When the weather starts heating up, it's time to cool off in refreshing nature pools and stop for a gelato afterward, right? One thing I love about Vicenza is that you have a lot of scenic places with clear, refreshing water right in your backyard. Here's my guide on places to go outdoor swimming near Vicenza where you can find all the coolest (literally) nature pools and waterfalls.

Read more

One of the things on my bucket list while living in Vicenza was to have an epic treat yo'self staycation. It presented a problem though because I kind of had this staycation on a pedestal. I knew it was going to be on the pricey side so I wanted to make sure I got value for my money and I wanted it to be an epic experience. The pressure to find the perfect one was sky-high. After a lot of research, here's what I had it narrowed down to. I didn't stay at all of these but wanted to share my top 5 list in case the one I stayed at isn't available when you visit or you'd prefer one of the others. Here are 5 awesome spa hotels near Vicenza to help you narrow down the choices.

Read more

Let's not pretend that this is all there is to do in Stockholm. But, since there has been somewhat of a Viking theme on my blog, I'm following the trend, OK? So here's a guide to some of the awesome Viking things to do in Stockholm. I visited over New Year's and these are some of the things I enjoyed, as well as a couple that are on my list but I didn't get to see. There's a mix of everything from museums, to feasts, to authentic souvenirs, and if you're a bit of a Viking nerd (like me) I think you'll enjoy it. Also, this is a post I decided to do for fun after visiting Sweden for a family holiday, so these are some iPhone photos from my own collection.

Read more

It's one of the most popular destinations in Italy. And, while I think it's generally pretty overrated, I think it's absolutely worth visiting to see for yourself, swim at the beaches, eat all the seafood pasta, and buy everything with a lemon print. Today I'm sharing my top 10 tips for visiting the Amalfi Coast so you know what to expect and how to prepare for your vacation.

Read more

Look, between the hiked up prices, crowds, and commercialized beaches, I'll be the first to admit that I think the Amalfi Coast is one of the more overrated places in Italy. In saying that, it's definitely worth a visit and also well worth visiting the nearby island of Capri. For me, I knew I didn't want to spend the day walking around the island in the heat of the day so I looked into boat tours. Today I want to share my experience and answers to whether a private boat tour of Capri is worth it or not.

Read more

Are you dreaming of a weekend in the rolling hills of Tuscany? It's really easy to make that dream happen if you're based in Vicenza because it's just a hop, skip, and a jump away. Perfect for a weekend or long weekend away. While I was looking over some of my posts, I realized I had never created a guide on some of the fun things to do. So, here's a guide with some things to do near Rufina when you spend a weekend in Tuscany. These are perfect for when you stay at my favorite agriturismo. Of course, the details are included and the hosts are super knowledgable on the area, so they'll be able to suggest even more ideas.

Read more

If you need to get out of the house but don't know where to start, I've gotchu. Here's a guide to some easy hikes near Vicenza that are both kid and dog-friendly. These are great to get you started on your adventures when you first move to Vicenza because most are fairly close, then you can go further into the mountains for even more outdoor adventures.

Read more

Coming to you today with another easy day trip idea. I like that it's something a little different to add variety to your adventures - not that mountains ever get old, but it's fun to keep things different and throw in a gorge every now and then, right? This one's got an easy hike, water to cool off in, and a pretty neat gorge to see. I read that it was called the Grand Canyon of Italy and, while I feel like that's overstating it a bit, it's still a beautiful place to visit. Here's a practical guide on how to hike to Brent De L'Art in Belluno, Italy.

Read more

Today's guide is a slightly lesser-known Sardinian adventure. It's a small, private beach where you can see a unique treat from nature. Here's my guide on how to get to Elefanti Beach with everything you need to know to plan your adventure. I've also added my other Sardinia travel guides at the end, so you're all set to plan your trip!

Read more

One thing I wish I knew earlier while I was living in Italy is just how easy it is to get to Sardinia. And also just how beautiful it is. It is easily my favorite part of Italy, closely followed by the Dolomites. Whatever you do, don't wait as long as I did to plan a visit, especially if you love the beach. Here's my guide on how to spend a weekend in northern Sardinia to prepare you for your trip. It's got you covered with tips on how to get there, where to stay, and of course where to find the best beaches.

Read more

I've got another awesome beach in Sardinia for you today. It's got gorgeous baby blue water, a fun hike to get there, and that 'out in the wild' feeling. I mean that in the sense that it's not an overly commercialized beach with restaurants and beach umbrellas to rent. It's just a beach on a beautiful island. Here's a guide on how to hike to Cala Napoletana with options for two different trails to get there. One is straightforward and easy, and one is a little more adventurous so there's something for everyone.

Read more

Need a place to go swimming but want something a little prettier than the Venice beaches? Here's a guide to some of my favorite places to swim at Lago di Garda. These are all based on being easy day trips from Vicenza, so they're focused on the eastern half of the lake. If you just want to get away from Vicenza for some sunshine and swimming, these are great options but of course if you want to drive a little further you could also drive to the other side of the lake.

