1. Royal Library Garden

The beautiful Christiansborg Palace is currently the home of the Danish parliament. But tucked away behind it are the equally beautiful Royal Library Gardens. This green oasis is the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon if you want to take a break from the city. Head through the gates on Parliament Square to discover the statues, flower beds and 8-metre-high copper water feature of the gardens, which are open from 6 am to 10 pm daily.

2.  Assistens Cemetery

Copenhagen is associated with many famous Danes, but none so much as Hans Christian Andersen. You can visit his resting place in Assistens Cemetery in Nørrebro. He isn’t the only famous figure buried here: among the 300,000 graves, you can also find those of Hans Scherfig, Søren Kirkegaard and Niels Bohr. A stunning setting and guided tours, held in Danish and English, make this a must-see if you want to head off the beaten path and discover a site of significant cultural heritage in Copenhagen.

3. Christianshavn

The cobble-stone streets of the Christianshavn neighbourhood are charming, especially those which run alongside the canal. Originally intended as an independent merchants’ town, the area was eventually integrated into Copenhagen, but retains a nautical vibe to this day. Seek out Overgaden neden Vandet and Overgaden oven Vandet, two lanes on either side of the canal which are lined with yachts and quaint little houseboats. This is a great spot to rent a row boat on a warm summer’s day, or you can enjoy a cup of coffee and a traditional Danish cake at the café on the water.

4. The Meatpacking District

Head to the district of Vesterbro and look for Halmtorvet, a cobbled square lined with shops and cafés. Just next to it is the Øksnehallen, an alternative exhibition centre, and the Meatpacking District (Kødbyen in Danish). It was once the one-stop shop for butcher shops in Copenhagen, but today it’s one of the trendiest places to go out and eat. In the summer, be sure to check out the food market Kødbyens Mad & Marked, which offers local produce from up to 70 stalls every weekend. With loads of great restaurants, bars and clubs to pick from this is a great spot to experience the city’s nightlife!

5. Folketeatret

Folketeatret – or the People’s Theatre – is the oldest public theatre in all of Denmark and celebrated its 160th anniversary in 2017. Today, it hosts a wide range of performances for an international audience. You’ll find everything here from modern drama to original Danish performances and classic plays.

A photo posted by Henriette Rostrup (@henriette.rostrup) on Oct 26, 2016 at 12:31pm PDT

6. Frederiksberg Gardens

One of the largest green spaces in Copenhagen, these extensive romatic landscape gardens are designed in a very English style – so you’ll feel right at home! Lakes, canals, pathways and a variety of wildlife can be found here, offering the perfect opportunity to swap the hustle and bustle of the city for a day in natural surroundings. Created for King Frederick IV, you’ll also find Frederiksberg Palace on the grounds: a beautiful Italian-style Baroque residence that was built at the beginning of the 18th century.

7. Queen Louise’s Bridge (Dronning Louises Bro)

Connecting inner Copenhagen with the Nørrebro neighbourhood, this centrally located bridge has undergone something of a transformation since it was built in 1887. Originally intended to combat increasing traffic in the city during the late 19th century, recently the car lanes on the bridge were drastically narrowed in favour of wider bike lanes and pedestrian walkways. Today, it’s a popular hang out: on sunny afternoons, the benches which line Dronning Louises Bro are a popular spot to meet friends, listen to music and enjoy some drinks together.

Want to experience more cities off the beaten path? Check out our secret and unusual guides to Rome, London, Berlin and other destinations around the world.

Imgs: L1010347_v1, Sigfrid Lundberg, Copenhagen Sakura – Assistens cemetery,  Thomas Rousing, Christianshavn, Arne List, Kødbyen, Copenhagen, Niklas Hellerstedt, Frederiksberg Have, Denmark, Kristoffer Trolle, Dronning Louises Bro, LasseLeth / Flickr cc. and Shutterstock

Liligo.com is a search engine for travel prices and is rapidly expanding in the UK. For this study, our data experts took a close look at over 187,000 searches launched on our UK website in the past year. We wanted to find out what our users’ favourite destinations were and how this data compared to that of 2016. We also had a look at the destinations with the best value and the average duration of trips booked via the site.

