Tag: Beaches

What Not to Miss in BRIDGETOWN, Barbados’ Exciting Capital

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No, understandably, no one comes to Barbados for a bright-light, big-city experience. And yet, it would be a mistake to ignore Barbados’ capital, Bridgetown, altogether. After all, it is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and tropical charm. Here, you can explore UNESCO-listed landmarks, lively markets, and a scenic waterfront. From historic sites to great shopping and authentic Bajan cuisine, Bridgetown offers a perfect taste of the urban side of the Caribbean, and in this post, I’m taking you to places not to miss when exploring Barbados’ charming capital.

Man on Swan Street in Bridgetown the capital of Barbados.
Like everywhere else on the island, the people in Bridgetown are exceptionally hospitable.
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Typically Tropical: Best Places Not to Miss on the Amazing Island of BARBADOS

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Who remembers the British duo Typically Tropical, who released their debut single called Barbados back in 1975? After starting the song with the determined announcement Woh, I’m going to Barbados, the singer made clear why he was visiting this amazing island in the heart of the Caribbean. His main reason was to get away from his dull job and Britain’s bad weather. And although hardly anybody remembers this classic one-hit-wonder, who in their right mind wouldn’t agree that Barbados is one of the best places not to miss?

Enterprise Beach, one of the Best Places Not Miss in Barbados
Even the lifeguard posts are pretty in Barbados.

I, for one, absolutely agreed with Typically Tropical and made my way to Barbados. Since their song remained a one-hit-wonder, I’m pretty sure the duo has given up their career by now; and who knows, maybe they retired in Barbados.
Howsoever, in this post, I’m taking you to the best places the island has to offer.

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The Best Places to Visit in SICILY in One Week

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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 in Ortigia, Syracuse
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!

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ISLAND HOPPING in the AZORES

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Two handfuls of volcanic rocks in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, far from basically everywhere: Although the Azores belong politically to Portugal, it takes more time and money to get there. This is one of the reasons why the Azores, despite their mesmerizing beauty, are still a rather hidden gem when it comes to tourism. However, for me, that was a perfect reason to check out for myself if you can rightly call the Azores the Hawaii of Europe.
In this post, I’m telling you all about my formidable island hopping and if I found the famous Azores High.

The crater lakes of Sete Cidades in Sao Miguel, the largest island of the Azores.
The iconic crater lakes of Sete Cidades in São Miguel, the largest island of the Azores.
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What Not to Miss in TERCEIRA, the Azore Island of History and Grace

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Nomen est Omen: Terceira translates to third in Portuguese, and in fact, the second-largest island of the Azores was the third to be discovered in the early 15th century. Terceira belongs to the central group of the Azores and impresses with its breathtaking landscape, beautiful sandy beaches, and the mesmerizing town of Angra do Heroismo which UNESCO crowned as one of the World Heritage Sites. Hence, whether you’re an enthusiastic hiker, a lazy beach bum, or a history buff – Terceira unites all of the best things you don’t want to miss when visiting the Azore Islands.

Rua de Jesus in Praia da Vitoria on Terceira Island in the Azores
The beautifully tiled Rua de Jesus is lined with colorful houses like something out of a Lego construction set.
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FAIAL – the Most Beautiful Island of the Azores

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Our ferry slowly glided just off the coast of Faial’s capital Horta. Behind the marina, which was densely packed with sailing yachts, I spotted lavish townhouses and whitewashed church buildings in the Manueline style typical of the Azores stacked in rows up a slightly climbing hill. The place exuded elegance and noble serenity. Actually, already at first sight, Faial seemed to be the most beautiful island among the Azores.

View of Horta on Faial, the most beautiful island of the Azores
View of Horta, Faial’s main town, across the small murals yachtsmen from all over the world left behind.

And indeed, Faial is a stunning blend of volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and striking ocean views. Known as the Blue Island for its hydrangea-lined roads, Faial is a paradise for sailors and adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking serene sophistication.

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Small But Mighty: Why You Should Definitely Visit the Azores Island of GRACIOSA

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Graciosa Island is the second-smallest of the Azores Archipelago and is often overlooked and underrated. Therefore, I think it’s time to show you why you should definitely visit Graciosa, the hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat full of natural beauty and cultural richness.

View of Santa Cruz da Graciosa in the Azores.
Praça de Fontes Pereira de Mello in Santa Cruz da Graciosa featuring all the iconic structures such as whitewashed houses, red-roofed windmills, and beautiful churches.
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Best Things to Do in SAO MIGUEL, the Most Varied Island of the Azores

Posted onAuthorRenata Green4 Comments

The Azores islands offer pure nature, and as some people always feel the urge to compare places with each other, the archipelago is often referred to as the Hawaii of Europe. As a matter of fact, Sao Miguel, the largest one of the Azores, offers a comprehensive variety of the best things to see and do in a few days in this piece of paradise located about halfway between Europe and North America.

The crater lakes of Sete Cidades in Sao Miguel, the largest island of the Azores.
The crater lakes of Sete Cidades are probably the most iconic sight when it comes to the Azores.

Basically all travelers of the Azores visit São Miguel, and many of them stay exclusively on this most prominent one of the islands. And indeed, you’ll find all the attractions the archipelago has to offer here in one spot: breathtaking natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences. Yet, despite its growing popularity, São Miguel remains relatively unspoiled by mass tourism. It maintains an authentic, relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature.

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What Not to Miss in ARUBA, the Caribbean A-Lister

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Aruba was actually one of the first islands in the Caribbean that opened its hearts’n’harbors to international visitors by installing well-working touristy infrastructures. Today, Aruba is an absolute A-Lister when it comes to a dream vacation in the West Indies.
However, while most visitors are coming for the dreamy sand beaches, it would be a big mistake to miss out on the natural wonders Aruba is hiding in its hinterland.
In this post, I have you covered by telling you about all the wonderful spots you should not miss when visiting this self-proclaimed happy island.

Eagle Beach - one of Aruba's most famous beaches.
Eagle Beach – one of Aruba’s most famous beaches. However, the bird in the pictures is not an eagle but a seagle seagull.
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Railroad Trip PORTUGAL

Posted onAuthorRenata Green58 Comments

On my railroad trip through Portugal, I experienced how travelling the country by train is easy-peasy, cheap, and fun.

Houses in Porto, first stop in PORTUGAL - complete guide to a railroad-trip
Picturesque Portugal: The beauty of everyday life.

Hence, let me guide you from mesmerizing Porto all the way south to Lisbon – with some amazing whistle stops in between.
Do you hear the whistle blow? Quick – jump on the train and let’s go!

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