Read more

Do you like electric blue water and a little adventure? Well you're going to love this one. Here's my guide on how to get to Cala Coticcio in Sardinia. I went here with my husband on our family holiday this year and just loved it. It's a little rugged and involves a hike to get there, but this guide will have you prepared to make the whole adventure run smoothly.

Read more

If you're sweltering in the summer heat, maybe a waterfall adventure is on the cards. The Cascate del Silan hike is a nearby one that's a perfect spot to cool off while still getting out and about. Here's a full hiking guide with everything you need to know to plan your day out.

Read more

It's iconic, super photogenic, and makes for an awesome outdoor adventure in northern Italy. Here's a guide for the Tre Cime hike with everything you need to know to plan your hiking adventure. I've added a bunch of tips for doing the hike, visiting the caves, and added links to more hikes in the area so you'll be all set for a fun outing.

Read more

Welcome back to another episode of places to visit while you're in Italy. This one is an interesting one because I have used the products but never actually got my butt over to the factory to take a tour. Finally, last week, I ventured out on a little solo outing and I can't believe I didn't go sooner. Here's my guide on how to take a tour of an olive oil factory in Italy and what to expect when you're there.

Read more

I don't know if it's the sunshine and blue skies, or the insanely gorgeous views, or maybe the wine, but there's something rejuvenating about a trip to Tuscany. Luckily for us, it's only not too far away and makes for a great 4-day weekend getaway. I just got back from another family weekend there to explore a new area of the region and I'm excited to share this dreamy agriturismo in Saturnia with you. Here's all the information you need to plan your own visit and, as always, if you have any questions just let me know.

Read more

Picture this. Natural rock 'hot tubs' filled with bright blue thermal water and waterfalls cascading between them. Seems pretty sweet, right? Well, in the name of research, I went there and I'm here to bring you a real talk guide with everything you need to know about how to plan a visit to the Saturnia hot springs in Tuscany. AKA probably the most picturesque thermal pools ever.

Read more

What do we do when life throws us lemons? Make limoncello, right? Seems legit. In today's post, I'm happy to be able to share a fantastic local business where you can find the best limoncello in Italy. I'm talking high quality, pure limoncello from a family run business where you can also take a tasting tour and learn about the entire process. Here's all the information you need to book your visit which, in my opinion, is a must-do while you're living in Vicenza.

Read more

In my opinion, this is one of the more overhyped and overrated sights. *Waits to be struck down by lightning.* Still, it's cool to see and one of those things that is worth a quick visit if you are visiting or living in the area. Here's a guide on how to plan a visit to the Sanctuary Of Madonna Della Corona in Verona.

Read more

Mountain hike - check. Awesome views - check. Full-day adventure - check. Mountain cows - check. This hike has got it all. Here's a detailed guide on how to hike Cima Portule in Asiago with everything you need to know to plan your adventure. It's a popular hike that makes for a great day trip when you just want to get away from it all and climb a mountain. Everyone has those days, right?

Read more

A mountain hike, epic cliff views, WWI trenches, and tunnels - the Sentiero Monte Cengio has everything. It's a little tricky to write about because there are so many hikes in the area, options on how to get to the top of the mountain, and detours along the way. Much more than what I've listed in this guide. It's my intention to give you a few options, and then you at least have an idea of what to expect and a couple of ways of doing the hike but just know there is more out there.

Read more

When you stand on the Normandy beaches nowadays, it's hard to imagine a war going on somewhere that's seemingly so peaceful. Similarly, when you're in the gorgeous mountains of northern Italy, it's difficult to imagine a war going on there. It is, however, a historic part of the world where you can mix hiking and visiting old WWI sites. Here's a guide to the Sentiero del Forte hike, or the 'Path of the Fort' in English, to help you plan your hiking day out.

Read more

No Stairmaster? No problem! If you're looking for a thigh-burning outdoor workout, this post is for you. Today I'm sharing a guide for hiking the historic 4444 steps in Asiago. That's right, four thousand steps. It's a great option for when you want to push yourself but also spend some time in nature and enjoy the gorgeous mountains in Vicenza.

Read more

One of the cool things about living in Vicenza is the opportunity to hike in epic outdoor locations that are right in our backyard, and today's post is all about one of them. Here's a complete guide to the Ponte Avis hiking trail so that you'll be prepared for your outdoor adventure. It's an easy trail with a pretty epic suspension bridge that makes for something different to the usual hikes. I'm especially excited to be bringing you this one because it's been the first one since restrictions eased and I was so happy to be outdoors again. Hopefully, I'll have even more for you soon!

Read more

It's almost time to move again and I'm feeling a bit reflective. So, today I'm sharing a big guide on things to do in Vicenza and the surrounding areas. You might remember I posted a guide to public transport friendly day trips from Vicenza, which is mostly places to visit when you first arrive and are settling in and waiting for your car to arrive. Today's post is filled with more options for easy day trips when you have your car and want to get out and explore your new home. Of course, this is not an exhaustive list because there is so much to do here, but if you're new or looking for things to do, I hope it can give you some ideas to get started on your adventures. I've also added a printable list version for your fridge to help you organize your bucket list.

