If you’re a flight attendant with access to discounted staff tickets, you can easily plan your vacation around accommodation—and that’s exactly what I did on this trip to Mallorca.

This time, the hotel came first, and everything else followed.

Planning a Mallorca Vacation Around the Perfect Hotel

When I first saw the stunning design of Hotel Concepció by Nobis in Palma de Mallorca, I knew I had to experience it one day. Yes, it’s expensive, and yes, it’s located in the city rather than directly by the beach—so it’s not your typical seaside resort. Still, I felt it was absolutely worth the splurge.

Some days I’m a curious tourist, ticking off Mallorca’s highlights. Other days I prefer meeting locals, exploring neighborhoods, immersing myself in the culture, and collecting stories. And then there are days when I happily indulge in a bit of luxury travel—staying in beautifully designed hotels, getting spoiled, and surrounding myself with beautiful things.

Feeling rich. Even if just for a day or two.

Hotel Concepció by Nobis Palma de Mallorca: Is It Worth It?

Staying at Boutique hotel Concepció by Nobis felt like intentional luxury—breathtaking design, calm atmosphere, and the kind of aesthetic that instantly elevates your mood. Feeling rich is a wonderful feeling, and honestly, we all deserve it.

The good news? You don’t actually have to be rich to feel that way.

I often combine a low-key stay with one or two nights of luxury. This approach makes high-end hotels more affordable while still allowing you to enjoy the experience fully.

How to Combine Budget Travel and Luxury in Mallorca

Before our luxury stay, we spent the first part of the trip at a cheap all-inclusive hotel—not really worth mentioning—simply to keep costs down. Even though the resort was right by the beach, lounging on an ordinary sandy beach surrounded by hundreds of people isn’t really my thing.

So we rented a car.

A Fiat 500 felt perfectly on brand for Mallorca, and we set off to explore the island. No strict plans—just driving around, wandering, and stopping wherever we felt like it.

Well… almost no plan.

Renting a Car and Exploring Mallorca Without a Plan

We did have one destination in mind: Cala S’Almonia, often described as one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in Mallorca. And yes—it truly lives up to the hype.

Cala S’Almonia: One of the Most Picturesque Beaches in Mallorca

Cala S’Almonia is a unique little bay with unbelievably clear, crystal-blue water. There’s no sand here; instead, you relax on rocks and the ruins of old fishermen’s stone houses. That raw setting is exactly what makes this beach so cozy, authentic, and incredibly Instagrammable.

It also offers fantastic cliff-jumping spots for the adventurous.

Cala S’Almonia is a free beach, but it’s quite small, so it fills up quickly. Arrive early in the morning or just before sunset for the best experience. Parking can be tricky and usually involves a fair amount of walking—but it’s absolutely worth it.

Caló des Moro: The Famous Turquoise Beach Near Cala S’Almonia

Another bonus? Cala S’Almonia is just a five-minute walk from another Mallorca gem: Caló des Moro.

Here you’ll find dazzling turquoise water, soft white sand, and even a small cave where you can hide from the strong sun. The downside is that it gets crowded very fast and space is limited—but it’s still well worth a visit if you come early.

Final Thoughts: Luxury Hotels and Hidden Beaches in Mallorca

Mallorca has a unique way of combining understated luxury with raw, natural beauty. This trip was the perfect reminder that you don’t have to choose between budget travel and indulgence—you can have both.

One day exploring wild beaches and cliff jumps, another day wrapped in beautiful design and quiet luxury. For me, that balance is what makes travel truly special.

In 2023, I spent Christmas and New Year on the beautiful island of Réunion. When I look back, I still think of it as the happiest month of my life.

Christmas is usually a time I spend with my family, back in my snowy hometown. That year, however, I couldn’t be with them. Instead, I celebrated the holidays with my flying crew on a tropical island in the Indian Ocean—an entirely new and unforgettable experience.

Réunion is a small island east of Madagascar, close to Mauritius and not far from the Seychelles. Like many islands in the region, it has a French colonial past, but unlike its neighbors, Réunion is still part of France today. It is an overseas department, often referred to as “remote France.” It feels surreal to be so far away in the Indian Ocean and yet still technically in France—using euros, enjoying Schengen benefits, and even paying the same mobile roaming prices as at home.

This European status brings higher living standards, but the island lifestyle transforms Réunion into something truly special. I have never seen so many smiling, relaxed, and genuinely kind people anywhere else. Everyone seemed to be in a good mood and incredibly welcoming to visitors. Even the passengers on board were the most polite and easygoing I have ever encountered—which is saying a lot, as confined spaces usually bring out the worst in people.

I spent a full month on Réunion thanks to our company’s ACMI contract with Air Austral, the local airline. One aircraft, three sets of crew. A few days a week, I was working—flying short routes to neighboring islands such as Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar, or the Comoros. The rest of the time, I was simply enjoying island life. Truly, I had the time of my life.

Réunion is not about endless sandy beaches. Instead, it is all about lush green hills, dramatic volcanic landscapes and wild waterfalls. Perhaps that’s why it’s less popular than Mauritius as a classic beach destination. But the energy of the island is extraordinary—freeing, grounding, and powerful. In many ways, it reminded me of Hawaii.

Your stay on Réunion can easily turn into waterfall chasing, as the island is home to hundreds of them. At Anse des Cascades, waterfalls seem to appear everywhere you look. My personal favorites were Bassin La Paix and Bassin Bœuf—both perfect for swimming and even cliff jumping. And who wouldn’t want to bathe in a waterfall?

Other stunning natural sights worth mentioning include:

• Bassin La Roche
• Cascade du Chaudron
• Cascade Grand Galet
• Cirque de Mafate
• Piton de la Fournaise (one of the world’s most active volcanoes)

Just be prepared—almost every waterfall requires at least a bit of hiking.

Two colleagues and I hoped to see whales in their natural habitat. Réunion offers small-group trips where you can snorkel near them, but unfortunately, it wasn’t the right season. Humpback whales migrate to the Indian Ocean during the Southern Hemisphere winter, when warmer waters are ideal for their calves. We were there in summer, during the monsoon season. Still, we signed up for the trip. We didn’t see whales—but instead, we swam with a pod of wild, curious dolphins. Seeing them free in their natural environment was absolutely priceless. Most ocean wildlife encounters start around the Saint-Gilles area.

As I mentioned, Réunion isn’t famous for beaches—but it does have some lovely ones. L’Hermitage-les-Bains is a large public beach, though water shoes are recommended because of sharp coral fragments. The upside? Good for snorkeling. Personally, I preferred Boucan Canot, with its beautiful sandy shore and natural rock pool protected from waves.

When it comes to food, I was practically on a tuna diet—because Réunion does tuna exceptionally well. The best beach lunch we had was at the small restaurant Sauvage, a barefoot fine-dining experience. You absolutely must try Tartare de Thon à la Tahitienne. Le Ti Boucan is another great spot for brunch by the beach.

For something truly local, don’t miss La Case Volcan, known for some of the best Creole curries on the island. Instead of a menu, they bring you small samples of all the daily dishes so you can choose your favorite. It’s the perfect stop after visiting the Vanilla Bourbon plantations. Yes—Réunion is famous for its vanilla. Plantation Vanilla Bourbon isn’t just about vanilla; it’s more like a botanical garden showcasing the island’s native vegetation.

For a romantic dinner, I highly recommend La Manta near L’Hermitage Beach. And once again—try the tuna.

Réunion also has its own local beer called Bourbon, but no one really calls it that. Locals simply say “Dodo,” after the dodo bird on the label. We had at least one Dodo almost every evening.

Summer on Réunion means a lot of rain—and when it rains, it really pours. Tropical downpours can be intense, but they usually pass as quickly as they arrive. I actually found rainy evenings there incredibly romantic—unless, of course, the island is hit by a cyclone. In early 2024, Cyclone Belal caused airport closures for two days, and our aircraft had to divert to Madagascar. But that’s a story for another time.

To conclude, I can honestly say I hadn’t felt that free and aligned with myself since 2019. Réunion has, to me, a very feminine, stress-free energy. There is water everywhere—waterfalls, rain, humidity—and water is often associated with the feminine principle. I felt good in my body: I ate plenty of protein (hello, tuna), soaked up vitamin D, slept well, and enjoyed unhurried, meaningful time. The humidity made my skin glow, I stopped trying to control everything, my stress levels dropped, and I finally let myself go with the flow.

For the first time in years, I truly felt like myself again.

If I had to describe the capital of Serbia in just one word, it would be authenticity.

It wasn’t love at first sight. I came to Belgrade as a flight attendant for work. Our charter company had been hired to assist Air Serbia. In the end, I spent over half a year in the city, though with breaks in between (I also flew for other clients). When I was leaving Belgrade, I felt sad, as if I were leaving home.

I stayed at the Radisson Collection Blue Mill Hotel. A great location, an unusual design combining the original historic building with modern architecture, cosy rooms, and such warm and friendly staff that it felt nothing like staying in an impersonal chain hotel. I miss the excellent breakfasts every morning and the post-breakfast gatherings with the crew (that is, whoever wasn’t flying that day) in the restaurant over a delicious cappuccino and a cigarette. (Yes, in Belgrade – unlike in EU countries – people still smoke a lot, everywhere, even indoors.)

Belgrade is a big city. Grey. Worn-out. A little chaotic. Old trams, long retired in Bratislava, squeak along its streets. You can feel the remnants of communism, traces of the Balkan war, and the dusty glory of former Yugoslavia. Beautiful historic buildings are covered with ugly graffiti. The bleak architecture of communism stands in stark contrast to the charming beauty of the historic centre. Unkempt, chaotic streets, neglected facades, and abandoned, half-ruined buildings. What’s there to love about this city?