The most popular destinations in 2017

Our data held a big surprise: the top 3 most searched destinations in 2017 were outside of Europe. Indeed, Bangkok led the pack ahead of Lagos and New York City by a large margin, up from 5th place in 2016. Thailand has long been a premier destination for British tourists – in 2016, the number of visitors to the country from the UK first passed the threshold of one million (it feel just short of that mark in 2017).

The remainder of the list features traditional beach and city-break destinations in Europe. Still at number 1 in 2016, Paris fell to 4th place last year, with Barcelona, Malaga, Amsterdam, Dublin and Lisbon all in close range. Further behind in terms of absolute search numbers was Dubai, which, however, is one of the most stable destinations in our rankings – it came 10th in 2016, as well!

Best-value destinations

Our data experts not only ranked destinations by total searches, but also had a look at the average price of a return ticket to destinations searched on liligo.com. Unsurprisingly, all cities in this ranking are in Europe, with London leading the way: an average return flight to the capital set you back £82.

Both fans of city breaks and travellers who prefer lounging on the beach had a broad choice among the cheapest destinations. Average return flights to Amsterdam, Dublin, Paris and Geneva all stayed below £130, while trips to the Iberian seaside cities of Barcelona, Malaga, Ibiza, Alicante and Lisbon cost between £120 and £180. 

At £193, Marrakech was the cheapest destination overseas. In terms of price, our top search Bangkok came 22nd with an average return fare of £646.

Trip duration

Are you wondering how long people are staying at particular destinations? On average, a trip planned on our site lasted nearly 10 days in 2017. This figure was undoubtedly driven up by the high search volume for Bangkok, where the average traveller stayed for more than a fortnight – only Lagos (22 days) and Beirut (26 days) had a longer average trip duration.

Unsurprisingly, most European destinations remained under a week. With between 3 and 5 days on average, Geneva, Dublin and Amsterdam were favourites for short breaks. Check our guide to secret and unusual Amsterdam for some inspiration for your next trip!

To its credit, Ryanair has recently simplified its luggage policy. The Traveller’s Magazine is here to give you the low-down on prices, weights and dimensions, so you will never face an unexpected fine again.

Permitted dimensions for hand luggage

Every Ryanair passenger can bring up to two pieces of hand luggage on board:

1. One small bag (handbag, laptop bag, etc.) not exceeding 35 x 20 x 20 cm.
2. One larger bag not exceeding 10 kg in weight and 55 x 40 x 20 cm in size.

From 15 January 2018, only passengers who purchased Priority & 2 Cabin Bags, Flexi Plus, Plus or Family Plus will be allowed to bring both bags into the cabin. If your ticket does not fall into one of these categories, you can only bring the small bag on board. Your second bag will be tagged and put into the aeroplane hold free of charge.

Random checks of the dimensions of the passengers’ luggage are carried out at the gate. If your cabin bag is found to be oversized, you will have to pay a fee of £50 for it to be placed in the aircraft’s hold.

Fees for checked luggage

Travelling only with hand luggage is fine if you’re off on a weekend city break, but if you’re away for longer you may need to purchase checked luggage. Each Ryanair passenger can purchase up to 3 checked bags weighing up to 20 kg each. Each bag will cost £25 if booked along with the flight, or £40 if added to the booking later. So make sure you know what you’re going to pack when you book!

If your bags are found to be too heavy at the check-in gate, you will be charged £10 for each excess kilo. Ryanair will not carry bags that are heavier than 32 kg and/or larger than 81 x 119 x 119 cm. Also note that Ryanair reserves the right to charge a £10 supplement during peak travel periods (Christmas/Easter/summer holidays). On the bright side, you can pool your luggage allowance with any travel companions, as long as you booked and check in together.

Find luggage information for other airlines:

Lufthansa

Easyjet

IMG: 1Image / Bryan Brophy

A visit to Madrid is likely to include a trip to at least one of the following: the Gran Via, the Temple of Debod, the Plaza de Cibeles and the Buen Retiro Park, to name just a few! However the city has much more to offer, with hidden gems aplenty. These are the places worth adding to your itinerary on your next trip to Madrid.

