Author: simon611

I absolutely loved the Banksy exhibition at the Bristol City Museum. The lines stretched down the street from morning till night, with people flying in from all over. But it was totally worth it. Hopefully, they’ll take the exhibition to other places soon so more people can enjoy it. I’ll share more photos later, but here are some of my favorites with a travel theme.

I hate Mondays – a tribute to Sir Bob.
The girl with the apron – could she be the new Mona Lisa? Don’t her eyes seem to follow you around the room?
EasyJet is everywhere now!
Was that me in a rickshaw in Berlin?
Oops, was that a waterfall?

Photographers were everywhere – I’m sure you’ll see a book, postcard, or poster in a shop near you soon. This was iconic stuff. More photos coming soon.

When I first visited the Marianne North Gallery at Kew Gardens a couple of years ago, I was completely captivated by the stunning botanical paintings that filled the gallery from floor to ceiling. I was equally fascinated by the story of this remarkable Victorian woman who loved to travel and paint.

At that time, the gallery was about to close for renovation, so I didn’t do anything with the photos I had taken. However, after revisiting the gallery recently, I was struck by how Marianne North could be seen as a travel blogger of her era. I want to share her story and paintings with you.

My husband gave me a wonderful book called “A Vision of Eden,” which is filled with her botanical paintings, journal entries, and stories from her extensive travels to places like the United States, Brazil, Japan, South Africa, the Seychelles, Borneo, Australia, New Zealand, and Chile. Each journey is illustrated with paintings of the scenery and plants of these exotic lands, captured at a time when photography was just beginning. She often enjoyed the hospitality of strangers, introduced by letters from friends, long before the concept of couch-surfing existed.

Marianne North was born in 1830 into a wealthy family who split their time between their estate in Norfolk, London, and Hastings, where her father was a Member of Parliament. She was educated mainly by governesses and took up painting at the age of 20, a common pastime for young ladies of her background.

In 1855, Marianne’s mother died, and she made Marianne promise never to leave her father. She kept this promise, accompanying him on his travels through the Pyrenees, the Alpine valleys around Mont Blanc, Hungary, Constantinople, and Trieste. Friends encouraged her to start a travel journal, illustrated with pen and ink drawings. In 1865, after her father lost his seat in the General Election, they embarked on another extended voyage through Greece, Beirut, and Damascus, including a trip down the Nile.

When Marianne’s father died in 1870, she set off on a series of journeys to satisfy her curiosity and cope with her grief. She soon discovered a love for traveling alone. In 1871, she sailed to the United States to stay with a friend in Massachusetts, where she enjoyed painting the autumn trees and Niagara Falls. She visited New York and Washington, where she met President Grant and was invited to dinner at the White House.

As autumn turned to winter, Marianne fled the cold and sailed to Jamaica, arriving on Christmas Eve 1871. She rented a house in a wild, overgrown garden and worked on her botanical paintings. She traveled around the island, socializing with local families, though she was hindered by rats that ate holes in her boots.

In 1872-73, she was in Brazil, marveling at the wildlife and landscapes. Between 1875, she visited Madeira, California, and Japan, where she received a special order from the Mikado to sketch in Kyoto for three months. In 1876, she sailed to Borneo and Java, where she was amazed by the wonders of the forest.

Marianne returned via Ceylon, where she had a memorable encounter with a snake. Between 1877-79, she visited India, where she found the Golden Temple in Amritsar to be a real gem. In 1880, she returned to England and offered to build a gallery at Kew Gardens to house her collection of botanical paintings. Her offer was accepted, and she carefully chose the site and engaged an architect to design the gallery.

In 1881, Marianne spent most of her time arranging her new gallery, which opened in 1882 with over 800 of her paintings. The gallery allowed visitors to marvel at the rich flora and fauna of the places she had visited.

Following a major restoration, the gallery has been repaired and the pictures restored and rehung. A small exhibition room has been opened with audiovisual displays about Marianne’s life and travels, and a passageway now leads to the adjoining modern Shirley Sherwood Gallery, which features more botanical paintings.

If you visit Kew Gardens, be sure to check out Marianne North’s colorful and exotic paintings. If you read the stories of her travels, I hope you’ll be as inspired as I was by this intrepid Victorian lady’s enthusiasm, good humor, and curiosity for the world. She was truly a travel blogger before her time.

