Sunday, July 31, 2016
Wednesday, July 27, 2016
The Ultimate Southern USA Road Trip Itinerary
The southern United States is unlike anywhere else you will ever go. Hot weather, warm smiles, and arguably some of the best grub in the country make up the foundation of this unique region. The best way to get to know the South is by hitting the road!
Follow me through my ultimate southern USA road trip!
Scrolling over the map will allow you to zoom in, and clicking “More Options” will take you to a stop by stop itinerary!
Austin, Texas
Start in Austin, Texas
Home to more than 250 live music venues, Austin prides itself on being the “Live Music Capital of the World.” With an eclectic arts scene and countless festivals, Austin is breathing fresh air into Texas.
Top Things to See and Do in Austin
- Start your perfect Austin day with one of its famous breakfast tacos
- Take in local history at the oldest American state office, the Texas State Capitol
- Grab a selfie at the Baylor Street Art Wall
- Party the night away on Sixth Street and Rainey Street
San Antonio, Texas
Take I-35 South from Austin to San Antonio – 80 miles
Top Things to See and Do in San Antonio
- The heart and soul of the city, the River Walk, is packed with happening bars, amazing restaurants, and endless lines of shops
- Be sure to grab some amazing Mexican food
- Once you have taken in modern San Antonio, explore The Alamo and get a taste for the rich and complex history of Texas.
- Before you go, visit the 750-foot-tall Tower of the Americas for a panoramic view of this stunning city
-
DETOUR: Take a Bayou Tour in Louisiana
On my trip, I took a couple hours to tour the Manchac swamp with Wild Louisiana Tours! It was such a cool experience, there was a moment where I felt likeI was in The Notebook.
You’ll see the logging ghost town of Ruddock that served as a passage way for historic New Orleans explorers and well as Iberville, Biennville, Ponchartrain, and more!
New Orleans, Louisiana
Take I-10 East from San Antonio to New Orleans – 540 miles
Since this is a longer stretch, you can break up the drive by spending a night along the way. It’s an awesome opportunity to get off the beaten track and explore more of Louisiana.
I fell in love with New Orleans when I went for Mardi Gras. While I’d love to go back for another Fat Tuesday, the city is equally impressive every day of the year. Just wandering the city, you’ll get a sense of New Orleans’ complex past and unique culture!
Top Things to See and Do in New Orleans
- The French Quarter never disappoints
- Get down and dirty on Bourbon Street or go for an upscale evening on Frenchmen Street
- Visit the oldest cathedral in the continent, St. Louis Cathedral, which was built in 1720
- Before you go, visit the 750-foot-tall Tower of the Americas for a panoramic view of this stunning city.
Read More: The Beginner’s Guide to Mardi Gras in New Orleans
-
DETOUR: Stay at the Oak Alley Plantation
During my Southern USA Road Trip, I was completely awestruck by the fantasy-like setting the oaks created at the entrance to the Oak Alley Plantation. I’d seen plenty of photos of Oak Alley, but it was even more grand in person.
The plantation has been featured in many movies and music videos including Interview with The Vampire, Django Unchained and Beyoncé’s “Déjà Vu” music video!
Read More: Staying at the Oak Alley Plantation in Louisiana
Jackson, Mississippi
Take I-55 North from New Orleans to Jackson – 190 miles
Jackson is the capitol of Mississippi and home to a funky arts scene, good bars and restaurants and A LOT of live music!
Top Things to See and Do in Jackson
- Spend the day exploring the Civil War sites and civil rights museums
- Once you have worked up an appetite, pig out on turnip greens, cornbread, and black-eyed peas
- Craving some spice? Go for the locally beloved Miss-Mex (that’s Mississippi-Mexican fusion) for a culinary adventure
- Top your day off by exploring the countless blues and jazz venues
Memphis, Tennessee
Take I-55 North from Jackson to Memphis – 210 miles
Memphis is all about rock n’ roll and BBQ. You’ll never be able to eat at another BBQ joint after you try a proper Memphis-style BBQ platter.
Top things to See and Do in Memphis
- Visit the birthplace of rock music- Sun Studio
- Watch the ducks at Peabody Hotel
- Make your way over to Elvis’ world-famous home, Graceland
- For a comprehensive lesson on the history of modern music, visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music
- Get down to Rendezvous for the best BBQ ribs in Memphis
Read More: Top 10 Things to Do in Memphis in Two Days
-
DETOUR: Visit Tennessee’s Wineries
Take a pit stop at one of Tennessee’s stunning wineries off I-40, like Century Farm Winery or Crown Winery!