Read more

If you're planning a trip to Warsaw, you're going to want to add this unique museum to your itinerary. A whole museum for vodka might sound like a booze fest for functioning alcoholics, but it's actually a fascinating museum that shares the history of Polish vodka through interactive exhibits and tours. And, of course, there's a tasting session and cocktail bar there too. Here's a guide with everything you need to know to help you plan a visit to the Polish Vodka Museum in Warsaw.

Read more

Poland is a great destination for solo female travelers, especially if you are new to solo travel. It's easy to get around, fairly low risk for crime, most people speak English, and the food is amazing. I've already posted city guides for Kraków and Warsaw with more details on sightseeing and where to stay, and in today's post, I'm sharing a guide on solo female travel in Poland with planning tips to help you prepare for your visit.

Read more

If you don't already have Poland on your list of places to visit in Europe, you should. It's great for solo travelers, especially beginner solo travelers it's also budget-friendly, has amazing food, and there's a lot to see and do. Here's my guide on how to spend 2 days in Warsaw with loads of tips to help you plan an awesome visit. If you have more time to spend there, you could use this as a starter guide and/or extend it to spend more time in each place. But, if you only have two days, then this will help you see as much as possible while you're there.

Read more

It's the year 2020BL (before lockdown), and with the travel restrictions in place, I decided to explore some hikes in the local area. That only lasted for one hike because the next day the countrywide lockdown began. So I'm super grateful that my pack leader, Coco Chanel, and I were able to head out for this outing. Here's a guide on how to hike the Croce di Lumignano trail in Vicenza which is a great one when you want to stay close but still get out for an active adventure. I hope to have some more local outings to share with you once things go back to normal.

Read more

If you are planning to visit Krakow, let me take some of the work out of the planning process for you. Here's my guide on how to spend 3 days in Krakow with everything you need to know about planning an awesome visit. It's full of recommendations on where to stay, things to see and do, and the delicious food you don't want to miss.

Read more

If you've been planning a visit to Poland for longer than five seconds, you've probably already realized that Auschwitz is one of the most popular places to visit there. It is huge and over a million people a year visit to pay respect. In today's post, I'm sharing a guide to help you plan your visit with options on how to get to Auschwitz from Krakow, what to expect, and tips for the do's and don'ts.

Read more

Any Vikings fans here? I'm a big fan of the show and have loved finding Viking related experiences in places as I travel. So braid your hair and get your shield, because today I'm sharing 6 places to visit if you love the show Vikings. These should give you some ideas of where to go to light up the Viking nerd in you!

Read more

Looking for an easy day trip this weekend? Palazzino Fraccaroli, or the Castle of Spirits, is a unique spot that makes for a nice outing on its own, or can easily be combined with other adventures in the area. It's also a great location for photos that are different from the usual vineyard or city backdrop. Here's a guide with what you need to know about planning a visit.

Read more

*Organizing folders in my hard drive.* *Drooling over all the photos of food I have from Bath.* *Writes post.* Yep, that's how we've come to this post today. Here's my guide on where to eat in Bath featuring some of the drool-worthy places you don't want to miss.

Read more

This one was tricky to write. The reason is that my personal experience here was a little disappointing. Usually, when this happens it is easy because it's a case of bad service, or a bad company so I just don't write about it at all. In this case, though, it was a matter of unlucky bad timing. I otherwise loved the service, accommodation and would absolutely stay there again. I created the post to be able to share it with you and added the tips I learned from my bad timing experience too. Here's my guide on a local treasure I found where you can go husky sledding in Norway as well as experience a stay in an incredible handmade log cabin. If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments.

Read more

I feel like everyone has a place in the world that they could visit over and over and over again, and northern Norway is mine. It's a place with natural beauty that leaves you speechless, extremes of weather that remind you of the powerful force of nature, and unique experiences that you'll never forget. If you only have one chance to visit and want to make the most of it, here's my Finnmark road trip itinerary.

Read more

It's a commanding sculpture that blends a realistic depiction with a fantasy creation. If you're into Vikings, I think you'll like this lesser-known spot in northern Norway. Here's my guide on how to plan an adventure to the awesome Drakkar in Vardø with everything you need for a safe and fun day out.

Read more

I read about king crab safaris was when I visited Norway for the first time 3 years ago. Unfortunately, I couldn't do a tour on that trip, but I tucked the idea away in the back of my mind and thought 'if I ever go back, I'd love to take a trip to Kirkenes and do a tour'. Fast forward 3 years and I returned to my favorite country, took a road trip through Finnmark, and finally got to take a king crab safari in Kirkenes. Here's my review with what you need to know to plan your own trip, and I'll have more guides for the road trip coming this month.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. If you're new to Vicenza, firstly welcome. Secondly, I know there's a lot to think about while you are settling in and getting everything organized, so I wanted to make it a little easier for you by sharing my list of favorite local businesses in Vicenza. Of course, over time you will find your own favorites, but I hope this can help get you started. If you have any questions or other suggestions, just leave them in the comments.

