Author: simon611

Graz is a city that effortlessly charms its visitors. Known as Austria’s second city, it exudes a Mediterranean-like joy of life, with bustling café terraces and people enjoying the sunny summer days.

During our weekend getaway, we indulged in the local specialties that have earned Graz the title of “Capital of Delights.” We explored Renaissance courtyards and marveled at the blend of modern design and medieval red-tiled rooftops.

If you’re planning a weekend in Graz, here’s a guide to help you make the most of your visit.

**Friday Afternoon: Getting Acquainted**
Start your exploration around the cathedral and the remnants of Graz Castle, the 15th-century imperial residence of Emperor Friedrich III. In the nearby grassy courtyard, you’ll find statues of notable Graz residents and the famous double spiral staircase, built around 1500 during Emperor Maximilian I’s reign. This staircase, often called the “staircase of reconciliation,” symbolizes the hope for an eternal dynasty.

**Exploring the Old Town**
Wander through the former palace courtyard, where you can spot the carved initials AEIOU, a symbol used by Emperor Friedrich III. Nearby, one of the two remaining city gates leads to the Burggarten, now a public park. Don’t miss the baroque cathedral and the Mausoleum of Ferdinand II, where you can climb to the top of the dome for a panoramic view of Graz.

**Sporgasse and Hauptplatz**
Stroll down Sporgasse, one of Graz’s oldest streets, lined with independent stores and the delightful Eis Greisler ice cream shop. This path leads to Hauptplatz, the heart of Graz, surrounded by pastel stucco buildings and the impressive 19th-century Rathaus (town hall).

**Hidden Courtyards and Local Cuisine**
Explore the hidden courtyards behind the imposing facades along Herengasse. These courtyards, once used to keep animals, are now open to the public, housing interesting shops and cafes. One notable courtyard is behind the Landhaus, the seat of the Styrian government, adorned with Italian-style Renaissance arcades.

**Dinner and Drinks**
For dinner, head to the pedestrianized streets around Glockenspielplatz, known as the “Bermuda Triangle” for its numerous cafes and restaurants. Enjoy an aperitif of chilled Styrian white wine or the local Schilcher rosé. We dined at Stainzerbauer, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Styrian dishes with a modern twist.

**Saturday Morning: Farmer’s Markets**
Start your Saturday at the Kaiser Josef Platz market, where stalls overflow with fresh, local produce. From colorful vegetables to locally smoked sausages and cheeses, the market is a feast for the senses. Graz boasts 800 farms within the city area, making fresh produce a way of life.

**Crossing the River Mur**
After the market, cross the River Mur via the Murinsel, a floating island designed by US artist Vito Acconci. This steel and glass structure features a café, open-air amphitheater, and design shop. On the opposite bank, explore Graz’s creative side with its small shops and community projects.

**Kunsthaus Graz**
Visit the Kunsthaus Graz, known locally as the “Friendly Alien.” This contemporary art museum, housed in a blue glass bubble, challenges traditional notions of art. The ground floor features a design shop and café, while the upper floors host exhibitions of contemporary and conceptual art.

**Dinner on the Left Bank**
For dinner, consider the Kunsthaus Café or Der Steirer, a wine bar and restaurant serving Styrian tapas. Alternatively, head to Salon Marie at Hotel Weisler for modern international cuisine, or Blendend in the creative quarter around Lendplatz for cocktails and casual dining.

**Sunday: Museums and Schlossberg**
Sundays in Graz are quieter, with most shops closed. It’s a perfect day to visit museums or take a tram to Schloss Eggenberg. We visited the Armoury Museum, a treasure trove of historical weaponry, and admired the view from the Armoury windows over the Landhaus courtyard.

**Climbing Schlossberg**
In the afternoon, climb to the top of Schlossberg for stunning views of the city. You can walk up Sporgasse or take the lift or funicular from Schlossbergplatz. At the top, enjoy lunch at Aiola Upstairs, with its outdoor terrace and fabulous views.

**Final Day: Souvenirs and Departure**
On Monday, we stocked up on foodie souvenirs before our flight. We visited the chocolate shop Linzbichler and the Royal court bakery Eddeger-Tax for local treats. Our final coffee stop was at the Freiblick café on the roof terrace of the Kastner & Ohler department store, offering panoramic views of Graz.

**Accommodation**
We stayed at the Hotel Zum Dom Palais Inzaghi, a charming hotel in the old quarter of Graz. Each room is individually designed, blending traditional elegance with modern comforts. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of all major attractions.