Nashville, Tennessee
Take I-40 East from Memphis to Nashville – 210 miles
For country-music fans, singers and songwriters from all over the world, Nashville is the ultimate destination. But Nashville isn’t just country music, it is a lively city, breaking out with new businesses, a dynamic food and cocktail scene, and bright lights!
Top Things to See and Do in Nashville
- Home to the Grand Ole Opry radio show, Ryman Auditorium is an absolute must-see and, whether you are a country music fan or not, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a fascinating spot
- To wrap up your musical day, take a tour of Music Row and RCA Studio B
- One of the most stunning buildings in Nashville, The Parthenon is the world’s only full-size reproduction of the Greek Parthenon in Athens, Greece, so plan on some time to visit the museum and art gallery to complete your tour
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Nashville in a Weekend
Charlotte, North Carolina
Take I-40 East from Nashville to Charlotte – 400 miles
Again, this is over a half day of driving, so leave early and make the most of your travel day!
Charlotte is mostly a business and banking town, but is made up of beautiful, historical neighborhoods, great museums and awesome waterfront restaurants!
Top Things to See and Do in Charlotte
- Visit Levine Museum of the New South & the NASCAR Hall of Fame
- Cool down at the 29,000-square-foot Ray’s Splash Planet– this ultrafun indoor water park is the perfect place to splash around on a steamy afternoon
- See Charlotte’s high-flying past at the Carolinas Aviation Museum
- Pan for a bit of gold at Reed Gold Mine
Charleston, South Carolina
Take I-77 South from Charlotte to Charleston – 211 miles
With its weather in the upper 70s in the dead of winter, Charleston is the perfect place for beach lovers!
Top Things to See and Do in Charleston
- Bring your bikini and lounge in the Carolina sun on Folly Beach during the better part of the year
- Get moving and rent a bike to ride across the famous Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
- Don’t miss the Angel Oak Park—one of South Carolina’s most remarkable sites—you’ll find a massive 1,500-year-old oak tree, which is a true sight to behold
READ NEXT: 5 All-American Road Trips to Take in 2016
Read More
ANNOUNCEMENT: My First Southern USA Road Trip!
The Girl’s Guide to a California Coast Road Trip
Top 10 Things to Do in Memphis in Two Days
Travel in Style: Nashville Bohemian Outfit
How to Avoid Overpacking for a Trip
Where to Find the Best Food in Nashville
6 Things to Remember Before Every Trip
Travel in Style: Memphis Blues Outfit
SHOP these road trip essentials!
The Ultimate Southern USA Road Trip Itinerary is a post from: The Blonde Abroad
from The Blonde Abroad http://ift.tt/2ahklhf
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
Staying at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa in Dubai
Meaning “getaway to the sun” in Arabic, the Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa in Dubai is a five-star luxury desert resort. Set amid the sand dunes outside of Dubai, this top-notch resort is a true oasis.
With an award-winning spa, lush gardens, complimentary nightly camel rides, and refreshingly rustic style, Bab Al Shams has its own unpretentious brand of luxury that is far from the over-the-top glitz and glam you’ll find all over central Dubai.
Built in the traditional fashion of an Arabic fort, the Bab Al Shams is a place to lose yourself outside of the hustle and bustle of The City of Gold.
Here’s my experience staying at Bab Al Shams Resort in Dubai!
– The Hotel –
Located outside of Dubai and not far from Abu Dhabi, this TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence- awarded resort was built as a retreat for those of us looking to get away from it all.
With upscale restaurants, a luxe spa, a maze of swimming pools, yoga areas, outdoor fire pits, and romantic, shaded corridors, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is ripe for exploration.
While discount travel in Dubai might seem like an oxymoron, this low-rise resort has been rated best value for the money in the area, so you know can get some bang for your buck here.
Close enough to serve as a base for exploring Dubai but far enough to make you feel secluded, the Bab Al Shams is an obvious pick for unwinding away from the high-rises of central Dubai.
– The Rooms –
Bab Al Shams offers superior rooms, deluxe rooms with terraces, and deluxe suites fit for a queen. The rooms feature all of the perks that you would expect from a five-star resort like top-grade beds, in-room massages, 24-hour room service, and powerful AC that will keep you going in the United Arab Emirates.
Bab Al Shams has 113 guest rooms and is a far cry from any ultramodern chain hotel. Giving a nod to the old days of Arabic desert forts, this place is the ultimate blend of rich, traditional Emirati decor and ultramodern conveniences.