Read more

It's a place with scenery that will blow you away, locals that are quite possibly the friendliest of anywhere I've been, and great pubs. Here's my guide on how to plan a weekend in the Scottish Highlands. I recently rented a cabin in the Highlands for a romantic weekend away for my birthday slash wedding anniversary and it was just wonderful, so wonderful, that I'm sharing as many tips as possible here today. I hope it can help you plan your own visit.

Read more

It's a popular hike and, when you see the views after you get above the clouds, it's easy to see why. Here's my guide on how to hike the 52 Tunnels trail in Italy to prepare you for the trail (and the leg workout that comes with it.)

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. I'll be honest, visiting Cinque Terre was not high on my list of places to see. I thought it would be too crowded and probably lost whatever magic it once had due to overtourism, much like Venice and Milan. But, I had to find out for myself, so I planned a weekend away to see what it had to offer. With my low expectations, and the way I planned the trip, it actually surprised me and I had a fun weekend. Here's my Cinque Terre itinerary full of tips and recommendations to help you plan your visit.

Read more

When you start planning a trip to Europe, there are so many places to visit that it's like 'where do I start?' I've organized this guide on visiting Europe by season so that you could narrow down the choices by the time of year that you will be visiting. Of course, it's not the end all, be all. You could visit some of the places at different times of year that I've mentioned and still have a great time. But, this can give you a guide to make all the planning less overwhelming. I've included links to my more detailed guides as well. You might notice that Norway is in every season - that's because it's my favorite place to visit in Europe and there's never a bad time to visit!

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. Lauterbrunnen, or the valley of 72 waterfalls, is an incredible place to visit if you are looking for a Swiss getaway surrounded by picturesque nature. There's so much on offer that it has something for everyone. You could plan an adventure-filled active getaway just as easily as you could plan a quiet, pampering trip. Here's my guide on things to do in Lauterbrunnen and how to plan a weekend visit. Enjoy!

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. The Dolomites keep proving to me that no matter how many times you visit, there's always a new place to explore. A couple of weeks ago I packed lunch and visited the Tramonti di Sopra nature pool and it made for an awesome day trip. It's a little off the beaten path so it was a quiet, peaceful spot and the water was just gorgeous. In today's post, I'm sharing a guide on how to get there with all the tips you need to plan a fun day out.

Read more

If you follow any travel pages, you've probably heard about or seen the insta-famous plane wreck in Iceland. There has been so much written about it that before I went to see it, I assumed I wouldn't be writing a blog about it. I figured that I wouldn't have much more to offer the conversation. Then I did the hike. Almost straight away I knew I was able to provide a different perspective. I knew I'd be able to offer some real talk as always, as well as some reassurance to encourage others to go see it. Here's my no drama, no BS guide for the Iceland plane wreck hike.

Read more

This one is for the over packers. I'm a former over packer so I feel your hesitation, but I'm here to tell you that it is possible to travel to Iceland and drive the ring road with just carry on luggage. My husband and I went in May with just 7 kg's each (in my previous life as an over packer I never would've thought this was possible!) Here's my guide on how to pack for the ring road using carry on only based on what I took.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. I recently hiked to Lago di Sorapis and, during the hike, I kept thinking 'man I hope the juice is worth the squeeze'. Let me tell you, the color of this gorgeous lake was absolutely worth the squeeze of some tired old knees. The natural beauty blew me away and the whole area looked like a painting. Here's a guide on how to hike to Lago di Sorapis in the Italian Dolomites using trail 215. I hope it can help you plan your adventure to this incredible lake.

Read more

First thing's first, this isn't a negative post about the Blue Lagoon. I'm a big supporter of people having travel experiences that make them happy and I believe this is different from person to person. If you want to go to the Blue Lagoon, you absolutely should. However, if you think it's not your scene, then today's post is for you. Here you'll find a Blue Lagoon alternative that's just as blue, just as epic, and half the cost, as well as some other swimming alternatives.

Read more

Driving the ring road in Iceland is one of the most epic road trips you can take. It's a trip that allows you to stand beside the roar of huge waterfalls, soak in warm outdoor pools, walk the rim of volcanic craters, and be mesmerized by landscapes that look like another planet. Here's my collection of useful tips for driving the ring road in Iceland. I hope that these, combined with my other guides can help you and take the stress out of planning your road trip but if you have any questions, just let me know.

Read more

This is a long post, so I'll keep the introduction short. Here is my complete guide on driving the Iceland ring road in 7 days. I've written it so you can load it when you start your trip, then follow along step-by-step as you drive the ring road (Route 1). I hope it can take the stress out of planning for you and help you to plan your own road trip.