And yet, Belgrade eventually grew on me. I began to sense its unique atmosphere. Authenticity. Serbs are like that too – seemingly reserved, stern-faced, but tall, beautiful (Milla Jovovich’s father was Serbian), and proud. And beneath the tough exterior, very warm-hearted. You just have to “crack” them. I like that – more than the falseness, pretence, and ingratiation of some Asian cultures. It feels familiar. Slovaks are like that too. After all, we share the same roots – Slavs. Though Serbs are also Balkan people, with wilder and more fiery blood.

And honestly – what do they put in Serbian food that makes everyone so tall? I can recall three victorious basketball teams from the last Olympics: Americans, French, and Serbs. In the first two, the players are mostly of African descent; the Serbs are all pure Slavs. In my opinion, this part of the world produces the most masculine and handsome men.

Aside from its unique atmosphere and handsome men, Belgrade can boast an excellent cuisine, in which I taste not only Slavic influences (like grandma’s cooking) but also Balkan and Turkish ones. I recommend visiting the traditional restaurant Zavičaj on the charming Skadarlija Street.

Skadarlija is probably the most beautiful and picturesque street in all of Belgrade. The heart of the city. But beautiful, well-designed venues and hidden gems can be found scattered throughout the city. I enjoyed great Greek food at the traditional restaurant with a lovely garden terrace – Mezestoran Dvorište. Stovarište Materijala is an old, crumbling factory turned into a stylish pizzeria with really good pizza. And my absolute favourite place for great food and design is Smokvica. It’s one of those trendy spots in the city’s lively side streets, popular with young people. The best ice cream is at Sapore and at the beloved Crna Ovca locations, where they have truly unusual flavours and combinations. And the cakes – works of art – can be found at Mandarina Cake Shop.

Our hotel was just a short walk from the Galleria shopping centre. A gleaming place full of luxury boutiques, pristine restaurants, and cafés. It’s located in the middle of an area where large-scale construction of new, modern, and obviously expensive apartments is underway. Galleria Mall is expensive too – very expensive by Serbian standards and average salaries. But, as in every country, there’s a wealthy segment of society. Otherwise, who would shop here? It’s still worth coming for a casual stroll – there’s a beautiful pedestrian promenade along the Danube River, with a great atmosphere and bustling terraces full of locals. It really reminds me of our Bratislava Eurovea. Even the Danube matches.

It’s also nice to take a walk around Belgrade Fortress. There’s a lovely park in the area with panoramic views of the city. In some spots, there are chess tables set up – which reminds me of New York. And down below the fortress, there are charming tennis courts surrounded by lush greenery. It looks quite posh. I wonder where Novak Djoković trains?

The most famous Serb of all time? The charming tennis player, or the once-underestimated visionary Nikola Tesla? The latter has his own museum in Belgrade. In addition to the exhibits, the museum team gives live interactive demonstrations of several Tesla’s experiments. That makes this museum more engaging than most others.

Sometimes I miss you, Belgrade.

No city in the world has better marketing than Paris. The city of lights, city of love, city of fashion. The city of croissants, macaroons, crepes and French baguettes. The city of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The city of great philosophical ideas. The city of liberty, equality and fraternity. The city well known from book novels and romantic movies. The city from photos on Instagram. But what is Paris really like?

One could say that Paris is no longer what it used to be when great artists like Victor Hugo, Claude Monet or Hemingway and thousands of others lived and had been creating here. Today, this city is full of tourists and tourist traps. The streets are full of immigrants from North Africa (from former French colonies) and the restaurants are overpriced. On the other hand, the reputation of the most romantic city in the world is not based just on fantasy. Couples in love literally come here to get engaged under the illuminated Eiffel Tower. In my opinion, Paris is the city of stories and muses. You can still feel the spirit of La Belle Époque in the air, which charmingly mixes with the smell of coffee, fresh pastries and cigarettes like a well-balanced French perfume. There is nothing better than soaking up the Parisian atmosphere. Recently, I fly to Paris at least four times a month, as I bid for these Parisian routes and with each visit I love this city even more. I’m already starting to feel like a Parisian here and I want to introduce you to this city in a way that no travel guide can. Follow my steps and you will fall in love with Paris…

La Tour Eiffel

The French icon Eiffel Tower was named after the engineer who had it built. It is said to be the most visited monument in the whole world! And although in its beginnings in 1889 many leading artists of Paris criticized it for its design, today we cannot imagine Paris without it. The tower has something to it, especially when it lit up. Every full hour after sunset, it starts to sparkle for a few minutes, and that’s the moment you want to stand under it in a sparkling dress and toast with a glass of champagne. I definitely advise you to avoid the difficult climbing to the top of the tower and the even more difficult waiting in line for tickets, rather sit on the grass in the park under the Eiffel Tower or on the wall in the Trocadero square and toast to this magical moment. If by chance you don’t carry a bottle or glasses in your purse, that’s okay. You will surely meet soon an inventive street salesman with a cool box in which he carries beers, wine or even champagne with glasses. There are quite a few people running around Trocadero who have sensed the business potential of this place. Or for this little party, prepare in advance, pack your own picnic basket and settle down in a more intimate place like the ever-bustling Trocadero − on the banks of the Seine River.

The best places with a view of the Eiffel Tower

I’m sure you’ve already seen the Trocadero views on thousands of Paris photographs. It is definitely one of the most popular locations as it offers an outstanding viewpoint on the Eiffel Tower right in the palm of your hand. However, I know places with a great view of the tower that are more intimate and more Parisian. Just a five-minute walk from the Trocadero is a little street with an equally photogenic view, and unlike the crowded square, Avenue des Camoens located in the residential part of the area is quiet and quite empty most of the day. Be sure to note also another address – the corner of Rue de l’Université and Avenue de la Bourdonnais. At the end of the Rue de l’Université, the Eiffel Tower looms before your eyes, and that’s also a great sight. Another such address is Rue de Monttessuy. In Paris, even the most ordinary street can become a perfect photo location. If you are up for a nice stroll, you can walk all the way up Rue Saint-Dominique till the corner of Boulevard de la Tour-Maubourg until you reach Le Recruitement Cafe. Right here you will find a unique place with a real Parisian atmosphere like from an old movie. The street is full of small restaurants, bistros and cafes and feels a bit like a small town in the countryside. However, there is a clear sign in the background – the Eiffel Tower!

Bridges over the Seine river

There is also an interesting view of the Eiffel Tower from one of the many bridges over the Seine. In my opinion, the most beautiful bridge of all is the Pont de Alexandre III, which is worth a walk for its own architecture, not just for the view of the Eiffel Tower. Another photogenic gem above the river is the Pont de Bi-Hekeim, which you will surely recognize from many movies. The movie Inception is the first thing that comes to my mind. The Pont des Arts, bridge of love and secrets is mentioned in the movie Now You See Me. In the past, couples in love used to hang locks on the railing here so that their love would last forever, or to lock in some secret here. However, there have been hanging so many locks on the bridge that they had to be permanently removed.

Notre Dame

One of the most romantic locations in the whole city, in my opinion, is around Notre Dame. And not only for Victor Hugo’s powerful story. When the surrounding area of ​​the cathedral turns pink in the spring, you don’t want to be anywhere else than sitting in the park under the cherry blossoms and looking at Notre Dame. I also like this place because the banks of the Seine are lined with small stalls with old posters, records, books and magazines, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere of the place. And right on the other side of the bank opposite the temple is my favorite cafe and the most charming bookstore in Paris − Shakespeare and Co. Around the corner from the bookshop is a very photogenic street dominated by the Odette patisserie. On the same islet that Notre Dame stands on, but at its other end, is my another favorite place. Place Dauphine appears in many films. It’s the exact spot from the last episode of Sex and the City when the artist Aleksander Petrovsky took Carrie for a stroll. I also go on a date here with my eternal love. I like to sit down on the bench, watch the people around and enjoy my favorite French dessert – a chocolate éclair.

Le Musée du Louvre

The second most visited address in Paris is definitely the Louvre museum, which includes such treasures as Mona Lisa’s mysterious smile. It is said that a person would need at least three months to thoroughly see all the exhibited artworks. 3-4 hours will be enough for the first visit of the most important. However, expect long queues for tickets or buy tickets online. I was quite surprised at how tiny the Mona Lisa painting actually is. Many people stay at wandering around the glass pyramid that forms the entrance to the museum, but in my opinion, the most famous museum in the world should be seen from the inside. If you are under 26, you can visit many museums in Paris, including the Louvre, absolutely for free. And every first Sunday of the month is the Museum Day, when many museums offer free entry. I also have a tip for you for a great photo location: directly opposite the small glass pyramid is the entrance to the passage that opens onto Rue Rivoli. Stand inside under the arch and take pictures.

A Marilyn Monroe moment

There are ventilation shafts on Rue Rivoli that will defiantly raise your skirt if you walk through them. Here you can imitate the glamorous Marilyn Monroe in the 1955 movie Seven Year Itch. A similar ventilation shaft is also located in front of the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret building and creates an even more naughty effect.

Palais Royal

For an unknown reason for me, not too many people take pictures in beautiful royal gardens – Jardin du Palais Royal (just a short walk from the pyramid) as they do around the Louvre. Maybe because it is not such en evident location find, exposed to everybody to see like Notre Dame or the Eiffel Tower. The beautiful gardens are hidden in the courtyard of the Palais Royal, former royal palace which turned into the Constitutional Council. The inner courtyard is decorated with black and white striped columns as a piece of modern art by Daniel Buren. In addition, at this address, under the majestic arcades, you will also find several fancy cafes and restaurants with their terraces in the park, where Parisians play petanque. I especially recommend visiting this place during spring months when the cherry trees, magnolias, roses and daffodils are in full bloom. Go to Kitsune Cafe, located right under the arcades, then enjoy your matcha latte on a park bench.

