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!
Lithuania might be small, but it’s steeped in history, innovation, and full of natural wonders, and its capital, Vilnius, effortlessly blends its rich traditions with modernity. But that’s by far not the only reason that makes the city an exceptionally exciting travel destination. Therefore, after having already featured the best places in the other Baltic Republics, it was finally time to see on a long weekend what Vilnius has in store. And let me assure you: the so-called Baroque Pearl of the Baltic is an incredibly lustrous gem!
Sundowner with a view: After a long day of sightseeing, a glass of wine on the amazing rooftop terrace of the Radisson Collection Astorija Hotel, right across from the iconic Church of St. Casimir, is exactly what the ambitious traveller needs!This Way to the Whole Story ->
Are you heading to the Atlantic coast to take on those giant waves? Or do you want to enjoy an extensive wine tasting in the vineyards and chateaux around Saint-Émilion? Whatever the reason for your visit to this region of France, you’ll hardly be able to avoid at least a pit stop in the proverbial Pearl of the Southwest. I’m talking, of course, about Bordeaux, the charming wine capital of France. And that’s a good thing, because the city is definitely worth a visit, and with my guide for up to 24 hours, you’ll be able to make the most of Bordeaux.
The retro charm of the old carousel blends enchantingly with the exquisite facades of Bordeaux’s magnificent buildings.
Normally, I would foresee at least two to three days in Bordeaux, even more if you really want to immerse yourself in the French savoir-vivre with leisurely strolls through the picturesque streets and plenty of breaks in cozy cafés. But sometimes, time is limited. Even more so, it should be used to its full potential, and below, you’ll find a perfectly designed itinerary.
Saint-Émilion is a breathtaking blend of sun-drenched vineyards and medieval charm. Every winding alley and every old stone building tells a story. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine lover, or looking for the epitome of the Southern French way of life, here’s a perfect guide for a day trip to the charming village of Saint-Emilion. I promise you an unforgettable experience!
Saint-Émilion also enchants with its surroundings. This, however, is Château Villemaurine, only one of supposedly almost a thousand wine estates in the region.This Way to the Whole Story ->
It all began with a student exchange ages ago. Since then, I’ve probably visited Bordeaux more often than any other city, not just in France but in the entire world. While on my early visits, I focused more on the café culture, the clubs, and the laid-back charm of southwestern France, only now, in my advanced years, am I discovering the cultural treasures that no visitor should miss when visiting Bordeaux. Therefore, I’m delighted that you’re joining me on this rediscovery of a city that has been so dear to my heart for such a long time!
The Place des Grands Hommes is one of the city’s many squares that combine history, beauty, and the legendary French savoir-vivre, the art of living your best life.This Way to the Whole Story ->
Did you know that there are five international airports in the Czech Republic? No? Me neither. Obviously, despite the other four, the busiest hub by far is the Václav Havel Airport, located 15 kilometers west of Prague’s city center. And even though this airport isn’t one of Europe’s most important hubs, you may well find yourself having a layover there. Actually, that’s what happened to me on my way from Dubrovnik to Hamburg, for example. Or perhaps you want to visit one of the beautiful towns in the Czech Republic, like, for instance, Děčín. If you land in Prague, you might want to spare a few hours or even a night to explore the city. Whatever the reason for your short stay might be, my post 24 hours in Prague will help you make the most of it!
No matter how short your stay in Prague actually is, a stroll across the legendary Charles Bridge is a must!This Way to the Whole Story ->
After having spent a fantastic day underneath, on top, and between the magnificent walls of Tisá, I cannot fathom why this breathtaking labyrinth of towering sandstone formations amid the Bohemian Switzerland is such a hidden treasure. After all, it is perfect for hikers, climbers, and, obviously, even tightrope walkers!
Even though the tightrope walkers at the entrance to the Tisá Walls do not balance for the audience, they are still one of the highlights for every visitor.
The dramatic shapes of the sandstone steles that time has colored a mysterious black, and the winding paths feel like stepping into a fairytale world. Easily accessible and less crowded than other spots, they offer stunning views and an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Bohemian – this term always sounds so sophisticated and almost decadent. In this case, however, I’m referring to the geographical meaning. And what can I say: The Bohemian Switzerland is as refined and opulent as you could wish for. So let me convey the fascinating past, trendy presence, and most importantly, breathtaking wonders of nature you get to enjoy in just one weekend in Decin, the amazing gateway to the Bohemian Switzerland.
Of all Italian cities, Milan probably deems the least what we consider Italian. No jolly groups sipping Aperol Spritz while playing boccia. Instead, executives rush from their stately apartment houses to offices in glittering business centers. Hardly a narrow cobblestone alley. Rather big cars on broad avenues. Money makes the world Milan go round. And yet, if you visit with an open mind, Milan will by no means disappoint: Get the big picture from the roof of the Duomo, and enjoy contemporary art at various industrial sites that were transformed into humongous art galleries. Window shop at the posh Brera district or the fabulous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Admire Leonardo da Vinci’s Cenacolo, hence, the Last Supper. Oh, talking ’bout food: Finish a long day of sightseeing with a relaxed Milanese Aperitivo in one of the countless bars alongside the Navigli, the city’s old waterways. Sounds like a plan? Mind you, these are only a few of the best things you should do in Milan on a long weekend!
Ma certo, one week is quite tight when it comes to a trip to Sicily, even if you limit your visit to the very best places. The island at the southern tip of mainland Italy has more to offer than you would find in many entire countries! Did you know that Sicily has seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites? These excellent locations are so different that there is something for everyone. Whether it is the ancient archaeological sites in Syracuse, the artistic mosaics of the Villa Romana del Casale near Armerina, the baroque center of Noto, or the Aeolian Islands – you will be amazed!
Cattedrale metropolitana della Natività di Maria Santissima, the cathedral of Syracuse, impressively illustrates Sicily’s strongest side, namely facades bathed in golden afternoon light.
But in addition to these fantastic sites, you should, of course, also make time to laze on the beach in Taormina and enjoy a delicious aperitivo in the evening during the sunset. After all, the Dolce Vita is as much a part of Italy as pizza and pasta. So that you don’t lose track of all these fantastic options, I have put together an itinerary for you with the best places that you should definitely visit in one week in Sicily. If you have more time, even better – you won’t be bored for a second, believe me!
Agreed, Taormina is definitely one of the most touristy places in Sicily, and this comes with all the annoyances overtourism tends to cause. This being said, no one can deny that Taormina is the most beautiful town in all of Sicily, hence, in this guide, I’m introducing the best thing not to miss when visiting this gem on the eastern coast of the island.
View of Spiaggia di Isola Bella and the Grotta Azzurra below Taormina, the most beautiful town in Sicily.This Way to the Whole Story ->
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