Read more

If you have wanted to drive the ring road in Iceland, you're in the right place because I have a lot of information and lessons from the road to share with you. Today's post is my guide on everything you need to know about renting a campervan in Iceland. It's full of practical advice that I hope will be able to help you prepare for your campervan road trip.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. When it comes to a European summer bucket list, I think it's not complete without a visit to the beaches in southern Albania. They share the gorgeous, sparkling water with the more famous destinations, but don't share the crowds or the cost. At least not yet anyway. I want to encourage you to visit before the crowds do so here are my tips to help you plan your Albania itinerary for a quick beach getaway.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. Would you visit a concentration camp when you visit Europe? I have visited Auschwitz, Dachau, and Mauthausen and, while I wouldn't say it's a fun day of travel, I think they are worth visiting. It's not an exciting thrill, you won't get any great Instagram shots, and, to be honest, it might just be a sad experience for you. But, I think it's important to learn about the destinations we visit as we travel. To make an effort to learn about the history, people, and culture - not just the shiny, pretty stuff. In the case of concentration camps, it's important to keep the memory of it alive as a way to honor people who went through them. Here's a guide on how to plan a day trip to Dachau Concentration Camp in Germany to help you plan your visit.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. Recently I've been having some downtime from travel and I've been working on updating old posts. It also got me started on looking for areas of my blog where I could offer more information or guides. When I looked through my Portugal posts, I realized that I hadn't offered a bigger picture guide for solo female travel in Lisbon. So here it is. Today I am sharing just that and I hope it can be helpful for you when you plan your own visit.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. If you have been following along for a little while, you probably already know that I love northern Norway. But, I realized that I hadn't really posted much about what to do if you visit there. Today I'm sharing one of the things that I think is a must-do when you stay at the cabin which is taking a trip to visit Nordkapp, or The North Cape, which is on an island at the far, far, far, north of Norway.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. I'm not going to write too much of an intro because the post is long enough as it is, but here's my guide of tips for moving to Italy from America. It's chunky and full of opinions just like me. I'm just sharing a lot of the things you can expect when you move here. There's no sugar coating or judgment of what is 'good' or 'bad', just what 'is' and it's based on my experiences as an Aussie who has lived in both America and Italy and loves both. Hopefully, it can help people who are preparing to PCS to Italy.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. Since the fairytale-like Christmas markets tend to steal the spotlight, Krampus parades might not be at the top of your winter European holiday bucket list. You might be like me and had not even heard of it. Today, let's take a closer look at attending a Krampus parade in Italy. If you scare easily you can peek through one eye.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. This post has nothing to do with Google-ability. It's not a tutorial. I didn't research any keywords. Or follow the usual process that comes with writing a blog post. It's just a bit of a love letter really. I just wanted to share my favorite place in the world with you and my Christmas wish for your travel adventures.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. I don't usually do budget guides, because I wouldn't say that I'm a budget traveler. I'm more of a budget live-er and then I like to put more money into my travels. My visit to see the Matterhorn though was a very spontaneous one, booked only a couple of days beforehand, and as such needed to be a little more budget-friendly. It's a pretty expensive area so keeping the spending low can be a little tricky, but it is possible. Here's my guide on how to see the Matterhorn if you're on a bit of a budget.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. I visited the Colmar Christmas markets on opening day last weekend and I have to say, they are one of the top Christmas markets I have been to. Here you'll find what to expect, my recommendation of where to stay, and some extra tips for planning a magical and uber festive weekend in the Alsace region of France. I've added in a couple of other Christmas markets in the area so that you can make the most of your time and see a few of them (don't forget your stretchy pants!)