Parisian parks

Paris is full of beautiful green parks and Parisians know how to enjoy them. When you find yourself in the Jardin des Tuileries park (not far from the Louvre), for example, on a beautiful sunny day, all the green chairs will be gathered around the fountain. Parisians will chill here, read their books or newspaper, feed the pigeons or just chat with an ice cream in hand. I like the Jardin du Luxembourg park even more, where there is also a charming Medici fountain from 1620.

Montmartre

No area in Paris has as much bohemian charm as this neighborhood around Montmartre hill and the Sacré Coeur Basilica. Originally, it was an independent village, which was attached to the city in 1860 as the 18th district. The cable car or 222 steps lead to the top. Below the basilica you will find a traditional carousel and on Rue des Trois Frères there is an old photo booth that has become the inspiration of many Instagram influencers. The sinking house is also very photogenic. In reality, however, this is not a paradox in architecture, but only an optical illusion. As you sit on the steps below the basilica to take in the view of Paris, look to your right and spot a dark orange creamy house behind a bank of grass. Tilt the camera to the left a little and suddenly the house in the photo starts to sink.

Pink house

I personally love to wander the streets around Montmartre, which are full of restaurants, cafes and art shops. From the end of the 18th century until today, this district has been a place of bohemians, poets and artists. To this day, painters set up their easels and paint portraits of passing tourists, as a reminder of what this place once used to be. Artists such as Pablo Picasso and Amadeo Modigliani lived and worked at this address at the beginning of the 20th century. There is even a museum dedicated to Salvatore Dalí not far from the square. Although the restaurants in the area are considerably overpriced, they have an atmosphere that is worth paying extra for. Many establishments in Paris around Montmartre and Notre Dame work on the principle of a daily menu. For a price of around 16 euros, you can order a three-course meal from the daily menu, and it’s well worth it. After all, the French would never leave the table without ending the meal with wine, dessert or cheese! One of the most photographed houses in Montmartre is La Maison Rose (The Pink House). Apart from being a photogenic facade and a good restaurant, it is a house with a story behind. It is said that the initial owner of the house was one of Picasso’s models and lovers, who allegedly posed and warmed the bed for also other painters. And maybe she was the real reason why the painter Casagema committed suicide.

Pink Mama

There is another very photogenic place near Montmartre, practically at the metro stop, at the address Le Refuge des Fondus. After that, however, I recommend heading down the street towards the Moulin Rouge. There is a restaurant on the side of the street opposite the cabaret, which you must visit. The reason is not only the exceptional Italian cuisine, but also the inspiring interior of the restaurant. A spiral staircase, tall windows and lots of paintings on the walls. Italian cuisine and French design is a great combination. You can easily recognize the restaurant from the outside, it is located in a tall pink building. Pink Mama is so popular that it doesn’t take reservations to give everyone a chance. If you want to get a seat at a table, you have to queue. Around 45 minutes before seven in the evening, when the restaurant opens, there are already a lot of people waiting on the street. Fortunately, the restaurant has five floors and the queue moves pretty quickly once it opens. The food is not at all expensive by Parisian standards, but very delicious.

Gustave Moreau Museum

I’m not that much into museums, but I really enjoy this one in Paris. Musée Gustave-Moreau, which is dedicated, as the name suggests, to the symbolist artist Gustave Moreau. In house no.14 at Rue de La Rochefoucauld, once set up his studio Moreau’s teacher Francois-Édouard Picot, from whom Moreau’s parents bought the house for their son in 1852. Gustave Moreau lived and worked here until his death in 1898. The year before he died, he wrote a will, in which he bequeathed the house and all his paintings to the state to preserve his collection in its entirety. And so in 1903, Gustav’s house was transformed into a museum. The top floor with its high ceilings is particularly fascinating, where huge detailed paintings hang around the spiral staircase.

Parisian Notting Hill

Even Paris has its Nothing Hill, that is, a very charming little street with brightly colored houses and cobblestone road. It is called Rue Crémieux and is located in the 12th arrondissement of Paris. It is a real life bloggers paradise as these houses have colorful facades similar to, for example, the homes on the Italian island of Burano. This place is also 100% pedestrian, so there are no cars or any other transportation means whatsoever that can ruin the background of your Instagram shot!

Monet Gardens in Giverny

And since we are slowly moving away from the center of Paris, let’s go in the footsteps of artists even further. Not far from Paris is the picturesque village of Giverny, where the great impressionist Claude Monet lived and worked. The artist preferred to paint his own garden, and that garden from his famous paintings still exists today! If you love French countryside, blooming gardens, daydreaming and art, then Monet gardens are a must. In addition, this fairy-tale place is located less than an hour away by train from Paris. Life is art and Claude Monet understood this well. As inventive in his painting, as in his gardens, he turned his land into another piece of art, which is today the second most visited tourist site in Normandy, right after the Mont Saint-Michel. Not only did he find in his gardens an endless well of inspiration for his work, the gardens themselves became an admired form of art. They show their beauty every year and change their face according to the current season. Here, too, one can see the painter’s sense of detail, perspective and aesthetics.

Water-lilies from the paintings

In 1983 Monet acquired a vacant piece of land across the road from the Clos-Normand which he then transformed into a Japanese water garden by diverting water from the local stream. Monet was fascinated by Japanese culture, which is also reflected in his garden. There are bamboo trees and other oriental plants, a Japanese-style bridge across the pond, and water lilies floating on the water. Those water lilies that made Monet so famous. In addition to the gardens, you can also visit the house where Monet lived with his children and his beloved wife Alice. Some of Monet’s paintings hang in the original pink house, and you’ll also find the artist’s collection of Japanese art. For a moment, you will find yourself in a completely different time.

How to get to Monet Gardens

Monet gardens are usually open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the period from March 22 to November 1. Every season, the gardens get different look, depending on which flowers start to bloom. The best season is spring and early summer. The entrance fee is 9.50 euros and the museum gets crowded very fast. To avoid crowds and skip the lines, come early in the morning and buy tickets online in advance. And how to actually get here? It is just a 45 minutes by SNCF train, which departs regularly from Gare Saint-Lazare. A train ticket costs from 10 to 16 euros for a one-way trip. You get off the train at the train station in Vernon and right in front of the station you find shuttle bus or sightseeing train tours to Giverny for another 8 euros (round trip ticket). In my opinion, the train is more fun because it takes you on a little sightseeing tour around the town of Giverny. Departures of shuttles are adjusted to train arrivals from Paris, which makes it all very easy.

Versailles Palace

When you’re in Paris and have enough of Eiffel Tower, take the train and head out to explore more distant corners. Château de Versailles was the main royal residence since the time of King Louis XIV. from 1682 until the outbreak of the French Revolution. The castle is undoubtedly the place of many stories, but also the site of masses of people. Honestly, I have never seen such a crowded historical site like Versailles. It is said to be the most visited monument in Paris – right after the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. And even if you come early in the morning and buy tickets in advance online, you can’t completely avoid crowds and endless lines. You can skip one long line for tickets, but you still have to wait in line before the security checks. I manage to get tangled up among a group of tourists in a special ‘tourists group’ line and by pretending I’m one of them I get inside a little earlier plus I got a bit of some professional interpretation for free. You can skip the long lines entirely by just visiting the gardens of Versailles. But then you wouldn’t see the wonderful Hall of Mirrors or Gallery of Battles, which refer to the magnificence of the founder Louis XIV. The recreational residence of Marie Antoinette – Queen’s Hamlet in the middle of the park is especially interesting. And how to get to Versailles? Easily by RER city train – yellow line.

I love Paris, days spent in the Jardin des Tuileries park with a book in hand, dinners in one of the local cafes, watching people on the street and sipping red wine. And then I move to the jazz bar. One of the best jazz bars in Paris is the rather low-key bar Le Baiser Salé. I always listen to quality music here and meet the interesting people of Paris…

As soon as I found out there are cheap direct Ryanair flights from my home city, Bratislava, to Malta, I had absolutely no excuse not to go. Malta is easy to reach, affordable, and incredibly beautiful—perfect if you want to extend your summer or enjoy a sunny spring getaway. One tip, though: avoid visiting in the middle of summer. It gets very hot and extremely crowded.

1. Popeye Village & Anchor Bay

For our first night, we booked a hotel near Popeye Village—mainly because this place had been on my bucket list for a long time. Initially, I wanted to rent a car and explore the island freely, but we quickly realized that public bus transportation in Malta works surprisingly well. All major places are well connected, it’s affordable, and honestly, much easier if you’re nervous about driving on the “wrong” side of the road — in Malta, people drive on the left side of the road, just like in the United Kingdom.

Our first goal was, of course, Popeye Village. This charming, colorful fishing village sits in the stunning Anchor Bay and was originally built as the set for the 1980 Popeye musical movie. Today, it functions as an open-air museum—but the real magic is the view. Dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, and playful wooden houses come together to create a true fairytale scene.

Since our hotel was nearby, we decided to hike there early in the morning across the raw, untouched hills. Big mistake: we completely underestimated the strength of the May sun. By the time we reached Popeye Village, we were already sunburnt. Still, after two hours of walking under the sun, we were rewarded with a breathtaking viewpoint that made every drop of sweat worth it.

The best surprise? Inside Popeye Village, there’s a small hidden beach with a stone platform and sunbeds. Crystal-clear water, a bit of shade, and a cold beer (yes—there’s a small restaurant right on the beach!) were exactly what we needed. We quickly changed our plans and stayed by the water until the evening, heading back to the hotel by public bus—tired, happy, and very relaxed.

2. Blue Lagoon & Comino Island

The next day, we visited another absolute must-see: the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island. To get there, you need to book a boat trip. The ticket usually includes a round trip and a stop at some natural sea caves on the way back. The boats are relatively small (around ten people), which makes the experience feel more personal and enjoyable. Luckily, the boat to Comino Island leaves right from in front of our hotel, as well.

The Blue Lagoon is simply magnificent. The unreal shades of blue almost don’t look real. There are plenty of food stalls around, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty, but keep in mind—the beach itself is tiny and fills up quickly. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas set up on the rocks, which is very convenient.

