Experience the vibrant city of San Francisco where iconic landmarks and an unforgettable holiday awaits. Settled along the California coast, San Francisco lets you immerse in its lively atmosphere, a blend of old and modern flair, fitting for everyone’s unique taste.
Planning your next holiday to San Francisco is worth every penny as this metropolis promises an unforgettable experience. Bask in its cultural vibrance and diversity, iconic landmarks, and unique beauty.
From San Francisco International Airport, settle in your accommodation and have yourcar rental SFO service take you to these San Francisco Wonders.
San Francisco Wonders
The famous landmarks, cultural richness entice travelers to explore San Francisco. Plus, the city has a wonderful weather ideal for outdoor activities, fitting for that unmatched adventure.
When planning your San Francisco trip, make sure to refer to the list below and prepare to be captivated by a number of wonders that make this city a top destination.
Alcatraz Island
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, the island is a truly historic destination, one that must be on top of your to-visit list. The island is known as a maximum-security prison for almost 30 years housing infamous criminals. If you have watched the movie Escape from Alcatraz, seeing the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary is now a reality.
Today, Alcatraz Island is a National Historic Landmark captivating more than 1 million visitors each year from across the globe with its interesting past. What used to be a seabird habitat in 1775, Alcatraz Island is now a National Historic Landmark in the United States.
Chinatown
Chinatown in San Francisco is the oldest Chinatown in North America where ancient and modern customs meet. Wander the bustling streets and the colorful atmosphere. If you are a foodie, the smell of the aroma of spices and food will entice you to sample different food rom authentic dim sum restaurants. From wandering, shopping, dining, to sightseeing, San Francisco Chinatown is the perfect place to visit whether alone or in a group.
Fisherman’s Wharf
The Fisherman’s Wharf is a culinary destination where an array of restaurants offers an irresistible aroma of freshly caught seafood while offering a view of Alcatraz Island and San Francisco Bay.
Delight your taste buds with a steaming pot of seafood of your choice while being entertained by street performers and musicians.
Have a stroll, get on a bay cruise, explore the Wharf’s marketplace, or just savor the beautiful sun as it sets. Whatever you have in mind, Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-destination when in San Francisco.
Golden Gate Bridge
Your San Francisco holiday is never complete without a visit to this renowned Golden Gate Bridge. Marvel at its grandeur and be in awe of its design. The suspension bridge offers a stunning view of the San Francisco Skyline and the Alcatraz Prison Island.
Whether you view the Golden Gate Bridge up close or from a distance, the bridge treats its admirers with a glimpse of its unique orange hue. With designated viewpoints on both San Francisco and Marin County, seeing the steel bridge is made convenient and easy.
The bridge is not only a San Francisco landmark but also a symbol of architectural brilliance and a proof of human ingenuity.
San Francisco Car Rental
Renting a car at San Francisco Airport opens a myriad of benefits allowing tourists and visitors to explore the famous destinations as well as the hidden gems of the city. The above-mentioned wonders are only a few of the options the city can offer. Other than the renowned landmarks, its diverse landscape, and off-the-beaten paths will make your budget car rentalworth every penny.
Having a car rental gives visitors the freedom to navigate the city and its undiscovered destinations at their own pace. With a car rental, tourists can also visit neighboring areas without having to rely on public transport.
With the convenience of a car rental, checking nearby districts ensures a memorable trip like no other. Whether you decide to visit Silicon Valley, relax at the beaches of Monterey or Santa Cruz, or experience the hiking trails of Muir Woods National Monument, having a car enhances the diversity of your California trip.
In a city celebrated for its cultural and culinary diversity, visitors get to explore various dining districts at convenience at a short distance. That means you will never miss unique flavors from different cultural influences.
WithBudget Car Rental, visitors have the freedom and flexibility to explore San Francisco and its nearby attractions in a more personalized approach.
As a travel writer and recent resident of the Big Island, Hawaii, I pretty much live at the beach. I am always searching out chic swimsuits for women that are trend forward yet whimsical. Sometimes, I feel like I have tried on about a million different suits, because styles never stay the same. Right now, here are some of my lust-haves for the season.
Kimonos with swimsuits for women
Kimonos are everywhere this season. They look chic when paired with jeans and tank tops as well as sundresses and bikinis. Whether you are hitting up a hot beach club on the Mediterranean or wanting to show off a glamorous kimono at Burning Man, these flowy garments drape perfectly on your body.