Read more

Maybe this is the mulled wine memories talking but there is something magical about Europe in December. The Christmas markets, the old architecture, the cold weather and, of course, the hearty food gives it such an exciting and festive feel. It's like being in a fairytale. I think everyone has to visit Europe in December at least once in their life, but where do you start? To be honest, you can't really go wrong, but here is my round up of cities where you can experience a magical winter getaway. I've been to most of these but I added a couple that I haven't been to yet but are high on my list. I'll update the post after each visit. If you have a favorite that didn't make the list, drop it in the comments.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. I spent a weekend in Oslo with my best friend during my birthday trip to Norway and fell even more in love with it than I already was. Here are my tips for spending your own weekend in Oslo and getting the most bang for your buck. Norway is known for being expensive so this guide will help you experience the city without maxing out your credit cards! I didn't visit solo for this trip, but the suggestions would remain the same for solo travelers - the only change I would make is to visit the Ice Bar earlier in the evening to avoid being out at a bar solo later.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. Planning a trip to Europe can be overwhelming. There are just so many countries to visit - sometimes it can feel like 'where do I even start?' We all know the heavy hitters like Venice, Paris, and London and, while they are all certainly worth a visit, there are also some lesser-known places that are worth adding to your itinerary if your schedule allows. Today I'm sharing 11 of my favorite underrated European destinations. At these destinations, you can avoid the tourist crowds, save a little money and still have memorable travel experiences. I've also added the links to my blog posts for each if you'd like more information or tips for a place.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. If you want to experience a quintessential European summer without the steep price tag of the more popular destinations, this is for you. Here is a 2 week Balkans road trip itinerary that I'm confident will be a great resource to help you plan your trip. It's got tips for planning it as well as where to stop along the way. This is based on a slower travel style, but you can adjust it to your schedule and travel style.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. Do you have a favorite cuisine? It's hard to pick a favorite, but Greek food is definitely up there at the top of the list for me. I love that it is so light, fresh and flavorful. The first time I visited Greece, I was excited to eat, well, EVERYTHING! Now that I've been back to visit a different island, I know the amazing food is not just a fluke. Today I'm sharing a guide on some of the must eat foods in Greece with some of the iPhone photos I took before devouring it all. Keep an eye out for these when you plan your visit.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. Take a hike. No seriously, while you're visiting Crete you can take a quick hike over a mountain and swim in some of the clearest and most beautiful water in the world. In today's post, I'm sharing a complete guide on how to visit the red sand beach in Crete. Here you'll be able to find all the useful information like where to park, what to expect on the hike, other things to do nearby, and some other surprising tips like the dress code. Or lack thereof. I hope it can help you plan your own adventure.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. I love a good hotel and, the more I travel, the more I appreciate it when I find a hotel that just gets it right. In today's post, I'm sharing a place that does just that. It's a place that has all the little details in mind. A place that focuses on creating a total experience for their guests, not just a place to stay. And, for me, it's a place that reminded me why I love to blog and travel. If you are thinking about planning a visit and looking for the best place to stay in Crete, then look no further. Let me introduce you to Eleonas Country Village.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. Close your eyes and think of planning a relaxing vacation. What comes to mind? Did you see tropical beaches, mountain views or coconuts to drink from? That’s typically what we think of when we are imagining a relaxing getaway. A landlocked city in central Europe would probably not be at the top of the list. Perhaps it wouldn’t even make the list at all. Give me a couple of minutes of your time though, because today I want to share a few reasons why you should plan to visit Budapest if you need a relaxing getaway.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. Ireland is a great destination for a solo trip, particularly beginner solo travel. It's very easy to get around, there's a lot to see and do, great pub food, and warm hospitality. Here's my practical travel guide on solo female travel in Dublin. I've added where to stay, what to do, how to plan the trip, and other tips to take the stress out of travel planning.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. London has it all. Not only does it have the easy to love three P's - palaces, pasties, and parks, but it also has museums, lots of fun touristy sights, multicultural cuisines, and convenient public transport. It's a great destination for anyone whether you are traveling alone, with friends or enjoying a family getaway. If you're pinched for time, here's a quick guide of how to spend a weekend in London with my recommendations on where to stay, how to get around, and things to do. If you have any questions, as always, leave them in the comments.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. April is a great time to visit Ireland because the flowers are blooming, there are fewer crowds, and the sheep have cute little babies that will make you swoon! Packing can be a little tricky though because the weather can be hit or miss. This is the case no matter what time of year you visit actually, so today's guide on what to pack for Ireland in April will have all the practical essentials and tips no matter what time of year you visit.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. Warning: generalizations ahead. Whenever anyone is speaking about people in a category as big as their home country, there are generalizations. I admit this straight up. I'm aware that not all Irish people will fit the mold of what I am sharing today. Still, I wanted to share this lighthearted post about things that make the Irish so dang lovable because I was treated so well during my visit, and, well, my four nights there made me an expert. Of course, I'm qualified to write this overly generalized post. If you had been thinking about planning your own visit, here are 7 more reasons why you should book those flights.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. Imagine what it would be like to kayak on a peaceful lake in Ireland. The cool, fresh air around you is still with a serene calm. Your arms guide an oar through the motions, gently slicing through the water to push you along the surface. You stop to soak in everything around you. The trees you can see lining the lake, the seals you can hear splashing nearby, the cool air that enters your nose when you take a big breath in. Now imagine doing it in pitch black under the darkness of night. It might sound a little crazy, but I'm here today to share with you why night kayaking in Ireland is the adventure that you didn't know you needed and why it deserves a place on your Ireland holiday itinerary.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. Even though Dublin is a bustling city, it's nice to know that there are places to stay where you can be in the heart of the touristy action and still cozy up in a quiet room. Today I'm reviewing a couple of Dublin bed and breakfast options that are solo female travel approved. I stayed at both during my recent trip to Ireland and though they were different in their style and vibe, they both went overboard on coziness and comfortability. Let's take a closer look at them.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. Have you heard of the Dolomites? This nature-filled area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is my favorite part about living in Italy. I love that you can explore just about anything from lakes, mountains, waterfalls, hikes, or snow adventures in winter. Here's a look at what's on offer with this guide to hikes in the Dolomites. I've added local and touristy, hikes, lakes, waterfalls, and scenic areas. So there's something for everyone.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. I'll be honest, when I first came across the website for the Thermal Beer Spa in Budapest, I thought that it was a touristy rip-off. I was also a bit skeptical of soaking in a tub of beer. Isn't that yeast? All my spidey senses told me that it seemed like a bad idea. For some reason though, I booked it anyway and decided to check it out for myself. You never really know until you go right? Well, I'm so glad I gave it a go! Not only did I get to experience the unique beer spa, but I also got to soak in the relaxing thermal waters of the popular Szechenyi Baths. Here's how it went.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. Budapest is one of the quieter cities in Europe with a lot to offer. The range of thermal baths were the first things to catch my attention. I'm a real water baby so I appreciate any time that I can get in the water! I was quick to realize though, that it is a city with a lot more than just thermal baths to soak in. Here's my guide on how to spend a weekend in Budapest with a mix of touristy spots and local gems. I hope it can help you plan your relaxing trip to this underrated European city.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. I have to say, I thought it would be easy to do a 'where to stay in Budapest' style post where I compared two different hotels. But, it turned out harder than I thought. I liked them both for different reasons and am a classic Libra who can argue both sides for anything. This post made me put my thinking hat on and challenged me as a blogger - which I think is always a good thing. Here's my hotel hopping adventure in Budapest and pick of where to stay.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. Paris seems to be a divisive destination in that people seem to either love it or hate it. For me, I loved Paris. It is a city with its own romantic, magical energy that was just contagious. It's also a beautiful place to wander around and explore. Like every big city, it has its crowds, pickpocketing, and can be a bit dirty, but, aside from that, it's a must-see place. In this post, I've put together a guide on how to spend 3 days in Paris. I've also added my other Paris posts at the end which have even more tips to help you plan your trip.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. If you are planning a trip to Paris but don't know where to start then today's post is for you. I'm sharing a travel planning guide to prepare you for a holiday to this iconic city, which, in my opinion, is a destination everyone should visit in their lifetime. Here you can find the basics on how to get around, where to stay, and how to stay safe. I hope it can help you and if you have any other questions, feel free to leave it in a comment.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. What a dream. That's the first thing that comes to mind when I think of my stay at this Airbnb. I wanted to find somewhere to stay in Paris with an Eiffel Tower view because it was a long time dream of mine. A dream heavily influenced by Sex And The City and photos of Beyonce which made it seem like the ultimate girly bucket list travel experience. The prices for a room with a view, however... well let's just say that you kind of need a Kardashian budget to be able to experience it. Or so I thought. I scoured Airbnb until I found the perfect place that didn't cost a million bucks and I'm sharing it here today because it needs to be on your bucket list too.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. Most of the time, people call me Katie. But for one sunny day in January, I was simply known as Gladiator! Ok, ok, I'll admit that maybe that was only in my head and maybe I've seen the movie Gladiator one too many times. Anyway, I had wanted to visit the Colosseum since I saw that movie. It was high on my bucket list and it's actually a little surprising that I have lived in Italy for a year and a half and still not seen it. I decided it was finally time to make it happen, so I took a day trip to Rome and joined a guided tour of the Colosseum with Walks of Italy. Here's how it went.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. Prague is a destination that is like being in a fairytale during December. It's enchanting, magical and full of all the festive vibes. In today's post, I'm sharing a loaded guide on how to plan a visit to Prague during Christmas time. Here you can find recommendations on where to stay, what to do, and some of the amazing food to eat.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. Just a short train ride from Lisbon will whisk you away to a castle filled wonderland with a lot to explore. To really get through it all you would need a couple of days, but if you only have a day to spend in Sintra you can still see a lot. On the day I visited it rained the whole time. Probably a good time to mention that travel blogging isn't all glamorous like people think,  sometimes you are standing out in the cold rain for three days trying to get pictures! Even though my pictures are gloomy and rainy, it's actually a vibrant, colorful place full of character and history. Here's my guide on how to get to Sintra and what to do when you get there.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. In my opinion, a walking food tour of Lisbon is a must-do. I had heard other travelers talk about how amazing the food was in Portugal and I wanted to try as much as possible. There was a catch though. I was traveling alone and I didn't have a big budget to buy a lot of different meals. Hmmm, what to do, what to do? After a little Googling, I jumped on the chance to do this walking food tour. It turned out to be a fantastic experience because I got to go off the beaten path and experience a range of foods from hole in the wall places which is why I'm sharing it here today.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. It's an 18th-century building that has been delicately resuscitated and given a new chance at life as a charming, boutique hotel. Welcome to the Heritage Avenida Liberdade Hotel which is a charming Lisbon hotel for solo travelers. I was a guest during my recent trip to Lisbon and it was my first time in Portugal. I was welcomed with almost nonstop rain! Though I was a little unlucky on the weather side of things, I was certainly lucky with the choice of hotel. The location, extra facilities, and pool allowed me to relax and forget the gloomy weather. Let's take a closer look at what made it so special.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. When I was planning on visiting Malta in November, I wasn't sure what to expect. I booked it all anyway and thought I'd roll the dice. It turns out that Malta is more than just a summer getaway destination. November ended up being a great time to visit. It was less crowded, you have a chance to support businesses when they need it most, and travel can be cheaper. Though you may not be able to swim, it could be windy and rainy, and some tours may not be operating. Here is my guide to visiting Malta in November, full of tips which would be useful for planning a visit at any time of year.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. There are A LOT of things to see and do in Malta. If you want to maximize your time, see as much as possible, support a local business, and get off the beaten path then this Gozo Jeep tour is for you. Spend a day with Gozo Pride Tours and cruise around the island of Gozo in a Jeep on this small, intimate tour. Here's my full review with all the information you need to plan your own visit. I hope it helps and, as always, if you have any questions, let me know.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. After visiting other cities in Malta I was grateful to have chosen the Corinthia Hotel St George's Bay as my home base. It was a relaxing oasis by the Mediterranean Sea that felt like a world away from everything, but in reality, was just a quick shuttle ride away from the capital. Through the facilities, tours, programs that give back to the local community, and location, it was much more than just a place to sleep. I want to share with you some of the things that stood out to me about this hotel and why I think it's the best place to stay in Malta. 