The Royal Chapel of St. Anthony of La Florida (Moncloa)

A monument undiscovered by many, including locals, this chapel is worth visiting for what’s inside: stunning frescoes by Spanish romantic painter Francisco Goya. Considered to include some of the artist’s finest works, the Chapel also serves as his place of burial and is a Spanish Property of Cultural Interest. A must for art lovers and Goya fans!

• Address: Glorieta San Antonio de la Florida, 4

Capricho Park (Barajas)

If you love open green spaces such as Madrid’s popular Buen Retiro Park, El Capricho is a great place to visit. The historic park was built from 1787 to 1838 for the Duchess of Osuna, and time has left its mark in the form of the variety of styles which can be found here today. Wandering through the landscaped gardens of El Capricho is the perfect way to while away an afternoon in Madrid: check out the 18th-century mansion with its stunning gardens, water features and sculptures before heading to the bandstand to be transported to a time gone by.

Tip: The park isn’t open every day and is located a little out of the centre of Madrid (get off at El Capricho station on metro line 5). Plan your visit in advance by checking out the schedule on the City of Madrid website.

• Address: Paseo de la Alameda de Osuna, 25

Iglesia Patólica (Lavapiés)

Built as part of an initiative from the popular comic Leo Bassi and styled as if a church, this space instead offers a unique take on religion through parody. Churchgoers at the Iglesia Patólica worship a rubber duck (yes, really). Sunday mass is celebrated on a weekly basis and you can even get married here (which won’t be legally binding though).

All jokes aside, a visit to the Iglesia Patólica with its mismatched interior and humorous perspective is an interesting experience. If you find yourself in the Lavapiés neighbourhood, make the trip to the church for a laugh and, perhaps, to find your new religion.

• Address: Travesía Primavera

Church of San Antonio de los Alemanes (Centro)

If you want to admire the beauty of a church in a more serious manner, we’d suggest a visit to St Anthony of the Germans. Another lesser known space in Madrid, its exterior is plain. It’s the interior which is truly striking. Located just behind the Gran Via on the Malasaña side, the baroque church is only open during mass but is well worth the trip to see the stunning frescoes that adorn its interior.

• Address: Calle Puebla, 22

Adelita Market (Malasaña)

If you want a more authentic shopping experience in Madrid, away from the Gran Via with its international chains such as Primark, the Adelita Market in Malasaña is the place to see. If you’re looking for something unique and different to buy, this is the place to be! Bargains can found in abundance at this market which opens on select days – check out the website for more information.

• Address: Calle del Espíritu Santo, 23

Plaza de la Villa de Paris (Colón)

A little piece of Paris in Madrid – that’s how we’d describe this secluded square in front of the supreme court. Despite its central location near the busy Plaza Colón and Calle Génova, this square sees little footfall and is a great place to relax and let the time pass you by. A peaceful environment in the city, with architecture different from anywhere else in Madrid.

• Address: Plaza Villa de Paris

Museo de America (Moncloa)

This museum off the tourist trail in Madrid is home to a number of artefacts on culture from the Americas displayed in artistic, archaeological and ethnographic collections. From the Paleolithic period to the present day, there’s plenty to see here. Although you can check out priceless pieces from throughout the ages here, the museum is nonetheless almost unknown – meaning no queues and the possibility to enjoy the environment to its fullest.

• Address: Av. de los Reyes Católicos, 6

Plaza de Olavide (Chamberí)

If you’re looking to explore traditional Madrid, be sure to stop off at the Plaza de Olavide in Chamberí. The Chamberí district is considered to be one of the most authentic in the capital and, thanks to its location away from the centre of the city, it’s also frequented more by locals than tourists. After taking a trip to the nearby Museum Sorolla, featuring works by Spanish artist Joaquín Sorolla, head to the lively Plaza de Olavide – a great place to grab a drink and some tapas before settling in to people-watch and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

• Address: Plaza de Olavide

Pantheon of Illustrious Men (Pacífico)

Away from mainstream Madrid, in the Pacífico district, stands this relatively unknown monument initially constructed to house the great men of Spanish culture in its entirety – be that in literary, artistic or political fields. However the idea was ultimately discarded, the bodies of influential figures such as Garcilaso de la Vega, Quevedo and Calderón de la Barca were returned to their graves, and the space was instead turned into a National Pantheon. Today, famous Spaniards from the world of politics and more are buried here, including Sagasta, Cánovas del Castillo, Eduardo Dato y Canalejas. Built in a neo-Byzantine style, this is a must see for lovers of architecture and Spanish history alike.

