractions? Simple.

Get the GoCity Amsterdam Discount Pass to get a saving of up to 50% on popular attractions like museums, windmill trips and the famous Heineken or Bols experiences. One discount pass will give you access to heaps of amazing attractions and at a lower price than when buying the entrance tickets separately.

Things to do in Amsterdam in winter

In Amsterdam, the famous attractions and museums are usually open throughout December, so there is plenty to do and see. No matter the season, there is always heaps to do & see in Amsterdam. And these are some of the best things to do and most popular things to see.

Rijksmuseum

No matter the time of the year, the famous Rijksmuseum is a must-see. It's home to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh, the museum offers an unforgettable journey through Dutch art and history, all within its stunning neo-Gothic halls. Winter brings fewer crowds, letting you explore the exhibits in a quieter, more intimate setting, while the museum cafe serves seasonal treats to keep you warm. Plus, with Amsterdam’s Light Festival illuminating the city nearby, your visit to the Rijksmuseum can easily become part of a magical winter day in Amsterdam.

House of Bols Cocktail and Genever Experience

The House of Bols Cocktail & Genever Experience in Amsterdam is a spirited adventure into the world of cocktails, flavours, and Dutch distilling history. It all starts with a sensory exploration, where you dive into the essence of Lucas Bols, the world's oldest distilled spirit brand, dating back to 1575. You’ll wander through the beautifully designed 'Hall of Taste,' where 42 vibrant Bols liqueurs and genevers await, ready to be sampled and sniffed. Each display is crafted to awaken your taste buds and spark curiosity as you uncover the subtle secrets behind each flavour.

In the immersive Genever Room, you’ll discover the roots of Dutch genever - the precursor to gin - and gain insight into how it evolved from a medicinal remedy to a cherished spirit. The experience then brings you to the dazzling Mirror Bar, where the real fun begins! Talented bartenders use your flavour profile to craft a cocktail that perfectly suits your palate, creating a custom drink just for you. And if you’re craving a deeper dive, you can join a hands-on cocktail workshop to learn the art of mixology from the pros and shake up your delicious creations.

Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or simply curious about Dutch spirits, the House of Bols offers a fresh, interactive, and flavorful experience that’s as educational as it is fun - an ideal way to savour Amsterdam’s liquid heritage! Get your tickets to the Bols Experience now.

Heineken Experience

An interactive tour through the world of Heineken beer. A tasty interactive tour that is. There are traditional exhibit-style elements where you’ll learn about Heineken’s history and brewing process, but many parts of the tour invite you to actively engage. Visitors can participate in hands-on activities like pouring the perfect pint, exploring multimedia displays, and trying sensory elements designed to immerse them in the sights, sounds, and smells of the brewing process. There’s even a simulation that lets you "become" a beer bottle moving along the production line, which adds a playful, memorable twist.

It’s designed to be engaging, so you’re not just observing but also experiencing the Heineken story with all your senses. It's an excellent choice to visit in winter, as the entire tour is indoors, providing a cosy escape from the chilly Amsterdam weather. Winter also means fewer crowds, making it a more relaxed experience. Get your Heineken tickets now.

Amsterdam Dungeon

The Amsterdam Dungeon offers an immersive journey into the city's darker historical periods, combining education with entertainment. Visitors can expect interactive shows featuring live actors, special effects, and detailed sets that bring to life tales of witch hunts, torture chambers, and the plague. The experience is designed to engage all senses, making history both accessible and memorable. It's suitable for those interested in a unique perspective on Amsterdam's past, blending humour and horror in a theatrical setting. Get your tickets now and skip the ticket office line.

Traditional Dutch Syrup Waffle-Making Workshop

If there is one sweet treat you must taste when visiting Amsterdam in winter, it’s a ‘stroopwafel’. It’s two golden thin soft waffles with gooey syrup in between them. Perfect with coffee or tea. Insider tip: put your syrup wafer aka ‘stroopwafel’ on top of your coffee cup or tea cup and let the beverage’s steam warm it up for a few minutes. Warm stroopwafels are the best. You can even make your stroopwafels at at Dutch Syrup Waffle Making Workshop.

A stroopwafel-making workshop is a perfect winter activity in Amsterdam. The cosy indoor setting, combined with the warmth of baking and the sweet scent of caramelized syrup, creates a welcoming escape from the chilly winter air. Plus, making and eating a freshly baked, gooey stroopwafel pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it all the more satisfying in colder weather. It’s a hands-on, heartwarming experience that gives you an authentic taste of Dutch culture while keeping you snug and entertained!

What are your travel plans this winter?

If travelling to the Netherlands is on your to-do list this winter, you’re in luck. December is the best month of winter to experience the festive season in the Netherlands. This article will be the start of your travel planning. If you require more info or have questions, just post it as a comment below. After all, I’m Dutch and I’m more than happy to share my travel secrets.