Author: Renata Green

The world is my oyster: I'm Renata, founder and editor of this travel blog. bye:myself - no, that's not a typo, it's referring to me saying bye to my comfort zone and heading for new shores solo. Having been a solo traveller, flashpacker, and poverty jet setter for ages made me an avid and savvy planner and organizer of worldwide travel. Since I've been an author and journalist practically all my life, I love to put my travel experience into writing to encourage, inspire, and assist you. Looking forward to meeting you somewhere on this planet!

Best Things to Do in PALERMO

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Particularly in recent years, Sicily has developed from an insider tip into a holiday destination for aficionados of history, passionate nature lovers, but also the rich and famous – and not just since the second season of The White Lotus, which is set primarily in the incredibly picturesque town of Taormina. However, while places like Cefalú, San Vito Lo Capo, and obviously Taormina are groaning under the influx of visitors, life in the capital Palermo continues largely unaffected by this development. Actually, that’s not a bad thing. On a two-day visit, it allows you and me to experience the real, authentic Sicily from up close.

Chiesa di San Domenico in Palermo.
View of the Chiesa di San Domenico, the resting place of many significant figures in Palermo’s history, and the mountain range on the city’s outskirts.

Hence, in this post, I’ll show you the best things you definitely shouldn’t miss – even those that are a bit off the beaten path.

This Way to the Whole Story ->

A Day Trip to Isola delle Femmine: Coastal Trails And Crystal Waters

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Considering how many trains stop at Isola delle Femmine station every day and how many people pass through, it is almost a miracle that this delightful little fishing village has managed to retain its authentic atmosphere and laid-back vibe.

Boat in Isola Delle Femmine.
Isola delle Femmine: A town in blue and white.

The surprisingly large number of passengers passing through Isola delle Femmine train station is due to the simple fact that this charming little coastal town lies on the railway line from Palermo’s city center to the airport. For very few is Isola delle Femmine their final destination. And that’s a good thing, because it suits this hidden gem very well.

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Sea, Salt, and Sunset: Experiencing the Best of TRAPANI

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Set on the western edge of Sicily, Trapani is a city where amazing views and history blend like a perfect aperitivo. Even in just one day, you can experience a compact yet unforgettable glimpse of authentic Sicilian life. Stroll through its baroque old town, taste the flavors of centuries-old culinary traditions, and end the day by watching the sun set over ancient salt pans.

View of Trapani, the city that's famous for Salt and Sunset.
From the former defense wall, you have an unobstructed view of Trapani’s entire northern coast.

With its easy-going pace, breathtaking coastal views, and proximity to other amazing places, Trapani is simply ideal for a short escape.

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From Clifftop Views to Gelato Scoops: A Guide to CEFALÙ

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On the picturesque north coast of Sicily, nestled between the emerald-green waves of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the imposing rock of La Rocca, lies the charming coastal town of Cefalù. However, Cefalù is far more than just a seaside resort.
While its golden sands and crystal-clear waters attract beach bums from all over the world every summer, a rich past lies hidden behind the postcard-perfect backdrop.
In fact, history, culture, and the Mediterranean dolce vita converge in a captivating fashion. Already from afar, the silhouette of the medieval old town is impressive, dominated by the majestic cathedral, which has watched over the labyrinth of narrow streets, colorful facades, and sun-drenched squares since the 12th century.

View of Cefalù.
The mesmerizing coast of Cefalù.
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Kepler Club at the Airport in Istanbul, Kuala Lumpur, and Riga

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I first encountered the Kepler Club on my return flight from the Baltics at Riga Airport. And ever since I stayed in this amazing airport capsule hotel, I’ve wanted nothing more than for every airport worldwide to be legally required to have a Kepler Hotel!

Girl at the airport
So, what time is your flight leaving?
(Image by Jan Vašek from Pixabay)
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24 hours in RIGA

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Latvia’s national airline, AirBaltic, often offers convenient connections including a stopover in Riga. That’s perfect for getting a profound glimpse of the city on the way to your final destination. And with my guide to 24 hours in Riga, I help you turn a pitstop into a real travel highlight.

Riga Town Hall Square, one of the places to see during 24 hours in Riga.
One of Riga’s spots not to be missed is the iconic Town Hall Square.

Explore the charming Old Town with its medieval alleys, cafés, and Art Nouveau façades, or take a stroll along the banks of the Daugava River before visiting the Central Market for some authentic Latvian delights.

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24 hours in VILNIUS

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Even if you have only around 24 hours, a stopover in Vilnius is an excellent opportunity to get to know Lithuania’s charming capital.

Street in Vilnius
The iconic crowned tower of the Saint Casimir Church seen from the Stiklių Gatvė.

The city offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and architecture. From the medieval Old Town district to modern art galleries and cozy cafés, Vilnius is compact and diverse, ideal for a short but worthwhile tour of discovery.

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24 hours in PARIS

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Paris’ Charles de Gaulle Airport is the third-busiest hub in Europe after London and Istanbul. Therefore, chances are that you have a connection that you probably don’t want to spend sitting on an uncomfortable metal chair, munching on overpriced sandwiches. And this is exactly where this post comes to the rescue: It is designed to transform a dull layover into a short, meticulously planned extra vacation of up to 24 hours in Paris.

Eiffel Tower seen from Trocadero. 24 hours in Paris
Trocadéro is the ideal spot to get grand views of the Eiffel Tower.

Now, you might think that 24 hours are far too few to explore the so-called city of lights. Of course, you are absolutely right, but this applies to almost every popular stopover destination. However, if you follow my itineraries, you’ll be surprised how much you get to see and experience the proverbial savoir vivre.

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From Dresden to Moritzburg Castle: A Day Trip into Saxony’s Royal Past

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Not only is the Baroque city of Dresden amazingly beautiful, but it is also nestled in a captivating landscape dotted with natural wonders, idyllic towns, and fairytale castles that are just second to none. Therefore, when visiting Dresden, you should better plan a few extra days to allow for at least one day trip, for example, to the Baroque Moritzburg Castle, the former hunting residence of the Electors and Kings of Saxony.

Moritzburg Castle.
The magnificent entrance to the castle complex of Moritzburg.
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