– Food & Drink –
With eight unique restaurants and bars, Bab Al Shams has everything from local Arabic cuisines to Indian delicacies to Italian favorites. You can find food from pretty much every corner of the globe here.
More than just a restaurant, the Arab-style Al Hadheerah is set among the sand dunes and offers a full entertainment experience. Watch a falconry display, a horse show, a camel caravan, or an impressive tanoura dancing show while have dinner.
You can get a sense of what traditional Arabic culture really looks like, and experience a page out of the famous One Thousand and One Nights.
For a world-class scene, lounge at the swim-up pool bar or head up to the Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge for panoramic views of the surrounding desert.
– Leisure Activities –
When you are ready to get moving, there are countless options at the Bab Al Shams. Work up a sweat at the fitness center or go cycling. Get up close and personal with the friendly locals during a desert safari and falconry display, or head off to ride your own camel.
After a day exploring under the hot sun of Dubai,the Satori Spa is the place to revitalize- it offers a sauna, fragranced steam rooms, an outdoor yoga area, massage tents, and poolside massages. From the Absolute Foot Ritual package to the Indian head massage, the Satori Spa is a full-service stop.
Feeling sporty? Go for a game of table tennis, mini golf, or lawn games. Maybe even try your hand at archery. When you are ready, soothe your tired body by checking out the hot tub and hammam.
More Information
-
Location: Al Qudra Road Opposite Endurance City, Dubai, U.A.E.
-
Accommodation: Luxury
-
Price Range: $$$
READ NEXT: Dubai Through My Eyes
SHOP my favorite travel essentials!
Special thanks to Bab Al Shams for hosting me during my stay. As always, opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Staying at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa in Dubai is a post from: The Blonde Abroad
from The Blonde Abroad http://ift.tt/2argIWp
Monday, July 25, 2016
5 Romantic Places for Couples in California
If you have been following our column here on The Blonde Abroad, you’ve noticed that we started a series on romantic places for couples around the world.
So far, all of the locations have been outside the USA so we thought it was finally time to write something about our home! As California natives, we thought we would share some of our favorite romantic places at home with you.
Here are five romantic places for couples in California!
– Big Sur –
Big Sur is an absolutely MAGICAL stretch of coastline- in fact, it has arguably the most gorgeous, rugged coast in all of California.
Aside from beautiful beaches- one of which even has a waterfall on it– Big Sur has amazing, wooded mountains filled with massive redwood trees, incredible hiking trails, waterfalls, and so much more.
If it weren’t so remote, we would honestly probably live there!
For help planning, check out our newest blog over on Couple’s Coordinates that will teach you how to plan a weekend trip to Big Sur.
Read More: California Coast Road Trip: Big Sur
– Malibu –
Malibu is like a life goal. Everything about it is perfect. It’s in close proximity to LA but it’s still a small town. It has world class restaurants and world famous beaches, as well as being home to Pepperdine University (Michael’s alma mater), so there is definitely a fun, young vibe in Malibu that results from the student population.
Whether you and your loved one are looking to surf, hike, lay on the beach, walk on the pier, or eat amazing food, there is plenty of activities you can do in Malibu to make a date weekend out of.
– Napa Valley –
Few things are more romantic that wine tasting with your partner overlooking a gorgeous lake in Napa Valley. Hire a car and have a personal driver take you and your lover on a wine tour through the valley. We hit something like 4 or 5 wineries on our last trip and had an incredible time!
On this trip we also happened to discover our favorite cabernet sauvignon which is made by Kuleto Estate. We loved it so much that we bought a bottle to take with us! For how well-crafted this wine is, the $75 price tag is a fantastic deal.
We saved the bottle for about 6 months until we finally opened it on one of our anniversaries.
Read More: A Weekend Getaway Guide to Napa Valley
– San Diego –
If you’ve never been to San Diego, start planning your trip now. San Diego is essentially the culmination of everything that makes California great.
It is ethnically diverse, with gorgeous beaches, great surf, amazing restaurants, fun nightlife, a strong Hispanic heritage (which translates to having the best Mexican food this side of the border) and super down-to-earth locals.
Read More: San Diego Travel Tips
– Santa Barbara –
Oh Santa Barbara. If you haven’t noticed a theme, we love beaches. With the exception of Napa Valley, every one of our romantic destinations on this list is a beach town!
Santa Barbara is super unique. The beaches are gorgeous, the restaurants are wonderful, and there is so much to do considering how relatively small the city is. State Street offers a great outdoor shopping scene (which you girls are sure to love). Take a nice walk together down State Street and end at the beach!
