we support knowledge driven holiday decisions .com
2016 - 2017
GEMIUS WINTER TRIP
Page 2
Are you wondering which places you should visit during this winter holiday season? We surely do! As Gemius Team, working in offices all around Europe, we came together to prepare something special for you. We are taking you with us for an amazing Winter Gemius Trip around Europe. Gemius employees, from different countries, recommended unique places that might be of interest to you to visit. Enjoy! Your Gemius Team
Page 3
POLAND TATRA MOUNTAINS AND WIELICZKA SALT MINE
O
ne of the most popular destinations in Poland in the winter season are Tatra Mountains. Those are the only Polish alpine-type mountains, with their highest summit Rysy (2499 m.a.s.l.). Each year the region hosts numbers of tourists wanting to rest in these beautiful, calming surroundings. The Tatra National Park with numerous hiking routs and diversity of flora and fauna gives wide scope of possibilities to
those who appreciate spending time close to the nature, while the ski resorts give a great opportunity to rest. The region’s accommodation base is impressive, including the capital of Polish Tatra – Zakopane- and many charming villages, e.g. Białka Tatrzańska, Murzasichle and Bukowina Tatrzańska, where you can find a spa resort with thermal baths. The Tatra mountaineers developed their own tradition and
even dialect- so visiting the region would be also a good opportunity to get to know their unique cuisine, customs and culture. About 100 km north of Zakopane you can find “Wieliczka” Salt Mine, inscribed on the UNESCO’s World Cultural and Natural Heritage List. Founded in 13th century, it developed almost into an underground city. Today it offers to its visitors both unique beauty and several hundred years of history.
“Wieliczka is the true Hall of the Mountain King. A visitor walks through breathtaking, magnificent salt caves. Light is refracting on the walls and sparkling on mysterious deep green underground lakes. Miners not only carved kilometres of tunnels, but decorated them with numerous sculptures and art. Even the whole church is carved from salt inside the halls - which reminds the temples in Petra. There are also underground restaurant and hotel if someone wants to spend more time in place really distant from everyday buzz.” Jakub Wysoczański Country Manager Poland
Page 4
LITHUANIA TRAKAI
T
he old town of Trakai – which is extremely popular with the residents of Lithuania and foreign guests – is situated west of Vilnius between the hills, forests and lakes. This town is famous for its picturesque landscape and the legendary Trakai Castle in the middle of the lake. Today, Trakai attracts visitors to a wonderful place offering refuge from a hectic city life, with walks around the beautiful area or (if lucky) on the frozen lake around the Castle.
I can’t imagine my winter without a trip to Trakai and a long walks around the Castle on the frozen lake. The feeling is like to be in a fairy tale! You will never forget this view.”
Gryta Balseryte Regional Manager Baltics
Page 5
LATVIA “Sigulda is by far the most visited small town in Latvia during winter for those who want to escape from the city noises and just enjoy unspoiled nature. If you visit Sigulda in autumn, there still is a chance to take a ride across the river Gauja in Baltic’s only cablecar and enjoy the view. For daredevils, this is also the only place in Europe where bungee jumping is organized from a 43 m high cable-car”
Linda Egle Country Manager Latvia
SIGULDA
T
his city, with one of the most beautiful landscapes in Latvia, called “the Latvian Switzerland”, is located only 53km from the capital of Latvia - Riga. It becomes the main attraction site for tourists and locals mostly during autumn, when the impressive
color change of trees, grass and other flora in Sigulda is a ‘Must See’ activity. But during winter it transforms into the main Latvian ski resort – with fully equipped skiing, slalom and sledge tracks. You can also hurtle down an Olympic bobsled track at 80km per hour, if you dare to!
Page 6
ESTONIA VÄIKE-MUNAMÄE SKI RESORT
T
he beauty of the Estonian winter attracts a of crowd local and international admirers. During this time of the year you’ll find Estonia at its most charming and can head out to the country for a lungful of fresh crisp air. The popular
Väike-Munamäe Ski Resort, or Munakas, was reopened in 2012. The height difference of the hill with two T-bar lifts is 70 m with the longest slope around 450 m. In winter you can restore your energy spended on skiing by warming up at the fireplace!