Clever prints and lightweight fabric modernize traditional dusters. These accessories are a snap to throw in your luggage. This is the ultimate travel add-on that effortlessly transforms your ensemble. Whether you want a sleek snake charmer print that conjures up images of boho festivals. Or, you want to project a more natural sensibility that gives off rain forest vibes, this accoutrement punches up every outfit.
Bond girl cool
Who doesn’t want to be a Bond Girl or at the very least, dress like one? This belted one piece from Daifa Collection in nude walks that perfect line between adorable and sexy. The high cut legs elongate the frame and create a timeless look.
In terms of swimsuits for women, I love that this one isn’t complicated. There are not a ton of fussy straps and buckles or funky cutouts. This swimwear feels so good on your body, and it always looks pulled together. Plus, it can be paired with a mini skirt or jeans for a night out. This really is the ultimate swimwear that goes from the beach to the bar without skipping a beat.
All that glitters is gold
Sometimes a little glitter is all you need to have a good time. Don’t be afraid to show a little moxy this season in the Shine Bright Sequin Bikini from Daifa Collection. This look is cheeky, youthful and bold. It always steals the show and makes a statement. The world has changed a great deal this year, and it’s finally time to hit the beach in a bikini that nobody will forget.
Overall
High cut swimsuits for women are the trend that makes everyone look good. Everything from daring prints to monochrome light beige looks posh on the beach. And, topping off your look with a kimono is the ultimate travel accessory that lends that extra hit of polish to every outfit and creates an unforgettable moment.
No, I did not intend to travel during covid. Here’s what actually happened…
During the past few years, I transitioned from freelance writing for national publications to traveling the world in search of adventure for my blog, Pink Luggage Abroad. Lately, I am most comfortable when I am experiencing new cultures while feeling just a bit off balance. My strong desire for globe trekking often leaves me in confusing situations, but my homecoming from Bali to New York in March 2020 was nothing short of terrifying. Air travel during Covid 19 was a precarious moment in time that initially appeared like a death sentence.
I have been asking myself why I hesitated to embrace the bleakness of my reality. And, I have since discovered that acceptance is tough when you are solo traveling in far-off lands where life is already bewildering.
Arriving in paradise
It started slowly
Upon arriving in Singapore just in time to celebrate New Year’s at the Warehouse Hotel bash, there was not one word uttered about the virus in the mainstream media. Nothing.
Normally, my desire to travel encourages people to explore the world without abandon. However, my most recent trip from Bali to New York was harrowing, to say the least. Due to the coronavirus, I had to cut my adventure short. And, my odyssey home was steeped in fear, gloves and masks.
Much like my other trips, this trek through the exotic landscapes of Thailand, Indonesia, the Maldives, Singapore and Malaysia started out with curiosity, beauty and wonderment. However, this epidemic slowly devolved all positive energy into a hellscape of panic, misinformation and fear. And from my perspective, travel during Covid 19 felt at best, foolish.
Initially, the coronavirus felt like something I was only half paying attention to while watching it progress on foreign tv in languages I didn’t understand late at night. Given that I was out of the country when everything started, the news reports seemed too incredible to be real. It felt like this sickness was happening in an alternate reality. And, the prospect of travel during Covid 19 did not feel like anything I needed to worry about. Infection was for a few unlucky souls, and this mess would swiftly be sorted out for those of us who washed our hands, used hand sanitizer and wore face masks. Obviously, I have never been more wrong.
Leaving before Covid 19 got too serious
As my itinerary played out, I was constantly leaving destinations right before the virus erupted. So, it just didn’t seem like anything to which I could relate. In fact, everywhere I went, locals were joking around and saying that everything was being blown out of proportion. As a traveler, the gravity of what was actually happening felt like it was a million miles away until I returned home. Like I said, travel during Covid 19 was something of a shitstorm that I will not soon forget.
After spending a month in Bali, I initially planned to travel back to Singapore and then pop over to China, Vietnam and Cambodia for another few months to round out my tour of Asia prior to heading home. However, my last few days in Bali quickly transformed from an exploration of water temples, rice paddies, learning to sail in Indonesia and beautiful beaches to constant temperature checks, hand sanitizing and shifty eyes if you walked within an arm’s reach of anyone.
Right before I left, I skipped breakfast one morning for no reason, other than I felt like grabbing more sleep. I knew something was up when two hotel representatives banged on my door and insisted on taking my temperature. I knew I was fine, but at this moment, I immediately realized that something was different in the world. Moreover, I could not believe how relieved the staffers looked when I did not have a fever.
