PERIPATETIC.LIFE

The magic of Christmas in Germany

December 19, 2018

Germany is quite possibly one of the most festive countries in the world. With many Christmas traditions originating from Germany, such as the Christmas tree in your home, and their Christmas stores open year round, experiencing Christmas time in Germany is something that everybody should do, at least once.

Christmas markets can be found in every city in Germany, no matter how big or small. Many are famous, while others not so much. In this article, I will be posting a list of some of the markets which I believe should be a must-see for tourists and hopefully inspire you to visit the land of Christmas, Germany.

1) Cologne
Famous for its grandeur Cathedral, Cologne is highly renowned for its aesthetically pleasing style. Bordering Belgium, this city is high in tourism, and their Christmas market is a definite pull factor for many. I believe that Cologne is one of the best markets Germany has to offer and one that everybody should visit if they are in the Western region of Germany.

2) Berlin
The capital city of Germany is outstanding in its own right. Rich in history and culture, this city is one which tourists flock to every year just for a city break and to experience the genuine German Christmas market experience. With the entire city being home to many Christmas markets, all within walking distance. Christmas time in Berlin is magical. There is no question about it.

3) Bonn
The home of Ludwig van Beethoven, and Haribo, Bonn is an extremely underrated city in Germany. It may not be so big, but it is lively, especially during the Christmas period. The city centre is compact and embellished by Christmas lights, and the shops are incredibly festive. I would say that this city is perfect if you want to enjoy the Christmas festivities while you engage in Christmas gift shopping.

4) Düsseldorf
Known mainly as the fashion capital in Germany, Düsseldorf is a relaxing city, one where shopping is the emphasis. With so many shopping centres and streets lined with stores, this city is perfect for someone who wants to relax and take it easy. The atmosphere is a different one. Everybody seems to be taking their time. There is no rush to get anywhere, and the Christmas markets are not a crowded place, like others may be.

5) Essen
Roughly an hour train ride from the cities mentioned in this article, aside from Berlin, Essen is a city where tourists do not know about. Although it does not offer many activities for tourists throughout the year, everything changes during Christmas time. It is home to one of the largest Christmas markets in Germany and is one of my top markets to visit during Christmas time. With live music, and stalls open until 10 pm on a Saturday, 8 pm on other days of the week, there is so much for your senses to experience in the Essen Christmas market.

I hope you have enjoyed reading through this article, and it has inspired you to take a trip to Germany during the Christmas period. Although the weather may not entice you initially, once you step foot and see the magic of Christmas in all its glory, you shall forget about your cold fingers and toes. As always, I wish you all happy travels during this festive period.

Holiday Season Inspiration

December 6, 2018

With the holiday’s fast approaching, I have decided to curate a list of destinations which I have visited throughout the past years and post my experiences and hopefully give you some inspiration for a getaway. Some are exotic, many traditional, some more relaxed. So I am sure you can find something for yourself; however you decide to celebrate the festive season.

1) Lima, Peru.
Peru is a fascinating country in itself, however during December is a great time to visit. The typical tourist crowds have quietened down, and the summer weather is beginning to bloom. Take this opportunity to explore Peru, Cusco, Nazca, Arequipa and the many other beautiful cities the country has to offer.

2) Berlin, Germany.
Rich in history while embracing modernity, Berlin is a hub for people who want to experience vibrancy. Germany is particularly famous for its Christmas Markets as every city is pampered and glistening with decorations and the markets give you the perfect excuse to fill up on sweet treats and gluhwein (traditional warm red wine).

3) Milan, Italy.
One of the most glamorous cities in Italy, Milan does not fail to exceed during Christmas time. You may even be lucky enough to see the snowfall, and a short train ride will take you to Turin, a great place for skiing. Italy also offers a selection of attractive Christmas markets to spoil your senses.

4) Dublin, Ireland.
If you wish to spend Christmas in a more relaxed fashion, then Dublin is the place for you. With its calming atmosphere and selection of pubs, Ireland is a country where you can enjoy the time you have. Go out from its Capital city to enjoy the natural beauty the country has to offer. With so much natural scenery to soothe your soul, Ireland is perfect for a short trip.

I hope this list of places has given you inspiration for future trips, during Christmas time, or anytime. As always, I wish you all happy travels!

When is the right time to start travelling solo?

