Did some form of travel make it on your New Year resolutions list? It certainly made it on mine. Even though I'm extremely grateful for the travel I've been able to experience during the past few years living abroad, I know I will always pursue more travel. That's because travel is powerful. Even if you … Continue reading 18 European Hidden Gems for 2018
8 Unique Reasons to Visit Budapest
During our first visit to Budapest, we arrived late at night. It was dark and moody, and we were tired. We hailed a taxi at the airport, the driver greeting us with breathless Hungarian and a cigarette dangling from his mouth. He unapologetically sped through the darkened streets, whizzing around corners and gambling with shortcuts … Continue reading 8 Unique Reasons to Visit Budapest
Budapest’s Best Christmas Markets
Ahhhh, European Christmas markets. Come December, they’re what us expats live for. We are far from home, friends, family, and our own traditions, so what fills such a huge void during the holidays? Mugs of steaming mulled wine, of course. Plus all the others: heaping plates of traditional foods, artistic crafts, twinkling lights, wafting music, … Continue reading Budapest’s Best Christmas Markets
Finding Fall
It's October, a highly anticipated month as summer settles and autumn abounds. But here I sit, ever so patiently in Madrid... waiting, waiting, waiting... for those leaves to pop. Some have started their ritual, warm tones emerging amongst the jagged peaks of the Sierra Norte, creating that gorgeous scene I crave. But others remain stubborn, … Continue reading Finding Fall
Dawn vs. Dusk in Budapest
I used to be a sunset person. As a night owl, it fit my inner clock better than the sunrise. I loved blue hour, when the evening glow hit the horizon, bursts of lights illuminating the clouds and that calming tone slowly enveloping my surroundings from behind. It was a subtle goodnight. And living in … Continue reading Dawn vs. Dusk in Budapest
How To: Treasure Hunt at Budapest’s Largest Flea Market
Budapest is steeped in history - unique, turbulent, varied, discouraging, triumphant, hopeful history. Perusing the streets, ducking into courtyards, exploring alleyways, investigating the riverside... it has yet to get old, and I predict it never will. Of all the European cities I have visited, Budapest remains my favorite. Now, it's not for everyone. The culture is rich … Continue reading How To: Treasure Hunt at Budapest’s Largest Flea Market
Coffee Break in Budapest
Growing up outside of Seattle, I developed a refined coffee palette. At least that’s how I prefer to describe my nearly out-of-control crazed caffeine addiction. Let me set the scene: The wafting scent of properly brewed java catches my attention, snatching me right out of reality. I begin to mindlessly wander until I’m standing in front … Continue reading Coffee Break in Budapest
Budapest: Seasons and Emotions
As I left my flat this morning, I was greeted by a frigid, subzero wind rushing steadily through our narrow street. The sky was gray, gradual flurries floating down from billowed snow clouds, and no matter how carefully I stepped, ice clung to every shadowed corner. Tightening my scarf, I quickened my pace, hoping my speed would stop the stinging … Continue reading Budapest: Seasons and Emotions