Summer is heating up, especially in places like Viva Las Vegas. Las Vegas, one of America’s newest cities, was built from scratch in the desert to become one of the most iconic destinations worldwide. Anyone who has visited Vegas knows it’s impossible to have a dull moment, but many tourists find themselves too overwhelmed to enjoy it. Choosing between A-list shows, ritzy casinos, and thrilling attractions can become an unnecessary headache. Or maybe you scored tickets to the highly anticipated Sphere only to realize you’re assigned an ‘obstructed view’ seat. Whoops! Even worse. Vegas may be the entertainment capital of the world, but it definitely has its downsides. Plus, summertime in the desert is scorching! Sin City sure draws a crowd by appealing to all walks of life, but it’s certainly not for everyone. These 4 U.S. cities are the best alternatives to Las Vegas this summer:
**Laughlin**
Las Vegas is a popular road trip destination, especially from neighboring states. If you’ve hit the road to Vegas, you may have passed through a town known as a ‘mini Vegas‘ with 10 casinos and a scenic waterfront along the Colorado River. ‘Mini’ is definitely the right word choice, as it’s nowhere near the size of Vegas but very reminiscent of downtown. Far from the glitz and glamour of the Strip, Laughlin is a classic gaming getaway where all the casinos are mainstays rather than seeing shiny new high-rises year after year. Tourists will know exactly what they’re signing up for rather than feeling pressure to pack everything in, like shows, buffets, casinos, and attractions to visit in Vegas. Plus, it’s cheap! While it’s fun to casino-hop in Vegas, doing so in Laughlin may be even more fun as you can bounce along the waterfront casinos for just $5. Yes, all of Nevada is hot in summer, but that makes Laughlin all the more enticing with water activities like jet skiing and boat cruises.
**Biloxi**
One of the most underrated states to vacation in is the Southern belle of Mississippi. No, we’re not necessarily talking about Jackson. Florida may be the most popular southern beach vacation spot, but Mississippi can certainly hold its own. Mississippi’s shores may not be the Maldives, but scattered along the coast are hidden gems with white sand and calm waters. Biloxi is undoubtedly the most fun to vacation. With name-brand hotels and casinos like Margaritaville, Hard Rock, and Harrah’s, you can forget the Vegas crowds and enjoy poolside ocean views of the scenic Gulf Coast. Plus, tourists rave about the fresh seafood, something Vegas can’t claim being smack dab in the desert.
**Atlantic City**
Atlantic City was designed to be the Vegas of the East Coast but never quite lived up to the hype. Perhaps the infamous Vegas mafia said, “this town ain’t big enough for the both of us”. The oceanfront city, which is lined with nice hotels and casinos, has had its fair share of issues, from bankruptcy to poor infrastructure over the years, but the city has kept its chin up and remains a fun destination. In fact, the city is beginning to show signs of life again with new attractions such as Island Waterpark, the world’s largest beachfront indoor waterpark. Despite an iffy reputation, Atlantic City has been a long-held favorite vacation spot for locals, offering pretty beaches and cheap stays at name-brand hotels and casinos.
**Shreveport**
Louisiana is an awesome state to visit, even if gambling isn’t on the docket. New Orleans is an incredible cultural city oozing European vibes while Baton Rouge has been buzzing lately as well. One city flying well under the radar is Shreveport (and Bossier City), a short distance across Texas-Louisiana state lines. Growing up in East Texas, I used to visit frequently as a kid, and I definitely wasn’t gambling! While that is certainly the main draw, there is more to do than visit the plethora of high-end casinos like Bally’s and Margaritaville. The city has intriguing museums and lively festivals throughout the year, as well as some highly underrated cajun cuisine rivaling New Orleans, such as top-rated restaurants like The Blind Tiger and Marilynn’s Place.

If you’re on England’s south coast and looking for a fun family day out, I highly recommend visiting the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and the Gunwharf Quays Shopping Centre. It’s a great mix of history and shopping.

I met my sister and niece for a girl’s day out at Gunwharf Quays, an outlet shopping center with designer brands at reduced prices. We found plenty of opportunities to tick off items from our shopping lists. The center features mainstream and designer names like Paul Smith, Burberry, Timberland, Hobbs, and French Connection. There’s also a multi-screen cinema and the Spinnaker Tower, a sail-shaped tower offering views over the entire harbor area. The complex is conveniently located next to Portsmouth Marina and is easily accessible by train, with Portsmouth station just minutes away, or by car, with an underground car park right beneath the shopping center.

After scoring some designer bargains, we stopped for lunch at one of the pubs on the quayside, overlooking the yachts in the marina. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, but we liked the traditional look of the Old Customs House pub. It’s housed in one of the renovated old brick buildings from the dockyard days and serves moderately priced but nicely presented pub food. The pub has several different rooms upstairs and downstairs and an open bar area with lots of people enjoying drinks or meals.

