A first-timer’s guide to quirky French city of Nantes

When was the last time you rode a three-storey mechanical elephant? Or treated yourself to a deliberately burnt pastry? Nantes, where American ragtime jazz first landed on European shores, is not your usual city.  Birthplace of Jules Verne, Nantes transformed itself from France’s major slavery port, to a youthful, energetic, art-loving city where tradition, a…

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Escape the heat at these 7 top beaches near Lisbon

The riverside sandbank by Ribeira das Naus in Lisbon is a tempting spot to lay down your towel and dip your toes in the Tagus River, but it’s not officially considered a beach. Fortunately, the Portuguese capital is a short trip away from plenty of golden stretches of sand for you to soak up the sun,…

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8 of the best places to visit in Portugal’s Algarve

The Algarve hits all the right notes when it comes to seaside getaways. Inviting beaches and great weather are the just beginning of a long list of the region’s many charms. This southern pocket of Portugal also has castles, historic cobblestone centers and sleepy cliff-top villages overlooking wild stretches of coastline. Whether you’re traveling solo, heading…

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15 of the very best things to do in Amsterdam

One of Europe's true jewels, with its Golden Age canals bordered by slender gabled buildings and spanned by arched bridges, Amsterdam might be small, like the rest of the Netherlands, but it has an outsized reputation. From exceptional art, architecture and innovative design to nightlife, you'll find it here. Amsterdam's condensed layout means even on a short…

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18 ways to explore England on a budget: vouchers, deals and money-saving tips

From cliff-backed beaches and quaint villages to vibrant cities and historic sights, England has plenty to entice visitors. But it can also be a fairly expensive destination, particularly in terms of accommodations, tours and sightseeing.  The good news? Many of England’s museums, natural sights and heritage attractions are free. Public transportation can be affordable when…

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Safeguarding Your Adventures: First Aid For Traveling Off The Beaten Path

Heads up: some of the links on this site are affiliate links. If you click and make a booking or purchase, I’ll make a commission (at no extra cost to you). I partner with companies I personally use and the $$ goes towards creating more awesome, free travel content.  Exploring unfamiliar territory and forging new…

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