Depending on what you’re looking for, Santa Barbara also has a great number of bars and a pretty fun nightlife scene.
Last time we visited Santa Barbara together we rented bikes and road all around the beachfront and harbor. Bikes are pretty cheap to rent, so this makes for an awesome budget date day.
After you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Carlito’s for some incredible Mexican food!
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Santa Barbara in a Weekend
READ NEXT: The Best Time to Go to Southern California
Read More
3-Day California Coast Road Trip
The Top 10 Campsites in California
The Ultimate Guide to Venice Beach in a Weekend
Fairytale Cabin Lodging in California
The Ultimate Guide to Santa Barbara in a Weekend
20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit San Francisco
Top Summer Weekend Getaways in the USA
The Ultimate Guide to San Francisco in a Weekend
San Diego Travel Tips
Check out my favorite California style essentials!
5 Romantic Places for Couples in California is a post from: The Blonde Abroad
from The Blonde Abroad http://ift.tt/2ac5ynL
Sunday, July 24, 2016
6 Things to Remember Before Every Trip
Ready for the greatest adventure of a lifetime? Get organized! The world of traveling is full of whirlwind, carefree adventures, but there’s still a lot to do before you go.
One of the best things that any adventurista can do is create a stellar pre-travel check list that you can rely on every time you pack.
I know how hard it is to narrow your whole life down to just one suitcase but, after years of traveling, I’ve found that you never need as much as you think. Still, there are a few things I would never, ever want to be caught without!
Here are my top six things to remember before every trip!
Get Travel Insurance
Better safe than sorry! When it comes to dealing with your health, safety, and cash abroad, it is important to plan. There are so many things that can happen when you are traveling and good travel insurance can make all the difference.
Most health insurance plans won’t cover treatment abroad so it’s vital to get travel insurance that covers all of the health issues, big and small, that can come up on the road.
On top of health coverage, things like lost passports, stolen laptops, misplaced prescriptions, cancelled flights, and other scary situations can totally destroy your trip. Having the right insurance can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and paying tens of thousands of dollars.
I’ve been using World Nomads insurance for years now and it’s a true lifesaver. Before you go anywhere, I highly recommend getting the right insurance for you.
Read More: Ten Reasons to Get Travel Insurance for your Next Trip
Have a Well-Packed Carry-On
I have spent a crazy amount of time on planes and I’ve learned the importance of a well-packed carry-on. First things first, it’s essential to bring a travel pillow, eye mask, and ear plugs so that you have a chance of getting some good shuteye.
As every jetlagged fashionista knows, you also need a good pair of flats, a cozy sweater, and a good pair of compression socks.
Want to arrive looking like a jet-set diva? You don’t need an overstuffed plastic baggie! Just bring along Benefit’s It’s Potent! eye cream, Tarte Amazonian Clay BB tinted moisturizer, and Sugar Lip Treatment by Fresh. I never, ever leave home without this power trio.
Read More: The Ultimate Carry-On Packing Guide
Get a VPN… Trust Me!
Having a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is more important than you might think. If you want to keep your data safe and have uncensored internet access, get a VPN before you go abroad.
By setting up a VPN, you’re able to encrypt your data. This is incredibly important when you’re accessing public or semipublic Wi-Fi networks in places like airports, cafés, and hotels. Without this encryption, you are leaving your usernames, passwords, and credit card numbers at risk.
Knowing that many countries block sites like Netflix, Facebook, and BBC, I signed up for ExpressVPN and love it. Imagine being on a dream vacation and not being able to update your Facebook status! Get a VPN and stay connected.
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Using a VPN When Traveling
Know if You Need a Visa
The sooner you can get your visa, the better. Even the cutest, brightest smile isn’t going to get you past border officials who need your documents. I learned the hard way when I waited too long to get my Brazilian visa in Los Angeles!
It’s really important to research your destination and be 100% sure you’ve got everything you need.
Contact consulates, work with visa agencies, and do whatever you need to do to make sure you are ready well in advance. Never leave visas to the last minute! Paperwork delays can pop up at any time.
Book Accommodation
I’ve seen so many whimsical dreams turn into nightmares when important details aren’t planned. Don’t get me wrong, I love the idea of seeing where the day will take me but it’s important to know where I am going to lay my head at night.
There are countless things that can affect your ability to get a room—sporting events, local holidays, business conferences. If you end up just taking whatever is available, you might find yourself paying way too much money to stay somewhere you don’t really like.