November 13, 2018

The right time to travel solo? Many don’t believe in the notion of time, and neither do I. When you start to think about travelling solo is when you should start to travel solo. Being alone in a new city is exhilarating. There is nothing more free and empowering than knowing you can go anywhere alone, and that you can take care and protect yourself. Here I will state some signs that may already be calling you to make that leap of faith and begin your solo travel experience.

1) You find cheap flights
Have you ever just out of boredom found yourself looking at flights and thought your eyes were deceiving you? €20 return flights but nobody to go with? Take the sign that the universe is calling you! It’s time to take the plunge.

2) You have caught the travel bug
There is nothing worse than daydreaming about your next destination while you are at work or home. Aching for the day to be over so you can go to sleep and do it all over again. It’s time for your next big trip.

3) No companions
You have asked everybody you know, but everybody is too busy or does not have the urge to travel as much as you do. This is a sure sign that you need to spread your wings and discover new lands. You may even find your people on the other side, and make some travel buddies for life.

4) You want to spend all your money on travel
There is nothing that excites you more and has you counting down the days to your next trip. Waking up at the crack of dawn and going to sleep when the sun rises is what gets your heart racing. This is when you know that even going solo is fun.

5) You need a change
Travelling with people can be exhausting. Doing things you both want to do, and following a particular schedule may have worn you out slightly. You like being independent. Once you know and trust yourself, you most certainly know that it is time to start travelling alone.

What made you start travelling solo? Or if you haven’t yet, do you think you will take the step to solo travel in the future? Comment your thoughts below; I would love to hear them. As always, I wish you all happy travels on your next adventure!

How to be a conscious traveller

November 11, 2018

Travelling is fun! The problem with fun is that we do not take a moment to analyse our actions. Sometimes everything can involve too much rushing and not enough thinking. In this article, I will share some pointers, on how to become a conscious traveller. So you can have fun, and also preserve the culture and the creation of nature.

1) Never litter
Just don’t do it. Especially abroad. Not only is it rude, but it’s terrible for the environment. You are the guest, and you should act like it. Littering shouldn’t even be acceptable in your home country. It’s just something that shouldn’t be done anywhere, ever.

2) Support the locals
Part of seeing the world is to experience the country. Try avoiding large chain restaurants and stores. They offer nothing special compared to artisans and hard working chefs. You get more a description of the country by doing so.

3) Tip when appropriate
Give a little extra if you believe they deserve it. It is always nice to find a bargain, especially when travelling to less developed countries. But if you can spare a bit of change, do so, it can mean a lot to the people who are working.

4) Be respectful
Research before travelling, and remember to respect the country’s culture. You are the guest, and you are lucky enough to be welcomed into the country you are visiting. Not only is it polite to integrate with their culture, but you get to experience a new world in depth. It is always fun to learn a bit of the language and to pick up new words and phrases while you are there.

What other advice would you give in order to help the world become conscious travellers? Comment below! As always, I wish everybody happy travels!

Lisbon; a city worth your time

November 8, 2018

Can you have a relaxing break in a capital city? Yes. Lisbon proves that not everybody has to be stressed in a Capital city. Unlike the massive cosmopolitan cities in the world, Lisbon is a mecca for a vibrant lifestyle, beautiful weather and an array of history and culture to suffice every tourist’s appetite. So, why is it not as popular as London, Berlin or Paris? I ask myself the same question. In my experience, it provides a better time for a tourist than any other capital city I have been to. So, what makes Lisbon just so unique? Let me explain in this article.

1) The people.
It’s true that the people make a nation. You won’t see a dramatic change in Portuguese people, whether you are in the north or the south of the country. They share the same values and approach to life, and it is one that everybody could learn a lot from. Life is simple, and they live it how it should be lived. Sharing love and happiness to everyone they meet.

2) The weather.
A warm climate helps a lot with boosting people’s morale. And something that Portugal is not lacking. So, of course, why wouldn’t people be happy? And why wouldn’t you like a city break in a place with a great city vibe, accompanied by small but beautiful beaches.

3) The history.
Portugal is rich in history that is shared all over the world. From South America to Africa. They were pioneers of travel in the 16th century and created new worlds. It all started in Lisbon, and you can witness and be part of Lisbon’s past when you visit the city. From its architecture, artefacts, language and people.