That said, don’t spend the whole day lying down. Walk around! The island of Comino is stunningly beautiful, quiet, and wild, and exploring it on foot is just as rewarding as swimming in the lagoon.

3. Valletta – Malta’s Capital

On our final days, we changed locations and moved to the third must-visit spot in Malta: the capital city, Valletta. Once again, we relied on public buses—super easy and stress-free.

Valletta is a historic city by the sea, full of breathtaking views, narrow stone streets, charming corners, cozy restaurants, and tiny coffee and ice-cream shops. We were lucky enough to find a cute apartment with self check-in right in the heart of the old town. And the best part? A Romeo-and-Juliet-style balcony overlooking the street below—so authentic and atmospheric. Save this address – Jean de Valette Boutique Living.

So, what should you do in Valletta? Simply wander around and get lost in the maze of streets. Grab an ice cream, a Frappuccino, an Aperol Spritz—whatever you’re in the mood for. Soak up the atmosphere. At night, the city comes alive with music, buzzing streets, and a magical vibe.

If you’re into healthy food, I highly recommend stopping by Soul Food Valletta bistro, which we discovered by accident while strolling around. And honestly, that’s the beauty of Valletta—you’ll stumble upon amazing places when you least expect it.

There are so many beautiful places and women and so much good wine and food in the world, that those who are not exploring its beauties and tastes, are wasting their time. Such people don’t live fully. The Italians could teach you.

The most beautiful part of all Italy to me is situated in the area called Campania on the Amalfi coast, that stretches to the south from city of Naples. I’m sure, all world famous influencers would agree. In the world of social media you are nobody if you don’t have any post from this area. Many celebrities have their villas built on the rocky shores among lemon trees. Like Sophia Loren for example. And there is also one Italian wisdom: if you want your girl fall in love with you, take her to Positano. I fell head over heels in love with this place long time ago, a way before it became one of the most photographed destination on Instagram. And I think it’s about a time to dust off this old relationship… 

Empty Positano?

In the year of the Covid, as soon as Italy has recovered from the hard blow of the first wave of pandemic and opened its borders to tourists for the summer again, I’m taking an unpaid leave form the work and together with my Slovak friend Jarka we are running away from the strict measures for a well-deserved vacation. Although Positano has only one tiny pebble beach and the rooms at even the most luxurious hotels are super small, it is a terribly expensive destination. But despite the high prices, it is always crowded here, especially in summer. However, the pandemic have significantly lowered prices and also the number of tourists dropped. The perfect time to take the opportunity and finally return to my beloved destinations after years. Such a chance may not occur again… I know that prices will go up again once covid is over. Off-season travel could be the solution. Don’t be afraid to travel even in October. We are here the first week of October and the weather is perfect, pleasant and sunny. It cools down a bit in the evening and it rains for one day, but otherwise it is just perfect. Even the water in the sea is pleasant after a hot summer.

DAY ONE

Naples and pizza

The nearest international airport to Positano is in Naples, and from there I recommend you to book a private transfer with a driver who will take you comfortably to the hotel. Renting a small Italian car, such as the Fiat 500, is as romantic as in the movie, but later you will run into the big parking problems. And the Italian Vespa won’t carry all those suitcases you brought with you. If you have enough time, have a stop over in Naples for half a day. Although Naples has a reputation as a dangerous, dirty city full of Italian gangsters – mafia guys, there are also a few mind-blowing attractions: Vesuvius, the only active volcano in Europe, an underground city and, above all, the best pizza in all of Italy. It was in Naples where pizza was born. Kalo50 is one of six pizzerias in the world recommended by the Michelin Guide, and is said to be the best pizza in all of Naples. However, I dare say that you will not find bad pizza anywhere in Naples, even if you buy it on the street.

Less regretti, more spaghetti

After an hour and a half on narrow winding roads with breathtaking views, we arrive to the town of Positano and check in to Marincanto Hotel, which I can highly recommend. Waves crashing on rocks sound like music to my ears. Like the whole town, this hotel is carved into the rocks above the sea. In short, Positano has an unmistakable architecture. Romantic bays, rocky cliffs, narrow terraced streets, cafes and taverns with deluxe views and the scent of lemon trees. It’s getting dark and we are getting hungry. And so we are about to start our carbohydrate “diet” in the hotel restaurant. And without any remorses. Because when you’re in Italy, you don’t count calories. How can you omit Neapolitan pizza, buffalo mozzarella from Campania, spaghetti with meatballs or Amalfi limoncello (sweet lemon liqueur)? And how to deal with extra pounds? As Julia Roberts advises in the famous guilt scene in the movie Eat Pray Love: “I’ll tell you what you gonna do. You gonna enjoy your portion of carbs and tomorrow you gonna just buy yourself bigger jeans.”

DAY TWO

On the beach

Immediately after breakfast we run to the beach to enjoy the sun. Our hotel has its own private mini beach, which is good because the only public beach of Positano – Spiaggia Grande is usually full of people. However, not during the covid period in early October. An incredibly steep spiral staircase leads down to our beach and I already know exactly where we will burn all those pastas, pizzas and tiramisu. On the stairs of the terraced streets of Positano. After bathing in the sea and drying up, we are ready to explore the steep streets of this romantic city.

Spiaggia Grande – the most photogenic place in Positano

There’s actually only one beach in Positano and it is also the most photographed place on the entire Amalfi Coast. Yellow and red umbrellas make beautiful contrast to the blue sea and colorful houses in the background. The best photos are those captured from the water or from the boat. To avoid the crowds, come to the beach early n the morning when the others are still absorbing the histamines from the wine and cheese of the previous evening. At the end of the beach, at the end of the umbrella row, towards the Merincanto’s hidden beach, you will find a spiral staircase to the Rada restaurant. And this is another photogenic site. From there, the promenade stretches towards the city, which is lined with striped red and white or blue and white changing cabins. Then take the stairs up towards the church and you are in the center of town. You can not miss the famous Buca di Bacco restaurant, which even organizes Italian cooking classes on a regular basis. We don’t really want to cook now, but we are definitely ready to digest another pizza.

Amalfi Pottery

Where the two main walking streets Piazza Dei Mulini and Via Cristoforo Colombo meet, stands Villa Delli – another iconic place in Positano. The streets around the Church of Santa Maria Assunta play with all the colors thanks to the traditional pottery on display. Ceramic bowls with lemon motifs are irresistible. Not enough space in the suitcase is not an excuse, because you can always buy something and have it shipped anywhere in the world. I can already see myself preparing spaghetti bolognese in a big colorful bowl in a lemon apron and with a lemon scarf on my head a lá Sophia Loren… Maybe I should sign up for that cooking class at first…

DAY THREE

Bellini at Black’s

It’s raining all day on the third day, but it doesn’t ruin our mood, because Positano is beautiful even when is moody. In addition, another friend has joined us today. The main plan practically for all day is to taste as many local specialties as possible. For the plan like that there is a perfect restaurant on the beach called Chez Black. It is famous for its heart-shaped pizza and great homemade food. We are drinking Bellini (champagne with peach puree) and watching the boats in the bay. Apart from Chez Black, there is another gem in Positano. It is impossible not to hear about Hotel Le Sirenuse, which brags about the best views of Positano. You can only enjoy the view if you have a hotel room reservation, but visiting the local Franco’s bar is also a solution. More affordable solution. Should we have another Bellini?

DAY FOUR

Capri – lemons and luxury

The weather is good again the next day, so we don’t hesitate and go on a small trip to the island of Capri. First we take a ferry to the island of Capri, where we rent a motorized boat with the captain for a few hours for 150 Euros. The best feeling of Capri you will get on a boat trip around the island. An acquaintance recommended us to use the services of Capri Whales Boat Tour. If you are lucky, your guide and captain might be that cutest old sailor man who looks like from old Italian movies. Although our boat is driven by a young Marco (probably a grandson) and not an old fisherman, which we were looking forward to, we still enjoy the trip fantastically. Marco guides us around various caves and rocky formations, and the crystal clear water is incredibly turquoise. The Blue Grotto Cave is glittering like a diamond in places where the sun’s rays fall. We anchor our boat in one place near the bay and jump into the water. Total fantasy! In the distance, we even notice a huge yacht with a helicopter landing pad. James Bond’s ship? Our neighbors quite clearly reveal what type of people this small island attracts. After the trip, we continue exploring mainland. We have to take the cable car from the port to the center of events. We buy tickets at the kiosk nearby. Up there, other incredible views, romantic alleys, stately villas and boutiques with the most luxurious brands are waiting for us. The atmosphere at La Piazzetta, full of cafés and open terraces, is great for inhaling Capri atmosphere with a strong Italian espresso. I have a feeling that everything is yellow on Capri: yellow candles, yellow chocolate, yellow candies, almonds soaked in yellow icing, yellow limoncello and, above all, yellow lemons. Although what grows in Campania is more like Polyvinyl chloride dummies or radioactive fruits, so gigantic these lemons are. The so-called Capri sandals are also typical, they can be tailor-made for you here within 20 minutes.

Punta Tragara

We end our trip to Capri at the Punta Tragara Hotel, where Eisenhower and Churchill were making decisions for the future of the world during the raging World War II. Well, the perfect place for big decisions. The hotel definitely has the best views of all Capri. And since a night at the hotel would cost us at least 700 euros, we rather  stay modest and enjoy just a cocktail and olives at least in the restaurant by the pool.