After catching up with family news over lunch, we visited the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, just a few minutes from Gunwharf Quays. You could easily spend a whole day here if you wanted to see everything. There are different ticket options – you can either see all the attractions or choose to visit just one, along with the museums that are open to all. Since we only had the afternoon, we chose to visit the main attraction, HMS Victory.

HMS Victory is probably the most famous ship in the Royal Navy. It was the flagship on which Vice Admiral Lord Nelson led the British Fleet to victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, where he was killed by a French sniper’s bullet. You can see HMS Victory on quieter days as part of a guided tour, and when you buy the entrance ticket, you’ll be given the tour time. On busier days, there’s a free-flow system where you can walk around the ship, and guides are available to tell you about different aspects of the ship.

The guided tour is well worth it. Our guide was an ex-naval gunner, giving his last tour before retirement. He took us around the different decks and cabins, explaining how the seamen and officers lived, ate, and fought on the warship in the 18th century. We relived the Battle of Trafalgar, which took place off the coast of Spain. The battle resulted in the death of Lord Nelson, who was a national hero and was brought back to London for a state funeral, his body preserved in a cask of brandy. Unfortunately, no photos were allowed inside the ship, and I didn’t want to risk getting a telling-off from an ex-naval gunner with shiny shoes.

We learned about the cannons and ammunition and how quickly the British Navy could fire them due to constant training at sea, compared to the French and Spanish, who were often blockaded in port. Our guide kept the talk entertaining with explanations of everyday expressions originating from naval life.

Most seamen were ‘pressed men,’ forcibly taken from pubs or the streets to join the navy, so discipline was harsh. Punishment was by lashes from a whip called the ‘Cat O’nine tails,’ and when it was brought out of its bag, it was known as ‘letting the cat out of the bag.’ After the whipping, the surgeon would treat the wounds with salt, the most readily available antiseptic, leading to the expression ‘rubbing salt into the wound.’ The scars left on the seaman’s back would stay with him for life, making him ‘a marked man.’

Meals of meat stew and ship’s biscuit were served on a square wooden platter, which could get monotonous but might be more than a poor man would get at home, leading to the term ‘three square meals.’ The raised edge of the platter was known as the fiddle, and if someone had more than his fair share so that the food touched the edge, it was known as being ‘on the fiddle.’

I thoroughly enjoyed our tour of HMS Victory, brought to life by the stories and anecdotes from everyday naval life recounted by our guide. Afterwards, we only had a short time left before the dockyards closed, so we had a quick look around one of the Naval museums with more information about HMS Victory.

If we had bought the full ticket, there were several other attractions to see, such as:

– HMS Warrior: A 19th-century Victorian ironclad warship powered by steam and sail, where you can take a guided tour to hear about life for Victorian seamen.
– The Mary Rose: A Tudor warship, the favorite of King Henry VIII, which sank off the coast of Portsmouth in 1545. The ship was brought to the surface in 1982 and has been undergoing preservation ever since. The ship is currently out of view while further restoration is done, but the museum and artifacts are on display.
– Action Stations: A hands-on activity center that brings to life the skills and activities of the Navy, such as climbing walls and flight simulators.
– Harbour Tours: A 45-minute boat tour of Portsmouth Harbour with commentary, where you can see some of the modern warships and Naval vessels moored here.

The tickets are quite expensive at £24 for adults and £19 for children for a single attraction, or £39 for adults and £29 for children for an all-inclusive ticket. However, if you can allocate half a day for a single attraction or a full day to see all the attractions, you’ll find it good value, as there’s a lot to see and it’s very well explained and presented. With the all-inclusive ticket, you can also come back within a year to see any attractions you missed the first time.

I recently spent a long weekend at the Inspira Santa Marta Hotel in Lisbon, and it was a delightful experience. The hotel played a significant role in making my trip enjoyable. For me, a good hotel is crucial; I need more than just a place to sleep. Comfort and quality are top priorities, and the location is equally important, especially for short trips. No one wants a long commute back to the hotel after a day of exploring.

Lisbon was a perfect escape from the gloomy weather in London. My boyfriend and I decided on a weekend getaway to Portugal’s vibrant capital. This was my third visit, and I’m completely captivated by the city. Lisbon is bustling with life, full of color, and the aroma of pasteis de nata from local bakeries fills the air.

Our stay at the Inspira Santa Marta Hotel & Spa was fantastic. The hotel is conveniently located near the end of Avenida de Liberdade, a major avenue in the city. This central location allowed us to explore most of Lisbon on foot. We were just a 15-minute walk from the Praça do Comércio and the Rossio train station, which offers easy access to nearby attractions like Sintra. Numerous restaurants serving seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes were within a five-minute walk. For a longer walk or a metro ride, I highly recommend Cervejaria Ramiro for an amazing meal of prawns, clams, and parma ham.