4) The culture.
Being Spain’s neighbour, you can see some similarities. But Portugal is not like Spain. Mediterranean countries may be similar, but each city is distinct, even within the same country. It may appear a little old-fashioned when it comes to its architecture, but there is nothing old about this bustling city.

I hope you become inspired to visit the Portugal’s gorgeous capital city one day. If you have already visited Lisbon, please comment your opinion on the city. As always, wishing everybody happy travels!

How travel can and will change you

November 6, 2018

So, you’re ready to see the world? Make an impact maybe? Well, do not be surprised at how much you will change once you start to look at the world in a different angle. There is no going back, and there is no time to slow down. If you want to become a better version of yourself, there is nothing like seeing the world. Here I shall share some examples of how travelling has changed me and moulded me to the person I am today.

1) You become more conscious
You awake yourself to a new life. New possibilities, and new outlooks. What you thought you once knew becomes obliterated by new culture and people. Once you start to see the world, you realise that you haven’t seen anything and you will never see everything. You not only become conscious of the type of person you are, but mindful of the people in the world. Your role-models become the hard-working men and women, the children and their parents. You accept that the world moulds people, and you agree that the world is so much more than the city you grew up in.

2) You are more than just a name and passport
We all have preconceptions and an idea about your path for life. Many may take the simple route after school and work hard to make their life worth living. Travelling will make you realise that your life is worth more than mundane items, and a paycheck. If you let it, it will open so many doors which you could not believe were possible, and you should take every opportunity that comes your way. Because that is the real way, you should live life.

3) You become courageous
There is no other option. If you want to strive, you have to face fear. And fear can only reward you with courage. Nothing becomes daunting anymore. You realise that you can learn that new language and you can adapt to living in a foreign country. The world is full of endless opportunities, and only those who face their fears get to enjoy it to the fullest.

4) It’s a humbling experience
Approximately seven million people are living are living in this world at this given moment. And you are just one of them. You discover villages and remote tribes who speak their language and have distinct cultures. Everything you thought you once knew is erased. Nothing can prepare you for recognising the authenticity of the world.

5) You start to plan your next journey as soon as the current one ends
The travel bug is real, and it will never go away. Travel will become addicting, and you will scrimp and save to plan your next epic adventure. But you can’t buy experiences, right? Those moments are the ones that make life worth living and are truly priceless.

I hope you have enjoyed this article. If you have any input, please comment below. As always, I wish you all happy travels!

Five reasons to solely travel with hand luggage

November 4, 2018

The best and least stressful way to travel has to be with less luggage. Be it only a backpack or suitcase. In this article, I will share some more tips on why you should strive to travel light. And if you already do travel light, leave a comment below on why you started travelling with fewer articles and how it has improved your own travel experience.

1) You cut airline fees
If you want to travel a lot, you need to know where to reduce costs. Budget airlines give you incredible deals; sometimes they are just too good to be true! But they hit you with significant fines when it comes to selecting seats and especially luggage. If you want to see a new country for less than €20 return, then you are going to have to sacrifice those extra clothes you most likely won’t even need.

2) Less likely to lose your items
The less you carry, the less you have to worry about. Packing a certain amount of things will eliminate the chances of you losing or forgetting something.

3) Better for the environment
Did you know that if we all carry less, then the plane will not need as much additional fuel? So, not only does it benefit ourselves but also the environment. Hopefully, one day it can mean that flight prices can decrease too.

4) Less likely to miss a flight
I am not sure how accurate this statement is, although I have experienced it first hand myself. Thanks to only having a backpack with me, I managed to make my flight even though suitcases had been stored away and the check-in desk had closed. Maybe I was lucky, or maybe packing only hand luggage does allow people to look the only way.

5) It doesn’t deflect from your reason for travelling
Travel for me is a form of meditation and rehabilitation. You don’t need all your material items to make your trip worthwhile. All you need is yourself. So I believe that travelling with less makes you appreciate your experience more.

I hope you have enjoyed reading this article, and if there are any other benefits to travelling light, don’t forget to leave a comment below. As always I am wishing everybody happy travels!

Porto’s top attractions

July 19, 2018

The city of Porto may be overlooked by many. With only 237,591 inhabitants, you may not think that Porto is a must visit when you’re travelling in Portugal. However, this city offers so much more to the country than it is given credit.
In many countries, you can see varying differences between the north and the south, therefore getting a perspective from both is a great way to get a closer feel to the country. Porto does not disappoint, even if the weather may be milder than in Lisbon and the South of Portugal. In this article, I have curated a list of my favourite attractions in Porto, and some which I believe should not be missed when you go.