Graz is a city that captivates with its relaxed Mediterranean vibe, rich history, and culinary delights. Whether you’re exploring its hidden courtyards, enjoying local cuisine, or taking in the views from Schlossberg, Graz offers the perfect ingredients for a memorable weekend getaway.

During our trip to Budapest in August 2010, we did the typical tourist activities, including exploring the Castle District. While there, we stumbled upon the Festival of Folk Arts, which takes place annually for four days in August around St. Stephen’s Day on the 20th. This holiday celebrates the founding of Hungary over a thousand years ago.

To reach the Buda Palace and the Hungarian National Gallery, you can cross the Chain Bridge and either hike up the steep hill or take the Buda Castle Funicular. We took a different route, climbing the cobbled streets behind Art’otel, where we were staying. We enjoyed the views from the Fisherman’s Bastion and the colorful Mátyás Church before walking along the hilltop street overlooking the Danube.

As we approached the festival, we passed a few stalls before reaching the main entrance, where we paid the fee to get in. The festival showcased top-notch Hungarian crafts, including beautifully embroidered textiles, painted eggs, and country-style pottery. There were also intricate dough shapes, though not meant for eating, unlike the delicious Kürtős Kalács—a sweet dough wrapped around a metal cylinder, roasted over a fire, and rolled in sugar and cinnamon.

The festival featured a stage with continuous performances by folk groups, singers, and traditional Hungarian dancers. The dancers, especially the men, were impressive with their leaping and boot slapping, while the women danced gracefully in their floral printed dresses and velvet jackets.

The festival’s location was perfect, winding through the beautiful old palace buildings that now house the Hungarian National Gallery, with stunning views of the Danube. Although we admired many ceramics and handicrafts, we only bought a few postcards and small food items, mindful of our carry-on luggage weight limits.

If you visit Budapest outside of August, you can still find excellent Hungarian souvenirs, like painted eggs and embroidered textiles, on the top floor of the Central Market. The market also has a food section where we enjoyed an inexpensive snack lunch, trying Langos—a puffy pancake topped with sour cream and cheese.

The Festival of Folk Arts is a great family outing, with numerous craft demonstrations and children’s entertainment. The cost was 1500HUF for adults and 500HUF for children under 14, with kids under 4 free. We hope you enjoy the boot slapping, skirt twirling, and mournful gypsy violins as much as we did.

During our visit to Budapest, we stayed at Art’Otel Budapest.

Cruising has become incredibly popular, emerging as one of the top ways to explore the world this year. I love cruising because it lets you visit multiple destinations in one trip without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking. If you opt for an all-inclusive cruise, you can pay for meals, drinks, gratuities, and even shore excursions in advance, avoiding any financial surprises.
But which cruise line should you choose? According to a new report from Cruise Compete, here are the five most popular cruise lines this summer, based on consumer quote requests and transactions.
**5. Norwegian Cruise Line**
Norwegian Cruise Line ranks fifth, offering options to explore over 450 destinations worldwide. What sets Norwegian apart is its exceptional onboard entertainment and numerous bars, ensuring it never feels too crowded. They’ve also eliminated set dining times, giving you the freedom to dine whenever you want. Norwegian is great for adults-only cruising, with areas like the casino, many bars and lounges, and the Thermal Spa being accessible only to adults over 18.
**4. Princess Cruises**
Princess Cruises is one of the more upscale options. Their ships have a luxurious feel, featuring high-end amenities like plush private poolside cabanas and stunning glass-bottomed walkways. While Princess appeals to an older demographic, it still offers excellent spa services, beautiful dining rooms with incredible service, and a warm, welcoming crew.
**3. Carnival Cruise Lines**
Carnival Cruise Lines is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a reasonably priced cruise. Carnival tends to be cheaper than both Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, with rates as low as $100 per person per night for two passengers sharing an inside cabin. Despite the budget prices, Carnival offers many fun activities, including sail-away parties, live entertainment, and exciting water parks. Carnival is known for its quick-service food options and attracts a younger, more party-focused crowd with its casual, laid-back atmosphere.
**2. Celebrity Cruises**
Celebrity Cruises is perfect for a fun and high-energy experience. Their ships are sleek and modern, and they have a reputation for high-quality evening entertainment. All lounge bars and nightclubs are included in your booking, with plenty of nightly entertainment across the ship. The cocktail menu is extensive and delicious, so save some energy for late nights followed by lazy mornings on board.
**1. Royal Caribbean International**
The most popular cruise line this summer is Royal Caribbean International. It’s an excellent choice for families, specializing in large cruise ships like the world’s largest cruise liner, the Icon of the Seas. The size of their ships allows for a wide array of onboard activities and experiences. Families can enjoy some of the biggest water parks at sea, FlowRider Surf Simulators, and zip lining across the deck. Adults can indulge in holistic remedies, revitalizing massages at the spa, world-class evening entertainment, and numerous fine dining restaurants. The innovative Wonderland restaurant, inspired by Alice in Wonderland, is a particular favorite.
When choosing a cruise line, consider your own priorities. These rankings are a great starting point for planning your next cruise vacation, but they may not reflect your personal preferences.

