a travel blog by renata green
Gabled houses, wooden shoes, tulips – the list of cutesy clichés that everyone immediately associates with the Netherlands could go on and on. And then you get to Rotterdam, and the image is shattered. Thankfully. Rotterdam isn’t a city that wins you over with Dutch stereotypes and postcard charm. It draws you in with its palpable energy and cosmopolitan vibe. Rotterdam is different from any other city in the Netherlands, and that’s exactly why it is absolutely worth visiting.
Hals, Hofjes, and Heritage — all this and so much more makes Haarlem a highly interesting and pretty exciting destination. Continuously in the shadow of Amsterdam, this city, located around 30 kilometers from the Dutch capital, is far too often overlooked. So, if you’re not keen on the hustle and bustle of a big’n’busy metropolis but still want to enjoy an inspiring, authentically Dutch city packed with mysteries and miracles, Haarlem is the perfect place for you!
In this post, I’m taking you to the best spots you absolutely should not miss when visiting Haarlem.
From artisanal cheese and craft beer to centuries-old cocoa traditions, the area northwest of Amsterdam is a place where every local flavor tells a story.
On a culinary journey through North Holland, I discovered some of the region’s signature specialties as well as a couple of incredible gourmet restaurants.
This Way to the Whole Story ->Every summer, the grounds of the historic Carlshütte iron foundry in the village of Büdelsdorf in northern Germany host one of the largest exhibitions of contemporary art in Europe. Around 200 artists from all over the world present their works in an impressive industrial setting. As in previous years, I’ll tell you everything you need to know for your visit to NordArt in 2026.
Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city?
On a day trip from Genoa, you can visit three very different gems of the Ligurian coast by excursion boat. The cruise takes past rugged cliffs and pastel-colored villages to charming Camogli with its colorful houses and relaxed beach atmosphere. Nestled in a secluded cove, the medieval Benedictine monastery of San Fruttuoso is a sight to behold, before you end the day with an aperitivo in the luxurious haven of Portofino.
Sounds like we’re in for an absolutely memorable trip, am I right?
Just outside Genua, the Ligurian coast begins to shift and gives way to Boccadasse, Nervi, and Camogli, three perfect escapes for a day trip that lets you enjoy local culture, cuisine, and dips in translucent waters.
Just hop on one of the frequent regional trains and join me in my village-hopping in mesmerizing Liguria!
This Way to the Whole Story ->Camogli is a beach town just one hour East of Genoa, you know, one of these typical fishing villages with tall, colorful houses that make Italy so picturesque and lovable and are just the perfect destination for an amazing day trip.
Also, it’s definitely not by mistake that the bay that stretches from Genoa all the way to Portofino was named Golfo Paradiso, if you know what I mean.
Hence, let me guide you to beautiful Camogli so you can easily spend a day in paradise.
This Way to the Whole Story ->Venice on a budget? Is that even possible?
Agreed, visiting Venice can be pretty pricey.
After all, you find yourself at one of the world’s most unique places – and it comes with a price tag.
However, if you follow my simple hacks, visiting Venice on a budget is easy and still very enjoyable.
This Way to the Whole Story ->The Biennale di Arte, one of the world’s most important art events, takes place every two years. Although Venice is certainly a place worth visiting even when nothing special is on, my post on how to visit the city during the Biennale 2026 will make your trip even more memorable.
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