Page 24 iGap travelguide 2023
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iGap Travel Guide
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Sharing an equally exceptional view is the Radisson
Blu Hotel Lietuva, which stands on the banks of the
River Neris. The hotel is comprised of 456 rooms
and additional suites. The charming sky bar, located
on the top floor of the hotel, serves delicious,
innovative cocktails amidst a backdrop of city life.
Music from live DJs enlivens the sky bar on the
weekends. The Radisson Blu is equipped with a
fitness centre, a traditional Nordic sauna, a Jacuzzi,
and massage services are available upon request,
perfect for relaxation after a long day of exploring
the treasures of the nearby Old Town and the
ancient Vilnius University.
Easily reachable by either bus, coach or car the
picturesque Trakai Historical National Park is
just 30 minutes from Vilnius Old Town and offers
the opportunity to immerse in the local culture.
Being situated on an island on Lake Galvė, where
several lakes interconnect, and given that its initial
construction meant for it to be a fortress, Trakai
Castle is encircled entirely by water. The impressive
Gothic castle is reached by footbridge and now
hosts a range of galleries and halls, as well as the
Trakai History Museum. Guided expeditions of the
grounds are available and take place daily. During
the summer months, a variety of concerts, festivals
and events enliven the area, and when weather
is permitting a yacht trip on one of the numerous
surrounding lakes provides an unmissable view of
the astonishing natural scenery. Trakai is also known
for being the home to one of the smallest nations
in the world, the Karaims, who have preserved their
ancient traditions since the 14th century. National
dishes of the Karaims can be tasted at the Karaim
Restaurant, the most popular of which is kybyn, a
small pastry filled with minced meat.
In order to appreciate the full undeniable beauty of
Vilnius’ Old Town take to the skies for a 60-minute
hot air balloon flight, either in the early morning
to watch the town below rise or in the afternoon
whilst the golden sun sets. Companies including
Hot Air Lines, Aeronautika and Smile Balloons offer
this unique sightseeing opportunity, with expert
guides on board who are readily available to answer
any questions you may have about the marvellous
scenes below. Being that Vilnius is one of the very
few European capitals to allow hot air balloons, this
incredible experience is not to be overlooked.
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