Ülle Marie Kalda Country Manager Estonia
“As I am from the Southern part of Estonia I was born literally on skis. All my childhood, depending on the season, was spent skiing or running up and down and around those beautiful “little” mountains. Väike Munamägi ski resort is a perfect place to spend quality time on the fresh air with friends and family.“
Page 7
UKRAINE DRAGOBRAT
D
ragobrat is the highest ski resort in Ukraine. It lies at an altitude of 1400 meters above the sea and has everything you need for having fun: ski school for beginners, slopes suitable for freeride - a total of 20 routes of different difficulty levels! After a day of skiing cozy kolybas (local restaurants) can serve you delicious Hutsul food and those who like SPAs, can visit sauna or take a bath in a large vat on the fire with a beautiful Carpathian landscapes view.
Lesya Prus Country Manager Ukraine, Russia& Kazakhstan
“Dragobrat is the most extreme ski resort in Ukraine. It is difficult to reach, the infrastructure is not developed a lot, but all the shortcomings are compensated by the extreme off-piste. Skiing between trees is one of the brightest experiences. True lovers of extreme sports will love it.�
Page 8
BELARUS BIALOWIEZA FOREST
I
f you decide to travel to Belarus, do not miss the opportunity to see its almost unspoilt corner called Bialowieza Forest, home to many wild animals, including endangered bisons. In the National
Park you can visit the Nature Museum and open-air territories with animals. Also Bialowieza Forest pleases its guests with huge Santa Claus residence (in the area of 15 hectares) – a town
made of wood. There is a pond with a fancy bridge, mill, animals from fairytales and off course Santa Claus with his team. ď ŠA nice bonus for residents of some European countries is the ability to get there without a visa.
Page 9
RUSSIA LAKE BAIKAL
L
ake Baikal is the world’s deepest and purest lake and is a great place to visit in the winter. The main activity here is travelling on the frozen lake, either on foot, on skates, by hovercraft or even by car. The thickness of the ice reaches between 1.5 and 2 metres and so it is quite safe to travel on. Many
types of winter sports are possible around Baikal, including dog sleighing, riding on snowmobiles, skiing and skating. In addition horseriding, fishing trips, cross country skiiing and excursions around ecological routes are also possible here.
“Baikal is famous for its unforgettable nature. To get inspired with its beauty and wildness, I would recommend to watch some National Geographic documentaries. But, of course, a picture paints a thousand words.” Olena Gadzhuk Marketing&PR Specialist Ukraine
Page 10
So... ...where should you plan your next adveture?
Page 11
ROMANIA THE BRAN CASTLE (DRACULA’S CASTLE)
T
he Bran Castle, wellknown as the Dracula’s Castle, is one of the most beautiful and impressive castles in Romania. It is surrounded by ancient forests, mountains and mystery. It is extremely popular among tourists because it is the
home of the famous and scary character Dracula from Bram Stoker’s book. That’s why it is so easy to get caught up in the supernatural tale. The Castle is situated near Bran and in the vicinity of Braşov. It can be visited by tourists and serves as a
“I strongly recommend you to visit the Dracula’s Castle especially if you are into vampires and all sorts of supernatural beings. At the Castle, besides the chance of meeting Dracula, ghosts or vampires, you can enjoy the amazing mountain landscape and get to know a lot about ancient Romanian traditions. Also, if you plan a trip here, you better schedule it during the winter time - everything gets even spookier.”
Madalina Ungureanu Marketing&PR Specialist Romania
museum, displaying art and furniture collected by Queen Marie. Also, near the castle you can find a small open-air museum park exhibiting traditional Romanian peasant structures (cottages, barns, etc.) from across the country.
Page 12
MOLDOVA CRICOVA’S WINE CELLARS
C
ricova’s wine cellars are the second largest in Moldova, spreading on over 100 km. The winery is situated at 15 km from Chișinău and the wine cellars are actually tunnels carved in limestone. The tunnels were built on the 15th century and around 1945 they were turned into a large subterranean complex of wine roads. The tunnels create a perfect environment to store wines, where the temperature is about 12C all year round. This is not the only special thing about Cricova’s wine cellars, each of the tasting rooms is decorated with typical Moldovan artefacts and national instruments.
