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A Visit to Copenhagen Botanical Gardens: Botanisk Have

Paula — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 18:37:18 +0000

Is it worth the time to visit the Copenhagen Botanical Gardens, or Botanisk Have in Copenhagen? If you adore butterflies, beautiful architecture, strolls in the park, and stunning plants, lunch by a tiny lake, then yes the botanical gardens in Copenhagen are well worth a visit when you are in Copenhagen. Plus what an affordable whimsical way to start a trip through the city. On our first full day in Copenhagen we woke up with Danish pastries on our minds. And coffee or lattes of course. Immediately after our first Danish treats of the mother daughter trip, we were ready to start exploring. So off we went to the Natural History Museum. We strolled through the Botanical Gardens on the way there and then after visiting the museum we took the time to enjoythe Palm House and the Butterfly House. The Gardens are a public space that is free to roam and take photos in. There’s a lovely rock garden and some stunning statues throughout. They are stunning even in late October when we visited Denmark. Multiple outdoor flowers were still blooming and throughout Copenhagen roses were thriving which surprised us. It is not super normal to see roses thriving in late October at home in Ontario, Canada. Peppered with charming statues and lovely climbing plants trailing over arched pathways, the garden walkways are charming and very romantic. Where Can You Find Copenhagen Botanical Gardens? Located in the center of the city, the University of Copenhagen Botanical Garden (Botanisk Have) covers 10 hectares and holds Denmark’s largest collection of living plants. Operating as part of the Natural History Museum of Denmark, the oasis serves as a research institution, a conservation hub, and a peaceful refuge for visitors and locals too. Grab your lunch or latte and have a seat. There are some lovely open benches near the water. The Parkmuseerne District The Botanical Garden is a part of the Parkmuseerne museum district in and around King’s Garden, just five minutes’ walk from Nørreport Station. A ticket to Parkmuseerne gives you access to all six museums in one ticket if that’s the way that you want to go and if you are a big museum and history lover. Inquire in advance on line if you need a ticket to the Palm House or Butterfly House to ensure you are not disappointed. History & Foundations The garden was established in 1600 as a modest medicinal herb plot. So historically cool. There is in fact a herbarium but it is not open to the public. Over the next two centuries, as the botanical collection expanded, the garden moved locations several times. In 1870, after Copenhagen decommissioned its old city fortifications, land was set aside to construct a permanent layout. Designed by landscape architect H.A. Flindt, the current garden officially opened to the public in 1874. Today, there are over 13,000 plant species at the Botanical Garden, which are organized into specialized outdoor sections, including native Danish flora, rock gardens, conifer groves, and living gene banks. There’s also a relatively new rhododendron garden, a flower shop and a cafe. The Palm House (Palmehuset) At the very heart of the garden stands its central landmark, the grand Palm House, built between 1872 and 1874. Inspired by London’s famous Crystal Palace, this stunning glass-and-cast-iron structure was designed by architect Peter Christian Bønnecke with generous support from Carlsberg Brewery founder J.C. Jacobsen. Inside the Palm House, the plants are witchy and magical and several reminded me of the tropics. But also, it’s more than a little bit like a really elaborate sensory trail. Memorable Architecture Spanning 2,500 square meters, the Palm House creates a climate-controlled sanctuary for delicate tropical and subtropical species. The interior is divided into separate distinct zones representing different ecosystems, ranging from aquatic habitats and mangrove swamps to arid desert regions filled with cactuses, succulents and dense tropical rainforests. A favourite highlight inside the central dome is the 16-meter-tall cast-iron spiral staircase that leads visitors up to a high canopy walkway, offering wonderful aerial views of giant palms and the city skyline beyond. You can climb this one at a time as it is very narrow and check the view from the top. It is humid of course and while not arduous, it’s also not for the super faint of heart. Narrow wrought iron and see through stairs are not easy for some. Stairs are narrow and winding but there really aren’t that many. However, when we were there was a lineup of people waited to ascend. I suspect this spot gets busy often. Check the web site you go. Sections of the Palm House are slowly being renovated in 2026 and are expected to be completed sometime in 2027. Rotating sections of the Palm House are closing as they are renovated. The Butterfly House Nested within the Palm House complex, the Butterfly House offers a peek into insect biology and plant-animal coevolution. We never met a butterfly house or observatory we didn’t like, so naturally we were happy here. The butterflies liked Payton’s bag, but don’t worry we didn’t leave there with any. Live tropical butterflies flutter freely through a warm, humid rainforest environment filled with blooming orchids, passionflowers, and vanilla plants. Several landed on Payton’s purse and I got a few great pictures. It reminded me a bit of a butterfly conservatory we have visited just outside Cambridge. Beyond the obvious butterfly appeal the exhibit offers an engaging educational experience where visitors can observe every stage of the butterfly lifecycle—from eggs and caterpillars to pupae displaying emerging adults. It also serves as a reminder of broader environmental efforts, using butterflies as indicator species to illustrate the impacts of habitat loss and climate change on global biodiversity. Together, the historic glasshouses and living collections bridge 19th-century botanical heritage with modern conservation. The garden is also used to protect and conserve some endangered species. The Copenhagen Botanical Gardens in 2025, earned the Botanical Garden earned the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI)’s Conservation Practitioner Accreditation. The accreditation highlights the garden’s role in supporting efforts to understand, protect, and preserve plants and their habitats. When we visited, as mentioned, we also explored the Natural History Museum that day which has easy access to the Botanical Gardens, The Butterfly House and the Palm House. The museum itself was also a treat and a great museum to start with. Might share a separate post about that later. Prices were not exorbitant at all and they had a wild number of specimens which really impressed Payton. Anyways, here’s a suggested itinerary you might try if you visit. A Day One Itinerary An efficient itinerary for a day in this area might look like this: Stop 1. The Natural History Museum Stop 2. The Botanical Gardens Stop 3. The Palm House Stop 4. The Butterfly House Grab some food or snacks on the street or at a cafe along the way. Post may contain affiliate links as a service to readers. Any purchases made via qualifying links may mean a small commission for me. Part 2 of the Same Day Moving down the street you will find Kongen’s Have, King’s Garden and the Rosenborg castle. The gardens again are free to stroll and you must actually see these gardens as they are pretty famous, featured on The Bear and a few other movies, and series. Rosenborg Castle: Really enjoyed the castle as well and the Crown Jewels. If it is cold or rainy, the indoor venue obviously is a good spot to hang out. We had good weather when we visited and sunny warm Copenhagen October afternoons. There was really only one chilly windy day and that was in Nyhavvn which of course is right by the water. Kongen’s Have Head back to the area where you are staying and grab yourself some dinner. For us, that was a full day. Save Where You Can While Copenhagen in general can be one of the more expensive cities to visit in Europe, we have several options for inexpensive ways to round out your itinerary. Gardens are often high on the list of free or low cost things that you can do in the United Kingdom and in Europe. Splurge where you need to on the excursions and grab some low cost meals at the grocery store in order to make the most of your time there. Leave Christianborg Castle for Day 2 or 3 and the National Museum of Denmark as well.