Read More: How to Find Cheap Accommodation Around the World
Awesome Luggage & Day Bags
Having great luggage is more important than you might think! When you are living out of a suitcase, it’s essential to have the perfect bag.
It’s also important to remember that a big suitcase means—guess what—a heavy suitcase. You’ll pack so much just trying to fill the elephant you’ll end up bringing stuff you don’t need.
One carry-on suitcase is probably the optimal size, if you can manage, but larger suitcases can be necessary for long term trips.
On long trips, I travel with a backpack for my computer and camera gear, and a carry-on suitcase. When I can, I check a large, double compartment suitcase because, well, I like outfit choices!
As you guys might have noticed, I’m obsessed with Lo & Sons. I never leave home without my Lo & Sons Claremont crossbody bag for every day hauling. In my opinion, The Claremont bag is a travel must-have for photographers. This leather purse is perfectly designed to fit and protect DSLR cameras.
Read More: How to Pick the Best Travel Bag for Your Next Trip
READ NEXT: 10 Travel Products You Need for Your Next Trip
Read More
How to Avoid Overpacking for a Trip
The Ultimate Carry-On Packing Guide
Ten Essential Tips For Solo Female Travelers
20 Trips to Take in Your 20’s
The Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel
How to Avoid Overpacking for a Trip
The Ultimate Travel Gear Packing Guide
How to Use Pinterest to Plan Your Next Trip
Check out my favorite travel essentials!
6 Things to Remember Before Every Trip is a post from: The Blonde Abroad
from The Blonde Abroad http://ift.tt/2a2t6tB
Thursday, July 21, 2016
Exploring Sri Lanka with Walkers Tours
After my recent trip through the North Central province of Sri Lanka, I joined Walkers Tours to explore the southern region of the country.
Before going, I didn’t realize how spread out destinations were and how much driving was necessary to get around the country. There were days while traveling the northern region that we’d be in the car for four hours just to see one site.
While it was totally worth it, I realized that there’s a lot of planning and driving that has to go into a trip through Sri Lanka, and that’s why I think that a tour company is a great way to do that.
Thanks to Walkers Tours, I was able to see so many things in southern Sri Lanka in just a few days. Insider tips from the guides, reliable and knowledgeable drivers, and the ability to experience things that are off the beaten path really can make all the difference.
If you are going to do a Sri Lanka tour, Walkers Tours is a company you should check out!
About Walkers Tours
This Sri Lankan-owned-and-operated company knows the country inside out. It has been at the top of its game for nearly five decades and it knows exactly what travelers are looking for in Sri Lanka.
From adventure travel to lazy beach getaways, these guys are always ready to lead the way.
Walkers Tours is different from conventional tour companies because they offer totally customized, private excursions in Sri Lanka and a wide range of different packages to inspire you. It took me ages to decide among all of the amazing options.
A cool thing about Walkers Tours is its focus on sustainability. The company has the only carbon-neutral vehicle fleet in Asia and invests heavily in eco-friendly practices in Sri Lanka.
Another thing I liked is their dedication to teaching travelers about Sri Lankan culture. Admittedly, I hadn’t known much about the country before I arrived so I was really looking forward to exploring.
There are cultural and religious festivals going on pretty much all year round in Sri Lanka and having a local at your side makes the celebrations so much more engaging. Not only did I get to see modern life, I also got some insight into Sri Lanka’s long history.
They take you through all of the stunning sites that make up Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage!
My Itinerary
While Sri Lanka is often overlooked for more popular destinations like India and the Maldives, I definitely recommend taking the time to explore this gorgeous tropical nation.
So, I chose to explore the Southern Province and hit the highlights there! In three days, I was able to see:
-
Unawatuna Beaches
-
White Tea Plantation
-
Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home
-
Cinnamon Island
Check out our full itinerary here!
My Experience
Walkers Tour has been awarded countless prestigious titles and I can see why. We had a great experience with Walkers Tours from the planning stages all the way to our drop off at the Colombo Airport.
My driver and guide was incredibly knowledgeable, had many stories and lots of information to share, which added to my experience.
Now that it’s all said and done, I can’t wait to return to Sri Lanka!
READ NEXT: A Guide to Southern Sri Lanka
SHOP my favorite travel essentials!
Exploring Sri Lanka with Walkers Tours is a post from: The Blonde Abroad
from The Blonde Abroad http://ift.tt/2ajIcOU
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
The Best Cities to Travel Alone
Ready to see the world? Do it on your own time line! For the ultimate in indulgent travel, take a solo adventure. There are few things as liberating and exciting as traveling alone.