We arrived late on a Friday night after a 15-minute taxi ride from the airport. The reception staff greeted us warmly and quickly checked us in. The hotel’s design is modern and clean, contrasting with the charming old-world architecture outside. The lobby and common areas have an open-plan design, making you feel like you’re outside even when you’re not. On sunny days, the main atrium is filled with natural light.

The Inspira Santa Marta promotes sustainability, which was evident in our room. Located on the fourth floor, our room was efficiently furnished and meticulously clean. Although we were disappointed with the lack of a view, the room was lovely. To reduce waste, the complimentary water and toiletries were in refillable containers, and the floor was bare to avoid the energy use of a vacuum cleaner. The dim lighting added a romantic touch, though it might be too dim for some.

The room’s open-plan design had a few quirks. The washroom initially seemed to lack a door, but we realized that the closet panel could be slid over to serve as a door. This was a clever idea, but the wall separating the bedroom from the washroom had a gap, allowing water from the shower to seep into the room. Additionally, the wall was sheer enough that I could see my boyfriend’s outline while he showered, which might be an issue for those who value privacy.

Breakfast at the hotel was hearty, with a variety of fresh pastries, fruit, teas, and juices in refillable glass bottles. The croissants were particularly fantastic. Coffee could be ordered from the attentive staff, and there was a station for made-to-order eggs. The hotel also has a small spa where I enjoyed a relaxing hour-long massage.

Overall, the Inspira Santa Marta Hotel & Spa was an excellent base for our weekend in Lisbon. It was clean, well-decorated, and perfectly located. The hotel offers great value for money, with rooms for two, including breakfast, costing under 115 GBP. If you prefer to have breakfast at a local bakery, rooms can be had for under 95 GBP.

Europe is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, making it the perfect destination for culture enthusiasts this season. With rising temperatures and the return of nonstop flights to popular spots, it’s an ideal time to visit. However, as demand increases, so do vacation costs. While cities like London, Paris, and Milan are beautiful, they can be pricey and crowded. Instead, consider these four charming medieval towns that offer a quieter and more affordable experience:
**Honfleur, France**
Just two-and-a-half hours from Paris, Honfleur is a historic harbor town on the Normandy coast. It’s one of France’s best-preserved medieval settlements, known for its picturesque Vieux-Bassin, 16th-century buildings, and the largest wooden church in the country, Église Sainte Catherine. Honfleur inspired artists like Claude Monet and remains relatively affordable, with local restaurant menus costing $15-17 and hotel stays starting at $76.
**Granada, Spain**
Located in Andalusia, Granada is a top cultural destination, especially in the warmer months. It’s only a 1h20 train ride from the busy coastal resort of Malaga. Granada’s whitewashed, hilly Old Town dates back to the Islamic rule in Spain and is famous for the Alhambra Fortress, a significant Islamic monument. Granada is budget-friendly, with meals costing around $17 and hotel rooms ranging from $50-69.
**Gdansk, Poland**
Situated on the Baltic Coast, Gdansk is a beautifully restored medieval port city. Its Old Town features a long pedestrianized main street, Długa, lined with colorful façades and tall towers. Key attractions include the Basilica of St. Mary, the Golden Gate, and the iconic wooden Crane. Poland’s lower cost of living makes Gdansk an affordable destination, with spa hotels starting at $64 per night and daily expenses averaging $55.
**Varazdin, Croatia**
Nestled in Croatia’s hinterland near the borders with Slovenia and Hungary, Varazdin is a historic city known for its Baroque architecture and whitewashed citadel. The pastel-colored Old Town is home to casual cafes, textile shops, and traditional Slavonian restaurants. Varazdin offers a different experience from the coastal cities of Dubrovnik and Split, with a distinct Central European influence. It’s just a one-hour bus ride from Zagreb, and a 3-night stay in a central hotel costs around $269, with meals being 31% cheaper than in touristy Dalmatia.

The last day of our Mediterranean Cruise with MSC Cruises was spent at sea as we traveled from Tunis to Barcelona, where our week-long journey would conclude. After days filled with sightseeing, we were happy to have a day to relax and enjoy the ship without any set plans.