A foreigner in foreign lands
I watched as tourists looked increasingly uneasy throughout Indonesia as I researched everything I could find out about the global pandemic on my iPhone. Still, experiencing such madness while you are solo traveling feels surreal. There is just something about surrounding yourself with familiars that instantly makes things tangible. I am not sure if it is conversing with people you already know in your native language which tells your brain, hey, something is wrong. Or, if it is escaping to foreign lands with customs and rituals you have never experienced before that somehow compels you to suspend reality in the face of frightening circumstances. Either way, the thought of the coronavirus actually shutting down society felt impossible and quite frankly, ridiculous at that moment in time. Yes, things were tightening up a bit, but not that much.
Solo travel creates a false sense of security
At the end of March, Bali was still fully open for business, so it was difficult for me to believe that the world was changing that quickly. Plus, when you keep yourself busy during the day experiencing new societies and spend your nights writing and editing multimedia, you are not left with much downtime to freak out about global pandemic outbreaks.
During my solo travels, I make a point of shutting out things that remind me of home. I immerse myself in new situations while soaking up every inch of local culture. I typically avoid television and focus on what is in front of me. So, believing that a life threatening virus that doctors still do not understand somehow jumped from bats at the wet markets in Wuhan to humans felt more like the plot of a Hollywood blockbuster.
And, societies that embrace a more laidback way of life than my own definitely coddle a false sense of security. Upon leaving Bali, I was flooded with texts and calls from friends who feared for my safety. Additional sentiments wrapped up in trepidation regarding the United States possibly closing its borders were echoed throughout these frantic conversations. Obviously, this situation did not materialize, but it felt like every person I had ever met was horrified at thought of me having to travel during Covid 19. Still, I brushed all of this off until I was in a taxi with the airfield coming up hot out of the corner of my right eye. I felt my stomach drop, and I just knew this was going to be a rough experience. Regrettably, I was right. For me, everything changed the second that I set foot inside of the Bali airport.
Travel during Covid 19 results in anxiety
Frightened passengers traded in the cheap currency of confusion and fear. Social distancing signs were posted; however, this was an unreasonable ask for international flights. Believe me, I tried to stand six feet apart from my neighbors. However, it was literally impossible to socially distance from anyone. In fact, standing even one foot away was too much to ask. People were so desperate to get home that the lines were more tightly packed than normal. It was as if mimicking a can of tightly packed sardines would somehow speed up the flight. Spoiler alert, this clown car style of spacing only slowed things down.
Frightened passengers traded in the cheap currency of confusion and fear.
For me, the ticket counters were scary places. The high volume of increasingly irrational people that refused to follow even the simplest coronavirus guidelines dominated the landscape. I am still unclear if it was the thought of travel during Covid 19 or the idea of being stranded in transit that brought out the worst in my fellow passengers. I suppose that stress might be a great motivator, but the elicited responses were increasingly primal.
Flights were being cancelled at an alarming rate, but the public’s angst still managed to outpace what was actually happening. The tension increased as I witnessed people slowly succumbing to their basest moods. The atmosphere felt like a powder keg of raw emotions, and everyone appeared to already be in freefall. The thing is, I knew things would only get worse.
A woman in front of me started screaming and crying over a canceled flight. I watched her lie down on the floor until security guards carried her away. Low level mass hysteria caused people to stand closer to each other not further apart.
Before clearing security, few individuals wore masks and I even witnessed open mouthed coughing. Like a lot of people at the airport, I still thought I would be okay if I flew from Bali to Singapore without pre-booking a connecting flight home. Most of the time, I wing it when I travel for months at a time. However, I quickly discovered that this was the wrong approach when dealing with a pandemic.
Even though my flight from Bali to Singapore was nonrefundable and paid for, the woman at the counter refused to process my ticket. I explained that connecting flights were being negated faster than I could book them. Besides, I thought it was important to immediately get out of Bali and begin my trip home. I planned to catch a flight to New York from Singapore as quickly as I could. But, she would not accommodate me, and I ended up sleeping in the Bali airport. This actually happened to quite a few people.
Disheartened, I panicked as I walked out of the ticketing area to the public space filled with coffee shops. I overpaid for data usage and spent hours unsuccessfully trying to book a flight home. All of a sudden, I remember thinking, I am going to die in this airport. And, for what? My love of seeing the world is going to result in my premature death. It’s dark, yes, but at least there is a certain sense of irony.
I remember being convinced that I was witnessing the virus spread before my eyes and social media only heightened my anxiety. After hours of relentlessly looking for a way home, I finally strung together a plan that involved over 60+ hours in four airports.