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Summer Lessons 2026: You Don’t Need to Earn Rest

Paula — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 14:05:03 +0000

This summer I was driving to the beach to go camping when one of my young adult kids hit me with a life update that sent me reeling and made me incredibly angry. Like cartoon plumes of smoke coming out my ears mad. Parenting Young Adults is Also Hard When your kids are newborns you think this is the hardest stage, the most enjoyable but also the hardest. Then they turn one and you think wow I did it and the next hard thing occurs and the toddler stage is a challenge but the threes will be simple, right? AND ON AND ON it goes….we trick ourselves to keep going. Everyone knows teens will be hard. But nobody fully had a pattern for parenting through a pandemic or a book for managing neurodivergent teens with a brain injury or FASD or chronic illness. Anyways back to the car and the drive… Processing Funny how kids remember to drop big ticket emotional drama on you when you are driving and unable to glare at them or fully provide facial reactions. If I had a dollar for every time my teen or 20 something told me something life altering as I was driving I’d be a millionaire by now. For a good 15 minutes I drove on auto pilot processing a lot of emotions and asking myself: Should I just turn around, unpack the van? Did anyone actually need to be camping? Did anyone deserve to go camping? Shouldn’t we just be working on problem-solving this latest situation all weekend long for the rest of the summer? Onward But in the end, I kept driving. Why? For the first night and part of the next day I questioned being there at all. What was I doing, camping, setting up a tent, going to the beach, cooking on the stove outdoors? Was it worth the effort? Was the weather and the experience worth the gas money and the time? What was I rewarding and why? But you see the issue with that thinking too, don’t you? Rest as a reward? Outdoor adventure, reading in a hammock, hiking as a reward? 🤔 Questioning On the final day, as I was hiking on my own on a self guided meditation trail, I had completely stopped questioning if I made the right choice by continuing the drive to the beach to go camping. ⛺️ This summer I came to the actual realization in my body and my mind that I don’t need to earn rest. It is my prerogative when and where I take it. It’s just one of the summer lessons 2026 that I am carrying forward in life and throughout the rest of the year. Camping is always a factory reset for each of the people in my family. So here’s to taking rest, listening to the waves and the crickets and touching grass when I need to and not scheduling camping in as a reward. And here’s hoping I commit this to memory moving forward. 2027 I am looking at you already. Resetting Resetting or touching grass is important for everyone. In fact there are many studies showing that nature has a dramatic impact on anxiety and mental health. So, next time you think about turning around or if you are sitting on the fence not sure if you should hop in the car and take that road trip for the weekend, remember this: you don’t need to earn rest. It is as essential as taking in air and water and food. So maybe the trip isn’t perfect. I mean is it ever perfect? Someone always forgets something. This year racoons were active at the last two provincial parks we stayed in and they jarred us awake in Sauble Provincial Park and at MacGregor Point when they scrounged a neighbouring campsite at 3 a.m. But camping is so worth it to me and to my family and the reset is valuable even when things go sideways or when the rain and thunder hit. Summer Lessons 2026 Life is messy. It is never ever perfect. Parenting is as far from perfect as it can get, like ever. Polar opposites. I have so many messy parenting experiences that I could easily feel like a huge fail. But here’s the thing. My kids say I love you every day and we my husband and I both say it back. They should never question that I love them with my entire heart. One just graduated from university. One is still stuck a bit as we work through what and how the end of school looks like for them. We are not the same, any of us. What a silly world it would be if we were. Maybe you hate camping. Maybe you don’t. I mean perhaps you find your peace some other place outdoors hiking or skiing. Perhaps it’s inside crafting quietly that resets or allows you to turn off the inner critic. I think the vital thing here for me at least is that we keep going, putting one foot in front of the other and moving on. Discover something new. Explore a different trail. Keep driving and always turn left. Leave Room for You Leave Room for Whimsy Keep Pressing the Gas You don’t need to earn rest or a break or time away. But I am very sure that you need it regardless of who you are and where you are in the parenting journey. I know we all thought COVID was our hard thing, our biggest challenge, but the hits keep coming. So take the rest and set the phone down and wander the trails. Drive the side roads. Explore, rest, repeat. Who Knows – maybe you learn something about yourself along the way.

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The Ultimate Camping Gear Guide: Things We Can’t Live Without

