Welcome to our blog page, the perfect place to get inspiration for your next holiday. Here we share tips and stories about our favourite regions, local hotspots and unique activities in and around our holiday homes. Whether you are looking for cultural discoveries, culinary delights, the most beautiful beaches or wonderful relaxation in nature, at Basic Travel you have come to the right place. Be inspired and start planning your dream holiday!
Around the Christmas holidays, Ine and her family travelled to enchanting Alsace. Their holiday home (the F88.053) was the ideal base: surrounded by nature, close to atmospheric Christmas markets and wonderfully peaceful. During the day, they enjoyed the Christmas magic in the picturesque villages, and in the evening, they warmed themselves by the open fire. Curious to find out how Ine experienced this winter trip? Read on to find out!
When you think of Norway, you think of impressive fjords, vast forests, clear blue lakes and fresh mountain air. It is a country where nature and tranquillity take centre stage, which is precisely why sustainable travel fits in so well here. By choosing to travel by train, boat or electric transport, you make the journey itself part of the adventure. Slowly, consciously and with an eye for the landscape around you.
Winter in the Vosges and Alsace has something special about it. As the days grow shorter, towns and villages fill with lights; squares are festively decorated and the air fills with the scent of mulled wine. If you want to experience the ultimate Christmas feeling, you don't have to travel far. In and around the Vosges, you will find some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.
From the world-famous Christmas market in Strasbourg to the romantic streets of Colmar. Each market has its own character and atmosphere. The best part? From your Basic Travel holiday home, you can be there in no time.
During the summer holidays, our colleague Ine travelled with her family and in-laws to the sunny Costa Brava. They stayed in holiday home S17.181. Spain turned out to offer exactly what they were looking for: relaxation, conviviality and time for each other. From charming villages with lively markets to cosy streets full of shops and restaurants: every day brought something new. In between, they enjoyed refreshing days by the pool and long, cosy dinners at the holiday home. A summer full of sun, peace and beautiful memories! Curious about Ine's holiday stories? Read on!
If you dream of a real winter with thick snow, fresh mountain air, and endless white landscapes, you will immediately feel at home in Beitostølen. This charming Norwegian mountain village is located on the edge of Jotunheimen National Park, at an altitude of around 900 meters. As soon as you arrive, you are surrounded by snow-covered forests, wooden cottages, and a tranquility that feels almost magical.
Last year, our colleague Alessia took an inspection trip to Umbria, a region she loves. She spent a week visiting various Basic Travel properties and exploring the region. From bustling Perugia to the famous Eurochocolate event, it was a week full of impressions and tasty experiences. Curious about Alessia's personal tips and recommendations for an unforgettable vacation in Umbria? Then read on!
Last year, our colleague Ine and her family spent their May vacation in Saint-Aygulf, a charming seaside resort on the famous Côte d'Azur. They stayed in Basic Travel's vacation home F83.391, which was fully equipped for a relaxing stay. They enjoyed the atmospheric villages, the occasional sunshine, and, of course, each other's company in complete tranquility. Curious about their experiences? Then read on!
At the beginning of August, our colleague Linda and her family travelled to Villes sur Auzon, in the beautiful department of Vaucluse. They stayed in a charming holiday home from Basic Travel, the F84.177, located at the foot of Mont Ventoux, surrounded by vast vineyards and offering breathtaking views. Would you like to know more about Linda's stay and her holiday stories? Then read on!
When you think of Tuscany, you often think of rolling hills, cypress trees, and medieval towns. But did you know that there is also a place in Tuscany that looks like it came straight out of the Caribbean? The tropical white beach of Vada, located on the Etruscan coast, is one of the most surprising and enchanting places in Italy. With snow-white sand, turquoise water, and a relaxed atmosphere, it feels like you are thousands of miles away from Europe. Yet this paradise is just a few hours' drive from Florence and Pisa.
Siena is a city that touches you from the moment you step inside its city walls. It is one of Italy's best-preserved medieval cities and exudes history, culture, and tradition. Where Florence can feel grand and busy, Siena is more intimate and atmospheric, as if you have stepped back in time. But what is there to do in Siena? The answer: lots. From the famous Piazza del Campo and the impressive Duomo to small streets where you can experience the real Tuscany.