Scandinavia offers a wealth of experiences for travelers, from the Northern Lights and majestic mountains to stunning landscapes and delicious local cuisine. With so much to see and do, it can be tough to choose between Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. Here’s a guide to help you decide where to start your Scandinavian adventure, highlighting activities and tours in each country.

Finland is famous for its quirky World Championships, like who can sit in a sauna the longest or carry their wife the farthest. In winter, Finland transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for ice skating, hiking in national parks, skiing, and chasing the Aurora Borealis. Don’t miss the Finnish sauna experience, where important life decisions and business deals are often made. If you’re traveling with kids or are young at heart, visit Santa Claus town in Rovaniemi, where Christmas is celebrated year-round. Explore attractions like Snowman World and Elf School, and stay in Santa Claus holiday village. History buffs will enjoy Finland’s many fortresses, such as Olavinlinna Castle and Suomenlinna fortress, which offer picturesque sights perfect for Instagram.

Sweden has something to offer in every region. Before heading to the big cities, visit smaller towns like Visby, a medieval city, or Kalmar with its Renaissance Castle. Rättvik, the folk music capital, hosts the Musik vid Siljan Festival annually. For a unique experience, stay in the Ice Hotel in Kiruna, crafted by sculptors from around the world. In Sweden’s major cities—Malmo, Gothenburg, and Stockholm—you’ll find diverse attractions. Malmo offers modernism and stunning views of Copenhagen from Ribersborg beach. Gothenburg can be explored on foot, by bike, or by tram, and features island-hopping by ferry and Scandinavia’s largest amusement park, Liseberg. Stockholm boasts historic sites like Old Town, the Vasa museum, and the Royal Castle, as well as the world’s longest art gallery in its subway stations.

Norway is a paradise for nature lovers, with hiking routes, scenic roads, and wildlife adventures. If you enjoy hiking, Norway’s trails like Preikestolen, Trolltunga, Skåla, and Romsdalseggen offer breathtaking fjord and mountain views. For a different kind of adventure, visit Flam for scenic landscapes and kayaking. Norway’s mountainous terrain isn’t ideal for cycling, but routes like Kystruta, Kanalruta, and Numedalsruta are available. After exploring nature, visit Bergen, a UNESCO World Heritage City known for its fish market and Bryggen harbor. Oslo, though small, offers architectural wonders like the Opera House and Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, as well as the National Gallery and Holmenkollen ski-jump.

Denmark, though small, is packed with beautiful places to visit. Copenhagen is often described as Europe’s most beautiful and relaxed city. Rent a bike to tour the city quickly, starting with the Little Mermaid statue and continuing to Amalienborg Palace. Explore the unique Christiania quarter, a neighborhood born from protest. In winter, cozy up in a local coffee shop and experience Danish hygge. Outside Copenhagen, Aarhus is a smaller version of the capital, perfect for a summer visit. The Faroe Islands, part of Denmark, offer a hiker’s paradise with unpredictable weather and numerous waterfalls, making it a worthwhile three-day trip.

The Vikings were fortunate to live in such a fascinating region, and this guide should inspire you to explore the Nordic countries. If you’re still unsure where to start, check out Baltic Tours for the best offers.