“Whenever you visit Moldova you must go to Cricova Cellars. Besides the excelent wine that you can taste and buy, you can also have a great time with your friends and family because the surrounding is amazing. I strongly recommend you to visit Cricova Cellars during the summer season for even a greater experience.”
Doina Radicof Digital Marketing Consultant Romania&Moldova
Page 13
BULGARIA BANSKO
N
o matter whether you are passionate about skiing or about cultural sightseeing, Bansko, located on the mountain of Pirin,would be a perfect match of your needs as a tourist. Bansko’s ski center consists of 75 kilometers of properly
secured ski runs. You can make use of the cabin lift which carries skiers from the city up to Banderishka Polyana. 100% of the ski runs are equipped with artificial snow machines which ensure sufficient snow cover from December to May. Walking around
Bansko, a visitor will surely feel the unique spirit of the town and its authentic atmosphere. And if this is not enough, don’t miss an opportunity to taste the amazing Bulgarian cuisine in so many traditional restaurants.
“Several events take place in Banso every year, so you may have more than one reason to get there. Try to resist the temptation to go to some luxury, modern restaurant and better stick to the traditional places where the meal is irresistible.“
Blagovesta Yordanova Marketing&PR Executive Bulgaria
SEVERAL EVENTS TAKE PLACE IN BANSO EVERY YEAR, SO YOU MAY HAVE MORE THAN ONE REASON TOGET THERE. TRY TO RESIST THE TEMPTATION TO GO TO SOME LUXURY, MODERN RESTAURANT AND BETTER STICK TO THE TRADITIONAL
Page 14
TURKEY CAPPADOCIA
W
hy Cappadocia in winter? Well, once you enjoyed vivid seasides during summer season, which Turkey is surrounded by, it’s finally the time for some mild cool climate with spectacular natural
historical sight. One of the best options to enjoy the view from a different angle are hot air balloons! Or how about feeling eternally free with the mild wind on your hair, while riding horses? Sounds marvelous, right? We thought so!
Idil Kesten Country Manager Turkey
“I’ve been there a long time ago, but within this period of time, Cappadocia offers so many events and activities! Such as horse riding at the sunset, pottery making or enjoying alternative music at festivals and so much more.”
Page 15
MACEDONIA MAVROVO
O
ne of the best places in the Republic of Macedonia for your winter holiday is Mavrovo – a village located on the slopes of Bistra mountain. Mavrovo’s National Park includes also Korab, Deshat and Shar mountains and it has been declared a protected territory since 1948 because of its
unique charm. Called after the eponymous Mavrovo Lake, the place offers an exciting experience for skiers from November to April and it disposes 11 ski lifts and 2 cable cars with capacity of 11 000 passengers per hour. Mavrovo’s ski resort provides perfect conditions for freeride skiing and the best news is that you
“My visit in Mavrovo, Macedonia, went much beyond all my expectations for spending a good time. The landscapes around are magnificent, indeed, and if you are into hiking and mountains, the place will surely beat all your expectation. Actually, Mavrovo is a popular weekend destination in Macedonia not only in the winter. It’s a mustsee while being in Macedonia.” Vasilena Stefanova Office Assistant Bulgaria
can rent your full ski equipment for less than 4 euro per day. For tourists looking for a low key place of a natural enchantment and relax - the Mavrovo park will surprise you with its springs, caves, waterfalls and with its fabulous flora and fauna.
Page 16
ALBANIA PROKLETIJE
D
id you know that the famous touristic Albanian Alps are also known by their Slavic name Prokletije which means wickedness and it must be an obvious indicator how the natives considered those mountains in the past? Nowadays, however, the Albanian Alps are the most famous Albanian place perfect for a winter holiday.
The villages of Thethi and Valbonë and the areas around them constitute two separate National Parks. Tourists getting there especially because of the ski experience may be surprised how simple is skiing in Valbonë. You just take your ski, hike up and then ski down – no lift necessary and sincerely, not available.
There are no crowds either and you may find a certain inspiration for your creativity. Edith Durham, for instance, extensively visited the area and was inspired to write an entire book about the region and its customs.