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. We all know Milan. It's one of the most iconic cities in Italy. I'm sure it's not common that people visit this city specifically to watch WWE Wrestling, but that's exactly why I planned a visit recently. WWE was coming to town and I couldn't pass up the opportunity to go and see the show - I'm the girl who went to WrestleMania alone after all! While I was doing an accommodation search I assumed there would be no way I could afford to stay anywhere nice and/or close to the Duomo. I figured that would only be for those super glamorous fashion bloggers or people with a lot of money. I'm really happy to share that it is 100% possible to find a place to stay in Milan with a Duomo view and not spend a fortune and I am revealing all the details here today.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. The water was so cold that it winded me. I caught my breath, swam over to the edge and climbed my numb legs up the ladder. Once I was out of the water the breeze outside hit me like a million knives piercing my skin at once. My feet were sore from the numbness but they managed to walk me the few steps over to my tiny sauna towel. Just as I got out, a big smile came across my face and I wanted to do it all again. It was my birthday wish this year to go ice swimming in Helsinki and I was able to do just that at Löyly. Another bucket list check and extraordinary travel experience...well, experienced. I'm sharing all the details here today.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. My visit to Finland was a quick solo trip to celebrate my birthday and I know that sounds weird to travel solo for a birthday but I'm introverted so I'm pretty comfortable being alone. I've put together this guide on how to spend a weekend in Helsinki to share some of the wonderful things to do in the pretty, seaside city. Even if you only have a weekend, you can still enjoy a lot of what the city has to offer. The capital city is a natural escape filled with parks, lakes, the ocean as well as lots of stylish shops, cozy cafes and, of course, saunas so let's take a closer look.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. "Escape the ordinary". I smiled as I read this while Googling 'where to stay in Helsinki'. It's funny how some places choose you instead of you choosing them and this was one of those times. My spider senses told me that this would be a perfect place to stay for someone with a blog motto of "extraordinary travel experiences for ordinary people." As per usual, those spider senses were 100% right. Here is a hotel where you can stay in...wait for it...prison! Well, a former prison but, either way, inmate, let's check you into your cell away from home at Hotel Katajanokka.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. A tourist attraction with Hitler's name in it sounds a little questionable, doesn't it? As weird as it is to say though, I think it's worth a visit. Today I'm sharing a guide on visiting Hitler's Eagle's Nest without a tour as well as a weekend itinerary for other things to do in the area. 