Planning a trip to Europe but worried about the heat in Spain, wildfires in Greece, and the crowds in Italy? This summer might be one of the hottest and busiest, but there’s a peaceful spot in the heart of Europe where the weather is milder, and the atmosphere is quieter. Welcome to Lake Geneva, also known as Lake Léman in French. It’s one of Europe’s most elegant sunny retreats, perfect for avoiding the Mediterranean crowds.
Lake Geneva is a stunning, clear lake bordered by Switzerland and France’s mountains. It’s Switzerland’s largest lake, covering 580.03 km² (224 sq mi). While Italy’s Lake Garda and Lake Como often get more attention, Lake Geneva is equally beautiful with its pristine waters and charming lakeside villages.
At the southern tip of the lake, on the French side, is the city of Geneva. It’s a major administrative hub, home to international organizations like the United Nations and the Red Cross. Geneva’s rich history spans over 2,000 years, featuring a maze-like Old Town, a monumental cathedral, and cobblestone streets. The city is also known for its lush gardens, such as Jardin anglais with its iconic Flower Clock, and the Jet d’Eau, a powerful fountain in the lake.
Beyond Geneva, you can explore the wider lake area by taking a sightseeing cruise or a scenic train ride. The train stops at picturesque towns like Nyon, Vevey, Lausanne, and Montreux. Montreux, known as the Pearl of the Swiss Riviera, features a beautiful promenade and the famous Château de Chillon, a fairytale-like castle on an islet.
On the French side of the lake, you can visit Evian-les-Bains, famous for its bottled water and wellness facilities, and Yvoire, a charming medieval village. Thonon-Les-Bains is another great spot, known for its clear and warm waters and lake-facing boutique hotels.
This summer, while Southern Europe faces scorching temperatures, Lake Geneva offers a more temperate climate, thanks to the Alps. Temperatures usually stay in the mid-80s, making it a comfortable destination. However, it’s important to note that Switzerland is not a budget-friendly destination. Accommodation and other expenses can be high, especially during the peak season from June to August.
If you’re planning a trip to Lake Geneva, expect to spend at least $1,482 for a week. Hotel rates vary, with options like the Tralala Hotel Montreux at $180 per night and city center rooms in Lausanne starting at $191 per night. The French side is slightly cheaper, with hotels like Hotel Le Bourgogne in Evian-les-Bains costing $114 per night.
For those interested in visiting Lake Geneva this summer, you can fly nonstop from the United States to Geneva International Airport (GVA) with SWISS from New York (JFK), Newark (EWR), and Washington (IAD). Round-trip flights start from $564 this season.

The UNESCO World Heritage site, La Lonja, is a major highlight in all the guidebooks and was definitely one of my favorite places we visited in Valencia. Recently restored, it now stands in its full splendor, and the best part is that entry is free.

If you find yourself overwhelmed by the Baroque grandeur of the Palacio del Marques de dos Aguas, La Lonja offers a refreshing contrast with its serene, cathedral-like ambiance.

La Lonja de Seda, or the Silk Exchange, was established in the 15th century. The twisted stone pillars that stretch up to the vaulted ceiling are reminiscent of twisted silk threads. Today, when you enter the spacious and cool Sala de Contratacion (The Contract Hall), you can imagine the bustling activity of Valencia’s merchants from centuries past.

One side features a small, shady courtyard filled with the scent of orange trees. An external stone staircase leads you to a first-floor chamber adorned with a beautiful coffered ceiling and a patterned marble floor.

On the ground floor, off the courtyard, is the Pavilion of the Consulate, where the Merchant’s tribunal once held sessions. During the height of summer, this area must have provided a cool and shady retreat from the busy streets outside.