San Gimignano is perhaps one of the most atmospheric towns in Tuscany. As soon as you see the skyline, you understand why it has been nicknamed the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages.” The tall towers that rise above the town, the winding streets, and the lively squares make this a place you shouldn't miss during your vacation in Italy. But what is there to do in San Gimignano? There is more than enough. From culture and history to wine tastings and simply enjoying an ice cream on a sunny terrace.
A road trip through France with the whole family is an adventure you will remember for a long time to come. It is the perfect combination of freedom, discovery, and making memories together. While the children play games or take a nap in the back of the car, you can watch the landscape change from rolling hills in Burgundy to lavender fields in Provence. Every day brings something new, and that's what makes a road trip so special: your vacation is never monotonous.
France not only has a sea to dream of, but also an abundance of lakes that are just as impressive. Are you looking to cool off on a hot summer day, a mirror-smooth lake for your SUP board, or a photogenic spot in nature? French lakes offer something for everyone. In this blog, we take you on a tour of the most beautiful lakes in France, from well-known gems to quiet hidden gems. Many of these lakes are located in regions where we also offer vacation homes. Think of places in Provence or the Côte d'Azur, where you can walk straight into the water from your terrace.
The Côte d’Azur: for decades, the playground of artists, movie stars, and sun seekers. But this stretch of coastline in the south of France is much more than just luxury yachts and champagne on the beach. Its charm lies in its diversity: lively cities and quiet villages, swaying palm trees and fragrant pine forests, glittering boulevards and rugged cliffs. In this blog, we take you on a tour of the most beautiful sights of the Côte d'Azur, from classics to surprises. For anyone who wants more than just a sun holiday. If you are still looking for a place to stay, you are sure to find something suitable among our range of holiday houses in France.
Booked a holiday house in France? Then the vacation feeling starts as soon as you plan your route. Especially if you're traveling by car, it's worth taking a moment to consider the smartest way to travel. Do you want to take the fastest route via the toll roads, or would you prefer a more relaxed route with some nice stops along the way? How can you avoid black Saturdays, and what are some good alternatives to endless traffic jams around Lyon? In this blog, we'll take you step by step. From map to suitcase. Because a good route is more than just a line on a map, it's the start of your vacation.
When you think of Tuscany, you think of rolling hills, cypress trees, vineyards, and that typical warm sunlight that gives everything a golden glow. But what is the weather in Tuscany really like? Is it always warm and sunny, or can you also expect a chilly May holiday or rainy autumn day?
Tips to enjoy late summer in France can be found at Basic Travel. Discover all our tips and top choice destinations to enjoy France.
When you think of a vacation in the south of France, the Côte d'Azur is undoubtedly the place to be. This famous coastal strip is also known as the French Riviera and stretches from Saint-Tropez to the Italian border. Charm, glitz, and glamour—the Côte d'Azur is bursting with energy! Curious about the best way to experience the Côte d'Azur? Read the 10 highlights below and book your vacation home in this luxurious region.
A vacation to France sounds like sun, wine, baguettes, and lavender. But before you zip down the Route du Soleil with a smile on your face, it's a good idea to take a moment to think about your preparations. Because let's be honest: nothing is more annoying than breakdowns on the road, forgotten documents, or traffic jams on Black Saturday.
Good preparation makes all the difference. In this blog, we'll take you through it step by step. So that you can arrive feeling truly relaxed.
You've booked your vacation home in Provence, your bags are packed, and you've already put together a playlist for the road. But then the inevitable question arises: what about toll roads in France? Do you need a vignette? And how much does it cost? Don't worry, this blog will tell you everything you need to know before crossing the French border.
You probably know Pisa for its world-famous leaning tower. But if you think that's all there is to it, you're mistaken. Pisa is compact, lively, surprisingly versatile, and therefore perfect for a day trip or short city break.
Are you planning a trip from your holiday house in Italy? Or have you simply planned a city break? These 15 tips will take you to places that go beyond the tower alone.