Dom Luís I Bridge
Possibly the main reason why many visit Porto, equal to the why everybody wants to go to and experience Paris and the Eiffel tower, is to witness the incredible design and metal structure that was created by Gustave Eiffel. Built over the river Douro to join the city of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, at 172 metres in length it was the longest of its type when it was inaugurated on the 31st of October 1886.
If Porto was not photogenic enough, this bridge sure allows you to take gorgeous photos. From below and above. You can climb to the top, Porto is renowned for its hills and steps; alternatively, you can select the option of the cable car which offers you a free wine tasting at a cellar. With one-way tickets at €2.50, it is a great way to relax and take in the sights.

Palacio Da Bolsa
The stock exchange Palace is mesmerising in the interior. With its room decorated in a neoclassical style to suit the 19th century’s Commercial Association and attract European countries to attract potential European investors. This building was the core to Portugal and is vital to its history. Only guided tours are offered here, and they last 30 minutes. They are very informative, and you learn a lot about the country of Portugal, for only €9.50 per adult, and €5.50 for children, it sure is a must see.

São Bento Railway Station
A railway station may not be everyone’s main interest when visiting a city; however, this 19th-century train station is exuberant in design. Porto is famous for their tiles (azulejos), and it is beautifully depicted in the interior design of São Bento. Perfect if you either arrive in Porto by rail or leave to another city.

Igreja do Carmo
Famous for its tiled side façade, this church is the embodiment of what Porto is. The interior does not disappoint either, as its 18th-century late baroque style exude vibrancy and beauty. With free entry, you can marvel at this church as much as you like.

Livraria Lello
Possibly just as famous as the Dom Luís I Bridge, thanks to JK Rowling, this marvellous bookstore is a pleasure to visit. Although there will most likely be a queue, you do not have to wait long to enter. Tickets cost €5, and that is deducted if you buy a book. With a vast selection of books for everybody of any age, you’d be missing out if you didn’t get one. This bookstore sure is a highlight of a visit to Porto, but if you don’t like huge crowds, try visiting as soon as they open.

Church of São Francisco
Declared a world heritage site, the Church of Saint Francis is the most prominent Gothic monument in Porto, also noted for its outstanding Baroque inner decoration. It was initially a small church and convent, which in later years was altered extensively. In 1832, a fire destroyed a part of the temple and in its place was built the Stock Exchange Palace (Palacio Da Bolsa). Adult fare is €4, and this also gives you access to the museum and catacombs.

Porto is a beautiful place full of culture and great aesthetic. I hope this has inspired you when you plan your trip to Porto and you have a fantastic time. As always, I wish you all happy travels, wherever it may be.

What is not to love about Porto?

July 12, 2018

The home of Port wine, Dom Luis I Bridge and all-around stunning architecture, Porto is situated in the Northern area of Portugal, close to Spain. In fact, you can get a train from Porto to Vigo, that will only take you 3 hours. Placing all of its known wonders aside, Porto is possibly one of the best cities in Portugal for a weekend break. In this article, I shall explain precisely why, and how to plan it.

1) Everything is compact.
Possibly one of the best cities to be a tourist. Why? Because you don’t have to take any public transport what so ever! All you have to love is walking (and hills, as you can’t explain the steep terrain in Porto.) Book your hotel in the city centre, and the city is your oyster, literally! It is slightly more expensive if you do decide on booking a hotel in the centre, however, if you are only visiting for a couple of days, like I did, it saves you a lot of time which you can use to experience the city.

2) They are known for their food and wine.
Something you have to do in Porto is trying Port wine. Even once. This tasty sweet alcoholic drink is usually served after your starter, before the main course, and once again after you have finished your main course, before emerging your taste buds in a delicious dessert. However, you don’t have to go all out and follow Portuguese customs with every meal (especially if you are doing a lot of walking as one glass is enough to make you a little tipsy) but a small sample of this famous drink is a great way to experience a little bit of Porto.

3) It’s cool.
Yes, by now we should all know Porto is cool. But the atmosphere and vibe the city projects is very relaxing, and you may lose the sense of time while you are there. From art being displayed in all areas of the streets, watching the formation of the ripples on the river, as buskers sing their songs and you check out the market stalls should be enough to entice you to this place. It sure has made me want to plan a trip back really soon!

