Exploring Shkodër, Albania

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Balkans, Central Europe, Europe, TravelLeave a Comment on Exploring Shkodër, Albania

Nestled in the southern corner of Lake Skadar, just across the border from Montenegro, you’ll find the small city of Shkodër. With a lingering Italian colonial feel and relaxed pace, the town is a welcome break from nearby cities. Much of the town center is solely for pedestrian and push bike use- earning Shkodër the…

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Should You Travel to Albania?

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Balkans, Central Europe, Europe, TravelLeave a Comment on Should You Travel to Albania?

I recently spent two weeks exploring Albania as part of a larger trip through the Balkans. In this post I’m sharing some aspects of my trip and whether I’d recommend it as a travel destination- especially for solo female travelers.

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My Favourite 5 Places in Italy

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Europe, Italy, Southern Europe, Travel4 Comments on My Favourite 5 Places in Italy

After holding my breath for most of this year I can finally officially call myself Italian and will soon have my very own EU passport, something that will make life in Europe infinitely easier for me. I’m beyond excited and grateful to become a citizen of such a beautiful country- not only do I cherish…

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Biogradska Gora: one of the most beautiful national parks in Montenegro

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Balkans, Central Europe, Europe, Montenegro, TravelLeave a Comment on Biogradska Gora: one of the most beautiful national parks in Montenegro

Biogradska Gora in Montenegro’s northeast is one of the country’s five national parks, and is famed for it’s extensive primeval (old growth) forests and beautiful lakes. There are over 2,000 plant species, 200 bird species, and a walk through the park feels like an escape to another world. Many of the trees are over 400 years old…

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Visiting Montenegro’s Cetinje & St. Petar’s Mausoleum: as an independent day trip

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Balkans, Central Europe, Europe, Montenegro, TravelLeave a Comment on Visiting Montenegro’s Cetinje & St. Petar’s Mausoleum: as an independent day trip

Montenegro’s Old Royal Capital Cetinje is a beautiful, peaceful town well worth a visit on it’s own, but also the entry point to St. Petar’s Mausoleum. Perched atop Jezerski Vrh peak of Lovcen Mountain, the Mausoleum itself is not overly impressive, but the views from the top are spectacular. A quick 10 minute (steep) hike…

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10 of the Best Spots for Coffee in Budapest

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Central Europe, Europe, Hungary, TravelLeave a Comment on 10 of the Best Spots for Coffee in Budapest

One of my favorite things to do when traveling is to find a great local cafe, relax with a coffee and absorb the new world around me. I love interesting, beautiful and quirky interiors, good people watching vantages, great service, and of course an excellent brew of coffee. Here are ten cafes that deliver all…

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The Best Hidden Cafe and Bar in Helsinki

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Europe, Finland, Helsinki, Travel, What to do, Where to Eat and DrinkLeave a Comment on The Best Hidden Cafe and Bar in Helsinki

I’ve lived in Helsinki for two and a half years, yet somehow only ventured to this cafe and bar last weekend. I’d seen the sign to the cafe many times but never quite made it to the seaside location. Set off a winding path through construction sites, it’s a decent walk to the cafe- but…

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Traditional Finnish Lakeside Camping: how to reach Nuuksio National Park by public transport

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Europe, Finland, Helsinki, Travel, What to doLeave a Comment on Traditional Finnish Lakeside Camping: how to reach Nuuksio National Park by public transport

Finland is know as the land of a thousand lakes. In reality, there are over 187,000 lakes– one for every 29 Finns! Finnish lakes are not only numerous but incredibly beautiful, surrounded by pine forests and rocky outcrops, the water is often fresh, clear, and ideal for swimming. Blueberry bushes are never far away, providing…

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