Page 17
MONTENEGRO KOLAŠIN
M
ontenegro is a versatile country, with Mediterranean coasts and mountainous highlands within miles of each other. Kolašin, the city in the north of Montenegro, is the top destination for highland tourism in this beautiful country. Founded by Turks in the 17th century, this small city is one of must visit places in Montenegro. Kolašin is located at 954 m of altitude and offers
excellent vacation as in winter as well as summer. Because of altitude and favorable clime Kolasin is considered and air spa. A special attraction for tourists represents the Biogradsko Lake located in the National Park “Biogradska gora” which is one of three preserved virgin forest of Europe. The Biogradsko Lake is at 1094 m of altitude with many walking paths around it. If you are tired of the fast pace of life,
urbanized regions of your everyday life, then it is the right time for relaxation and revitalization of body and mind. Whether you are interested in adventure activities such as trekking, hiking, rafting, riding bicycles, horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, rock climbing, snowshoeing, skiing and snowboarding, or you just want to enjoy discovering nature and spending time with family and friends in the mountains - Kolašin is destination for you.
Page 18
Have you started to feel the winter sports spirit already? Not yet?
Page 19
SERBIA KOPAONIK
K
opaonik is the largest ski center in Serbia, one of the best centers in this part of Europe. It is one of the most beautiful mountains in Serbia. Kopaonik ski resort has about 55 miles of trails arranged for alpine
skiing and 18 km cross-country skiing. In addition to trails for alpine and Nordic skiing, ski center Kopaonik has been edited and Snowboarding park. Kopaonik is a favorite winter resort among young people for good
entertainment and night life. Anyone who is looking for a great time, with an active holiday in the snow, is at the right place. So, if you’re searching for some great nightlife to compliment your active holiday on the snow, look no further.
“If you are looking for ski center that will give you a good addition to skiing and provide good entertainment outside the slopes we are sure that Kopaonik is right destination for you. We know that if you chose Kopaonik it will happen to you love at first sight, just as it happened to us.”
Ana Besedić Finance and Legal Manager Serbia
Page 20
BOSNIA&HERZEGOVINA BJELAŠNICA
B
osnia and Herzegovina is a country of beautiful mountains, where Bjelašnica remains unique with spacious slopes, which are under snow cover for more than six months a year. The mountain was the site of several attractive alpine ski competitions during the 14th Winter Olympic Games in 1984. Tourism offer in Bjelašnica is supported with
various winter events and contests, shows) such as Red Bull competition), night skiing but also arranged excursions to vivid Bjelašnica villages. Those who want to avoid crowd on the ski tracks, will find peace and relaxation in a walk towards the peaceful mountain villages with the untouched nature and fascinating panorama.
Page 21
CROATIA ZAGREB, FROM 26TH NOVEMBER 2016 TO 8TH JANUARY 2017
A
dvent in Zagreb won the award of the best Christmas market in 2016 and it’s time for you to experience that magic. The city streets and squares, step by step, offer entertainment on the go as also traditional delicacies and beverages that will take you through a Christmas fairy tale.
Must see places are - firstly the Ice Park on King Tomislav square - ice skating rink, selected food and beverages, as well as music events. Secondly “Fooling around” - an innovative and modern cultural and gastronomic event, with a recognizable design and a relaxed atmosphere on Tomićeva & Kurelčeva Streets.
“Smell of the old times moves between historical buildings in Zagreb, mixing with the modern day rush. Soul of this city, its parks and it fountains, leaves no visitor indifferent, and for sure there are not many of those not feeling the urge to come back one day.”
Milan Kovačević Regional Manager Balkans
And last but not least - Zrinjevac a park with an old music pavilion offering musical treats, Zagreb traditional specialties and hot chocolate or mulled wine.
Page 22
SLOVENIA LAKE BLED
A
popular tourist destination for centuries, where a classic medieval castle overlooks the waters, offering views of the mountain peaks and local country villages, while a church is seemingly superimposed in the middle of the lake, constructed upon an island in the center. In the colder months the village of Bled seems to simply close down, which is a compelling reason for a perfect postcard photo opportunity. If you enjoy a tranquil piece of solitude - it is the perfect place to visit during winter vacation.
