Capturing the essence of places around the world and giving great recommendations along the way
As Jordaan clomped through the ancient lava fields outside Reykjavik, I imagined molten lava still oozing in perilous rivers and craters spitting fire like deadly confetti. Jordaan stood starkly against the gloom with his bright, white coat and carried us on bravely. In reality, the lava fields I was horseback riding through haven’t seen lava [...]
To look out over Santorini's Caldera is to look at the vastness of the universe. The cobalt waters seem to stretch into infinity, laced by plunging volcanic cliffs. Among their ridgelines, little white villages are precarious nests. While admiring the water from afar is a transformative experience in its own right, the chance to sail [...]
In Ireland’s countryside, fairytales and folklore weave through desolate bogs and are whispered over grassy emerald mountains. It is a land rich with mystique, yet feels as integral to the culture as a pint of Guinness in a cozy pub. When visiting Dublin, I wanted a chance to see some of Ireland’s compelling countryside for [...]
There is subjectivity in labeling a city as a food capital. If you research the food capital of Europe, there is no common consensus. Of course, the cozy osterias of Rome and the allure of Paris's Michelin stars are not without merit, but after going on a top-rated food tour in San Sebastian, I'd have [...]
Located in the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains and with a population of about 75 people, Oto is a desolate village where crumbling medieval stone is an unforgettable ode to the past. Besides the occasional hiker or local, Oto has a palpable stillness that allows for retrospection, giving it the quality of being held in [...]
Lisbon is a city that hums with an exhilarating frequency. During my stay in Portugal's capital, I loved the aroma of spices sizzling in small restaurants, admiring the artisanal tilework, and challenging myself on the city's notorious hills. However, the highlight of my journey was a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon. Sintra is a [...]
Lisbon is a vibrant city that seems to dance in color. Just as bold as its bustling streets (and plethora of stairs!) is its food scene. While there are some similarities between Portuguese food and the food of its Spanish neighbor, Portugal has its own distinct flair and unforgettable dishes. I went on the best [...]
The fumes from a hazy coffee shop in Amsterdam tickled my mind as I casually strolled through the notorious red-light district. After a wholesome day of meandering along the serene canals, dodging waves of whirling bikes, and tasting rich cuisine in cozy restaurants, the stark glow of neon signs advertising sex shows and windows filled [...]
The psychedelic fields stretched on either side of me for miles, and the spring wind that whipped through my hair was dusted with the sweet scent of hyacinths. Along the purple and pink hyacinths, red tulips, and yellow daffodils, a visual symphony played, creating a kaleidoscope of saturated color that flashed by in neat rows. [...]