• Address: Calle Julián Gayarre, 3

Bunkers at the Parque del Oeste (Moncloa)

Created at the beginning of the 20th century, the Parque del Oeste is home to a number of monuments and sights including the popular ancient Egyptian temple of Debod. During the Spanish Civil War, the park was also the site of the Battle of Ciudad Universitaria. The trenches and building bunkers can still be visited to this day. Visitors to this lesser known area can check out the bunkers, which are striking for their representation of destruction in a peaceful natural area.

• Address: Paseo de Moret, 2

IMG: Panteón de los Hombres Ilustres/elmundo.es; Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida (exterior)/soleadamadrid.es; Frescos de Goya/cromacultura.com; Parque de El Capricho/panoramio.com; Templete/hotelnuevoboston-blog.com; Entrada Iglesia Patólica/Twitter @sr_lago; San Antonio de los Alemanes/minube.es; Museo de América/unaventanadesdemadrid.es; Pieza del Museo de América/jotdown.es; Plaza de Olavide/secretosdemadrid.es; Búnkers/secretosdemadrid.es; Shutterstock

1. Get an overview from Vítkov Hill

Granted, Vítkov isn’t exactly hidden. In fact, you can see the huge equestrian statue of the Hussite warrior Jan Žižka from most of the Old Town. But it is a bit less known that the National Monument on the hill also houses a number of exhibitions on Czech and Czechoslovak history (including the chilling mausoleum of the first Communist president Klement Gottwald). What’s more, the building’s roof offers some of the most breathtaking views of the city – all for a £4 ticket.

• How to get there: It’s a short (but very steep) walk up from Florenc metro station.

2. Pick up some fresh produce

Farmers’ markets have burgeoned in Prague in recent years. One of the most popular takes place on the river embankment between Výtoň and Palacký Bridge every Saturday morning. Stalls also sell cooked food and excellent beer from the early morning. If a “morning beer” is just a bit too Czech for you, there’s also great coffee to be had.

• How to get there: Karlovo náměstí metro station (use the “Palackého náměstí” exit)

3. Relax in Prague’s second castle

Vyšehrad rivalled Prague Castle in importance in the Middle Ages, but little of its former glory is left today. Nowadays the complex is a fortified park on a hill towering over the river Vltava, with a basilica and some ecclesiastical buildings. It’s a great place to relax from the hustle and bustle of the Old Town. Have a drink in the beer garden Na hradbách while enjoying spectacular views across the city.

• How to get there: Vyšehrad metro station or Výtoň tram stop

4. Dine like Švejk

Jaroslav Hašek, the author of The Good Soldier Švejk, was known as a connoisseur of hearty Czech food and frequented the pub U Bansethů in the Nusle neighbourhood. In fact, the place even makes an appearance in the novel and has remained a local favourite to this day. Try the roast duck and wash it down with a beer (brewed in a microbrewery just next door).

• How to get there: Tram to the stop Nuselská radnice

5. Explore the New Jewish Cemetery

Prague’s Old Jewish Cemetery is one of the main tourist attractions in the city. Few people, by contrast, make it out to the New Jewish Cemetery, which is located in the outer Vinohrady neighbourhood, but easily accessible by metro. Its main claim to fame is Franz Kafka’s grave, but even if you’re not a fan of that essentially modern writer, the cemetery is worth a visit. Strolling through its shady alleys and reading the headstones (which are written in Czech, German and Hebrew) gives an indication of the profound loss Prague experienced in the twentieth century.

• How to get there: Želivského metro station

6. Admire the modernist architecture

Prague is not only a baroque jewel, but also has a large number of modernist architectural monuments. One of the most striking is Adolf Loos’s Villa Müller in Střešovice. An example of the design concept Loos termed Raumplan, the Villa Müller is an unadorned cube from the outside, but much more playful inside. Tours must be booked in advance here and cost approx. £15.