One of the main attractions of traveling to Europe is its timeless streets, which are quite different from those in the U.S. While American streets are often marred by potholes and overpriced coffee at inauthentic cafes, Europe offers charming cobblestone streets and delightful sidewalk cafes serving the best cappuccinos.
Italy is taking this experience to the next level with the La Dolce Vita Orient Express, a luxurious train that combines the best aspects of 1960s train travel with modern enhancements. Although the final touches are still being made, tickets are already available. For those seeking the ultimate European adventure and bragging rights, booking a spot on this vintage train is a must. This unique train ride promises an unforgettable way to explore Italy in 2025.
When it comes to travel, many of us have debated whether upgrading our seats is worth the extra cost. The La Dolce Vita Orient Express offers an upgrade like no other: a master bedroom. Unlike typical upgrades that offer a bit more legroom or a USB port, this train features 12 Deluxe Cabins and 18 Suite Cabins, each with enticing amenities.
The Deluxe Cabins are designed with a vintage-inspired aesthetic and modern comforts. Instead of cramped bunks, these cabins feature sofas that convert into spacious double beds. Room service is available at the push of a button, offering delicious Italian treats like olives, fennel taralli, cheese boards, and breadsticks. The train also boasts a dining car, cocktail lounge, and Italian café, perfect for those who want to leave their luxurious cabins for a bit.
For those seeking the best of the best, the Suite Cabins are the way to go. These cabins are essentially master bedrooms on rails, offering more space, privacy, and comfort. They include all the amenities of the Deluxe Cabins, plus an optional twin bed, two armchairs, a sofa, and a private bathroom.
The La Dolce Vita Orient Express travels through Italy, a country that feels like it needs to be seen in its entirety. The train offers eight curated itineraries, covering iconic cities like Rome and Venice, as well as lesser-known gems like Matera. Each route is a 1-2 day journey, ensuring you won’t miss out on any of Italy’s stunning sites.
Currently, all trains depart from Rome, Palermo, or Catania, and tickets can be booked online. Deluxe Cabins cost around $3000, while Suite Cabins are just over $4000. Although the train won’t be ready until April 2025, tickets are available for purchase for travel between April and October 2025. This gives travelers plenty of time to save up for this once-in-a-lifetime journey on the famous Orient Express, which has discontinued its London-Istanbul route.

Oman, bordering the United Arab Emirates and boasting luxury hotels comparable to those in Dubai, remains a quiet enigma in the shadow of its more flamboyant neighbors. Muscat, the capital, serves as the gateway to Oman’s natural wonders, including its desert landscapes and towering mountain ranges, home to the Bedu people who have adapted to the harsh desert conditions.

Most visitors to Oman arrive in Muscat, a city that doesn’t try to emulate the high-rise glamour of Dubai or other Gulf cities. Instead, Muscat is a collection of old fishing villages and ports along the Gulf of Oman coastline. Among the modern buildings, you can still find traces of Portuguese and Asian influences in the older architecture, reflecting a time when the city was contested by foreign powers.

Jebel Akhdar, meaning Green Mountains, offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat. Rising to 3,075 meters at its highest peak, Jebel Shams, the climate here is similar to the Mediterranean. The terraces are used to grow fruits like peaches, which wouldn’t survive in the lower, hotter regions.

Jebel Akhdar separates the farmland stretching to the coast and Muscat from Oman’s Empty Quarter. This strategic vantage point is home to thousand-year-old forts and other UNESCO World Heritage sites, many of which have been restored and reopened by Sultan Qaboos. Notable sites include the fort at Bahla and Jabrin Fort, known for its brightly painted and intricately carved cedar wood ceiling.

Walking trails crisscross the mountains, with one of the most rewarding being the trek to the abandoned village of Wadi Ghul, located below the rim of Oman’s Grand Canyon. The Saiq Plateau, the central formation of the mountains, features terraced hillsides where orchards grow fruit and almonds, and rose gardens bloom in summer. Local farmers press and filter the petals into rose water, and visitors can watch this process at a local distillery.

The Alila Jabal Akhdar Resort, perched dramatically overlooking a gorge, offers an elegant mountaintop retreat and a base for exploring local trails. All rooms have panoramic views, but the outdoor infinity pool is perhaps the best spot for admiring the scenery.

Every Friday, farmers and their livestock descend from the Jebel Akhdar mountains to trade at the Nizwa Livestock Market. In Nizwa’s main square, you can observe this vibrant aspect of daily life for the Bedu, the traditionally nomadic people of Arabia’s deserts. Both men and women participate in the haggling, with men wearing long white robes (dish dash) and women in bright clothes and intricate face veils.

Nizwa, a two-hour drive southwest of Muscat, was Oman’s capital in the 6th and 7th centuries. Its deep Islamic traditions are evident in its many mosques, and the 40-meter tower of the 17th-century Nizwa Fort is a prominent feature. Nizwa is also a bustling trading hub, with a souq where you can buy antiques, spices, crafts, and goods from silversmiths, potters, and jewelers.

Close to central Nizwa, The Falaj Daris offers two swimming pools in landscaped gardens and an outdoor barbecue area. While it’s the only hotel in town, The Golden Tulip, a 15-20 minute drive away, provides a fantastic view of the mountains. Built in traditional Omani architectural style, all rooms overlook the swimming pool with the Hajar mountain range in the background.

For those seeking solitude, the Wahiba desert’s golden sands, not far from Nizwa and a four-hour drive from Muscat, are largely untouched except for the Bedouin tribes who live around its southern edge. Sunset in the desert is magical, with the dunes shifting through honey-colored hues to deep crimson before night falls.