Paula — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 15:57:24 +0000

We just wrapped our fourth camping trip of the season. And while I also love Fall camping and have an entire post about the merits of camping through September, we are not likely to do that this year. At the end of the season we clean and put all of our camping gear away. It’s a good time for us to assess what we have and what we want or need next year. Post contains affiliate links as a service to readers. Any purchases made via qualifying links equal a small commission for me so that I can keep the lights on. Our fourth trip of the season was a fun weekend despite the rainy weather. Our final Labour Day visit was a three night trip to MacGregor Point Provincial Park. MacGregor is one of our all time favourite spots to go. Love their hiking trails and the private little beaches at the park itself. I am not a lifelong camper. In fact, I thought I hated camping and resisted entirely until the pandemic and then because we needed activities we could drive to and I was trying so hard to keep everyone here from losing their minds, we decided to try tent camping. Camping Kids Prevailed The kids, after all, had done years of overnight camps and day camps and on one outback trip to Camp Queen Elizabeth Payton did portaging and much more. So, they had the skills and they asked often if I’d take them camping. The answer was typically along the lines of: “Afraid that’s not the life for me, I would rather stay in a cabin, a cottage or a hotel room.” Until it wasn’t a good answer anymore. At that time, the list of places that people could visit dwindled to within driving range. So I figured what the heck, we all needed something. The chirping crickets, the screeching loud Blue Jays and even the crazy 3 a.m. scavenging of racoons scrabbling down the trees and chasing each other through the park, can’t keep us away. Falling asleep to the sounds of crickets and sometimes the waves of our gorgeous Ontario lakes lapping the shore is healing and restful and glorious. Nothing quite like that. Our Beginner Tent In 2020 I bought an inexpensive Walmart tent which was basically a popup ( as in easy five minute set up ). After we borrowed some camping gear from a friend and off we went. I mean a few years before that my family had worked with Ontario Parks and we had their adorable RV that we drove around the province to five different Ontario Parks locations. The whole family had so much fun documenting the experience. That one sponsored adventure set us up, showed us that we actually love the outdoors in all seasons. And frankly with the right camping gear we realized we could extend our season. Feeling well protected from the elements meant being able to camp into the fall and early in June. So, we’ve been doing this ever since with a tent and a van that’s loaded to the teeth. And with good quality reliable camping gear we have enjoyed a lot of days and a lot of our provincial parks. We have learned a few things about camping gear we love and can’t live without. Since people often ask me on TikTok what I recommend I thought I’d share that post here too. Most of these things are items we own or have borrowed and use all the time. Where there are some recommended items I have noted that they are products we don’t yet have or would recommend if our kids were younger. Main Camping Gear We Travel With These Two Tents Our food tent is used maybe 75% of the time we camp. It is super easy to set up and take down. It collapses into a small carrier bag and fits easily into the van. Our Food Tent Our Coleman food tent above is vital especially in July and sometimes August to keep the bugs out when we hang out or when we are cooking and eating. We actually bought this at Canadian Tire but this Coleman food/ bug tent is available on Amazon if you prefer. It’s actually much cheaper on Amazon. While this tent has been a dream, it just recently started to feel like maybe we have graduated and perhaps we need a bigger sized food and bug tent. I’d suggest this is the beginner level/ intermediate camping food or bug tent. It is excellent but it’s not that big. There are times when you might want a bit more shelter from rainy weather. This Coleman is sturdy and I love the ease of use but it is starting to show its age. Our Coleman Dark Sky Eight Person Tent We started with a basic tent from Walmart as I mentioned. Honestly if it is ever just me and Noah camping then we grab it and go. It sets up in five minutes locks into place and is so easy. But while it says 6 people can fit into it, that’s a stretch. That might be two kids under 8 sleeping with feet to head while parents are the opposite direction. So, when Payton decided to spring for this eight person Coleman tent which has a small vestibule that is covered to keep the bugs out when popping in and out throughout