• How to get there: Tram to the stop Ořechovka

7. Go on a slightly different brewery tour

Czech beer is world-renowned, and rightly so. The Communist regime destroyed most smaller breweries in the country, but recently microbreweries have been springing up across the country, with many offering excellent beers. The brewery in the village of Únětice, just outside Prague, was active from the 16th century until 1949 and has been brewing again since 2011. It offers tours that give you a handy opportunity to get out of Prague and see some of the Czech countryside.

• How to get there: From the metro station Dejvická, take bus 355 (every 30 minutes)

Want to experience more cities off the beaten path? Check out our secret and unusual guides to Rome, London, Berlin and other destinations around the world.

Images: Shutterstock, Tiia Monto, Miaow Miaow and Horakvlado / Wikimedia cc.

At liligo, we believe planning a trip should be an enjoyable experience, and our new iOS app was optimized with that goal. Redesigned and with improved functionality, it’s pleasing to the eye and more powerful than ever – and as easy to use as a toaster! From the comfort of your sofa or daydreaming at work, it’s never been simpler to find the cheapest flight tickets. It will take you all but a few seconds to:

1. Search simultaneously for flights from hundreds of travel agency and airline websites, incl. 70 low-cost carriers
2. Sort the results with our smart filters
3. Purchase your ticket directly on the booking site

Download the new liligo app for iOS now!

It’s the little things that count

Our price alerts are a great tool to monitor the price of your favourite routes. Whenever those prices drop, you’ll get a notification, making it easier than ever to snatch the best price.

Smart sorting is another handy little feature: it calculates the best compromise between price and trip duration. With us, you’ll always know when it’s worth having a slightly longer layover.

Of course we know how annoying it is when unexpected fees and charges drive up your ticket price at the end of a booking. That’s why our prices are always final and include all fees and taxes.

And there’s more!

We always strive to make this app as good as it can be and thus give you the best possible user experience. We’ll soon add hotels and hire cars to our price comparison.

Android users certainly shouldn’t feel neglected!

We’re working on improving our Android app at this very moment. So, are you ready to take liligo on the road?

Christmas is almost upon us. At least in the west, that is: most Orthodox churches celebrate the holiday on 6 or 7 January, not 25 December. Indeed, while Christmas may have become the most globalized holiday, but some quirks remain in the way people celebrate around the world.

Kentucky Fried Chicken

Believe it or not, KFC chicken is the traditional Christmas dinner in Japan. The American fast food chain landed there in 1974 and successful launched with a Christmas campaign. It was so successful the Japanese now associate fried chicken with the Christmas holidays – an example of good marketing if we ever saw one! Ten times more KFC chicken is consumed in the Christmas holidays. It can even be found on Japan Airlines in-flight menus in the run up to Christmas, so if you’re taking a flight to Tokyo this Christmas you’ll get to enjoy some fried wings on-board.

The defecator

I’ve never noticed this figure in the nativity before! The Caganer is a crouching figurine that looks normal from the front, but is actually exposing his buttocks and displaying a small brown deposit beneath … charming! In Catalonia, this figure is a common part of nativity scenes. It entered Catalonian culture in the baroque period. Theories abound for the origin of this odd tradition, but none has been proven. Plausibly, the Caganer is fertilizing the Earth with his feces. In any cases, it is an intriguing addition to Baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph.

Spiders and cobwebs

The traditional decorations on the Christmas tree in Poland are spiders and cobwebs. If you find a spider web on the tree on Christmas morning, it is supposed to bring happiness. The tradition is inspired by a fairy tale, in which a poor widow can’t afford Christmas tree decorations, but awakes on Christmas morning to a beautiful tree decorated with golden cobwebs.

Keep on rolling, rolling, rolling to mass

In Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, people roller-skate to mass on the morning of Christmas Eve. Some roads in the city are even closed to ensure the skaters get to church safe and sound. The origins of this tradition are lost in the mists of time, but some suggest it might have started as an alternative to sledding. Makes sense considering daytime temperatures in December in Caracas are typically in the high 20s!