FIFTH DAY

Around Positano

On our second last day in Positano we want to explore its equally beautiful surroundings. Just a few minutes’ drive from central Positano, the 5-star historic Hotel II San Pietro di Positano features a Michelin-starred restaurant. Benches on the hotel terrace, lined with colorful ceramic tiles, are a hallmark. The idyllic vibrant village Vietri sul Mare, home of a number of picturesque ceramic shops and pretty views, is also worth a visit. On the road between Positano and Villa Treville, you will come across a picture-perfect fruit car. Another great place for a perfect photo. However, we are especially attracted by the town of Ravello, where we are heading. The charming town is located in the hills almost 400 m above the Amalfi Coast in the province of Salerno and it earned a listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We rent a car with a driver and on the way to Ravello we are passing other iconic places. Between Praiano and Conca dei Marini, we stop at the bridge over the Fjords in Furore. We quickly run down the stairs so we can take a picture of one of the most famous beaches among the rocks. For the second time, we stop in front of a small pottery factory for some necessary shopping and few minutes later we lean out of window, as we pass the main beach in Amalfi town.

Ravello and Villa Cimbrone

After about an hour’s journey we arrive to Ravello. We agree with the driver that he will come back for us later on, and we continue up the stairs to the center of Ravello. Ravello has a completely different atmosphere than, for example, Positano. I quite understand why artists such as Giovanni Boccaccio, Joan Miró, Greta Garbo or Richard Wagner loved this picturesque place in the past. Every year in the summer months, the Ravello music festival takes place. IT began its tradition in 1953 in honor of the composer Richard Wagner. The 1953 movie Beat the Devil was also shot in Ravello, starring the phenomenal Gina Lollobrigida. One of the scenes also takes place on the endless terrace of the Terrazza dell’Infinito in Villa Cimbrone.

The Terrace of Infinity

Iconic cliffside gardens of Villa Cimbrone are our goal destination this day, although the journey itself through the charming streets of Ravello has its charm. However, the gardens take our breath away with their beauty. Admission fee to the villa costs 7 euros, but a visit is worth every penny. Although we come here for sunset, now we regret that we have so little time until closing time. It is beautiful to get lost in the gardens like in a fairy tale. This 12th-century residence including gardens was bought and rebuilt in early 20th century by the English traveller Lord Grimthorpe, who came here to heal is broken heart and depression after his dear wife passed away. The terraced gardens with picturesque statues, which got its name due to its far-reaching views, make us speechless. In the pallet of sunset colors this place has the atmosphere of another world.

Villa Maria

On the way back from Villa Cimbrone down to the city we are attracted by romantically lit terrace of another impressive historical place, which is Villa Maria. Villa Maria serves as both a hotel and a restaurant, and we decide to have the last dinner right here. We sit down at a table with a beautiful view of the winding hills and for the last time in the coming weeks (until we lose gained pounds again) we go for Italian food and wine. And since Amalfi is famous for its lemons, I order Linguine al Limone and as dessert Lemon delight…

If you have time left on the way back…

Before you return to the airport and fly back home, try to spare some time for the ancient town Pompeii. It is said that one must be fresh for the visit, the area of Pompeii is huge! Amazing proof of the wit of the people who in 79 n. l. were buried by Vesuvius. The city, which was once inhabited by 20,000 people, has been hidden under a six-meter layer of lava for hundreds of years. Today you can walk here freely and gent enchanted again and again. Everything here had its meaning and function. Theaters, alleys, marketplaces, taverns, olive oil factories, residential houses, gardens, parks, spas, everything has been preserved for eternity. As if the city was waiting for a good fairy to come, which would break the curse. However, in one of the many alleys, it is still busy even after 2,000 years later, even out of the main season. It is exactly the one that leads to the former brothel, where the walls are decorated with a painted menu. My friends were more fascinated by the statue of the well worked out Apollo than by historical kamasutra. Unfortunately only from behind… Supposedly because it was not Italian, the guide joked.

Prague. But I’ve heard also ‘Amsterdam of Eastern Europe’. But why would you compare Prague to Amsterdam? Prague is a way more than that! 

It is such a spiritual, a bit ‘hippie’ place where rich history, culture and traditions met free spirit, open–mindedness, progressiveness, art, beauty and nature, too. Back in the days Czech Republic (or Czechia) used to be called Bohemia, for a ‘boho’ reason behind it, most likely. 

Why ‘Eastern Amsterdam’?

Prague is a fairly liberal place. Despite the fact, the weed is still not legal in Czech Republic, possession of small amount was decriminalized. If you light your joint at the main view point under the Prague Castle because you want to enjoy both – the view over Prague and your joint – nobody will stop you. Even other drugs in small amount are tolerated and quite overlooked, especially around popular night clubs. However compared to Amsterdam, prices in Prague are in general incomparable. For the food, accommodation or even the fun you pay double less than you are used to in Western world. And trust me, quality is not lower, not at all. No wonder tourists from all over the world are coming to Prague for a fun and the best beer in the world (and the cheapest). 

Where to find ‘it’

In many liquor and souvenirs shops (Asian corner markets) in the Downtown you can find famous bottles of green Absinth (50-80 % of alcohol) or weed products but they are all legal and so, fake. They serve more like souvenirs for tourists. If you want to score some real stuff you need to ask dealers. They are easily found around popular night spots in Downtown. But some of the Asian corner markets in Zizkov (one of the more lively neighborhoods) may sell you even real crazy magic mushrooms. One such a market is near the tram stop Lipanska – I won’t tell you exactly where but it’s easy to find. Just ask them: ‘Ya hledam shampiony”. 🙂 I also know about one secret place where you can buy some proper weed and enjoy it together with the best Czech beer. My boyfriend found this place accidentally when I left him alone and went for a date with my mum. 🙂 It should be on the St. Saifertova, not far from the Ariston & Ariston Patio Hotel (another lively neighborhood). It doesn’t look like a pub from outside. Actually, there is even a sign on the door that entrance for unemployed is not permitted. Try and have fun! 🙂 As would my boyfriend say, the best ticket to such secret places is making cool friends at public places.

The best beer

With no doubt Czech beer is the best! Even popular Budweiser was originally Czech recipe (Budvar) until Americans bought it. My favorite brand is a quite bitter Pilsner Urquell. And where to find a really great local beer? Anywhere, any pub. But if you looking for something even more local and special, try any of small breweries. One with the long tradition is brewery ‘U Medvidku’. Upstairs it is a boutique hotel, so no too far to bed, once you get tipsy. A beer is maybe local specialty but even cocktail bar scene is not bad in Prague. My favorite is definitely mixologist kind of bar at Hotel u Prince called Black Angel’s Bar just in the center of Downtown right in front of famous Prague Orloj. What I love the most about this bar is not only interesting cocktail menu but also unforgettable atmosphere, historical baroque design and live pianist. Another great cocktail bar is Bugsy’s Bar at prestige address of St. Parizska. And because I’m a latino and mojito lover, I would definitely recommend Hemingway Bar or La Bodeguita del Medio with an atmosphere of old Cuba and salsa music. Cute pub with live music every day is Redroom near Wenceslas Square. 

The night life

The night life in Prague is crazy and very liberal. 🙂 I remember back in the days, very popular and quite posh was Sasazu (and it still rocks), but nowadays club Roxy is the place, where you wanna be at night. Inside you can do (almost) anything and you won’t be judged. One of Prague’s nightlife staples, Roxy is a guaranteed exhilarating night out. Vibrant atmosphere, techno-house music, one-of-a-kind art interior. This is what they say about it on internet and I got also lot of recommendations from friends. But last time in Prague I had some little tour-de-club with my friend and we both like it even more in another club called Epic. Another option is Chapeau Rouge. It might not look like much from outside, but that’s because you’re only seeing it from ground level. Down below lie several bars and dance floors. The deeper you go, the crazier it gets. If you prefer retro nights, then go for Lucerna Music Bar – just off the bustling Wenceslas Square. Lucerna also doubles as a concert venue and hosts some surprisingly big names. Most of the clubs close at 5 am but don’t worry, there are many ‘after party’ underground places, just follow the crowds. Or nail it in one of the casinos at Wenceslas Square. If you play maybe you win however breakfast is always for free there. 

Romantic night

Long long time ago when I was a crazy Slovak girl visiting Prague for a spontaneous trip I met in one bar one cute guy. He was a bartender and after his shift he wanted to show me the best bar in the city with the best view which was still opened. Guess, where he took me! To the iconic Charles Bridge! There he took out from his backpack two glasses he stole from a bar and bottle of Champaign. We were sitting there on the empty bridge, in the middle of the summer night, looking at the river, drinking bubbles and waiting for sunrise… Most memorable night ever! But trust me, Prague is magical and you would enjoy even if you stayed all the time sober! There is definitely a lot to see, too.

Chasing the best views (and photo locations)

The most iconic are definitely already mentioned Charles Bridge with street artists and painters and Prague Orloj. Both are also desperately crowded most of the day so I really recommend to save the trip to the Bridge after your night out as a kind of romantic afterparty. Prague Orloj is the astronomical clock (third oldest in the world and the oldest clock still operating) with funny mechanism running every full hour. Be there and watch it together with other tourists. My most favorite area for strolling around is definitely the one on the other side of the Charles’ Bridge, just right under the Prague Castle. I would say it is also most photogenic area. If you are into the photography, I bet you will find hundreds of beautiful photo spots. My favorite view point is right next to the entrance to Prague Castle – Prague Castle View Point. There is also Starbucks Cafe with amazing terrace. Roll your joint here. 

Prague’s Narrowest Street

This tiny stairway is good for a fun photo but not for the claustrophobic traveler. It’s so tiny that two people can’t pass from opposite directions. Squeezed in between two buildings off U Luzickeho Seminare St., this narrow walkway is less than 50 cm wide. That’s why the traffic is coordinated by the traffic light. 🙂

Insta photo location

The best view overlooking most iconic Old Town Square in Prague is from the terrace of the family owned hotel & restaurant U Prince… Food is great, prices are reasonable, but view is the best! According to magazines – one of the most impressive rooftop restaurants in the world. The rooftop is partly covered and heated so it can be opened the whole year. Before, for the the best photo you needed to book particular table in the corner of the roof but because of high demand, owners decided to remove the dining table and make it just photo lookout zone (#bubblepointview). For the dinner with the view overlooking Prague’s Oldtown Square and Orloj you still need to make a reservation in advance but if you’re coming just for the view (and photos), you just pay entrance fee CZK 300 (12 Euros) and the glass of Prosecco (or cocktail) is included. 