Airport status matters during Covid
A major hitch to my itinerary involved Changi. Side note, under normal circumstances, I adore the Singapore airport. Yes, I’m serious. There are so many cool experiences that make this transportation hub its own destination. The shopping, restaurants and water vortex are amazing. During a different trip, I spent the day at the Changi Airport. This is the only time in my life that I purposely built in extra travel time just to hang out at the plane jockey arena. When you aren’t traveling during Covid 19, this place is awesome.
The water vortex at the Singapore Airport
Quarantine was in full effect, so if you flew into Singapore and left the departure zone, you were legally required to self-quarantine in a hotel for 14 days. The trick was finding a flight with a companion airline, so you did not have to pass through immigration. Under normal circumstances, having to check into an airport after deplaning might be an inconvenience, but it’s something I’ve done many times. In this situation, however, maintaining the status of not leaving the airport was critical to my travel plan. So, this made an already stressful situation even more arduous.
Self-reflection regarding travel during Covid 19
After multiple temperature checks at four different airports and 60+ hours of flying, I never contracted the coronavirus. I self-quarantined at home in New York, and I am thankful that I remain healthy.
Now, there is more information in the world, but when things initially transpired, it was unbelievably scary. Initially, travel during Covid 19 felt like possibly the riskiest thing that I have ever done. Being abroad during the pandemic felt like I would never see my loved ones again. The fear was palpable and seemed to envelop every passenger I spotted during my voyage home.
As I reflect on my recent trip, I am struck by several things. Mostly, a pandemic reveals cracks in society that you never imagined were there. On one hand, you see amazing acts of kindness and people helping each other out. However, while you are actually in transit and information is at a premium, fear is the overwhelming emotion that thrusts you in a stranglehold of chilling fragility. And, dealing with the logistics of travel during Covid 19 while being in a foreign country frightened and confused me in ways that I am still struggling to understand.
From hair products to a pandemic, how did I get here?
I recently moved to Hawaii to ride out the pandemic. It was kind of a last minute thing. I was forced to return home early from my yoga fueled journey of self-care and love in beautiful Bali in March. My lease was coming up in Tribeca, and while I will always consider New York City as my home, it no longer felt happy and warm. Perhaps I experienced too many days of blissful happiness in Bali working on inversions and opening up my chakras. But, I needed a change of pace desperately. My lease came up, and on a whim, I moved to Hawaii. I didn’t even have time to throw my belongings in storage. I did this process virtually, and I still don’t know if it went smoothly. However, I am now embracing the aloha spirit.
Island life
The downside to island life is that unlimited sun and swimming in the ocean several days a week takes a serious beating on your tresses. I have a lot of hair, but it is admittedly thin, and the saltwater is seriously dulling the shine and overall bounce. The bottom line is that my strands were looking a bit sad. So, I decided to go on a hair journey with Formulate to see if their hair products could restore the luster.
Coconuts for hair products
I’ve been using a personalized shampoo and conditioner that was created just for me (how cool is that?), and I’m really happy with the results. First off, Formulate smells of coconuts, so washing my hair is always a pleasure. Secondly, these hair products accomplished what I wanted. My hair is much more moisturized and is seriously shiny. I didn’t think I would see glossy locks again, but my hair is finally smoothing out.
Shiny hair
Additionally, my hair is less frizzy, and it just feels healthier. The blend of keratin and pumpkin seed oil with vitamin c feels like you are injecting superfoods directly into your hair. Real talk, my mane which is prone to split ends is incredibly healthy and looks fantastic. Formulate doesn’t use any sulfates, so it’s nothing but good vibes from this company. These hair products are just kind of awesome, and they are a must-have for any gal who wants gorgeous hair on demand!
Located on Psarou Beach, Nammos Mykonos is a nonstop party. Upon arrival, you quickly realize that it’s not that easy to score a coveted sun lounger. You need to pay the concierge, and even then, you will be waiting for a bit. At the height of the summer, the lines are intense. Trust me, I am not exaggerating. While calling ahead to make a reservation is advisable, sometimes it’s best just to show up first thing in the morning. Don’t be shy about tipping the beach supervisor, as this always seems to move things along.
Nammos Mykonos is extremely popular, so the earlier you arrive, the better chance you have of getting in. And, it doesn’t hurt to dress the part, think upscale Euro with a bohemian sensibility.
