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Top 5 Best Cityscape Views of Paris, France
One of my favorite parts of visiting a city is to find that picture perfect view from a higher perspective. Paris offers several different stunning cityscape views – from the Eiffel Tower itself to Sacre Coeur in Montmartre. Below are my top 5 favorite views of Paris, with a little bonus pick. 🙂 View from Eiffel Tower One of the most well-known attractions in Paris is, of course, the Eiffel Tower! This is the tallest structure in Paris (324 meters) – and actually the tallest building in all of Île-de-France. You can climb the 674 steps up to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower or take an elevator. I…
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What To Do in Strasbourg, France: From Canals to Cathedrals
Strasbourg is a charming town known for its timber-framed buildings and canals. Strasbourg sits on the German-Franco border, within the Alsace Region of France. The city has a complex history, changing between German and French rule over several centuries. As a result, Strasbourg offers a unique blend of both cultures. I have visited Strasbourg several times, and it never gets old! It’s a more laid back city, perfect for strolling along the canals and just enjoying the beautiful architecture. Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg The Notre Dame cathedral in Strasbourg is considered to be one of the best examples of Rayonnant Gothic architecture. It’s very striking and incredibly detailed. The…
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Germany Off the Beaten Path: Schwäbisch Gmünd
A thirty minute trainride from Stuttgart in Southern Germany is the small town of Schwäbisch Gmünd. Though a much lesser known destination for tourists, the town is well worth visiting for its architecture, charming alleyways, and historic town center. My friend’s Opa lives in this charming town and we visited for a few weeks in 2014. I really enjoyed exploring the city and the surrounding attractions. Cities like Schwäbisch Gmünd that are more off the beaten path offer an unexpected cultural experience. Below are my highlights of Schwäbisch Gmünd. Historischer Marktplatz Historischer Marktplatz, or the Old Marketplace, has beautiful well-preserved buildings. Marktplatz is a great place for people watching and…
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A Day in Heidelberg, Germany
Heidelberg is a charming university town in Baden-Württemberg, in southwestern Germany. This picturesque city is somewhat of a hidden gem, with a more small-town feel. Heidelberg is an easy day trip from Stuttgart or Frankfurt. Here are my highlights of Heidelberg, that all fit into one afternoon! Heidelberg is home to Heidelberg University, founded in the 14th century, as well as European Molecular Biology Laboratory and other research facilities. Old Bridge Theodore Heuss Brücke, commonly called Old Bridge, is an 18th century bridge crossing the Neckar River. This bridge offers beautiful views of the river and the Palace above. The bridge is iconic of Heidelberg, often featured in pictures depicting…
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10 Must Have Travel Essentials
Although we might not be ready to travel just yet, I certainly have several trips in mind once it is more safe! I’ve also been planning more local getaways to national parks and other locales that allow for outdoor activities without being too crowded. While daydreaming of future trips, I compiled what I think are the top travel essentials. I hope you enjoy! Backpack Aside from suitcases and duffel bags, I find that I use backpacks the most when traveling. A decent travel backpack is a great investment for use as a carry-on bag. Pro tip: pack a change of clothes in your carry-on as a back up in case…
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Highlights of Savannah, GA
I spent a weekend in Savannah on a girls’ trip a few years ago and we had such a blast! Savannah is full of Southern charm and beautiful draping Spanish moss. This city is easy to explore by foot over a few days time, making it a perfect weekend destination. Historic District The Historic District is a great starting point for exploring the city. Savannah has 22 historic squares, each with its own charm and character. Take a stroll around the district and take in the Colonial style houses, old lampposts, trolleys, and horse-drawn carriages. Forsyth Park Spanning 30 acres, this park cannot be missed when visiting Savannah! This park…
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NOLA: What to Eat in New Orleans
New Orleans cuisine encompasses its diverse cultural history, with Creole, French, and Cajun influence. From beignets to crawfish, there are several traditional dishes that you cannot tour the city without trying! Beignets The top of my New Orleans bucket list was to eat beignets! They are powder-sugar covered fried doughnut-y goodness! This delicacy was actually introduced to the city in the 18th century by French-Creole colonists. Pro-tip: these are best to eat when they are hot! Café du Monde in the French Quarter was founded in 1862 and is one of the most well-known stands/restaurants to buy a beignet. Whether it’s there, or another Cafe around the city – a…
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NOLA: Best of New Orleans
New Orleans is famous for its French and Creole influence, bustling nightlife, and being the birthplace of Jazz! “The Big Easy” is also known for the laid back culture. I recently visited New Orleans for my Bachelorette weekend and I had an absolute blast! These are my highlights of this unique city. French Quarter | Vieux Carré Laissez les bons temps rouler! The French Quarter is the historic center of New Orleans. This neighborhood is home to the infamous Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, and French Market. The French Quarter features beautiful 18th century buildings with wrought-iron balconies. Jackson Square Jackson Square is a historic park just off of the Mississippi…
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Day Trip from Dublin: Malahide Castle and Howth
When I spent a weekend in Dublin, I wanted to take a day trip but wasn’t sure where or how I would go. I visited the tourism office and browsed the available tours. There was a Sunday afternoon tour to visit Malahide Castle and Gardens and the nearby village Howth! Both are not far from Dublin and can easily be visited in an afternoon. Malahide Castle and Gardens The tour began at Malahide Castle and Gardens. The medieval castle was gifted to Richard Talbot by King Henry II in 1185. The castle remained in the Talbot Family until 1975 when it was sold to the State. The Castle is only…
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Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech
One of the top attractions in Marrakech is Jardin Majorelle – a sanctuary of succulents, cacti, and palms developed over decades. This intricate garden in Marrakech was developed over 40 years by French artist Jacques Majorelle. Majorelle was a painter with a passion for botany. He cultivated 135 species of plants in the garden outside of his villa studio, creating a beautiful oasis. “This garden is a momentous task, to which I give myself entirely. It will take my last years from me and I will fall, exhausted, under its branches, after having given it all my love.” Jacques Majorelle The garden was opened to the public in 1947. Unfortunately,…