Dancing House Gallery

The second best view overlooking Prague city is from the top roof of the iconic Dancing House Gallery. Entrance fee is CZK 100 or any drink from the cafe menu (which is always cheaper option) and you can sit there outside and watch the sunset above beautiful Prague with the great Czech beer in the hand. The non traditional design of the building is interesting itself. It was a bit controversial at the time when it was built (1996) because the house stands out among the Baroque, Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings for which is Prague famous. 

The New World

Do you want to impress your new girlfriend? Buy her an ice-cream or even better Czechoslovak specialty – Trdelnik and take her for the romantic stroll in area under Prague Castle called Novy Svet which means The New World. She will fall in love with you. Quiet, picturesque and not well known street is perfect background for your first kisses. Right in the middle of the street, there is small coffeeshop with the same name. It is a perfect place with cute terrace and also vegan products. Everything we tried was delicious but most tasty was the atmosphere.

Breakfast at… 

Not Tiffany, but definitely Cafe Letka on Letohradska St. – neighborhood Holesovice (photo by my friend @tereza_polakova) Great breakfast/brunch menu but what is the most impressive about this place is original vintage design and very special atmosphere. Walls could tell us stories of time. I’m sure you will get inspired. If you want to enjoy the design and take some cool photos come early, in the evening it gets very busy. Similar stylish place with slightly higher prices but right in the Downtown is Cafe Venue. I also love the atmosphere of Cafe – Kavarna Cekarna with the interesting ‘secret’ garden in backyards under the old city walls.

What to eat…

Definitely try local food. It’s heavy but it’s delicious! Local Czech specialty is Svickova na Smetane – Cooked Steak Fillet in Creamy Vegetable Sauce with dumplings, cream and cranberries jam. There are many good restaurants with traditional food in the Downtown but I would recommend restaurant U Dvou Sester (Melantrichova St.) – using organic meet from the local farm – on the way between Oldtown Square and Wenceslas Square. After the dinner you need to try local Trdelnik/Trdlo from any of the stall you will find on your way. It is a sweet specialty you can get only in Czech Republic or Slovakia and the best it is with a vanilla cream or an ice-cream. And because I know how hard it can be for you to pronounce or remember this word, you can call it just a chimney cake. 

Where to stay

Whether you book the good hotel (not counting luxurious ones) or go for a private Airbnb place, it will be more or less same price. Comfort room in the best location in the Downtown might cost you around 70 Euros per night. I really liked Old Town Boutique Apartments with a beautiful patio and just few steps away from Orloj. Another great hotel I stayed in was Vintage Design Hotel Sax right under the Prague Castle. And for lower budget Ariston & Ariston Patio Hotel in neighborhood is also not bad.

Transportation

Transportation in Prague is easy, comfortable and cheap. You can catch a taxi, call Uber or use public transportation. Most common are trams or metro. To buy a ticket you can just use your contact less credit card inside the equipped trams or at any stop at the ticket machine. Once you choose a ticket, don’t forget to validate it once you get on. 

Czech hospitality etc.

In general, Czech people are not very friendly to strangers but Prague is more touristic and way more open-minded. Once you get closer to them, you will find out how funny and easy-going these people are. Czech people are also biggest atheists in Eastern Europe, very liberal and tolerant, so you don’t need to worry you will be judged, whatever you like to do or wear. Just be respectful to historical sights, public rules and nature. Just because Czech are atheists in general, doesn’t mean they are not spiritual. In Prague you can find many such shops. Witch craft has a long tradition in Czechia. Check the first witch shop at Vinohrady, Belehradska St.

Ancient walls, narrow white stone streets, azure blue sea and charming views. Dubrovnik definitely belongs to one of the most romantic places in the world, long before Game of Thrones made it famous as King’s Landing.

Elisabeth Taylor and Richard Burton were spending their honeymoon here. Some world-famous newspapers have marked Dubrovnik as one of the most romantic places in the world, before Venice or Paris. And the writer Lord Byron gave the city the poetic name “Pearl of the Adriatic”. But still this beautiful gem of Croatia has been hidden for a long time from wider world. Until the producers of Game of Thrones chose to turn it into King’s Landing and so they put Dubrovnik back on the map! And not only for filmmakers… After Game of Thrones arrived here Robin Hood and Star Wars, and during the summer in 2016, over 10 thousands of tourists have landed at Dubrovnik’s coast! The UNESCO World Heritage Site has begun to face new challenges – uncontrollable tourism… Personally, I have been dreaming about Dubrovnik since I read about its romantic streets, but after the Game of Thrones series it’s almost impossible to resist it’s calls. And since there are more GoT fans in our family, it wasn’t so difficult to convince some of them to restore our old family traditions… And after a few years; here we go, another family vacation in Croatia!

For Slovaks the beauty of Croatia was always a well known thing. Croatia is for us the most accessible seaside destination (both in terms of money and kilometers) and Adriatic beaches are still full of Czech and Slovak tourists every summer. I remember very well how our whole family would pack our small old car full of canned mortadella and spaghetti and took off somewhere to the Croatian sea where we had a private apartment. As a child I remember swimming in Krka’s waterfalls, fighting with sea urchin’s needles in my heel at the Krk Island or wandering the streets of Vodice with ice-cream in my hand. Later I also visited Vis, Hvar or Korcula. Then, however, we ran out of money, so we skipped the area where all the inclusive resorts and water aerobics were popular. Family holidays have become boring, even Croatia has become boring. As an air hostess with almost unlimited possibilities to travel, I started to be attracted to more exotic places, but then travel bloggers and Instagram influencers, or Game of Thrones came and I again started to appreciate the beauty we have around the corner. After miles travelled, I find Croatia a bit underestimated, but really exceptional.

To begin with, we know that we specifically want to go to Dubrovnik, because of Game of Thrones, and neither of us has ever been there yet. Next, let’s choose the date. In the summer, the streets of Dubrovnik are desperately crowded by tourists, in winter the city turns into a Ghost town, and is usually used by film crew who come here to shoot. So, the best time must be in late spring. Finally, we choose the last week of May. While my family, who is missing some beach life, is worried that the sea will still be too cold for swimming, I am afraid that it will be too late and all the romantic alleys will already be full of tourists. (In the end, the sea wasn’t cold, the sun was shining like crazy, and the city was already packed, as I expected, but still, it was probably the best time we could all agree on.) Regarding accommodation, our sister wisely suggests to look for something on the Lapad Peninsula. It is not far away from the city center, the beautiful beaches can be seen from everywhere and it is much quieter than the bustling heart of the city. And as the local feeling of a rented private villa beats the all inclusive resorts, no one argues when I book a nice Sea Shell villa with terrace through the Airbnb app, where all six of us can easily fit – my parents, sister, brother-in-law and my niece. As a flight attendant, I can buy discounted tickets for myself and my parents to almost anywhere in the world, which my parents can readily use connecting from Prague, but myself after many years spent mostly in the air and aircrafts I’m not so eager to travel by plane. My brother-in-law is afraid of flying, so he’d rather prepare his small car and I’ll happily join him and his crew. The journey might be eight hours longer than by plane but I’m looking forward to watching all these picturesque landscapes from the car window… 

Family road-trip

At nine o’clock me, my sister, my brother-in-law and niece jump into an old car without air conditioning and leave Bratislava for the night drive to Croatia. Little Mia fall asleep very fast, my sister too. As we are taking the highway across Hungary, we are chatting with Igor about Hungarian famous history and our journey flies by. I start to feel sleepy in the morning, somewhere near the Croatian town Šibenik, where we finally get closer to the sea. We have the most beautiful view from the bridge overlooking the Krka River, and then later when the main road take us along the coast through the Bosnian border. Bosnia and Herzegovina is not part of the European Union, so if you go to Dubrovnik by car, do not forget to take your passport, even though at this particular border; officers have been known to turn a blind eye at The ID control. After a while, after crossing the Bosnian border again and returning to the Croatian territory, Dubrovnik welcomes us with its modern bridge. Underneath we can see a number of giant cruise ships. Around 11 o’clock, when the sun is high on the horizon and we start boiling in our car without AC, we finally arrive at the Sea Shell villa, standing on the top of a hill. It has a great location indeed. There are a few beautiful beaches around within a few minutes walk, but they have forgotten to mention that on the way back to the villa you need to take lot of stairs up. Dubrovnik is all about stairs, and not only when you choose a villa on the top of a hill. Between our villa and the main center of Lapad it is only 10 minutes down, but exactly 304 steps uphill! (We had a chance to count it several times a day!) In the afternoon my parents join us who have just arrived from Prague, we all go together to try the nearest Lapad beach with a nice promenade. The sea is refreshing, the Adriatic ice-cream tastes great and yes it’s exactly 304 steps back up. In the evening we all fall asleep so fast.