The beach at Nammos Mykonos
Protected by a cove, the waters of Psarou Beach are typically calm. Nammos Mykonos is accessed by as many yachts as it is people driving over from their resort. The powdery sand, crystal clear water and glamorous vibe make this spot the ideal location for spending the day swimming and sunbathing. Bonus, you have a waitstaff that delivers trendy cocktails directly to your sun chaise.
The funny thing is that you’re never quite sure exactly when or how, but parties materialize out of thin air. All of a sudden, you look around and notice that everyone is throwing back copious amounts of champagne. Unsurprisingly, a party breaks out. This atmosphere evolves organically at Nammos Mykonos, and it’s a blast.
The restaurant
One of my favorite things about Nammos Mykonos is that it’s not just an upscale beach club filled with pretty people. It’s so much more, because the food is exquisite. In the midst of such a decadent place, I incorrectly assumed that the restaurant would be an afterthought. I was dead wrong. It’s awesome.
Given the proximity to the water, there is an emphasis on fresh seafood. Additionally, you see the influence of Italian food throughout Greece, and the restaurant at Nammos Mykonos is no exception. My pasta was nothing short of amazing. Sometimes simple ingredients prepared perfectly is exactly what you want out of a meal.
Afterwards, literally everyone was up dancing on the table. I’m not quite sure how this happened, but it was ridiculous, in the best possible way. There’s just something insatiable about the spirit of Nammos that makes you smile and step (or dance) outside of your comfort zone
Nights at Nammos
If it’s during the week, expect the party to wrap up by 8.00 pm. However, if it’s the weekend, things often keep going until midnight. You might want to bring some extra clothes with you, as hanging out in a wet bathing suit doesn’t feel great. However, sticking to sandals is fine. Chances are that you will be dancing in the sand at some point.
Also, check out the Nammos Mykonos party schedule. For these events, you will typically want to wear real clothing when you show up, not a bikini.
Overall
Clearly, I am a big fan of this haute spot that’s a touch reminiscent of the Balearic Islands. Sometimes there is a bit of an attitude, but most of the staffers are lovely, especially if you tip well. A great place to party with an incredible beach, Nammos Mykonos bewitches visitors with a unique star quality. I can’t suggest this beach club enough. My thought is this, go for the picture perfect water that is clad in every shade of blue. And,stay for the party, because Nammos is a scene!
Please note, I was not paid for this review. I was just incredibly smitten with Nammos Mykonos.
Imagine this, you are on holiday in Morocco and wish to travel from Fez to Chefchaouen on the CTM Maroc bus. You might be wondering exactly how to get there. Believe me, I understand, as I went through the same thing on my recent visit.
Aside from renting a car or hiring a private driver, the bus is your best option. Morocco is priced well; however, private transportation adds up quickly. So, here is everything you need to know about taking the bus from Fez to Chefchaouen.
A few days before taking the bus from Fez to Chefchaouen.
You need to physically go to the CTM Maroc bus station before your trip. If you show up and there is a seat open, then you can book that. However, Chefchaouen is a popular route from Fez, and doing this last minute is a bad plan. It’s best to schedule your excursion a few days ahead of time.
Double check your driver understands you are going to the bus terminal.
My journey from Fez to Chefchaouen started out rather inauspiciously. After walking outside of the medina, an attendant from my riad spoke with a driver of a petit taxi. Unfortunately, miscommunication ensued, and I was taken to the train station (that’s what you see pictured below), not the CTM Maroc bus terminal. I leisurely strolled around while snapping pictures, because I assumed the buses were out back. I was wrong.
Upon the horror of realizing my mistake, I had to sprint back to the taxi stand which took a surprisingly short amount of time (adrenaline will do that for you). I managed to flag down a red taxi (petit taxi) to the CTM Maroc bus terminal rather quickly. And, I was shocked that the bus was still there.
The actual bus ride from Fez to Chefchaouen.
Upon arriving at CTM Maroc, your luggage will be weighed. You have to pay a small fee for heavier luggage, but it shouldn’t be more than 10 dirhams ($1).
Once you are onboard, keep your ticket with you, because you need to show documentation to retrieve your luggage.
A few things to know…
First off, the bus is air conditioned, and since the temperature hovered around 100° when I was in Morocco, this was a huge win.
Pay attention to your ticket, as seating is assigned. If you arrive early to the CTM terminal (I did not), request a seat that is not directly behind the driver. That’s where I ended up, and the space was limited.
During your trip, you will see tons of stray animals and really skinny dogs. I wanted to jump out and adopt all of them.
Upon arrival.