All the single ladies…

In the Czech Republic single women perform an unusual ritual on Christmas Eve. Standing with their backs towards the front door, they throw a shoe over their shoulder – if it lands with the toe pointing to the door they will be married in the following year.

Barbie/braai on the beach

Whilst we’re wrapping up warm and hibernating, December can be seriously hot in the southern hemisphere. It comes as no surprise that many Australians, Brazilians and South Africans spend their Christmas Day on the beach. In Sydney, a visit to Bondi Beach is a must.

Photos: plastAnka, davidjlee, SMN, KrisFricke / Flickr cc.

1. Shop for something unusual at the Thieves’ Market

Locals love the Feira da Ladra, held every Tuesday and Saturday in Alfama. If you’re a connoisseur of all things vintage, then there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself a new treasure to take home with you after your holiday in Lisbon. You could easily walk away with an entirely new outfit for under €20.

• How to get there: The market is 150 metres to the north from the Santa Apolonia metro and railway station.

2. Taste a bit of Tease

Lisbon is home to some amazing bakeries. While tourists flock to the famous Pastéis de Belém for the custard tarts, there are so many other bakeries also making lovely cakes and tarts to taste. In Barrio Alto, you’ll find Tease, an alternative bakery making “cakes with attitude”.

• How to get there: Just down the street from the beautiful Praça das Flores (Flower Square), Tease is a 10-minute walk from Rato metro station. Several bus routes also pass in the vicinity.

3. Ajuda

Ajuda is one of Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhoods and doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Don’t miss the Jardim Botânico da Ajuda (Portugal’s oldest botanical garden), the Palácio Nacional da Ajuda (amazing neoclassical architecture with a museum) and the Tapada da Ajudo (100+ hectares of parkland).

• How to get there: Tram 18 to the Cç. da Ajuda – Palácio stop

4. Enjoy a glass of ginjinha

While Portugal has been famed for its wine for centuries, it’s really the port that put the country on the European wine map. If you’re after something a little different, you have to try another famous drink by the locals: ginjinha is a delicious cherry liqueur. Head to Bairo Alto after 10pm for a taste of their nightlife and enjoy a glass (or two) of this drink.

• How to get there: There’s no better way to make your way up to the Bairo Alto than in one of the two old funiculars: the Ascensor da Glória goes from Restauradores metro station, the Ascensor da Bica climbs up the hill from Rua de São Paulo.

5. Stop by the Doll Hospital

Without a doubt one of the weirdest shops in Lisbon, the Doll Hospital (Hospital de Bonecas) is easy to miss along the Praça da Figueira, but worth a visit – especially if you have a dear doll that needs repairing. This shop has been mending dolls and toys since 1830 and is part shop, part curiosity cabinet, part museum!

• How to get there: Rossio metro station and the tram stop Martim Moniz (tram 28) are a short walk away, and several buses serve the Praça da Figueira.

6. Explore the coast by bike

In summer, all the locals escape the city and hit the coast to cool down. The bike trail to Cascais is beautiful and you’ll find free rental bikes at the station. Pick your ride for the day and explore the miles of flat bike trails going up and down the coast. A train ticket will set you back around €10 return.

• How to get there: Trains to Cascais leave from the Cais do Sodré railway station.

7. Fronteira Palace

This is one of the most stunning little spots in the city (you can say that about a lot of places in Lisbon, but this one really takes the cake). The palace is located in Benfica, in the northwestern part of the city. It was built in 1640, and is still one of the most beautiful residences in Lisbon with 17th and 18th century decorative tiles, frescoed panels and oil paintings. This is one of those places that you hope to stumble upon while wandering the streets…

• How to get there: From the Jardim Zoológico metro station, take bus 770 to the Travessa de São Domingos stop.

Want to experience more cities off the beaten path? Check out our secret and unusual guides to Rome, London, Berlin and other destinations around the world.

Images: Thieves Market, Lisbon, Tomas Kohl, Jardim Botânico da Ajuda, Morgaine, A Ginjinha, Kelp, Ciclying through Cascais, Pedro Ribeiro Simões, Palacio Fronteira – Lisbon, kkmarals, Hospital de Bonecas Facebook Page

There are two sides to this travel myth, a top and a bottom, just like inside your mouth. First of all there are the horror stories of a handful of unfortunate individuals who swear that their dental work done right before their trip “ruined their holidays in Mexico”.