See exactly what you want to see, maximize every moment, and open yourself up to experiences that you would have never had traveling with friends or family.
Feeling inspired? Get out there! I know traveling alone can be scary, but it is so worth it.
Here are the best cities to travel alone around the world!
– – Rome – –
Few cities on this planet can rival the Eternal City’s rich heritage. Transport yourself back to the ancient Roman Empire then explore the rich modern culture of Italy’s dazzling capital city.
Read More: The Solo Female Traveler’s Guide to Rome
– – Vancouver – –
One of the west coast’s most underrated travel destinations, Vancouver is a chic and modern melting pot surrounded by some of the most striking landscapes and awesome breweries you will find anywhere.
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Vancouver in a Weekend
– – Melbourne – –
I promise you it is worth the trip! When you are tired of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, head down to the sizzling beaches of Melbourne and explore the galleries, theatres, and museums that make up this culturally-rich city.
Read More: 15 Free Things to Do in Melbourne
– – Florence – –
Florence is like a fairy tale that you will never want to leave. The city offers art, fashion, and food that you’ll dream about for years—this is must-see for any culture lover.
Read More: The Best Time to Go to Italy
– – Amsterdam – –
I couldn’t count the number of serious solo travelers who have told me that Amsterdam—with its gorgeous canals, world-famous museums, and infamous nightlife—is their favorite city in the world. Once you go, it’s easy to see why it holds a special spot in so many explorers’ hearts.
Read More: Amsterdam Travel Tips
– – Vienna – –
The hometown of Freud, Mozart, and Beethoven has earned more than a few bragging rights over the years. Its rich history, remarkable palaces, and dynamic history make the Austrian capital the perfect place to explore.
– – Reykjavik – –
Like a breath of fresh air, this eclectic and colorful city is unlike anywhere you have ever been. Explore the city, hike the countryside, and, if you are lucky enough to be there for winter, see the Northern Lights.
Read More: The Solo Female Traveler’s Guide to Iceland
– – Queenstown – –
Nestled on Lake Wakatipu with the Southern Alps in the backdrop, this New Zealand city is home to amazing Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vineyards. As a bonus for solo travelers, Kiwis are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever have the pleasure of meeting.
Read More: Getting Extreme in Queenstown
– – Ghent – –
I love this small Belgium city all year round but there’s no better time to visit than during the yearly 10-day Ghent Festival when performers from all around the world come together to create an atmosphere unlike anything you have ever seen.
Read More: The Beautiful Beers of Belgium Guide
– – London – –
Western Europe’s largest city is the ultimate blend of modern and traditional—you could spend a lifetime exploring London and never get bored. Come alone and prepare to indulge your every whim in the British capital.
Read More: The Ultimate London Travel Guide
– – Venice – –
With its enchanting plazas, world-famous canals, buzzing neighborhoods, and stunning plazas, Venice is the perfect place to sit back and watch the world go by.
Read More: The Best Time to Go to Italy
– – Dublin – –
Explore the rich literary history of the Irish capital and then spend the night listening to traditional Irish music, sipping Guinness, and learning what it really means to be Irish.
Read More: Visiting the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin
– – San Francisco – –
Have a picnic overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, explore the city’s hippie past and eclectic present, and treat yourself to some foodie treasures. Did you know that San Francisco has more farmers’ markets and restaurants per capita than any other city in North America?
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to San Francisco in a Weekend
– – Madrid – –
While the Spanish coast is amazing, Madrid has that something special that makes me want to return time and time again. This golden, sun-drenched city has some of the most beautiful architecture in the world and a nonstop nightlife.
Read More: The Ultimate Madrid Travel Guide
– – Lisbon – –
With thousands of years of history that make up one of Europe’s most fascinating cities, this is the perfect place to travel alone and lose yourself in the explosion of color and sun that is Lisbon.
READ NEXT: 16 Adventurous Trips to Take in 2016
Read More
Ten Essential Tips For Solo Female Travelers
How to Get Awesome Photos as a Solo Traveler
10 Safest Destinations for Solo Female Travelers
The Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel
How to Meet People as a Solo Traveler
6 Fears You Face as a Solo Female Traveler
Ten Mistakes Made by Solo Female Travelers
SHOP my favorite travel and style essentials!
The Best Cities to Travel Alone is a post from: The Blonde Abroad
from The Blonde Abroad http://ift.tt/2auGtTp