the day, we were thrilled. I mean when she moves out she will take it with her as she always reminds us. But until then it works wonders for all of us. I love the extra space. Frankly, we all like that we can stand up in it and we have a covered entry space for shoes. Your shoes will be fragrant when camping and you do not want those inside where you sleep. Trust me on that one. Why This One? We love this tent. It is HUGE and perfect. There are some organized pockets where you can place your keys or wallets at night and it has a great rainfly. It worked perfectly this past week when we had significant rainfall overnight on night one. Other tents might be water repellant which is not the same. For instance, our old beginner tent will let rain in if it pools on the campsite. The Coleman Dark Sky doesn’t let rain in. Inflatable Mattresses These have come a long way! Inflatable mattresses will probably be the first thing that you have to replace so keep that in mind. These need to be strong enough but easy to set up and take down. They also have to be simple to store over the winter. Last year, Payton bought me a new mattress for Christmas. It is this one right here and I love it. The price is great and it inflates and deflates with a USB charger. That’s easier than using your car chargers/ outlets and dragging it back and forth to the tent from the car. Sleeping Bags The sleeping bags we have are all different. Mine is a cheap old one that I bought at Costco years ago. It does the job. Noah and Payton both have exceptional sleeping bags built for sub zero temperatures. As mentioned they both did sleep away camps and had some outback trips where they needed really good sleeping bags. This Marmot sleeping bag is Noah’s which is excellent. What’s so good about it? It is sturdy and will keep you warm even in -11Celsius weather. The Marmot is high quality and we got in on sale for half off at the end of the season one year. This sleeping bag has been back and forth to Muskoka many times and it has weathered a lot of inclement weather. Camping Stove Can’t believe I almost forgot to include this. It is our good old standby and it was leant to us by Margarita Ibbott whose family used to camp. So, it is well seasoned and it is compact and it works like a dream even still. So reliable and great quality. Of course it is a Coleman cooktop stove. Camping Games and Activities Having a few nature-focused games and activities handy is a lifesaver to keep everyone happy. One of our favourite games on the beach is Bocce Ball. It is so portable and easy to play together. Along with bocce ball, we also have a corn hole game that disassembles. We also have a few easy card games. You can also print out any of my camping printables and take them with you. Camping Roll a Story for instance. BUGS NAT PAT bug patches and bracelets are a staple for us now. Love the gentle patches that we can slap on everything and the citronella scent repels bugs. There might still be some on the tent actually. Will see next season I guess. We often take citronella candles with us too. Pick up a few of the citronella bracelets for each of your companions on the trip too. You will 100% still need Bug Spray regardless of where you are camping. Just buy one now because it will cost you later. And never leave home without After Bite. Bites will still happen. Pack this in the car or the camping first aid box as soon as you can. New Favourite Card Game for Older Kids Last year we bought Cards Against Humanity and it is a hoot. We haven’t laughed so hard in years. We also have an add on the 90s pack. There are many great add on packs. You think you have enough cards but after playing just one season, we found we enjoyed having the variety of the add on packs. Devices You want a couple of these but pick and choose. To me a huge part of the joy of camping is being off tech and unreachable for the most part. Having no service in the park about a week or two ago made me happy actually. Nobody can call and ask me for anything. Wahoo. Chargers are SO Helpful Listen if your phones all die a slow death and there’s an emergency then you are not in a good or healthy space. So chargers are vital. We carry multiple with us as a family. But as long as one person has a rechargeable, reliable charger it’s all good. Also frankly if you travel with teens, they are going to want to connect when you drive to town or anywhere with wifi. Not my priority when camping but just know that you avoid a lot of fights if you pack and carry a charger always. Walkie Talkies? Motorola rechargeable long range and waterproof walkie talkies. Best walkie talkies around at a decent price. You can find cheaper ones but they won’t last and I assure you that they will lose or break one of the cheaper ones at some point so pay for these ones instead. Worth it. I don’t use these because our kids