Once in Fez, flash your CTM Maroc ticket to retrieve your luggage. The staff always checks, so don’t lose it. I noticed a few people fishing around for their tickets, and the staff wasn’t eager to hand over the luggage without proof of ownership. Add language barriers on top of that, and this situation could become frustrating quickly. So, I stress keeping your ticket with you.
If you are staying at a riad in Old Town, a porter will need to meet you outside of the city. Cars are not allowed inside of Chefchaouen, and the streets get confusing quickly. Most of the places prefer to meet you at the Paradour parking lot. So, you will need to take a red taxi, to this destination. This short journey should only cost you around 20 dirhams ($2) from the bus drop off.
Pro Tip: If you do not have international calling, have your driver contact your riad. Just make sure you have the phone number ready to go. That’s what I did, and things worked out perfectly.
Overall
The bus ride from Fez to Chefchaouen takes around 4 hours, and you will definitely see interesting sites along the side of the road. This is easily the most cost effective way to travel around Morocco, but the biggest takeaway should be getting your ticket ahead of time. If you are not a local, you are not permitted to purchase tickets from the CTM website. Happy travels!
Tucked away in the Riff Mountains, Chefchaouen definitely makes an impression. The first thing you are struck by is most likely the reason you decided to visit. Everything and I mean everything is blue. The taxis, lamp posts, streets, walls, handrails, trash bags, benches, planters, utility boxes, water hoses … it’s all different shades of blue. And, the blue city Morocco is gorgeous!
The decor is simply incredible and walking around this wonderland is an exercise in beauty. It’s as if the city is gift wrapped in a thousand shades of indigo. Seriously, visiting Chefchaouen is so ridiculously picturesque that you will find yourself wondering if the blue city Morocco is real.
When visiting the blue city Morocco, what should you wear?
More conservative than some of the other places I went to in Morocco, Marrakech and Fez, it’s not quite as relaxed for solo female travelers. However, if it is the summer, the locals are more lenient with visitors. The temperature reached over 100 degrees daily during my visit, and I tried my best to be respectful of the culture. Attitudes throughout the country are slowly changing. However, keep in mind that the more remote the location, the more traditional the dress code.
I wore leggings under my dresses that I pulled up for photos. Additionally, I fully covered my shoulders with a scarf while walking around after an uncomfortable situation on my first day.
You don’t have to cover up, but you will receive a lot of cat calls if you don’t. Plus, if you are a female traveling alone (that’s what I did), you might acquire an unwanted entourage if your shoulders are bare. Yup, this happened to me, and it was not scary. However, it prevented me from exploring the more remote parts of Chefchaouen on my first day.
A more laid back souk
The outdoor markets of Chefchaouen are considerably more relaxed than its counterparts in Fez and Marrakech. It’s still necessary to bargain, but you are starting from a lower number. If something catches your eye, you will get a better deal here as opposed to its sister cities.
Local markets on Monday & Thursday in the blue city Morocco
If you visit when the locals bring their goods to town for trade and sale, you are in for an authentic experience. Different from the souks that line the streets, you will get a better look at what life is really like. If you go here, and I suggest that you do, cover up. It’s a lot less touristy in this area, and men and women will be incredibly unpleasant if you expose any parts of your body. The vibe is just different, so be mindful if you are traveling alone.
Also, if you decide to video this gluttony of shopping, be subtle. When I wasn’t even filming, a woman spotted my camera and went crazy. She chased me and started screaming while wagging her finger in my face. Even though I was not filming, I apologized and left. However, she followed me for three streets (to be fair, the streets were small), but it got uncomfortable quickly. An older man saw the situation and stopped her. Bottom line, if you are a female traveling totally alone (and I don’t mean with a friend), you will have some uncomfortable moments in Chefchaouen.
Just to be clear, this is one of the most amazing places I visited, so I am not discouraging anyone from going. Just keep your wits about you. The upside is that it’s easy to fall in love with this magical destination. I did.
The town square
Locals hang out here along with more homeless cats than I have ever seen in one location. Cafes serving up crepes dot the area with overstuffed couches that are comfy for lounging during the afternoon.
Additionally, the Kasbah looks pretty epic from the town square in Chefchaouen. The surrounding area is brimming with funky restaurants with terraces for lunch and dinner.
Seriously, why is Chefchaouen blue?
It’s pretty interesting, because the locals all have different theories as to why the blue city Morocco is basically a giant sapphire. Most people tend to think that the Jews painted the city blue when they fled the Spanish during the 15th century. Others insist that the deeply pigmented hues cool down the buildings during the summer. And, a baker told me that the color scheme functions as mosquito repellent. No matter what the actual reason might be, locals are vigilant about maintaining the aesthetic. International as well as local tourists flock here to bask in the splendor of the blue.
