Now that the craziness of the festive season has come to a halt, it’s time to gush about how magical my second German Christmas market experience was. We went to Koblenz and a little town called Hachenburg – both very special in their own way.
I mean, look at those sparkly fairy lights – what a Christmas dream!
I know the festivities are over, but it’s never too early to plan trips for 2018 (I’m sure many of you have ‘travel more’ as a New Year’s resolution – I know I do!).
Koblenz | Photo by McKenna
We spent a day in Koblenz, a city along the Rhine River in central Germany, where we perused upwards of ten little Christmas markets scattered throughout the town.
From glitter and gold to pine needles and red hues, each little market had its own unique decor and cheery vibe. Oh, and complete with WAY TOO MUCH FOOD. I think I could live off bratwurst and gluhwein all day, every day.
What better way to celebrate the holidays?!
Koblenz | Photo by McKennaKoblenz | Photo by McKenna
We also visited markets in Hachenburg, a much smaller town situated about a 40-minute drive outside Koblenz.
Although it wasn’t of the same scale of Koblenz, it did not disappoint. For one, just look at that architecture! There was one main market in the centre of town surrounded by historic buildings decked out in lights and decorated trees.
Here’s a look at the small town Christmas vibe with a big, big celebration!
Hachenburg | Photo by McKennaHachenburg | Photo by McKennaFood vibes in Hachenburg | Photo by McKennaKoblenz | Photo by McKenna
I know it’s 11 months away, but be sure to add Koblenz and Hachenburg to your Christmas wish list in 2018.
As summer comes to an end, and as autumn’s go-go-go mentality creeps in, I find my mind slipping away to the sunshine and excitement from my summer trips.
The other week I went to Dubrovnik for my cousin’s wedding – and wow, I was absolutely blown away. I had been to Zadar, Croatia before, so I assumed Old Town Dubrovnik would be a bigger version of the quiet seaside town.
Boy, was I wrong.
Dubrovnik is like no other. From its bustling cobblestone streets to picturesque beaches, this city is one of a kind.
Old Town Dubrovnik | Photo by McKenna
After walking through impressive city walls, you’re greeted with a stunning view of a marina as you stroll through stone-studded streets. Palm trees and sunshine… yes, please!
Old Town Dubrovnik | Photo by McKenna
Some may recognize Dubrovnik as a Game of Thrones filming location, which is cool of course, but the city is so much more than that! Dubrovnik is first and foremost a dazzling, historical European city, being a filming location comes after (wayyyy after) all of its cultural and beautiful offerings.
Old Town Dubrovnik | Photo by McKenna
From quaint cafes to little independent shops, Old Town offers a variety of businesses and restaurants. One of my personal favourites was Pupo, where I found my desperately needed oyster fix.
Oyster goodness | Photo by McKenna
If you’re a pizza, pasta or seafood fiend, you’re in luck. Dubrovnik boasts an abundance of mouthwatering goodness on every corner. Don’t forget an ice cream cone (pistachio for me!) to top it off!
Photo by McKenna
After you’ve scoped out the city’s cobblestone alleyways and city walls, venture to Banje Beach for an afternoon of sun and sea. The beach is just a five-minute walk from the eastern wall of Old Town, equipped with a beach bar and sun loungers to rent for 100 kuna (£12).
The pebbled beach leads you to the refreshing Adriatic Sea. When we were there in late August, temperatures were HOT, making the cool sea water more than welcome.
Banje Beach | Photo by McKennaBanje Beach | Photo by McKenna
Beach by day, cocktails and music by night. On my first evening in Dubrovnik there was a mini music festival in the main square of Old Town. It was absolutely surreal to dance to house music under flashing lights in such a historic, seaside setting!
In addition to the impromptu rave, we perused everything from little hole-in-the-wall bars to the city’s massive Club Revelin – there really is something for everyone!
the logistics…
To and fro
Dubrovnik Airport is only 20 minutes away by car. An Uber is about 250 kuna (£30), but you can also take a shuttle to Old Town at the bargain price of 40 kuna (£5).
Sleeping beauties
My family rented an Airbnb just outside the city walls because we had quite a large group. However, you can find deals within the city walls, right in the middle of all the action, for £60 a night (for a couple). If you book far in advance, I’m sure you’d be able to find deals at hotels as well.
Money, money, money!
Many places took both euros and kuna, Croatia’s official currency, but you should 100% use kuna within the Old Town. Not all places take euros, so better safe than sorry!
A view of Old Town | Photo by McKenna
I’ve posted more photos from my Dubrovnik adventure on my Instagram, so feel free to check them out if this amazing city has made it onto your travel bucket list!
What a sunset | Photo by McKenna
After all, Dubrovnik is calling your name! And you need this beautiful sunset in your life!
Hope you’re having a fab week – the weekend will be here before you know it! If you’re looking for an amazing day trip/weekend away in the UK you absolutely HAVE to add Brighton to your list. The beach town is only an hour away on the train from London and has a completely different, chill vibe from the capital.
You’ll find pebbled beaches, vintage clothing markets, quaint cafes, boardwalk bars and entertainment for the entire family (games and rides!). What better why to enjoy a bottle of bubbles than on the beach, am I right?
Not to mention the city has some AMAZING street art. There’s an eccentric feel that I’m kind of obsessed with.
As I perused amazing vintage clothing racks and handmade jewellery stands – I could not resist buying two gold rings, a hemp bracelet and a Minnesota Vikings NFL jersey (£5 for each!)… there’s something for everyone.
So head to the coast and embrace that Brighton bliss! I promise you will not regret it.
Hope you’re having a fab Saturday! Today I’m dodging this dreadful Easter weekend storm in London and staying put on my sofa. Sometimes you just need a little Netflix in your life, am I right?
I’ve finally had a chance to post gorgeous pictures of a recent trip I took. If you’re wondering where to go for your next city break… I have the answer right here: LISBON, PORTUGAL.
Not only is this city absolutely beautiful, with its rustic charm and unique mosaic tiled buildings, it has everything you need in a weekend getaway: gorgeous sunshine, restaurants to die for, beautiful architecture and the most friendly culture I have ever encountered while traveling. Even our AirBnb host left a delicious bottle of traditional Portuguese green wine in the fridge, awaiting our arrival 🙂
Our days were filled with sightseeing, strolling down the city’s cobblestone streets (clearly obsessed!) and experiencing gorgeous castles and palaces. And, of course, indulging in traditional Portuguese food including custard tarts, seafood rice and codfish cakes.
One HUGE advantage of Lisbon is its affordable nature — you can find a delicious glass of Sangria for only 1.50 Euros (literally I could not believe it, especially coming from London). A daily travel card, which includes metro, bus, tram and water taxi, is only 6 euros. This place is a steal 🙂 not to mention our adorable AirBnb was authentic and in a prime location (in the Alfama waterfront neighbourhood) for an incredible price. Have I convinced you yet?
And not only were we able to explore Lisbon, we were also able to experience palaces, castles and quaint cafes in the neighbouring cities of Sintra and Cascais. Just think colourful castles, waterfront restaurants and adorable family owned shops. Posts to come on those, of course 🙂
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time for you to experience Lisbon yourself!
Coffee & Cobblestones 