have phones obviously. They are over 20 now. For little people though walkie talkies are perfect. Let them be independent and hop on a bike and explore with their siblings then if they get separated they can connect via these. Protection from the Sun and Rain An Umbrella or Two For in the car, near the RV and by the tent. Prop it outside your tent or in the corner of the tent if it is dry. Why? So you can run to the restrooms or the vault toilets in the night when your kiddo or your bladder wakes you up. A Beach Umbrella I’ll be honest we cheated here and still have one teeny beach umbrella that we got in Port Stanley years ago for $30. But honestly nobody uses these anymore. People bring the big umbrellas for a day at the beach and a family to fit under and be safe when the sun is overly hot. Wagon Listen I didn’t even realize I needed one of these until my family gave it to me for one of my birthdays about 5 years ago. Now, this wagon goes everywhere with us. It collapses, so that is invaluable. The camping wagon also can sit on top of most of the other items in the gate of the van. So functional. Often we walk from the campsite to the beach and set up for the day. WE try to minimize the number of times we need to race back to the site. I mean you will always have bathroom trips too so you don’t want to spend the entire time running back and forth fetching things and visiting restrooms. With the wagon, we can drop our cooler bag, chairs, towels, sunscreen, umbrella and snacks into the wagon and make one organized trip to the beach. Our wagon was a gift but I am certain it came from Costco not Amazon. So keep an eye out next spring for a good Costco version. You can use these for so many purposes. Comfort You cannot simply sit at a picnic table all week or even all weekend long. So, you need to have a few reliable portable pieces for your regular camping gear setup. Camping Couch and Chairs Our chairs are ancient. In fact, we inherited our four family camping chairs from Jim’s Mom and from my Mom. To this day, we still use them all the time. My green chair is slightly nostalgic and the kids love that these are reminiscent of the days when we could camp together or stay at the cottage with grandma. So, buy something sturdy and light. You will carry them everywhere. They don’t need to be fancy. These 20-year-old chairs that we have lasted insanely well. Pretty sure the original price was under $20. One thing I did invest in a few years ago when it was on sale at Costco was this love seat. We call it the camping couch. Easy set up and take down and the cushions are so comfortable. It is my favourite way to wake up. I grab a coffee and sit on the couch with a library book or a birthday novel while the rest of my travel buddies sleep in. Bliss. My Camping Wishlist Every year as the season wraps, I hunt for sales. There are a few products left in the camping section of Walmart and other stores you frequent. But don’t just buy it because it is on sale. You will almost always need any least one reliable camping tarp in the event there’s rain. You will often need more portable propane canisters and sturdy rope. Sometimes you might want to upgrade the camping dishes. But generally you don’t want to overspend on any of this stuff. All of these dishes and pots and pans get dirty and sit all winter in boxes waiting to be sprung out again, so choose reliable and sturdy. This year we scooped up another heavy duty tarp and some twine so we can set up a fast A frame over the love seat and the chairs. Truthfully, I wanted to see if there was a big food tent on sale at all. But no luck this time. The Portable Kitchen This Coleman Kitchen camping setup has been on my radar for a couple of years now. Typically we do the dishes lowkey with a washing bin, soap and a dish drying rack on the picnic table but the height is completely wrong for our backs so that ends up doing Payton and I both in over the course of a couple of days. So my dream is to own this super functional portable and parkway kitchen set. A Portable Change room A Popup change room could be helpful when camping and it doesn’t take up much space. That said, it isn’t 100% necessary. We take turns changing in the tent and there are many discreet ways to change when you are travelling. Not crucial but a nice to have maybe if the price is right. You Don’t Need a Lot to Get Started Really and truly you don’t need that much to get started. If you are new a solid tent and dishes and something to cook on should suffice. Of course sleeping bags and mattresses are essential too. Add on as you go. Be sure that you also get rid of the old broken things but buy quality products first. Like our chairs that we inherited, if you find or inherit old camping gear that lasts it can be a staple and it will also enhance your adventure. Happy Camping! Is there anything we missed?