Throughout the cruise, we preferred dining at the Villa Verde restaurant with waiter service, avoiding the busy Bora Bora self-service restaurant. We had our breakfast there as usual, securing our favorite table for two by the window, which offered a view of the ship’s wake. In the morning, I took the opportunity to explore the ship more thoroughly. Despite being on board for a week, I still felt a bit lost due to the ship’s large size. The weather alternated between clouds and sunshine, and the aqua park and pool areas were bustling during the sunny periods, with guests eager to soak up the sun.

For a change, we decided to have lunch at La Reggia, another formal dining restaurant. I hadn’t realized before that this restaurant spans two levels, though only the upper level was open for lunch. At the entrance, a chef was preparing a fresh sauce for gnocchi with gorgonzola cheese and walnuts, which we both tried and enjoyed. Being an Italian cruise line, MSC Splendida excelled in its pasta and pizza offerings.

In the afternoon, Guy headed to the gym to work off some of the delicious food, while I opted for a relaxing Balinese massage at the Aurea Spa. The therapist started with my legs, using a mix of firm and gentle strokes, and worked her way up to my back and shoulders, easing out every knot of tension. Initially, I found it hard to relax, especially with my hair tickling my face and difficulty breathing while lying face down. However, once I turned over for the second half of the massage, I felt more at ease and even started to drift off to sleep, finishing the session feeling wonderfully relaxed and fragrant.

Our evening was spent packing for our disembarkation in Barcelona, as we needed to vacate our cabin by 9 am. We still enjoyed the evening show and dinner with our fellow guests. By around 11 am the next morning, after some waiting, we disembarked and took a taxi to Plaça de Catalunya, where we stored our luggage in a nearby locker. Unfortunately, the sunny weather we had enjoyed upon our arrival in Barcelona had turned to cloudy skies and rain showers.

We had visited Barcelona on a family holiday ten years ago, but I was eager to revisit some of Gaudi’s sites. We walked up Passeig de Gracia to Casa Mila, Gaudi’s apartment building. Despite the facade being under renovation, we queued for 45 minutes before taking the lift to the rooftop, which features sculptural chimneys and ventilation shafts. We then explored the attic space, now an exhibition area about Gaudi’s work, and finally toured an apartment furnished in the period style, showcasing Gaudi’s use of natural light.

Our visit ended with some shopping in the gift shop, where we bought colorful mosaic table mats to replace the ones we had bought on our previous visit. Feeling hungry, we tried to dine at La Bodegueta, a recommended tapas and wine restaurant, but it was too crowded. Instead, we had a pleasant lunch at Le Pain Quotidien, opposite Casa Mila, which specializes in healthy salads and vegetarian food.

Next, we aimed to visit La Sagrada Familia, hoping the crowds would have lessened by 4:30 pm. The sun came out as we approached the basilica, but the queue was still long, and we faced a 40-minute wait just to buy tickets for a later timed entry. Deciding it wasn’t worth the wait, we took the metro back to the Gothic Quarter and wandered the narrow lanes around the cathedral. As a rainstorm began, we decided to head to the airport for our flight back to Bristol.

Our week on MSC Splendida had flown by, filled with fascinating new places and enjoyable onboard entertainment. Thank you to MSC Cruises for providing a wonderful Mediterranean experience.

Erfurt struck me as the quintessential picturesque Medieval German town. It flourished in the Middle Ages thanks to the woad trade and remained prosperous as a key trading hub on the Via Regia pilgrim route.

The town has a relaxed, small-town vibe. Our guide, Matthius, mentioned that Erfurt is a place where people walk and talk, making it a natural meeting point. We explored Erfurt during a four-day road trip through the Cultural Heart of Germany and found plenty of interesting activities.

Erfurt, a university town in the green heart of Germany, is the capital of Thuringia. It was part of East Germany from 1949 to 1990. Due to a lack of funds during this period, modernization was limited, preserving its medieval center. It escaped the worst of WWII bombings and is rich in culture, making it a delightful place to visit for a few days.

One of the top attractions in Erfurt is the Krämerbrücke, or Merchants Bridge, which spans the River Gera. Historically, markets were central to town life, and open markets were the main commercial hubs since selling goods inside private houses was forbidden. The stone Krämerbrücke, built in the 14th century, replaced earlier wooden bridges. Houses were soon built on the bridge, where merchants sold luxury goods like gold, silver, spices, and fine cloth.

Walking across the bridge feels like strolling down a narrow street, with 32 half-timbered buildings housing artisan shops. Each house has a unique symbol, a practice from before postal services required house numbers. The bridge is maintained by a foundation, and you can visit their house, built in 1578, to learn more about the bridge’s history.