Chefchaouen to Rabat
There’s a lot to see when leaving Chefchaouen, but you have to pay attention. There are massive salt marshes on the side of the road. Additionally, giant nests sit high up on towers. There are merchants selling every type of pottery, and you can get some incredible deals. Unfortunately, it’s slow going during harvest time. Local farmers driving oversized machinery really slow down traffic. But, it feels like stepping back in time, so I found it interesting.
Mary Jane
Yes, you will smell marijuana throughout Chefchaouen. The comical thing is that the locals seem to be hiding it from each other. It’s kind of a running joke among the residents. There are farms you can visit high up in the mountains that grow it. The police presence is prevalent throughout Morocco but less so in Chefchaouen. Still, being in the wrong place at the wrong time in a foreign country, prevented me from visiting.
Where should you stay in Chefchaouen?
I am a huge fan of the Lina Riad, and to be clear, nobody paid me to write this. In keeping with the azure inspired vibe, everything at this riad is blue. The staff is unbelievably friendly, and the terrace provides an epic view of the city. With white and blue tiles, the space is magical, and it’s the perfect spot to watch the sun set while sipping mint tea. With an indoor pool and lovely spa, Lina is the ideal escape.
Overall
Chefchaouen is magical, and the atmosphere is relaxed. It’s a wonderful place when visiting Morocco to recharge your batteries amidst a sea of sapphire inspired architecture. Feeling more like an azure fairytale, this type of wanderlust adventure never gets old.
If you haven’t checked out Basque Food Country in Northern Spain, you might be asking yourself, what is a pintxo? Pronounced “pincho”, these are bite size snacks that are typically eaten at the bar.
If you hate standing while eating (I’m usually not a fan), you will be waiting for a while. And during the high season, tables don’t open up often. These pintxo joints in Basque Country usually have jovial atmospheres. And, tons of people linger around and eat outside. Since most of the dishes are basically finger food, it’s really fun when the weather is on good behavior. Believe me, it’s a lot less awkward than it sounds. In fact it’s one of the world’s most unique foods.
I think it’s one of those things that you have to experience on holiday in Northern Spain to really understand. In Basque Country, frequent small fare is just part of their culture, and it’s a blast! If you are skeptical, give it a chance, and I promise these Spanish/French folks (the locals prefer to be thought of as an independent state), will make you a believer in the beauty of the pintxo!
The Basque presentation
Food is showcased on newspapers and clever attention grabbers. Sometimes, eating in Basque Country feels more like walking through an art gallery in Brooklyn. For me, taking in the endless slew of fabulous eateries as well as sampling the different wine regions of Spain was an experience in itself.
Everything is kind of beautiful in a different way. And, my favorite pintxo places were just a little bit offbeat, in the best way possible. Some were more traditional, while others were stark white with insanely modern touches. I found everything in between, but the best places in Basque Country made a real effort to stand out.
Artistic Basque Country
When visiting Basque Country (in San Sebastian or Bilbao), it’s typical to pintxo hop around town as a daily activity. It’s almost like eating is a sport, but you do so much walking that it’s easy to burn off excess calories. Translation, there’s no need to feel guilty! Plus, this style of eating might initially seem like a ton of food (it did to me), but the bites are incredibly small. So, you don’t really feel it. Additionally, night time ‘pintxo crawls’ are ridiculously fun, because the focus is as much on the food as the booze.
Sometimes, eating in Basque Country feels more like walking through an art gallery in Brooklyn.
When you finally settle on where you want to eat, grab a plate from the bar and pick up whatever looks good. Don’t worry, sticks are attached to the food, so fingers are not involved. Note, some of the upscale places plate the food for you, but this is by no means an indication of the food quality.
Pro Tip: There is usually a menu with more high-end dishes, but you have to ask for it.
The honor code is alive and well
Remember to keep a mental note of everything you eat. In Basque Country, you usually don’t receive a bill, and you are on the honor system when you pay.
Basque country food is amazing, check out recommendations for Barcelona too!
Right now, you are probably asking yourself, why on earth would I visit Copenhagen during the winter? And, that’s a fair question. Yes, it’s cold. Like really, really cold. However, it’s still not as bad as you think. We aren’t talking about the winter gusts that blow through Finland and Sweden on the regular. Translation, if you dress accordingly, you will be fine. Here are some things to do in Copenhagen during the winter!