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What to Expect at Stonehenge

Paula — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 18:54:58 +0000

When my oldest daughter Payton graduated this year from university with her undergraduate degree, I knew we had to plan an epic adventure together to mark the occasion. Since we loved Scotland so much last fall during Reading Week, we decided London would be logical and it just made sense. We still had our UK electronic travel visas, because they are valid for two years from the time you receive approval. Beyond that, we were both dying to see a few unique landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Stonehenge. So we were off to the UK again! Our Unforgettable Journey to Stonehenge It was late May when my daughter and I embarked on our London, UK, journey and we landed during a massive heatwave. So we ended up building in lots of breaks for shade and hydration and we wore super light clothing everywhere but other than that we were up for seeing as much as possible during the week-long visit. From London, we headed to the stunning city of Bath England by bus. We were feeling very Bridgerton meets Jane Austen by the time we boarded again on the road to Stonehenge. Of course, Stonehenge topped my list of locations and sites to see while we were in England. Sometimes when I travel as readers know I like to go with the flow, but I also set myself up with a rough itinerary of non negotiable spots. My daughter is the same and while we can both side quest hard, we typically agree we have to see as many museums and historical landmarks as humanly possible. Food is another story entirely but you can check my TikTok for more details on how we ate while in England. The Benefit of a Group Tour From my last few years visiting some incredible cities around Europe we have learned to check that our top priority locations and tours have space before we leave home. Read the blogs, check the online reviews. Nobody likes being disappointed when you travel so far from home. So, we had a rough idea of what we needed to see, what our budget was for tours, and what days each of the tours had availability. Sometimes I wait until we are actually in the country before booking. I want to have a bit of a context for where the pickups will be physically and where the offices are located in the event that we have an issue. Hope for the best and plan for the worst and you will always be prepared. Disclosure: Post may contain affiliate links as a service to readers. Purchase the same tour here: https://gyg.me/gs3jjfVW The idea of renting a car and driving on our own did not appeal to me on this vacation. So, after we got checked into our accommodations on Day One, we booked our tour. This specific group trip, featuring three UNESCO heritage sites, had us on a full-day guided bus tour with about 50 – 60 other people and it was more than worth it. First were the Bridgerton hotspots, followed by Stonehenge and then Windsor Castle. Three UNESCO sites in a day! Sign me up! Arriving in the area by car or tour bus, you are then ushered to another bus which gets as close as it can to the site. While you can walk from the visitor area and the parking lot, a good deal of the trek is uphill and it can be either super windy or extremely hot as it was when we visited. So sit back and enjoy the five minute uphill bus ride. Trust me on this. Educational Information There are numerous placards and informational signs erected around the site once you arrive and you can download an app that will act as a guide as well. Both will help you can brush up on the facts. There are also cute Instagram locations with suggested photo opps. The stones themselves are obviously roped off to prevent anyone from touching and harming the structure. Over time enough harm has been done to the spot by those who had no clue of its value. Stonehenge History Wild theories run rampant on who, what and how this impressive landmark came to be. But the reality of this Neolithic marvel is that it is most likely a calendar. Sometimes the most logical explanation is also the answer. Unlocking the Mystery Dating back to approximately 3100 BC, Stonehenge is much more than just a well visited circle of rocks. Stonehenge is one of the world’s greatest mysteries. So what do we know? The word henge technically refers to a bank and a ditch, which are still present at the site, along with evidence of ancient hunting pits surrounding the area. The area was used by hunters. Their prey would fall into the surrounding pits making the kill easier for hunters at the time. An Engineering Marvel The massive outer Sarsen stones are gargantuan, with the largest weighing an