“A must see location for everyone visiting Slovenia. In case you don’t have much time for touring around you should not skip two attractions: bring sport shoes for a walk around the lake, this way you can get real zoom to idyllic nature surrounding city & next to coffee or tea order youself traditional cream cake, a symbol of Bled. Although you can buy it elsewhere, those from Bled smell and taste differently, believe me, you will not regret the choice!“
Vesna Gordon Board of Directors Gemius HQ
Page 23
HUNGARY VISEGRÁD
V
isegrád - is a castle town, on the right bank of Danube. It is famous for the remains of the Early Renaissance summer palace of King Matthias Corvinus of Hungary and the medieval citadel. You can also take a tour if you are there in the Zugfőzde Palinka museum, taste our national drink and learn
about it. There are also parallel two toboggan runs on the hill-side VISEGRAD Nagyvillám: one is the summer toboggan run, which is only without the snow and rain in the operation, the other is Alpine Coaster, which works all the year through each day. And there is the Hotel Silvanus with amazing view to the river Danube.
Réka Vanyolai Analyst Hungary
“To get the most out of a weekend getaway Visegrád is the perfect solution for me. As you reach the castle on the top of the high hill, you can look down to the winding river, the Danube, which is purely a spectacular view and within a minute your mind, your body and soul freshens up.”
Page 24
SLOVAKIA JASNÁ, NÍZKE TATRY
J
asná is the largest ski arena in Slovakia with great conditions for winter sports. The resort is located in the mountains Low Tatras which is part of the national park NAPANT. Low Tatras massif trails over the middle of Slovakia in the length of 82 km the eastwest direction. The length of the
winter season is usually from the beginning of December to the end of April. There are operating 30 cable cars and lifts with transport capacity more than 30 000 persons per hour at Chopok. Modern snowmaking system in the length of 30 km offers the snow guarantee for minimum 5 months in a year. The wild ride
“Whether you are with friends, family, expert or beginner skier - the resort Jasná Nízke Tatry offers activities and beautiful environment that you will love. The resort offers 49 km of perfectly snowed up slopes with different difficulty, suitable for beginners, families with children, advanced skiers and also to organize world class competitions.“
lovers will be able to enjoy the free ride zones in great snow park, you can ski in the evening on the illuminated slope at Biela Put.
Luboš Ivanič Country Manager Slovakia
Page 25
CZECH REPUBLIC PEC POD SNĚŽKOU
P
ec pod Sněžkou is not only a picturesque mountain town in the valley of the Úpa river, but also an important tourist and sports centre. The area in Pec is suitable for professional and recreational skiing and snowboarding. It offers 12.5 km of ski slopes and a number of ski attractions such as Funline with banked curves and an 8 m long tunnel, or the giant slalom/downhill ski track with time measuring. Here you can also find Funpark and Snowpark with obstacles and jumps. Night skiing under floodlights is available on the broadest slopes in the country.
Michal Fejk Country Manager Czech Republic
“Ski resort Pec – is the one of the largest ski resort in the Czech Republic. Thanks to its location in the heart of the Krkonoše national park, 5 km from polish border, the town is the ideal place for combination of experience and relaxation. It offers amazing 41 km of slopes on one ski pass, I can recommend it for young people as well as for families as it is children friendly.”
Page 26
FRANCE CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC
C
hamonix-Mont-Blanc is a commune in the HauteSavoieregion in southeastern France.Situated near the massive peaks of the Aiguilles Rouges and most notably the Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix is one of the oldest ski resorts in France and is known as the “gateway to the European Cascades.” It in-
cludes the north side of the summit of Mont Blanc, and therefore the peak itself is part of Chamonix. The Chamonix commune is well known and loved by skiers and mountain enthusiasts of all types. It is among the tree most known mountain sports destinations in the world.
Vibor Kalogjera New Business Development Director
“From all the breathtaking places around Europe Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is one of the most stunning ones. A place to be for all winter sports enthusiast to create unforgettable memories!”
Page 27
GEMIUS IS A RESEARCH&TECHNOLOGY COMPANY, PROVIDING DATA, BUSINESS CONSULTATIONS, SOLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS IN THE AREA OF ONLINE BUSINESS. WE OFFER COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTIONS FOR E-COMMERCE, PUBLISHERS, ADVERTISING AGENCIES AND ADVERTISERS.
18 years
300+ professionals always ready to help
in Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia
2 500+
450 000+ websites
over 12 000
of experience in the online industry
satisfied customers
measured during the year
over 30 markets
Internet campaigns monitored during every month
we support knowledge driven business decisions .com