France is always a good idea. But when exactly? That depends on what you're looking for: sun & sea, peace & nature, or wine & conviviality. With so many different regions and climates, France is literally a country for all seasons. And whether you're going for spring in Provence, a summer dip in the Atlantic Ocean, or autumn colors in the Dordogne, there is a perfect time to travel. For everyone.
In this blog, we'll help you on your way. We'll take you through the seasons, regions, and surprising choices. Ready for some travel inspiration?
When you think of France, Provence, the Côte d'Azur, or the Dordogne immediately spring to mind. But just east of these well-known areas lies a region that is just as enchanting. And a lot quieter: the Corrèze. Think rolling hills, winding rivers, picturesque villages, and a mountain of undiscovered gems. Here you can experience the real France. Without the tourist crowds. Without the hassle.
In this blog, we take you on a vacation to this delightful region. With our best tips to get the most out of your stay.
Lille. A city that has exactly what you are looking for on a short trip: French character, Belgian conviviality and just enough wonderment to completely immerse yourself in something new. Just a few hours' drive from the Netherlands, a city full of art, food, atmosphere and original places awaits you that will make you long to return. In this blog, we give you 11 tips for a wonderful time in Lille. From the most beautiful museums to secret streets, and from must-eat patisseries to the best markets.
Giant mountain ranges, clear waters and volcanic landscapes; that's the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in a nutshell. In winter, you can enjoy the popular ski resorts and in summer you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking or water sports on or around the lakes. This interspersed with historic cities, distinctive gastronomy and rich cultural heritage make Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes a wonderful holiday destination. We take you through 10 of the very best to do's in the region.
In this blog, we take you on a discovery tour of the most beautiful sights in Dordogne. That way, you will be optimally prepared for your next trip to this beautiful region.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine is France's largest region and is known for its diversity of landscapes, history and culinary highlights, such as its world-famous wines. The mix of coastlines, mountains, vineyards and bustling cities make Nouvelle-Aquitaine a popular and versatile holiday destination. Curious about all the surprises of this region? Discover our favourites from the region.
Normandy, in northern France is known for its rich past. From its invasion beaches and historic towns to world-famous ancient works of art and buildings. Add to this the beautiful chalk cliffs, laid-back seaside resorts, flowering gardens and cosy villages and you will have a wonderful holiday. Curious about all the highlights of Normandy? You can read about them below.
Pearly white beaches, clear blue waters, cosy villages and rugged landscapes: welcome to Corsica, or Île de Beauté! This island may seem small, but you won't get bored easily. Take a dip in the Mediterranean or set out to discover all the island's hidden gems. Curious? We take you along the 10 most special places on colourful Corsica.
A visit to the Dordogne guarantees historical discoveries and beautiful vistas. From medieval villages and castles to prehistoric paintings and rolling valleys. Not to mention the rivers that meander through the green landscape and rocky outcrops. You'll feast your eyes. Wondering what there is to do along the banks of the Dordogne? Read on and discover all our favourites.
Languedoc-Roussillon is one of France's most diverse regions. This southern French region has a special mix of history, nature, culture and gastronomy, and is the ideal place for many holidaymakers to get away from it all. Wondering what there is to do in Languedoc-Roussillon? We take you through all the highlights of the region.
Umbria: the green heart of Italy where you will find beautiful nature, culture and history. The region seems very quiet and convivial, but inside it is bustling, if you know where to look!
Brittany is considered one of the most beautiful regions of France. The charming fishing villages, vast coastlines with rugged cliffs and improbable nature make Brittany a favourite place for every holidaymaker. Curious about the charms of Brittany? Discover all our tips in ‘8x the best of Brittany.’
Regions for a holiday Italy, there are so many to choose from! But which region is best for your Italy holiday home? We have listed all the regions for you, so you can easily choose which region suits you best.
Still not sure in which region you want to spend your holidays? We have listed all the regions for your holiday home in France so that you can find your dream holiday as easily as possible. Bon voyage!
Wondering where the best places to stay in Tuscany are? We have listed all the beautiful places in the region for you.