The bridge is lined with charming shops selling local crafts. One shop specializes in pigments and displays information about woad, a plant used to produce a rare blue dye. The woad plant thrived in the villages around Erfurt due to the favorable climate and water supply from the Thuringia forest. The blue dye was a luxury product exported across Europe until cheaper indigo dye imports in the 17th century led to its decline.

Other notable shops include the puppet-maker Martin Gobsch’s house, where you can see wooden marionettes and a puppet tableau. The House of the Golden Helmet, now Goldhelm Schokoladen, sells artisan chocolates and ice cream.

If you visit Erfurt in June, don’t miss the Krämerbrückenfest, a medieval-themed festival with food stands and entertainment. At one end of the Krämerbrücke is the Agidienkirche, a church tower that offers views over the town.

St. Augustine’s Monastery, where Martin Luther lived and studied theology from 1505 to 1511, is another significant site. After the Reformation, it became a Protestant conference and study center. The monastery was partially destroyed during WWII, but a modern glass extension has been added, incorporating the old stonework.

Erfurt also has connections to the Bauhaus art and design school, founded in nearby Weimar in 1919. The former AOK health insurance office and hospital on Augustinestrasse is a great example of Bauhaus architecture. Another notable Bauhaus artist from Erfurt is Margaretha Reichardt, who set up a weaving workshop in the 1930s.

The Fischmarkt, or Fish Market, is another must-see. This open square was once a bustling market for fish and other goods. Surrounding the square are historic houses, including the beautiful pink Merchant’s house Zum Breiten Herd, built in 1584, and the neo-gothic town hall completed in 1874.

To learn about Erfurt’s Jewish history, visit the Old Synagogue, which dates back to the 11th century. It houses a collection of silver coins, jewelry, and fine gold and silverware, including the famous medieval Jewish wedding ring. The Mikveh, a Jewish ritual bath built in the 13th century, is also worth a visit.

For a taste of local cuisine, try the famous Thuringia Sausage, made from minced pork or beef and seasoned with caraway, marjoram, and garlic. It’s cooked over charcoal and served in a long white bread roll with mustard.

St. Mary’s Cathedral, overlooking the town, is another major landmark. Founded by St. Boniface in 742, it features a large medieval mural of St. Christopher and the bronze Wolfram candelabra from 1150.

The Petersberg Citadel, built in the 17th century, offers guided tours of its “listening tunnels,” designed to detect enemy tunneling. The citadel grounds are free to explore, and the Destille Erfurt distillery nearby offers tastings of various spirits.

Erfurt has many hidden gems, like the stone “mushroom” seats outside older houses and puppet windows by Martin Gobsch. Goldhelm Schokoladen has multiple locations in Erfurt, offering delicious ice cream, chocolate, and cakes.

For dining, try Eat Erfurt for a trendy, tasty lunch, or Faust Food for grilled meats and Thuringia Sausage. Zum Goldenen Schwan is a traditional gasthouse with a beer garden, serving local dishes and house-brewed beer.

We stayed at the Hotel Am Kaisersaal, a modern hotel with a calm atmosphere and excellent breakfast. It’s conveniently located near the Krämerbrücke.

Erfurt is easily accessible by train, and once there, you can explore the town on foot or use the public transport network. The Erfurt Card offers free public transport and discounts on attractions.

Erfurt, the capital of Thuringia, is a charming destination with a rich history, well-preserved medieval architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Just across the water from Malta’s capital Valletta, the Three Cities of Malta are peninsulas that extend into the Grand Harbour. These historic neighborhoods, with their picturesque narrow streets, impressive palazzos, and 16th-century fortifications, make for an ideal day trip from Valletta. Here’s a guide to the top things to do in the Three Cities.

Located on peninsulas opposite Valletta, the Three Cities provide sheltered harbors between them. Each city has two names: the original Maltese name and the newer name given by the Knights of Malta. Birgu (Vittoriosa) is the oldest, established as the Knights’ headquarters in 1530. Senglea (Isla) offers a more local experience, while Bormla (Conspicua) is set back behind these peninsulas. Kalkara, another nearby peninsula, can be seen from Birgu.

A visit to the Three Cities is perfect for walking around, admiring old buildings, having a drink or lunch on the quayside, and visiting a couple of museums. The Valletta 3 Cities Ferry is an inexpensive way to cross the harbor on a catamaran from Lascaris Wharf. For a more atmospheric crossing, take one of the old wooden Dgħajsa boats from the same location.

Birgu is the first city to visit, with the most to see and do. When the Knights Hospitaller made it their capital in 1530, Birgu was a quiet village. The Knights quickly fortified the peninsula in anticipation of an Ottoman attack. When the Ottomans besieged the city in 1565, the defenses held strong, earning Birgu the name Città Vittoriosa, meaning Victorious City.