Camping under the desert sky offers a taste of Bedouin hospitality. The Desert Nights Camp provides air-conditioned tents with private bathrooms, bedrooms, and lounges, along with activities like camel rides and quad biking. The camp is nestled between two high sand dunes but is easily accessible from the main road.

The Wahiba Sands’ dunes, believed to be around 6,000 years old, reach up to 80 meters high. The fine-grained sand, constantly moved by the wind, creates a dynamic habitat for about 150 plant species and 200 animal species, including desert foxes and the white-tailed mongoose.

On Oman’s coast, the Ras Al Jinz Scientific and Visitors’ Centre is a convenient stop between the Wahiba Sands and Muscat. This small cove, the Arabian Peninsula’s most easterly point, is a nesting ground for green turtles, which come ashore year-round to lay their eggs. The peak nesting season is between July and September, coinciding with Oman’s hottest weather.

Green turtles, the largest of all hard-shelled turtles, lay between 100 and 200 eggs each. Watching the hatchlings struggle to reach the ocean is a poignant experience, especially knowing that only 0.01% will survive to adulthood. The centre focuses on conservation, discouraging any handling of the turtles. Accommodation at the Carapace Lodge, part of the centre, is basic but practical for those wanting to be close to the turtles and the beach.

With year-round sunshine, Oman offers renowned Arabian hospitality, traditional culture, and unspoiled natural beauty. From Muscat’s spectacular coastline to the rugged interior mountain ranges, Oman is a destination waiting to be explored.

During my last visit to the Arden Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon, I was captivated by their charming, old-fashioned rose-patterned tea service from the V & A, displayed on an oak dresser. This experience deepened my love for the tradition of English afternoon tea. I decided that when we returned to watch “Romeo and Juliet” at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, we would indulge in afternoon tea at the Arden Hotel beforehand.

It felt appropriate to enjoy tea in the heart of Stratford, the birthplace of England’s greatest poet and playwright, surrounded by the historic half-timbered houses that Shakespeare might have known as a boy. Our family settled into the leather chesterfield sofas in the pale green-paneled drawing room of the hotel. Through the sash windows, framed by toile de jouy curtains, we had a splendid view of the original Victorian entrance of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, now modernized with a new frontage and tower after a recent redevelopment.

Our waiter, unperturbed by my son’s unusual request for a Ribena ice lolly, graciously offered to fetch one from the shops. Our tea arrived, featuring Earl Grey (with lemon or milk) and fruit tea for me. I adore the elegant, old-fashioned cake stands they use, laden with thinly sliced sandwiches—smoked salmon and cucumber or chicken with salad, all without crusts. The second cake stand held slices of chocolate and walnut cake, along with scones to be smothered in clotted cream and strawberry jam.

As we enjoyed our tea, the conversation turned to the play we were about to see. My son questioned the point of watching a play when everyone knows the ending. My father-in-law reminisced about seeing Sir Ian McKellen in “King Lear,” and my mother-in-law recalled sitting among theatre critics during a previous visit.

We debated the pronunciation of “scone”—whether it rhymes with “home” or “shone”—a matter that apparently depends on whether you live in the north or south of England. After finishing our tea, we walked across the road to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. In the shop, my children persuaded me to buy a book of Shakespeare’s sonnets and some pencils with “2B or not 2B” written on them.

We explored the theatre, from the Transformations exhibition about its redevelopment to the Squidsoup art installation, where words typed into a computer were projected as a swirling word sculpture on the wall. At the appointed time, we took our seats to the side of the stage, which jutted out with the audience on three sides. Although we had to crane our necks for the balcony scenes, it was worth it. Those in the front row even had their photos taken and were humorously compared to the fair Rosalind by Romeo.

The performance was memorable, with Juliet portrayed as a spirited teenager and Romeo as a dreamy photographer who forgets his camera upon meeting Juliet. The production’s styling fascinated me, blending Shakespearean costumes with modern elements like biker boots and Vivienne Westwood-inspired corsets. The cast’s energetic performance at the ball, with golden sun masks and African drums, contrasted with the casual modern attire of Romeo and Juliet in their everyday clothes.

