As winter unfolds, we continue sharing the best from the ASTOM blogs – here is our February 2026 selection.
Expect inspiring stories, beautiful places, and new ideas for your upcoming travels.
How to move around in Dubai – metro, taxis and apps – best ways to save some money and time
By Kiril, Iskam da letya
Dubai is a beautiful city with a huge scale, not only in terms of construction, vision and investment, but also in terms of size and the territory it occupies. Dubai offers countless hotels and resorts, a huge number of tourist attractions and experiences, an incredible variety of opportunities for rest, entertainment and spending free time. All this, however, makes moving around the city no less interesting and complex challenge, especially for those who are visiting it for the first time. How we move around Dubai and our choice of transport can be crucial for how many of the places you want to visit and even more so, how much time, effort and money it will cost you.
Gradishte Landscape Historical Park near the village of Dolno Dryanovo
By Eli Ivanova, en.drumivdumi.com
Gradishte Historical Park is one of the most fascinating and mysterious places in the Rhodopes. Fascinating, because there’s nothing quite like it in Bulgaria – especially the remarkably shaped rock formation that resembles a human head. Mysterious, because it dates back to prehistoric times and much about it remains unknown.
The park is a prehistoric rock sanctuary set on a high hill, accessible only from the northwest. Scattered across the site are striking natural rock formations shaped like human heads, turtles, and other animals. Archaeologists have discovered traces of prehistoric and ancient cultures here. Visitors are also rewarded with beautiful panoramic views, and along the river below, several waterfalls can be seen.
Gradishte Landscape Historical Park is located about 20 kilometers east of Gotse Delchev, on the road to Satovcha, near the village of Dolno Dryanovo.
What do the mosaics from the museum complex „Episcopal Basilica of Philippopolis“ tell us – the largest and best-preserved mosaic ensemble from Early Christianity in Europe?
By Stefan, Photo Moments
How rich is your imagination?
Can you imagine 2,000 square meters of history? Not on paper, not on canvas, but on the floor where the first Christians of Philippopolis walked.
This is the Episcopal Basilica of Philippopolis – home to the largest and best-preserved in situ mosaic ensemble from this period on the continent! Over 2,000 square meters of masterpieces, laid with a precision that borders on magic. Every detail here is a message. Every bird, every ornament, every shape and every thread is a symbol of hope.
This is not just a floor. This is the artistic chronology of the human quest for perfection.
What do the mosaics from the museum complex „Episcopal Basilica of Philippopolis“ tell?
The Eagle’s Nest – Hitler’s villa that makes you silent
By Petya, Travel with History
The Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus) is located high in the Bavarian Alps, above the town of Berchtesgaden, at an altitude of 1,834 meters. Its location alone suggests that this is no ordinary tourist attraction. Built as a gift for Adolf Hitler’s 50th birthday, the place has a difficult and controversial history. Today, it does not glorify the past, but reminds of it. And that is precisely where its power lies – incredible beauty, combined with dark memories that make you think. And that is exactly where the contrast comes in. Because no matter how beautiful it is, you know where you are. You also know who stood here. And that thought never leaves you. Eagle’s Nest is a place that doesn’t just let you enjoy it, it makes you think.
Riad Jona Marrakesh Review: Rooftop Views and What to Expect
By Hristina, CheckinAway
If you are visiting Morocco and looking for a traditional riad in the medina of Marrakesh, then Riad Jona might be a good place to book for your accommodation. When it comes to choosing accommodation in Marrakesh, you are often spoilt for choice, and this riad represents a very traditional style of Marrakesh accommodation focused on atmosphere rather than hotel-style luxury.
Riad Jona is a traditional riad in Marrakech, tucked away in the heart of the city, offering a calm base away from the constant buzz. While it’s marketed as a 5-star riad, in reality it feels more like a comfortable mid-to-upper range stay with charm — not flawless, but pleasant enough for a few nights.
Thailand for the First Time: A Complete Beginner’s Guide
By Hrisi Blagoeva, Roads from the Notes
Planning a trip to Thailand can be both exciting and a little confusing. We know that excitement comes with a myriad of questions: What is the local currency? Cash or card? How do we get around Bangkok and Phuket? And, of course, how do we not miss out on some of the amazing Thai cuisine? This article is your first-time guide to Thailand, based entirely on personal experience. Whether you choose an organized tour or organize your own 4 days in Phuket, 2 days in Bangkok or a tour of Northern Thailand, good preparation is the key to an unforgettable adventure.