Between Valletta and Birgu, small Maltese wooden ferries known as Dgħajsa crisscross the harbor. They can take you from Valletta to the Three Cities and back (€2 each way) or offer a harbor tour (€8). We opted for the latter and got a private tour with a local boatman, taking us around the harbor and the different inlets of the Three Cities.

The deep-water harbor was central to Malta’s history and why it was heavily bombed during WW2. From 1800, the British used the Grand Harbour as their naval base in the Mediterranean, leaving Malta in 1979.

On the Birgu side, ferries run from the archway in front of the Malta Maritime Museum. If coming from Valletta, take the lift from the Upper Barrakka Gardens to the lower level and cross the road to the ferry station. Each boatman operates independently, so you just need to wait until one arrives and gathers enough passengers. The harbor tour takes around 30 minutes.

When arriving in Birgu from Valletta, the Dgħajsa will drop you off right at the waterfront. The marina between Birgu and Senglea is full of boats, with luxurious super yachts moored on the western side. It’s a good place to stop for lunch in one of the many restaurants along the waterfront. There are also a few places to visit right on the waterfront, such as St Lawrence’s Church, The Malta Maritime Museum, and the Freedom Monument.

Although closed for redevelopment when we visited, the Malta Maritime Museum is worth mentioning. It is housed within the former Royal Naval Bakery and contains over 20,000 artifacts, scale ship models, and a genuine steam engine from the 1950s. Notable pieces include the world’s largest Roman anchor and the figurehead of a Napoleonic ship.

A short walk from the waterfront behind St Lawrence Church, you’ll find Victory Square, the city’s main square. It was named following the defeat of Ottoman forces during the Great Siege. The statue in the center commemorates the victory, though the medieval clock tower that once dominated the square was destroyed during WWII. Victory Square has several cafes, the best known being BeBirgu, set in an old Palazzo with a delightful internal courtyard.

St Lawrence’s Church, built by Lorenzo Gafa in the traditional Baroque style, is one of the oldest parishes on the island. The church was used as the main place of worship for the Knights of Malta before they moved their headquarters to Valletta. The church is open daily, and just a short walk up the hill is the Vittoriosa Church Museum.

From Victory Square, it’s fun to wander through Birgu’s narrow, medieval streets. Look out for the Arabic-style gallarija, ornate closed balconies often painted in bright colors. Notice the auberges, elegant mansions used as lodging and headquarters by different branches of the Knights of Malta. The two best-known ones in Birgu are the Auberge d’Auvergne and Provence and the Auberge d’Angleterre.

The Sicolo Norman House, said to be the oldest house in Birgu, is being restored by its owner. Nearby is Birgu Blue, a little blue-façade atelier selling handmade goods from independent artisans.

Follow the street from St Lawrence’s Church to find the Inquisitor’s Palace, built in the 1530s as the residence of the Inquisitor. The palace has served many purposes over the years and is now both a historic Palazzo and the National Museum of Ethnography. Visitors can explore grand staircases, reception rooms, private bedrooms, and a domestic kitchen. Exhibits highlight the importance of the Catholic faith in Maltese society. The tribunal chamber, prison cells, and torture chamber can also be seen.

One of Birgu’s most famous sights is Fort St Angelo, a large bastion at the tip of the peninsula. Originally a medieval castle, it was rebuilt as a fortress by the Knights of Saint John. Fort St Angelo served as the Knights’ stronghold during the Great Siege of 1565 and is still in use today. The fort offers stunning panoramic views of Valletta and the nearby peninsulas. It features audiovisual presentations about Malta’s naval history, recreations of the soldier’s barracks, and the officer’s quarters and chapel. The fort is open daily, costs €10 to enter, and you should allow 2-3 hours for a visit.

Most of Birgu’s fortifications built by the Knights of Malta still remain, as do three out of four of the original city gates. These gates were built in Baroque style in the 1720s. The three remaining gates are the Couvre Porte Gate, the Advanced Gate, and the Gate of Provence. The fourth, the Porta Marina, was destroyed in an explosion in the early 1800s.

If arriving in Birgu by bus, the city gates are the best place to start your walking tour, leading past the Malta at War Museum and towards the Inquisitor’s Palace. Nearby is the Birgu market, with a flea market on Sundays and a general market on Tuesdays.

Senglea, the smallest of the Three Cities, offers a quieter, more residential feel. It was fortified by the Knights of Malta, with commanding views from St Michael’s Bastion and Gardjola Gardens over the Grand Harbour. The marina faces Birgu, with restaurants lining the waterfront. One of Senglea’s best-known sights is Ġnien il-Gardjola, the lookout gardens offering beautiful views of Marsa, Valletta, and Birgu.