Despite the tragic ending, where I found myself willing Juliet to wake up in time to stop Romeo, the performance was a poignant reminder that the world’s best-known love story is also a tragedy. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre offers much more than just a play; it’s a complete experience, enhanced by the millions spent on its redevelopment. Our afternoon tea at the Arden Hotel set the perfect tone for the evening.

Although we caught the last performance of “Romeo and Juliet,” you can still enjoy afternoon tea with other plays like “The Merchant of Venice” or “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” For the best experience, book early for front-row seats to fully immerse yourself in the thrill of live Shakespeare.

If you’re searching for a chic and vibrant boutique hotel in one of Athens’ oldest neighborhoods, Athens4 is the place to be. Opened in 2019, Athens4 is part of a collection of boutique hotels that includes 18 Micon Street and Asomaton. It’s centrally located in Athens’ old commercial and financial district, close to the trendy Psiri neighborhood and Monastiraki Square.

The building originally housed a textile factory, producing lace and trimmings for the once-thriving garment industry. Honoring its history, Athens4 features unique textiles, wall coverings, and handcrafted furnishings in its rooms, creating a distinctive, eclectic ambiance that mirrors the bohemian character of the surrounding area.

We stayed in one of the family suites, which combined a colorful, tropical theme with industrial chic elements like tiles and metal furnishings. The main bedroom overlooked a side street and was separated by a glass door from the living area, which had bunk beds and a divan that doubled as a sofa.

Our comfortable king-size bed had high-quality white cotton bed linen, a light duvet, and plump pillows, ensuring a restful night’s sleep on the quiet pedestrianized street. The living area was equipped with a Nespresso machine, bottled water, a kettle, and a selection of Lipton teas. The small fridge contained soft drinks and local beers, available at an extra charge. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, there was no printed material in the room, but the hotel reception staff were happy to provide recommendations.

My main issue with the room was the lack of storage space. Athens4 seems designed for short stays where guests don’t need to unpack. Instead of a wardrobe, there were bronze metal hangers, a nod to the building’s textile factory origins. While this added a unique touch, I would have preferred some drawers or enclosed storage to avoid using my suitcase and the divan for storage.

Each of the 23 rooms at Athens4 is individually designed, with a range of sizes including family suites, standard or compact rooms, and a loft suite with Acropolis views. Some rooms and suites have outdoor terraces with seating and potted shrubs for privacy. If available, I would recommend requesting a room with a terrace for some outside space.

The room interiors feature framed fabric pieces harkening back to the textile factory days, soft velvets on headboards and cushions, and striking feature wallpaper. These tactile fabrics contrast with the hard, tiled floors and metal-framed furniture, giving the rooms an industrial yet cozy feel.

Our suite had a large, walk-in bathroom with a modern double sink, a separate WC, and a spacious wet room with both an overhead rainforest shower and a handheld shower. The bathroom was fully tiled, light, and bright, with plenty of space for families. We enjoyed a selection of Apivita toiletries, known for their natural ingredients, including Greek honey and orange shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel.

The street entrance of Athens4 leads to an airy lobby where a buffet breakfast is served. There’s an informal reception area without a traditional desk; staff check you in using a laptop. For security, the lobby is kept locked and accessible only with a room keycard. The hotel staff may leave after 5 pm, but a contact number is provided for any issues.

The lobby has plenty of seating, small tables, and bar stools by the windows, making it a comfortable spot to relax or work. A Nespresso machine and kettle with teas are available for guests to make hot drinks. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the hotel, though it was not particularly fast.

Breakfast at Athens4 is a self-service buffet with a focus on healthy options like fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, nuts, and fresh orange juice. There are also cereals, cheeses, cold meats, and local pastries like Greek Bougatsa and feta cheese pie. A self-service Nespresso machine is available for coffee.

The hotel’s location on pedestrianized Poliklitou Street is surrounded by old-fashioned businesses and is just a short walk from the lively Psiri neighborhood, which offers a variety of bars, restaurants, and live music. While Athens4 does not have a restaurant or room service, the surrounding area provides plenty of dining options.

Athens4 is part of a group of boutique hotels, each with its unique character. 18 Micon Street, located in Psiri, is a 15-room hotel in a converted warehouse with industrial and tactile design elements. Vasi, another nearby boutique hotel, has 18 light-filled rooms with natural materials and a neutral color palette. Asomaton, near the Thisio metro, is a luxury boutique hotel in a former carriage repair shop, featuring original stonework, a small indoor pool, and rooms showcasing Greek artist Philip Tsiaras’ work.