And then there those travellers who also had dental work done before their trips and didn’t feel a thing during their flight. So who’s right?

The low down:

Changes in altitude while on a flight may cause some minor discomfort for passengers who have recently had dental work (fillings, root canals, etc.) done. This is different for everyone, since it depends on their teeth sensitivity, how close the dental work was to a nerve and pain tolerance.

How to deal with it:

To help lessen the pain, take an ibuprofen or other pain reliever (following the instructions of your doctor) before your flight. The anti-inflammatory properties of the drug will help with any discomfort.

Another solution is to make sure that all your dental work is done one month to two weeks prior to your trip. If your dentist appointment is within a few days of flying, let your dentist know so that no procedures which might cause pain during air pressure changes are carried out. Changes in air pressure can also cause minor pain and discomfort to cavities and loose fillings.

Have you ever flown right after dental work? How did you feel during the flight? Let us know in the comments!

Travel myths are everywhere – we’re busting them one at a time.

Img: alistairhall, Flickr cc.

1. Water of Leith

Did you know that Edinburgh has a river? It’s not as mighty as the Thames but the Water of Leith carves its way through deep gorges as it travels from Pentland Hills to the sea at the port of Leith. There are public footpaths and cycleways that run alongside it, creating an ideal setting to explore Edinburgh’s wilder side. It’s a perfect way to escape the buzz of the city and enjoy some time outdoors in Scotland’s nature when you step off your flight to Edinburgh.

2. Royal Mile Gardens

Edinburgh has some amazing green spaces. You’re never too far from a park or garden when you’re in the Scottish capital. The best part is, plenty of them have amazing views of the city! For a secluded escape, try the Royal Mile “Secret Gardens” that are nestled behind the famous street’s high tenements. These gardens date back all the way to the 17th century and are the perfect spot to cosy up on a bench with a coffee and a book.

3. The Real Mary King’s Close

After you’re done at the gardens, all you need to do is go below the Royal Mile for our next unusual Edinburgh spot. The Real Mary Kings Close is a real labyrinth of small and hidden closes where people lived and worked until it was covered over for centuries, only to be opened again for guided tours in 2003. Today it is one of Edinburgh’s best tourist attractions and it’s worth every penny. The Close shows visitors a historically accurate interpretation of life in Edinburgh between the 16th and 19th centuries. It’s creepy, dark and haunted, so beware!

4. Grassmarket

Edinburgh really is a city of villages and if you’re looking for a new neighbourhood to explore, Grassmarket is a great spot in Edinburgh, located just south of Edinburgh Castle. It was redeveloped a few years ago and has a lovely pedestrian-friendly shopping area. Historically the area had a lot of public houses that the likes of Robert Burns and Wordsworth frequented. Today, it’s a hot spot for fashionable boutiques, bars and restaurants with a very charming medieval feel.

5. Cramond Island

Located about a mile out to sea is Cramond Island. It’s a tidal island so it’s easy enough to reach during low tide using the causeway. It’s the perfect place for a day trip, especially on a sunny summer day in Edinburgh, just make sure you get back before the tide rises! On the island you can find some old barracks and buildings from World War II.

6. Inchcolm Abbey

You’ll find this remarkable abbey on an island in the middle of the Firth of Forth. Inchcolm Abbey is one of the best preserved medieval abbeys in all of Scotland, and a must if you’re spending a few days in Edinburgh. It was constructed of sandstone and was originally used as an Augustinian priory. It’s one of the most well-preserved examples of monastic buildings in the British Isles. Take a look at the scrawling on the walls in the warming room, the traces left during the centuries by the monks who lived here.

7. Surgeons’ Hall

For a touch of weird, head to the Surgeons’ Hall Museum to take a look at its collection of medical oddities. It houses the collections of historic practitioners like Charles Bell and John Menzies Campbell. One of the collection’s highlights is a book made from the skin of the murderer William Burke. If you have a weak stomach, best avoid the collection of preserved tissues and organs!

Want to experience more cities off the beaten path? Check out our secret and unusual guides to Rome, London, Berlin and other destinations around the world.

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