Cospicua, or Bormla, is the third of the Three Cities and sits between Birgu and Senglea. The area served as a dockyard for British ships during World War 2 and the waterfront is now being restored as a marina. Bormla’s original name was changed by the Knights of Malta to Conspicua, meaning “Conspicuous,” due to its bravery during the Great Siege of 1565. The city’s historical main entrance is through St Helen’s Gate, an ornate French Baroque-style stone gate.

Although the Three Cities only include Birgu, Bormla, and Senglea, Kalkara is so close to Birgu that it’s considered an extension. Kalkara is quieter than Birgu but worth exploring if you have time. The Kalkara Marina is picturesque and close to several restaurants and cafés. It’s also near the Esplora Interactive Science Centre and Fort Rinella, a Victorian-era artillery battery.

The Three Cities make an ideal day trip from Valletta or other parts of Malta. In a day, you can wander around Birgu and perhaps see a bit of one of the other peninsulas. In a couple of days, you can easily see the main sites of all the Three Cities areas: Birgu, Senglea, and Bormla. Staying in the Three Cities is a good alternative to Valletta for a more affordable and local experience.

For accommodation, consider the 50th Boutique Hotel in Birgu, the Palazzino Birgu Host Family Bed and Breakfast, Senglea Suites, The Snop House, or Casa Burmila Boutique Hotel. Malta enjoys year-round sunshine, with the best times to visit being Spring and Autumn. The narrow streets and many steps of the Three Cities mean that the best way to explore is on foot or by water taxi.

For more information on things to do in Malta, visit the official Visit Malta Tourism website.

Think about how much you trust mainstream news. Do you believe there’s an agenda, or is it genuine news?
When it comes to certain cities, the media hasn’t always been kind. But, to be fair, some cities haven’t done much to help their own reputations either. Any cities come to mind?
San Francisco might be one. It’s a beautiful and iconic U.S. destination. Another one could be Portland, Oregon. It’s a city with a lot of potential but seems to struggle with its image, according to various media sources. However, the Today Show believes that Portland, dubbed the ‘Austin of the Northwest,’ has improved enough to recommend it for solo travelers this summer.
Has Portland really cleaned up its streets? It might feel repetitive to mention the pandemic, but during that chaotic time, Portland was one of the cities you might have wanted to avoid. Alongside San Francisco, LA, and Seattle, Portland was highlighted for safety concerns, almost like a modern-day wild west. Now, with those days hopefully behind us, Portland is aiming for a fresh start. The city’s Tourism Board reports that crime rates are improving.
Safety is a top priority for solo travelers. As someone who travels alone frequently, I wouldn’t consider a place like Somalia for my next trip. Portland, however, is a fantastic place to visit, offering vibes similar to Austin. Both cities even share the slogans “Keep Austin weird” and “Keep Portland weird.” The issue is that locals feel their city got too weird with policies like drug decriminalization. It’s a complex situation, but the current mayor believes they’re on the right path to making the city, especially the tent-lined downtown, safer as foot traffic increases.
Portland isn’t just about downtown. The city’s urban sprawl is exciting to explore, but the Pacific Northwest is also home to some of the most pristine natural sites in the country. Portland is a quirky and cool city with a great arts and food scene, countless cafes, and it’s one of the most bike-friendly and walkable cities for enjoying the outdoors.
When we travel to a new place, downtown is often our base or starting point. In Portland, this is where most of the notorious eyesores are, which might make solo travelers hesitant. This is a valid concern, but speaking from my experience of living in downtown San Diego for eight years, I’ve seen it all—homeless encampments, car break-ins, shootings, and more. Yet, I was never harmed while walking the streets, grabbing coffee, or bar-hopping late at night. Safety can be unpredictable, and self-awareness is crucial when traveling alone.
So, whether you’re visiting the popular Pine Street Market, grabbing coffee at Society Cafe, or biking around the city, don’t let fear-mongering headlines stop you from enjoying Portland.
Portland is also a gateway to the Pacific Northwest’s breathtaking nature. Tourists can enjoy a scenic riverfront, waterfalls, hiking trails, and majestic mountains nearby. Safety has been a hot topic for Portland, but another misunderstood aspect is the weather. Cities like Seattle, Vancouver, and Portland have a reputation for constant rain, but that’s not entirely true. Summertime brings warmer weather and sunshine. A popular activity is driving the Columbia River Highway to see the stunning River Gorge and “Waterfall Alley,” especially the magnificent Multnomah Falls.