I Ask You Honestly, Who Doesnt Like Trains? I Remember Being Fascinated By Them When I Was A Child, I

I ask you honestly, who doesn’t like trains? I remember being fascinated by them when I was a child, I grew up in a small coastal town called Crystal Beach on the west coast of Florida. We had a train that came through twice a day until I was 9, I would always run liaise to see it. I also would leave Penney’s on the tail for it to flatten.

Oh the good ole days!

I’m so obsessed with Polar Bears, that I will visit Norway just because s/he loves it. I mean totally legit reason 🤷🏼

10 days in France 🇫🇷

I boarded an overnight flight departing from Miami with Paris as my destination. Arrived at 11:30am picked up my rental car, checked into the hotel and proceeded to have the most epic three days in Paris. I think I would like to purchase a small flat in Paris and visit once a year, it was glorious and I’m sad I’m back home.

Eastern European Escapade Part 1

Buckle up, fellow wanderlusters! Embarking on a 22-day European escapade – because who needs a short vacation, am I right? From savoring cevapi in Serbia to doing the Hungarian mouth-dance with paprika, this travel blog is your ticket to the quirky tales of my journey through Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria. Get ready for cultural confusion, scenic snapshots, and a questionable attempt at blending in. It's time to turn passport stamps into punchlines! Let the Euro-adventures begin!

GOLUBAC, SERBIA:

Serbia had never been on my radar as country to visit, and I am so grateful that unexpected circumstances took me there. There are a lot of false narratives that keep people from traveling to the country, but the truth is that Serbia has long intrigued travelers with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. My recent trip to this Balkan country left me with a changed perspective by its vibrant cities, ancient fortresses, and, of course, delicious cuisine.

One of the highlights of my journey was a day trip to the awe-inspiring Golubac Fortress, nestled along the banks of the Danube River.

Golubac Fortress is a captivating slice of history perched on the banks of the Danube River in Serbia. This 14th-century stronghold, with its towering walls and breathtaking views, has witnessed centuries of battles and empires. Located just two hours from Belgrade, Golubac is a must-visit for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. #GolubacFortress

The fortress boasts nine towers, each with its own unique story, and offers panoramic views of the river, making it easy to imagine the medieval battles that once took place here. The setting is peaceful today, a stark contrast to its turbulent past. Golubac is an unforgettable experience that transports you back in time.

#serbia

Pair your visit with a delicious local trout lunch, and you've got the perfect day trip from Serbia’s bustling capital.

If you’re visiting Golubac Fortress and looking for the perfect place to enjoy an authentic meal with an unforgettable view, Restoran Perast is an absolute must. Sits just along the banks of the Danube, this charming restaurant offers not only stunning riverside scenery but also a dining experience that truly captures the essence of Serbian cuisine.

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm hospitality and a relaxing atmosphere. Even from inside you could enjoy its panoramic view of the Danube, it created the perfect backdrop for an enjoyable meal after exploring the nearby fortress.

The highlight of our meal was the freshly grilled trout, caught straight from the Danube. It was perfectly cooked—crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside. Accompanied by simple but delicious sides of local potatoes and and of course I ordered Fries, the dish was a perfect reflection of the region’s culinary traditions.

What truly sets Restoran Perast apart is the attention to detail, both in the food and the service. The staff were attentive and friendly, making sure we had everything we needed to make the meal memorable. The peaceful ambiance, combined with the excellent food and river views, sucks you right into having a local feel.

Avala Tower and the Monument to the Unknown Hero are two iconic spots just outside Belgrade, Serbia. Avala Tower, standing at 204 meters, gives you amazing views of the city and beyond. It was originally built in the 60s, destroyed in 1999, but rebuilt and reopened in 2010.

Not far from the tower is the Monument to the Unknown Hero, a massive stone tribute to the Serbian soldiers who died in World War I. It's a place of quiet reflection, honoring those whose names were never known. Both sites are must-visits for their history and great views!

BELGRADE, SERBIA

Exploring the vibrant vibes of Republic Square in Belgrade! From the impressive National Museum to the charming cafes lining the streets, it's a hub of activity and history. Stroll through Knez Mihailova Street, soak in the atmosphere, and maybe even dodge a pigeon or two. This spot captures the essence of Belgrade's lively spirit.

#rebublicsquare

#thetempleofsaintsava

If you have some time, Delve into the historical narrative of Belgrade's Temple of Saint Sava! This architectural saga unfolded over decades, with construction commencing in the 1930s and culminating in 2004. Honoring Saint Sava, the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church, the temple seamlessly blends Byzantine and Serbian medieval influences. Immerse yourself in the interior adorned with intricate frescoes, each telling a chapter of spiritual and cultural significance. A journey into the depths of history awaits within the walls of this iconic structure.

Eastern European Escapade Part 2

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

Next stop on our roadtrip is Budapest, the capital of Hungary, and it's a vibrant city known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and unique blend of Eastern and Western European cultures. The city is split by the Danube River into two parts: Buda, with its historic castle and hilly terrain, and Pest, known for its lively urban atmosphere. Notable landmarks include the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the thermal baths. Budapest offers a mix of medieval, neoclassical, and modern architecture, along with a thriving arts scene, cafes, and a rich culinary tradition. It is often called the "Pearl of the Danube."

Budapest at night is nothing short of magical. The city comes alive as the lights of the Parliament building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge reflect on the shimmering Danube, creating a stunning, romantic atmosphere. The vibrant nightlife, illuminated historic architecture, and serene river views make it feel like you're walking through a storybook. Each corner reveals something breathtaking, whether it's the glow of street lamps or the gentle hum of the city's night breeze.

After an exhilarating nighttime climb to the Citadel in Budapest, the breathtaking views were more than worth the effort. The city sparkled below, with the Danube cutting through the heart of Budapest, its bridges illuminated like golden arches connecting Buda and Pest. The peacefulness of the night, combined with the soft glow of the lights, made the entire experience magical.

Fisherman's Bastian

HERO'S GATE

Hero's Gate was built to commemorate the country's 1000th anniversary and honor the most significant figures in Hungarian history. It features the Millenary Monument, which was constructed between 1896 and 1929 to celebrate the millennium of Hungary's foundation in 896 by the Magyars, the ancestors of modern Hungarians.

The square and the monument pay tribute to Hungarian leaders, kings, and national heroes who played key roles in the nation's history. The central column of the monument is topped by a statue of the Archangel Gabriel holding the Holy Crown of Hungary and the apostolic cross, symbolizing the establishment of Christianity in Hungary.

Empress Elisabeth (SiSi) sure knew palaces. Buda Palace is very beautiful, and it overlooks the city and is a testament to the times of grandeur in architecture.

Buda Palace, is a historic castle complex on Castle Hill. Originally built in the 13th century, it has served as the royal residence and a key administrative center. The palace, notable for its stunning Baroque architecture, offers panoramic views of the Danube River and the city. It like the Louvre now houses a museum, the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, and the National Széchényi Library, making it a significant cultural and historical landmark in Budapest.

Even on a rainy day it stands Majestic and historic, the Parliament Building in Budapest stands as a symbol of Hungary's rich heritage and architectural splendor.

Our time in Budapest was truly unforgettable. From immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of its history to dancing the night away in the vibrant nightlife of Pest, every moment was a we spent wondering this city, is imprinted on my soul. Budapest seamlessly blends the old with the new, offering a unique experience that we'll cherish for years to come. It is an absolutely incredible city!

Everyone who has the opportunity to go to Iceland…GO!