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!
A day trip to Anguilla is the easiest excursion you can take from Saint Martin, and if you go self-organized, it’s also the cheapest one.
Rendezvous Beach was my piece of paradise of choice on my day trip.
As I rummage through my bag for my lip balm, a few bills and coins fall into my hands. It’s 23 dollars. However, they’re Eastern Caribbean dollars, a currency valid on eight islands. Converted, my 23 EC$ are about 8.50 US$. Still, something. I’m currently on Saint Martin, where you can pay with various currencies, but the EC$ isn’t one of them. So what to do?
Picturesquely framed by the shimmering blue of the Caribbean Sea, the northern half of the island of Saint Martin is as French as Gauloises and Baguette. Saint Martin distinctively blends tropical allure with a French twist, and in this post, I’ll show you what you absolutely should not miss.
Grand Case is definitely one of the places not to miss when visiting beautiful Saint-Martin.
From the bustling marina of Marigot with its markets and fine patisseries to the tranquil coves of Anse Marcel and the lively beach clubs of Orient Bay, Saint-Martin offers the perfect balance between relaxation and indulgence. Nature lovers can hike to the viewpoints of Loterie Farm, while foodies enjoy first-class dishes at beachfront bistros in Grand Case.
Whatever floats your boat, you’ll find your little corner of Saint-Martin where time slows down, and paradise seems within reach.
Nestled in the big wet heart of the Caribbean, Sint Maarten, the Dutch half of this unique dual-nation island, offers the best of European charm and tropical allure combined. Known for its white-sand beaches and laid-back atmosphere, this southern part of the island pulses with life and color.
No matter how typically tropical the surroundings, it wouldn’t be a part of the Netherlands without an iconic windmill.
Apart from lazing on the beach and taking refreshing dips in the beautiful waters, you can also sail into picturesque lagoons, snorkel among coral reefs, or simply unwind at a beachside bar with a rum punch in hand. As you stroll down the streets lined with pastel façades of the lively neighborhood of Philipsburg or hike through lush tropical greenery, make sure you don’t miss out on a fun scare as planes roar dramatically over your head alongside the waters of the world-famous Maho Beach!
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!
Palermo’s Kalsa district.
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!
In this post, I’m taking you on a trip to Syracuse to explore the ancient wonders and coastal charms of Sicily. However, this city on the island’s southeastern coast isn’t just for history buffs! Its markets burst with local flavors while its sun-soaked piazze invite leisure’n’pleasure. And as the sun slowly sets, bathing the historic buildings in a burning golden light, the coast of Syracuse shines in its radiant splendor, waiting for you with a delicious dinner by the sea.
Piazza del Duomo on the Ortigia peninsula – probably the most iconic square in Syracuse.
Few places can match Syracuse’s ability to captivate both mind and heart. It’s not just a destination—it’s a journey through time and an invitation to experience Italy’s legendary dolce vita at its most enchanting. Syracuse is Sicily at its finest!
Although often overlooked and definitely underrated, Catania is a city full of beauty, history, and, on clear days, magnificent views of Mount Etna. In particular, the palaces constructed during the Baroque period after the city was rebuilt following the devastating earthquake of 1693 reflect the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Although there is no generally accepted exact number, there are certainly around 50 notable palaces in and around the city.
Waterbearer at the Fontana dell’Amenano, a Baroque fountain with mythical figures created by Tito Angelini.
Apart from the famous palaces such as the Palazzo Biscari, the Palazzo degli Elefanti, and the Palazzo Minoriti, there are numerous smaller and lesser-known ones scattered throughout the city. Many of these are privately owned and have been converted for business purposes. That’s why, even as a self-proclaimed Poverty Jetsetter, I was able to spend a restful night in a real Italian Palazzo! More about that – and all the other marvels of Catania – in this post.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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