Old harbor and fortress

Immediately after breakfast we decide to go to the city to explore the beauty of the UNESCO-protected City Walls. As the manager of the villa recommends, we leave the car parked in front of the villa and we go by the city bus. Parking in the city is very complicated, overpriced and unnecessary, while public transport is well organized here. Another option is Uber, prices are very good. When we get out on the main point in front of the stone gates of the old town, we get a shock. Nine o’clock in the morning, and it’s already packed with groups of mostly American and Chinese tourists. So we turn from the walls first to the old harbor, where the scenes from The Game of Thrones were filmed. Right here Sansa had a secret talk with Peter Littlefinger about her escape from King’s Landing. The port leads to several hundreds of steps to Fortress Lovrijanec. However, the view is worth all the pain. Up there you will have a wonderful view overlooking the old town of Dubrovnik – Pearl of the Adriatic, or in the words of the series – all the King’s Landing with its red rooftops above Black Water Bay. If you buy a ticket to the City Walls, entry to the fortress is included. City Walls are definitely planned for the next day… 

Climbing the stairs in 30-degrees heat is quite enough for us, so let’s take a little brunch in one of the restaurants around the old harbor before we get lost in the crowd of people behind the City Walls. Immediately upon entering the Pile gate we recognize another series scene – the attack of Joffrey by the poor. A few blocks later, just on the right side of the fresh market we see the famous stairs known as Cersei’s walk of shame. However, the Baeler’s sept above them was added by computers in post-production. We would like to take some nice pictures, but we cannot walk very easily in the narrow streets made of white stones through crowds of eager tourists. Soon we give up and return to Lapad. After lunch we are testing another public beach at the 5-star President Hotel, which got a blue flag for cleanliness. It is really beautiful, just access to the sea full of small stones is a bit painful. All beaches in Dubrovnik are free of charge, you only pay for renting sun-umbrellas and sun-beds.

City walls

Me, my sister and Igor are getting up at 5:30. We leave Mia with our grand parents, and we go by Uber to old town so that we can enjoy it before the Chinese tourists land on its shores. This time we come in time. The sun is already shining but the town is still empty. Now we can really enjoy its beauty and all the places where Game of Thrones were filmed. We start with the stairs of Cersei’s Walk of shame, which you can find just above Kamenica Restaurant, then we start exploring all the narrow and cute streets, the city is only ours this time. The cafes are just starting to open. We sit down in one of the open terraces, order a morning coffee and watch how the town slowly wakes up. At 8 o’clock in the morning, we are already standing in front of the gate leading up to the City Walls that just opens for tourists. An approximately two-hour walk on the top of the old walls (about two kilometers long), which goes above the orange rooftops, is one of the best in my life. We are speechless at every corner, only able to say “WOOOOW” “and” AAAAH”. At every point the view is spectacular. The walk ends at the Minčeta Tower, which fans of GoT will know as the House of the Undying, where Deanerys walked around in a circle to get her kidnapped dragons back.

After we finish with the walls, we meet our parents at the gate, and then head to city Banje beach with a beautiful view overlooking the city and the harbor. Access to the sea is as smooth as the sand, but the beach is getting crowded very fast and despite our two sun umbrellas we start to feel very uncomfortable. In addition, two hours of walking on the walls helped us to get sunburnt, so we cannot stand the sun anymore. We rather hide in a beach club and have some lunch and refreshing ice-cream. People, do not underestimate the morning sun as much as we did and go get your sunblock, even if you’re out of the house at six o’clock in the morning. It’s like the City Walls are on fire. Whoever did not get burnt on the walls, got burnt on the beach. When the sun seems to shine less, we dared to leave our rented umbrellas and head for the city bus back to our villa.

Croatian Copacabana

Since we are all sunburnt, we do not go to the beach before 2 o’clock in the afternoon. This time we choose a beach with the name Copacabana and we like it the most. There’s trees growing next to the beach walk so we can find some shade without having to rent sun umbrellas. There is not even a parking problem here, and it’s about five to ten minutes by car from our villa. Small white clouds appear on the sky, making it much more enjoyable on the beach today. We spend the whole afternoon there till evening. Afterwords I take 304 stairs down to the promenade. The last time I noticed some posters offering tours to the Bosnian Mostar town, which has long been on my bucket list. Mostar is about a 3 hours’ drive from Dubrovnik and there are two options to choose from – either by local bus for around 50 HKT or by a tour through a travel agency for 300 HKT. Most of my family prefer another relaxing day on the beach, and my sister does not have a passport with her that is needed to cross the Bosnian border, so I’m doing the trip alone. I decide for a travel agency, because it is more comfortable and the stop at the Kravice Falls is included. Additionally, the elderly owner of the small family agency is very talkative. I have learned a lot of interesting things from him about the Balkans and also a bit of information where to buy the cheapest local fresh fish and fruit. Besides, he has a very handsome son in my age. 🙂

Bosnia and Herzegovina

I get up and head for my trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina and soon I can add to my list of visited countries my 52nd one. But I’m not going to talk about it here, because Bosnia is no longer Dubrovnik. You can read more about this magical country in my next post, which I plan to publish soon…

Last day in Dubrovnik

While my family still have a few days left of their holiday, my holiday is slowly coming to an end. Work is calling me again. Therefore I spend my last day just relaxing on our favorite Copacabana beach. Today’s weather is ideal. Not too hot, not too cold. Mia successfully learns to snorkel. She loves it so much that we can not get her out of the water. I remember that me and my sister weren’t so different in her age. When it’s my turn to babysit her, I sit on the stones with my feet in the water and observe the surroundings in detail. I hear the water splashing and the the children laughing, I watch the salty drops running down my skin and the suns reflection on the water. I feel stones massaging my feet. Suddenly I realize that this is the present moment that everyone talks about. Today it is so popular to give advices to live in the present, but only few know exactly what it means. I am sure that it means to see even the smallest details, to feel, to taste, and to observe the moment you’re in…

It’s my last night in Dubrovnik and my Mum’s birthday, so today we do not cook at Sea Shell, but we all go down to the promenade for a good dinner. We are aware that the popular Dubrovnik is the most expensive of all of the Croatian resorts and the prices are equal to the ones in Western countries. We want to try some traditional Croatian cuisine, but we can not find a suitable place. There are dozens of restaurants by the promenade, but something cozy and pure Croatian is difficult to find. We see some Italian pizzerias, Mexican restaurants, and even a sushi place, but it’s all about superficial commercialism. Our fears are confirmed by the handsome son of the travel agency owner we meet on our way. For a more local experience, we should go to the city center of Dubrovnik, outside Lapad. Finally, we will end up in one of the recommended restaurants (the best of Lapad’s poor choice) with a terrace next to a large playground for our Mia and some homemade pasta and white wine for us adults. 

Goodbye Dubrovnik

I’m having my last Croatian breakfast in the morning – fresh strawberries with sour cream and then booking a transfer to the airport (about 30 minutes from the city) via Uber, where I catch a direct flight to Dubai with Fly Dubai airlines. The rest of the family has another three days left before they return back to Slovakia – either by plane to Prague or by car via Split and Trogir to Bratislava…

> Passport is not needed for EU citizens, just ID. However, pack your passport if you are planning a trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro or you travel to Dubrovnik by car (the main road runs through a small part of the Bosnian State).

> Be sure to plan your holiday in off season. If you still want to bathe in the sea, the best is May or October. In the winter, film crews are coming to film.

> Instead of getting a hotel, I prefer a private apartment / villa via Airbnb. But I am a person who is not interested in water aerobic in the pool, I want to have experience as a local.

> Exploring Dubrovnik by car is not recommended. The roads are narrow and steep, parking overpriced. Go for a bus or Uber. 

> Get ready for stairs wherever you move in Dubrovnik. It’s an old town built in the hills!

> Definitely visit the City Walls and Fortress Lovrijanec (150 HRK). However, preferably early in the morning. They open at eight! If you can get up early, enjoy the streets of old Dubrovnik before the Chinese tourists flood the town.

> Another great view is from Srd top where you can take the cable car. Departure is above the old bridge. You will also find an excellent Panorama restaurant there.

> You have a choice of several beaches in Dubrovnik. Few meters from the city is Banje Beach, which has a beautiful view overlooking the walls. On the other side of Dubrovnik there are beautiful beaches like President, Lapad and Copacabana, all accessible by public transport.

> If you would like to know Croatian cuisine, the recommended restaurants are Kamenica or Gradska Kavana in the Old Harbor or Dubravka at the Pile Gate. Be aware that the food is way more expensive in Dubrovnik than in other Croatian cities.

The aim of many tourists is to explore the places where this popular series was filmed. Thanks to this, the tours of the Game of Thrones are expanding. In Dubrovnik, this cult can not be overlooked; GoT is a good business here. These tours charge from around $ 50 but it is a completely unnecessary price. As a good fan, you can do it just with the help of Google. Once you enter the old town, King’s Landing welcomes you. The best view overlooking the Black Water Bay is from Lovrijanec Fortress. There, for example, they filmed Joffrey’s Name Celebration. At the Pile Gate, Joffrey was attacked by poor. In the old harbor Sansa and Peter Litllefinger had their secret talk about escaping from King’s Landing. The Minčeta tower on the top of the walls served as the House of the Undying, where Daenerys walked in a circle to save her dragons. And the most famous site are the stairs of Cercei’s shame just to the right of the marketplace above the restaurant Kamenica. Not to be missed. 

The longer I travel round the world and the more exotic countries I get to know, the more I realize what an unique place on Earth Europe is. Beautiful natural corners, rich culture, history, art, fine cuisine and busy street life. Europeans, you can benefit from having every country nearby, within two hours of flight and that many low cost airlines offer flights for few bugs and try to get to know one European metropolis every possible weekend. And surely add Madrid to your travel list!

Sightseeing 

My very first layover in the capital of Spain and the first layover of the four in my roster this month. This month seems to be marked by Spanish spirit, Flamenco, paella, churros and sangria… Although many European capitals are in blossom these days and the instagram is full of photos of Amsterdam’s tulips or cherry blossoms in Paris, much more southern Madrid has not yet awakened from winter sleep. It’s raining here since the morning and it’s also quite windy. But I don’t want to ruin my mood by weather. I just wear warm sweater and yet I am ready to go to the city. When I get out of the metro in the very center of the city at the Opera stop, there is only a slight drizzle outside. By the way, the metro in Madrid is quite cheap. You can easily go from one end of the city to another for two Euros, and if you don’t have a travel card yet, the first trip will cost you four Euros. Today I’m planning the most basic sightseeing – wander around all the most famous sites of the city.