incredible 31 tons. Looking at these monoliths, you realize the impossible labour involved in their construction. Researchers estimate that it would have taken 200 to 400 young men to lift just a single stone, with the entire process of transporting and erecting them likely spanning years. The contrast between the stones is fascinating. While the massive Sarsen stones create the outer structure, the bluestones form the inner circle. Seeing them up close, kind of leaves you with more questions than you had when you arrived. Like how is this actually a possibility? How on earth could anyone or anything have lifted the stones into place? Were aliens actually involved? Alright I know that theory has been discounted but still it is a curiosity especially since there’s no clear answer how this marvel could have been built. More Than Stones Stonehenge most definitely is testament to the ingenuity of a people who, despite lacking modern machinery, possessed a sophisticated understanding of engineering. By the way back near the visitor centre there is also a miniature neolithic village model. Walk through it to gain perspective on how people lived back then. Random Area Trivia: Did you know, the word Avon, the river that winds nearby, actually means river in the Celtic language? Just another nod to the landscape that has sustained this site for millennia. Beyond the mystery of the construction and the fun photo opportunities, Stonehenge functions as a complex calendar, aligning perfectly with the sun during solstices. Whether it was used for ritual ceremonies, burial rites, or tracking the seasons, the site carries a heavy, sacred atmosphere that has survived for over 5,000 years. On June 21, the longest day of the year, the sun rises over the Heel Stone at Stonehenge. The sun always sets over the Heel Stone on the shortest day of the year. Researchers believe Stonehenge was an astronomical calendar linked to the study of the stars. Other Theories Some other theories suggest that the site could have been a place of healing where sick people flocked in hope of being cured by the miraculous powers of the monument. Others think the site may have been a Stone Age ‘computer’ that credited solar or lunar eclipses, or a temple to the sun or moon gods. Payton and I were both excited and energized to finally see it in person. The day we visited tourist traffic was steady but not at all overwhelming. Despite the millions of photos you might have seen online, nothing is better than standing there and seeing it in person. Stonehenge serves as a humbling reminder of human persistence and our ancient desire to connect with the cosmos. A Few Surprises About Stonehenge Just past the fields full of sheep grazing, you will probably spy a weird batch of parked RVs. Good news you are almost there. Why so many trailers? Are they filming something? Stonehenge itself feels like it is in the middle of nowhere so why so many RVs? They look like movie trailers or trailer homes almost. Maybe a nod to storm chasers from the movies. In fact, the tour guide told us later there are some people who simply live here year round. They pull up in their RV and park on a side road and stay. Other weird facts: at one point a farmer owned this spot, Stonehenge and all having really no clue of its archeological impact. Why So Many Trailers? Because Stonehenge has such a mystical connotation to it and the mystery remains around who, how and why it came to be, it is also thought to possess a specific energy. The pursuit of the energy is one reason why people stay here year round. Imagine the greatest crystals or a surreal energy force. Some people believe that perhaps, being near it might lead you to another level of consciousness or that it has healing qualities. Tips Of course like all tourist destinations, there is a shop at the end of the trip. Don’t forget to sample the MEAD, if it is being sampled. As far as spending money goes, we are budget travellers. So while there were a lot of cutesy local souvenirs we left without indulging too much. Payton bought me a sticker for my laptop and we got a small packet of postcards. Generally speaking, photos and memories are enough for me. Final Thoughts If you find yourself in England, prioritize a trip to Stonehenge on the Salisbury Plain. It is a bucket-list destination that truly earns its reputation. I don’t think you will be disappointed. Oh and if the bus driver tries to trick you with a Stonehenge is closed for cleaning the stones bit, don’t fall for it. Cue eye roll. Stonehenge was our second stop of the day on a tour that took us to three UNESCO Heritage sites. Loved this tour and honestly couldn’t recommend it more. Totally worth the money.