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. I was so excited to finally visit Greece because it has been on my bucket list since forever. I remember going on some early dates with my husband to get Greek food and talking over gyros about how one day we would love to take a trip together to eat real Greek food in Greece. Maybe that sentimental value is why I was so excited, but either way, we got there and it was just magical. Far greater than what I had imagined. I spent a whirlwind long weekend on the island of Corfu and beach hopped my way through the different beaches on the north half of the island. I'm sharing them here today with this guide of the best beaches in Corfu and some tips on how to plan a weekend visit.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. There are a lot of words you could use to describe Iceland but "cheap" certainly isn't one of them. That's not to say that you shouldn't visit though, because it's an awesome country. During my recent visit, I invested in a couple of tours and wanted to keep to a budget for the other days I had to explore the city. Here's my guide on cheap and free things to do in Reykjavik to help you plan your own budget-friendly visit.

Read more

UPDATED MAR 2020. I can't believe it was one year ago I boarded a plane at the Honolulu Airport and moved across the pond. My husband left soon after we got here - seems to be the pattern with my moves and military lifestyle. I remember the isolating feeling of sitting in my empty apartment. I had no money, no car, no job, no friends, and now no-one to talk to. To be honest, I wondered what the hell I had gotten myself into. Though I spent most of my time here alone, a lot has happened in my first year. I survived my first winter after always living in hot climates, I stumbled through communicating with a language barrier, I visited too many lakes and cities to count, and I ate some a lot of the most delicious pasta on the planet. Here are my one-year reflections on the pros and cons of living in Italy so far.

Read more

UPDATED FEB 2020. The Blue Lagoon and Secret Lagoon get all the attention but there are local geothermal pools in Iceland all around the country. Whether you are interested in doing laps for exercise or soaking in hot tubs, there's something for everyone. The catch - there is a strict process around getting ready for the swim including mandatory naked group showers. During my first trip to one of the pools, I was overwhelmed with all the rules. I was literally walking around completely naked and stopping by every sign to read them because I didn't want to accidentally miss any of the rules. Here's a guide to prepare you for your visit.

Read more