4) It was the inspiration for Harry Potter.
As if Porto enough isn’t a fantastic place, it is reportedly the inspiration for Harry Potter! Livraria Lello is the bookstore where JK Rowling often visited while she was teaching English in Porto. Once you visit the place for yourself, you can see why. Although it is difficult to avoid the crowd of tourists which frequent the bookstore. When you do buy your ticket, the price you paid is discounted from any book you buy! Livraria Lello is a must if you are a bookworm.

5) It is home to one of Gustave Eiffel’s designs.
Dom Luis I Bridge, designed by the famous Gustave Eiffel, is situated proudly between the city of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia joining both places together. To witness the beauty from above, you can either take a cable car or steps and relax as you see everything from above.

6) You will feel refreshed.
That is what everybody desires from a short getaway or holiday, and that is precisely what Porto provides. You will feel inspired, renewed and rejuvenated when you return to your daily life. There is always something magical about places like that.

My time in Porto was short but incredibly sweet. The city had been on my bucket list for the past year, so being able to tick it off was amazing! It lived greater than what my expectations were expecting and has me planning a trip back. Hopefully, many of you will be adding Porto to your bucket list after reading this article, if you haven’t already. As always I wish you all happy travels!

Why you should visit Portugal in 2018

July 10, 2018

DSCN6166 — The stunning Pena Palace in Sintra.

Majority of the time, Portugal is overlooked by many. Especially the northern part of the country. However, Portugal is not just great as a beach destination. It offers so much more than a warm climate, which is the primary reason why many people travel to the country for the summer. Year-round, Portugal is a country who warmly welcomes their visitors and are proud of their history, culture, and language.

After many years of believing that visiting Portugal would be a waste of money and time, I am here to tell you that I wish I had gone to this beautiful country much, much sooner! Last month I had the privilege of witnessing Porto, Lisbon, Sintra and the island of Madeira and I am here to tell you why you should add Portugal to your bucket list right away.

1) Everybody is just too damn friendly!
Maybe I’m lucky, to be around super generous, loving people wherever I travel to, however after spending two weeks going from city to city in train or plane, I can say that the Portuguese are some of the most caring, and helpful people you can ever meet! It’s true when they say the people make a nation, because who wants to go to a country who despises tourists anyway? Nobody.
The entirety of Portugal is excellent for solo travellers, families, anybody really from anywhere in the world. I have never felt safer in a country than in Portugal, and that is the truth.

2) The landscapes and architecture.
Every country in the world has gorgeous landscapes, and architecture, right? That is true. However, every country and city is different. Portugal, especially Porto and Lisbon, capture the essence of their history and they keep it alive in their modern way of life. Porto is home to the famous Dom Luis I Bridge, which was designed by Gustave Eiffel, and it sure takes your breath away, just like the Eiffel tower. If you want to witness bright and lively buildings, Portugal is the place to go.

3) One for the foodies.
Serving some of the best seafood dishes, Portugal is a mecca for foodies. Often not seen as an excellent place for cuisine in Europe, unlike France and Italy, you will be begging for Portuguese food once you arrive back home. Some of the best dishes are found in the South and Lisbon.

4) You genuinely feel on holiday.
Life in Portugal is relaxing. Even in the capital city of Lisbon. It is unlike many other capital cities of the world, as you genuinely feel like you are on holiday, not in a bustling city. There is always time in Portugal, and thankfully their cities are not that large, which gives you plenty of time to reach your destination and take in all the atmosphere surrounding you. In particular, Porto, where you don’t need any form of transportation to see the main highlights, only good sturdy shoes.

5) There’s a little bit of everything.
Beach, forests, architecture, cuisine, weather. Portugal has the whole package. There is something for everybody, any time of the year and that is ultimately what makes this country just so amazing and an excellent place for tourists from all over the world to appreciate.

Portugal has quickly become one of my favourite destinations to visit, and I will plan a trip back soon! Have you visited Portugal yet? Has this article inspired you to visit the glory of Portugal in the future? Tell me about your travel plans and if you have already visited Portugal, tell me what you think about the country! As always, I wish everybody happy travels to wherever in our beautiful world you are heading to next.

recent posts

about

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: