Panoramic view of the Bay of Palma seen from Castell de Bellver.

Palma de Mallorca: A Guide for Auxiliares de Conversación

Durring the 2022-2023 school year, I lived in Palma de Mallorca as an auxiliar de conversación with Meddeas. I fell in love with the island and had an amazing experience living and teaching in Palma. If you’re planning to move to Palma as an aux, or are curious about what it’s like to get settled …

View over the Motlawa River, lined by pedestrian streets and Dutch-style canal houses.

Top 6 Things to Experience in Gdańsk, Poland

Gdańsk is a magical port city on northern Poland’s Baltic coast. The town’s Dutch influence is apparent in the architecture, where narrow jewel-tone houses cram the cobbled streets, reminiscent of Amsterdam’s canal houses. While most of the city was destroyed during WWII, restoration efforts have returned the city to its former historic glory, which continues …

Quaint medieval courtyard with ivy climbing the walls and a yellow chocolate cart with red parasol.

8 Things You Can’t Miss in Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, is an enchanting city nestled on the Baltic Sea. The Old Town seems straight out of a fairytale with its beautiful pastel buildings, red clay-tile rooves, soaring turrets of Toompea Castle, winding cobbled streets, and hidden patios.  Venturing outside the charming Old Town rewards with creative hotspots like the Telliskivi Creative Market …

Coloful landscaped square surrounded by cafes and umbrellas, with colorful buildings in the backdrop.

8 Things to Do in Riga, Latvia

Riga, Latvia’s capital and the largest city in the Baltics, is a must-see on any eastern European itinerary. Bisected by the Duagava River, Riga is steeped in charm and history. From the colorful cobblestone streets of the Old Town and decadent Art Nouveau architecture to the bustling Central Market and state-of-the-art National Library, Riga has …

Tourist on a small rowboat in a semi-exposed underground lake.

Kefalonia: The Island’s 6 Best Things to Do

Kefalonia is a gem in the glittering Ionian Sea. Striking white limestone cliffs, golden sand beaches, soaring Mount Ainas, and the island’s colorful Mediterranean architecture delight travelers on sun-drenched vacations. As the largest of the seven Ionian Islands, Kefalonia offers something for all travelers, from beach lounging and sea kayaking to charming villages and underground …

White house decorated with blue ceramic plates and plants in Granada.

Gems of Andalusia: Málaga, Granada, Córdoba, and Seville

Andalusia is an enchanting region of flamenco, Moorish architecture, tapas, and sprawling coastline. As mainland Spain’s southernmost autonomous community, it boasts an arid climate and unmatched sunshine year-round, making it the perfect getaway from winter or springtime blues (but watch out for the scorching summers).  Discover the beauty of these four Andalusian pearls, Málaga, Granada, …

View over the River Thames of a red bus crossing Tower Bridge

London: 18 FREE Things to Do for an Epic Weekend 

Looking to explore the vibrant city of London without breaking the bank? Although England’s capital city is a notoriously expensive destination, there’s a ton to explore for free. From vintage markets to skyscraper gardens, and secret crypts to cult classic film locations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while keeping costs low. I’ve curated a …

White alabaster cliff face and archway.

Normandy: a Stunning Budget Weekend Getaway from Paris

I spent a long weekend in Normandy to escape the heat and sky-high accommodation prices in Paris, and it ended up being one of my favorite places during my summer of backpacking. Although I was there during summer, the atmosphere was quiet, and I fell in love with the half-timbered houses and rolling pastureland.  France …

Panoramic view of Paris from above, with long streets, stately buildings, and Eiffel Tower.

Paris: A Budget Weekend in the City of Lights

Paris, the City of Lights, tops travel buck lists worldwide. With the checkered cafe seats covered by jewel-tone awnings, the wide promenade of the Champs Élysées, and the artistic prowess of the Louvre, this enchanting city begs to be explored.  Since my first visit when I was twelve, I am always happy to return to …

Wisterias blooming on pergola with Florence cityscape in background.

Florence: 7 Unique Things to Experience This Spring

If you want to add Florence to your travel bucket list, visit between March and May. This tourist hotspot is busy year-round, but spring has lower accommodation rates and lacks summer’s unpleasant crowdedness and heat.  The city shines during this shoulder season, as its numerous green spaces and gardens come alive with vibrant colors and …