Temple of Debod

The first stop is probably the most interesting and most unusual in the whole Madrid – the Egyptian Temple of Debod. What is an Egyptian temple doing in the capital of Spain? It is said to be a gift from the Egyptian government to the state. In any case, it is an incredibly photogenic place even in cloudy weather. However, I can only imagine how beautiful photos can be taken here in the better weather, blooming trees and during the sunset. Definitely the top site of the whole Madrid, although the least Spanish. However, if you can sit in the park and enjoy the view with a cold cerveza (beer) in your hand, the place will immediately get a Spanish touch. For me it’s enough to see the temple from outside, but who would like to know it from inside, as well, must have a good timing, because the opening hours are only from six to eight in the evening.

Panorama

Just behind the tomb of Debod, at the edge of the park itself, there is a magnificent panoramic view of the historic part of Madrid. The dominant of the whole view is the Cathedral de la Almudena. It is worth coming here on daylight or even after sunset.

Gourment Experience

Another remarkable panoramic view of Madrid is offered from the Gourment Experience. Get the elevator to the top floor of this restaurant and café before sunset and you will see how Madrid is going to sleep. The view is totally free, but of course, this is reflected in crowds of people. I wouldn’t have coffee here. You will be constantly hit by tourists who came here to take a picture, but they order nothing. The restaurant staff, however, doesn’t seem to be bothered.

Royal Palace

On my way back from the park around Temle of Debod I head towards the Royal Palace. It’s always full of life. There are many entertainers, street artists and live statues. In addition, there is an infinitely long line of tourists waiting for tickets at the gates of the palace. The architecture of the majestic palace gets lot of attention. Admission fee is around 10 Euros and there is an English guide included. Inside the palace it is forbidden to take pictures in many places and the Spanish take this ban seriously. Personally, I am more impressed than the palace itself by the beautiful green park next to it, which is full of statues, small fountains, romantic corners and there is a beautiful green maze. When it’s not raining outside, it must be amazing just to hang around in the park and look for the exit.

Santa Maria la Real de la Almudena

Next to the Royal Palace is the Cathedral – the most important and largest church in Madrid with a beautiful square. The best way to take a picture of it is to cross the street and walk up to a small hill across the road.

Plaza de San Miguel

If you begin to feel your belly while wandering around the sights, it’s time for a real Spanish paella! Most of the good restaurants with tapas, paella and jamon (wild pig ham and absolute delicacy) and a pleasant atmosphere are found around San Miguel Square. Be ready that paella is really prepared in a large frying pan and it’s rarely served for one. You need at least one more buddy with you to share! Or you can try yourself and have the rest packed for take away (as I will). Be sure to stop by at Mercado San Miguel. During the day, it’s a market, but in the evening it turns into an amazing place full of good fresh food and laughing people. The atmosphere is amazing! The market will be filled with people standing around tables with sangria or aperol spritz in their hands and plates are loaded with various delicacies of the world! Fresh strawberries, desserts, ice cream, churros, stuffed empanadas and other pastries, hams, cheese… you will find absolutely everything worth tasting.

The oldest restaurant in the world

Not far from San Miguel Square is the oldest restaurant in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records. The restaurant is called Sobrino de Botin and has been hosting guests since 1725! Due to its uniqueness and well-known guests, such as Ernest Hamingway, however, in addition to typical Spanish food, expect slightly higher prices. 🙂

April 10, 2018

Flamenco

For the first time I experienced a typical Spanish Flamenco show in Seville, where Flamenco was actually born, during a trip for journalists to Andalusia. It was a long time ago, but I still remember having goosebumps while watching the show. Supposedly there was a delicious three-course dinner and quality Spanish wine, but I do not remember how it really tasted and whether it was good, because I could not concentrate on eating at all! Flamenco left a deep impression on me! When I found out that similar shows are in Madrid, as well, I immediately made a reservation for my next layover. Corral de la Moreria (Tablao Flamenco y Restaurante) is one of the most famous restaurants in Madrid, where it is not as much about meal as about Flamenco dancers, singers and musicians. You should make a reservation in advance and the best is to do so through restaurant website directly. There are several evening shows and you can choose between show + drink (50 Euros) or show + dinner (around 100 Euros). I go for a cheaper version (because I know that food is secondary thing here) which starts at eight o’clock and on the spot I order to my Aperol Spritz also some small jamón bites. The tables around the small stage quickly fill up shortly before eight, and as soon as the lights go off and musicians and dancers (including a local flamenco celebrity, beautiful Macarena Ramirez) appear on the stage, the rest of the world stops to exist for an hour. It is hard to describe, you just have to experience it for yourself. Personally, I’m most impressed by the duo – a Spanish guitar and an elderly singer with such a strong voice full of emotions that that it makes my eyes wet. Although I don’t understand Spanish, I can imagine exactly what she sings about… When I go back to the hotel after the show in the evening I walk around the Cathedral, which is a short distance from the restaurant, and in the evening with its colorful lighting beautifully illuminates the street…

April 15, 2018

Shopping in Spain

Many flight attendants like flying to Madrid only for shopping. Shopping in this city is really hard to resist when you realize that all popular brands such as Zara, Pull and Bear, Mango, Bershka or Stradivarius are coming from Madrid! The most famous shopping street in Madrid is called Gran Via and cannot be skipped. However, the busiest place in the whole Madrid is the Puerta del Sol, where the very center of all Madrid’s roads and the clock marking the arrival of the New Year are located. At any time of day, this square is crowded with people to the last peak. Right here you will find many street artists and living statues in the most bizarre costumes. A strange (but popular) sculpture of a bear at the bush with fruit, a symbol of Madrid, has its place among the crowds of people. The second most popular square in Madrid, just a few blocks from Puerta del Sol, is the square Plaza Mayor, always full of terraces of the restaurants and with a statue of Philip III. on the horse in the center. The dominant of the whole square is the famous bakery Casa de la Panadería.

La Latina

I walk through the main Mayor street through the square with the same name, get lost among people and shopping windows and find myself again in the Latin district of La Latina, known for its crooked and colorful streets. All of a sudden the street runs into the tiny Plaza de la Villa. It is one of the smaller ones, but its beauty also overshadows the most popular squares. It is surrounded by beautiful baroque houses from the 17th century. We sit down with my colleague on one of the many terraces and order one Cider and an Aperol Spritz. It seems to be a common practice in these regions. The terraces are full of people like us who came here after work for coffee or drink.

April 19, 2018

Retiro park and Crystal palace

Although Europe has been pretty and sunny last days, Madrid is getting in blossom just now. After the cloudy days, I finally have the opportunity to get to know this city in its full bloom. And where else is it better to spend a sunny day than chill on the grass in the park? For this purpose I will choose a beautiful and huge Retiro park. As the common work shift finishes this time the park is full of people who come here to enjoy the afternoon siesta. Ice creamers cheerfully sell ice cream and from every different corners of the park sounds different music. On the lake in front of the magnificent monument of Alfonso XII. are floating the boats, and young swan babies learn to swim between them. Spring is really here. I think what a great thing it must be to just rent a boat and paddle on the water. But this time I have no colleague to grab a paddle, so I just envy the groups on the water and leave the lake. The famous Crystal Palace is a short walk away. It is made out of clean glass, which is set in metal frames and is a truly magnificent architecture. Set in a small lakeside park with a small geyser, the palace looks great, especially when sunlight falls on the glass panels. The park is also connected to the most popular museum of Madrid – Museo del Prado. According to the reviews, it has one of the largest and most prestigious collections of European Art in the world and it is one of the most visited museums ever. There are paintings of such great artists as Francisco Goya, Hieronymus Bosch, Titian, Rubens, El Greco or Diego Velázquez. But this time I choose smell of grass over than art. I close my eyes for an hour and almost miss the planned meeting with my colleagues in the city. We are supposed to meet for paella!

Paella and Churros

On my way back to the city center, I briefly stop at Atocha Station. This city’s largest railway station has a remarkable architecture, which many famous architects have participated on over the years, including Gustav Eiffel. To my disappointment, however, I find that the most interesting station ceiling is only visible to those passing through the turnstiles with a valid ticket. So I can’t enjoy Atocha very much, unless I would quickly decide to travel to Toledo. 🙂 Unfortunately, I don’t have time to do this on my 24 hours long layover. So I go back to the subway station and get on the train to the city center. I meet my colleagues in front of the big Zara department store. One of my colleagues has booked a table at one of the most popular Paella restaurants in the city – La Paella de la Reina 39. Creamy paella for three people with seafood and a big lobster on top has a remarkable size, but I have to admit I remember eating even better (and cheaper) paellas, even though this was also not bad and I am not an expert. However, some restaurants seem to charge for a famous name. But our Sangria was really excellent. After a pretty good (and quite expensive) dinner my colleague convinces me for churros, although I feel completely full. But I haven’t tasted Churros yet, and it’s a pure sin – being in Marid and not try Churros. Churros are basically stick-shaped fried donuts which you dip in cup of thick hot chocolate. The best place in Madrid to enjoy this typical sweet is definitely Chocolateria San Gines, which has been serving the legendary Churros with hot chocolate since 1894. Evidence of its popularity is a long queue in front of the entrance. Fortunately, the queue is moving fast. One cup of chocolate with 6 stick of Churros costs only 4 Euros and one portion of this delicacy will satisfy both of us… Chocolateria has expanded its services to ice cream and other sweet treats, but Churros are a must!

After this sweetness, our bodies will necessarily require a walk through the streets of Madrid. We deliberately get lost in the streets for a while until we get back to the hotel and professionally made beds while still enjoying the evening atmosphere of the city. I must say it was a very successful month in Madrid!

Tip: For those who will be in Madrid on Sunday or other public holidays and like things that have history, be sure to check out Madrid’s most popular bazaar – El Rastro, which takes place between Plaza de Cascorro and Ribera de Curtidores, between Calle Calle Embajadores and Ronda de Toledo, south of La Latina metro station.