Less people visit Copenhagen during the colder months
Denmark is an incredibly clean and beautiful country. Such attributes have made it popular with tourists.
And, if you visit Copenhagen during the offseason, the crowds thin out a lot.
Unfortunately, the chilly conditions don’t really lead to a break in prices on anything. The Nordic countries are expensive, end of story. But, please don’t let this discourage you. Just realize that you won’t be incorporating deep discounts in your travel budget and plan accordingly.
Friendly locals
Some cities slowdown in the face of inclement weather; however, the locals here don’t kowtow to plummeting temperatures. In fact, pretty much everyone I spoke with was unfazed.
Obviously, the residents are accustomed to bundling up by now. But, it’s more than that. I got the feeling that they collectively refuse to give in to the whims of things beyond their control, i.e. the weather. Copenhagen locals are going to have a good time no matter what.
The bars are always full, arguably a little too full (click here for more on that). So, you won’t be hurting for ways to spend your time.
Art much?
If you enjoy exploring random art galleries, then you should definitely visit Copenhagen. Among the countless installations I walked into, the funkiest place I discovered was a repurposed barge in hot pink in the middle of the city.
Locals told me that the art scene changes within the blink of an eye. It’s visually stimulating, and no matter what is on display, it is sure to make a statement.
If you enjoy modern art, just wander around the city and pop into whatever speaks to you. That’s what I did. Whether you like it or not isn’t the point. A lot of the exhibitions were not my taste. However, I found all of it interesting and ultimately thought provoking.
Tivoli is off the table
The only noticeable exception I found was that Tivoli, the amusement park, was closed. But, that was as much about refurbishment as it was about the chill in the air. Honestly, I really didn’t care, but everyone insisted that this place is a must do when you visit Copenhagen.
I hoped that I would be able to hop the fence and walk around. Something about exploring a closed amusement park appeals to me. Regrettably, I couldn’t get past the fenced off perimeter, but I still managed to get an idea of what Tivoli actually looks like. Cooler than I originally gave it credit for, there is a historical, old school vibe happening that is oddly compelling. However, I don’t think that your vacation will be negatively impacted if Tivoli is closed. Mine was not.
Overall
While summer certainly has its charms, I maintain that you won’t be disappointed if you visit Copenhagen (one of the prettiest cities in Europe) during the winter. Quirky art galleries, killer nightlife and fabulous restaurants more than make up for the temperature. Just don’t forget to pack your warmest coat!
In Basque Country, most people who want to go to San Sebastian fly into the Bilbao airport. After doing a lot of research, that’s what I settled on. Usually, I prefer taking trains instead of buses. However, buses are literally twice as fast in this area of Spain. They are cheaper and incredibly efficient. Unless you are renting a car, taking the bus from Bilbao to San Sebastian is definitely the quickest mode of transportation.
Going from Bilbao to San Sebastian: everything you need to know
The Bilbao airport is compact, and it’s rather artistic. Upon arrival, walk past the baggage terminal. Continue going straight and head to the end of the building. Please note, this walk doesn’t take long. On the farthest wall, look for the machine that dispenses tickets for the Pesa bus. Purchase a voucher which costs a little more than €17.
Be sure to keep the flimsy paper that you receive, because you will need to show it to board the bus. This machine is easy to use. But, if you have any issues, the staff is helpful at this airport. The bus leaves once every 45 minutes.
Pro Tip: You are probably thinking that you need to purchase a Pesa ticket ahead of time online. Trust me, it’s much easier to do this at the airport.
Bilbao to San Sebastian: a few more things
There aren’t a ton of food options in the waiting area, but you can certainly pick up a snack.
The bus ride takes approximately an hour and 15 minutes. If you arrive at the airport during rush hour, it will inevitably take a little longer.
The seats are comfortable, and if you arrive in the morning, your bus most likely won’t be full.
There is supposedly WiFi onboard, but my phone never connected. This is not a lengthy trip, so I was unphased. Since I arrived early in the morning, I caught up on my sleep.
If you need to contact a friend or host to let them know what time you arrive, you might have problems. If you are desperate, you could always spring for international calling or use a Sim card.
I hoped that we would drive along the coastline. However, no such luck. To be fair, I prefer efficiency over traffic, especially after a flight.
Overall
The bus ride from Bilbao to San Sebastian is ridiculously convenient. The staff is friendly, and the buses are clean. As I said, I usually prefer trains over buses but not in Basque Country.
