The dazzling Danube River cuts right through the middle of Budapest, creating two distinct and equally essential parts of the city; Buda and Pest. The Buda side is calm–offering a majestic castle reminiscent of the Ottoman Empire, rolling green hills, and a classic, cobblestoned Old Town. Meanwhile, the Pest side is lively–packed with tree-lined avenues, architecture that crumbles with charm, and an…
Prague: $1 Beers in an Architectural Eden
At every turn, Prague is brimming with history — unearthed by simply looking up. One can gape at the gorgeous mix of architecture here for an entire day. Not a fan of building structure? How about royalty? From a distance and up close, Prague’s Castle District dates back a millennium and guarantees a stunningly opulent visit. Multi-tasking is…
Krakow: Polish Roots, Pierogies, & One Massive Square
Krakow easily earns the title of cultural capital in Poland. Throughout history, this historic city has won over most everyone who crossed (or took over) it’s path; Austrians, Prussians, etc. Affirming the idea that beauty doesn’t discriminate, rumor has it that Adolf Hitler found Krakow too visually stunning to demolish. This essentially saved it from…
Vilnius: KGB Scars, Baltic Pride, & Countless Courtyards
Lithuania’s past stories a tumultuous battle for independence. From Nazi Occupation to Stalinist Communism, enemies have desperately tried to dismantle their prized culture…but to no avail. Vilnius’ experience with oppression birthed a generation and culture of artists and intellectuals who are painting this compact city into a lively and creative urbana. This city is stocked with coffee shops and cocktail bars, set against a backdrop of historic antique ruins and graffitied KGB buildings.
Stockholm: Green Space, Neighborhood Islands, & Dragon Tattoos
Stockholm is actually an archipelago, connected not only by bridges and waterways, but by a distinct Scandinavian culture. While the four most popular neighborhoods share a common theme, each island also exudes a unique personality of its own. One possesses a charming historic center that is intertwined with cobblestone streets and a royal past, while another is a Parisian twin that luxuriates with ornate apartments and upscale boutiques. The bustling young one is filled to the edges with energy, art, and up-and-coming “fill-in-the-blanks”, while the island of green conserves Swedish nature, culture, and recreation.
Copenhagen: Bike Lanes, Canals, & Mary Jane Farmer’s Markets
A maze of canals run through the picturesque and spirited Copenhagen. Although it’s the largest of the Scandinavian cities, one’s two feet quickly recognize the compact nature of this historic metropolis. If the cobblestone streets don’t hint enough that cars don’t own Copenhagen, then the impressive labyrinth of bike lanes certainly do.
Bergen, Norway: Pastel Houses, Lively Wharf & Gateway to the Fjords
While it may be the 2nd largest city in Norway, Bergen may be the richest in local and lively Norwegian culture. This charming destination is nestled on the Sogneford Coastline, surrounded by mountains that are stocked with lush trees and dotted with pastel wooden houses.
1 Day in Aurland, Norway: Oh My Fjord.
Aurland is the kind of place that photos can only attempt to capture. Experience the dramatic mountains diving into the Fjord coastline and your awe will not plateau. (See what I did there?)
Oslo: Fjords, Clouds, & Trampolines
Norway’s capital of Oslo is beautiful, walkable, and populous. This city is rich with a myriad of natural wonders, contemporary architecture, and quaint Scandinavian flare. There is a clear commitment to preserve it’s historical culture, maritime fame, and environmental conscience. Despite that, it isn’t easy to avoid the cliche sightseer experience. While this may take away from authenticity, the untouchable views breathe local lifeblood into explorer veins.
Simply Wanderfull Welcome
That’s me! In my element. I have a very unfortunate and fortunate addiction — exploring. This planet carries such beautiful secrets and is far too vast to stay put in one place. When I have the opportunity to save, I save for drifting. Through bright cultures, vibrant landscapes, and lively experiences. After 20+ countries, I feel like it’s a disservice not to share my journeys–the peaks AND the valleys. My hope is to help any other explorers (whether they are on a weekend whirl or a backpack bender) to magnify and escalate their adventure in the cities they hit the tarmac in.