Even for the entrepreneur, life cannot be all work all the time. It’s important to take time off, re-charge your batteries and spend time with the family. Here are a few ideas for Spring travel to destinations off the well-travelled tourist path.
For many entrepreneurs, travel is a necessary part of the job. You may find yourself in any number of major European capitals in a given month. London, Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin – each has its charms and captivating sights, but they are more about stimulation than relaxation. Smaller places that are both uniquely interesting and lightly travelled are getting more difficult to find. What used to be delightful secrets are now sometimes overrun by those searching for something unique and authentic.
Here is a short list of not-so-well known escapes for a Spring break away from the crowds.
Meteora - Greece
Monastic history starts in Meteora in the 11th century when the first hermits sought peace and solitude in the caves in the isolated pinnacles that rise above the valley of the Pineios (Pinios) river. By the 14th century, the Byzantine Empire was falling apart and the monastic communities of the Athos peninsula were always in danger of Turkish pirate raids and other persecution. After one such encounter, three monks went searching for a discreet, safe home to avoid the chaos. They eventually settled on top of a rock called Stylos. Gifts from wealthy potentates followed, and an amazing community of 24 monasteries built atop pinnacles on was born.
Today, a paved road winds between the largest monasteries. Some of the most spectacular vistas in all of Europe are just around the bend. Bring plenty of film. Meteora means "suspended in air" and they mean it.
Cathar Country - France
Many people think the most stunning city in Europe is the walled wonder in Southwest France known as Carcassonne. This massive, grey-brown fortified city is in the heart of Cathar country.
Surrounding this medieval delight, you can find castles perched high on hilltops, the mysteries of Rennes le Chateau, the source of the “Da Vinci Code” phenomenon, great sparkling wine called Blanquette de Limoux, and great walking trails. For better or worse, the region, called the Aude, is one of France's poorest areas and lodging is relatively cheap and plentiful.