Tips for Day Trips: Chillin’ in Mechelen
Have you heard of it? I hadn’t, until a friend suggested checking it out. Located in the Flemish region of Belgium, nestled between Brussels and Antwerp, it’s the perfect day trip destination. Cute and compact, you can explore at your leisure without feeling the rush of “I have to see it all.” The Grote Martk is an ideal place to start. This historic center is a pedestrian zone lined with cafes, perfect for sipping an Aperol Spritz and admiring the impressive facades. Each building is ornately designed, showcasing architectural characteristics of its time. You could easily spend an hour or two people watching and absorbing the ambiance of this vibrant square. Next stop…
Brussels: Beyond the Grand Place, Delirium, and Manneken Pis
Looking for a fun day in Brussels that doesn’t involve the typical tourist destinations? Below is a walking tour that goes beyond the beaten path. One of my favorite places to start is St. Catherine’s Place, a 10-minute walk from the center; it is a vibrant square full of life on a sunny Belgian day. St. Catherine’s Church, the focal point of the square, is surrounded by restaurants featuring Belgian and international fare. From sushi to crepes, any palate can be satisfied! My top choices are Noordzee, a famous seafood counter where you can get fresh oysters, shrimp, mussels and more. With no indoor space, it’s best enjoyed…
Sofia: You Stole My Heart, Instead of My Wallet
Want to travel somewhere your money can go twice as far? Look no further than Sofia, Bulgaria! With Wizz Air offering cheap flights, and apartments on Airbnb ranging from 30-60 dollars per night, you can definitely make the most of your trip. In addition to cheap flights and accommodations, there are numerous free walking tours around Sofia! We participated in Balkan Bites, the first free food tour offered in Europe. Our guide led us to six establishments, each providing a different delicious bite. While tasting we learned how Bulgarian cuisine is a fusion of flavors, formed through the invasion of the Greek, Scythian, Roman, Byzantine…
Discovering Bucharest: Little Paris to New Berlin
Ottoman rule, vampire legends, a vibrant Monarchy, stories of a communist past and the bloodiest revolution in the Eastern Block are all pieces of Bucharest’s dynamic narrative. Once known as “Little Paris of the East” and currently known as “New Berlin”, the identity of this capital is constantly evolving. While wandering the streets of Bucharest, stop to appreciate the distinct styles of architecture: Ottoman, Neo-Romanian, Art Nouveau and Utilitarian. The architectural dissonance adds a unique charm to each alleyway and street corner, calling you to discover more. Below, you will find my beginner’s guide to unearthing the beauty of this capital city. Free Walking Tours Start your…