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10 Budget-Friendly Day Trips in Southern Ontario

Paula — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 14:03:00 +0000

This summer, as we explore, we are doing so close to home camping and embracing budget-friendly day trips in southern Ontario. We are so lucky with so many great beaches and day trips in a short drive. WE will be camping and finding fun adventures together when time permits. become exceptionally resourceful at finding opportunity near London Ontario. I mean ever since the pandemic of 2020, we have come to value day trips even more. We perfected day trips from 2020 to 2022. In fact I have a post about that very thing. Iconic Day Trips it’s called. Rediscovering Local Magic In a season defined by rising living costs and fluctuating gas prices, the dream of a grand family vacation can sometimes feel out of reach. But as many of us are finding, some of the best memories aren’t made thousands of miles away. They are waiting just a short drive down the road. Southern Ontario is brimming with hidden gems that offer world-class charm and excitement without the heavy price tag. If you’re looking to make the most of your summer without breaking the bank, here is our guide to ten incredible local destinations that prove adventure is always closer than you think. 1. St. Marys Known for its beautiful limestone architecture, St. Marys is the perfect spot for an active day. Pack a picnic and head to the famous Quarry, Canada’s largest outdoor freshwater swimming pool, which offers an affordable, tropical-feeling retreat right in the heart of town. 2. Stratford While world-famous for its theatre, Stratford is incredibly family-friendly on a budget. Spend your day wandering the beautifully maintained Shakespearean Gardens, feeding the swans along the Avon River, or taking a self-guided stroll to discover the town’s stunning public art. I could go on for days about all of the fun things to do in Stratford. Maybe you can book a show when you are there. Find one of the matinees performances or look for a 2 for 1 deal or a student discount. DON’T miss the cat cafe in Stratford too. Book it here and spend an hour playing with the cats at this adorable local spot. 3. Port Stanley For a classic beach day, Port Stanley is a must-visit. While the Main Beach provides that quintessential “resort” feel with its bustling boardwalk and ice cream shops, Little Beach offers a quieter, shallower, and completely free alternative that is perfect for families with younger children. 4. Bayfield This historic village on the shores of Lake Huron is all about small-town charm. Spend your afternoon wandering the quaint Main Street, grab a treat, and head down to the beach to watch one of the most spectacular sunsets in the province, an unforgettable experience that won’t cost you a dime. 5. Goderich Known as Canada’s prettiest town, Goderich is home to an incredible 1.5-kilometre waterfront boardwalk. It’s the perfect place for a family bike ride or a long walk along the shoreline, offering easy access to three beautiful beaches, plenty of picnic shelters, and playgrounds. There are some adorable shops throughout the city as well. 6. Kitchener When you need a break from the outdoors, Kitchener offers fantastic indoor options that turn any day into an adventure. From high-energy trampoline parks to expansive indoor playgrounds, there are plenty of spots where the kids can burn off steam regardless of the weather, providing great value for an afternoon of fun. Kitchener has a great waterpark and campsite called Bingemans. 7. Guelph Guelph is a treasure trove for families who love the outdoors. Spend the day at Riverside Park, where you can hop on the miniature train or enjoy the carousel, then head over to the Boathouse for an ice cream before strolling along the picturesque Speed River. 8. Port Burwell Home to one of Ontario’s provincial parks, aptly named Port Burwell Provincial Park, this tiny spot is one we visit almost every year. It is just over an hour from our home in London. That means we can leave if anyone gets sick or if the weather turns into something we’d rather not endure. The sandy beach at Port Burwell is ideal for a full day of swimming, searching for beach glass or sandcastle building, and the park’s hiking trails offer a peaceful way to explore the unique dunes. The tiny downtown has an excellent ice cream shop. There are a couple of local small town shops you might want to explore too. There used to be an incredible crystal store here that the kids loved but it closed a couple of years ago. We headed to Burwell again about two weeks ago and had a great visit again. I love Port Burwell Provincial Park because the camp sites are a great size, the location is family friendly and I always find the best views of constellations from the field as we walk to the washrooms in the middle of the night. Makes having a tiny bladder worth it. LOL. 9. Aylmer If you’re looking for a low-key day of fun, Aylmer’s parks are stunning. With free disc golf courses, splash pads, and beautiful trails, it’s a wonderful place to spend a day outdoors. Pack your own lunch and enjoy the shade of the mature trees at Balmoral Park for a stress-free, budget-friendly escape. 10. St. Thomas Steeped in railway history, St. Thomas is a delight for curious minds. Beyond its lovely community parks and recreation facilities, the city’s rich history and local events make it a great spot for a relaxed day trip where you can explore the local character at your own pace. Don’t miss Pinafore Park. Southern Ontario Beaches Southern Ontario beaches are more than worth the drive, believe it or not. Don’t miss out. Don’t assume you have to drive as far as Sauble or Wasaga, unless you want to or clearly can spare the gas. Pack the car or the van and take a quick drive. These trips will see you saving on gas and enjoy the waves and the vibes at the beaches of Lake Huron or Lake Erie. From Grand Bend to Port Stanley and Port Burwell, there are more beaches than you realized and many are within a 1-2 hour drive of home. Take advantage! What is your favourite day trip in Southern Ontario that your family returns to year after year?

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How to Build a Cozy Travel Wardrobe That Lasts

Paula — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 15:23:09 +0000

A cozy travel wardrobe should feel soft, look polished, and suit several parts of each trip. Every piece needs a clear purpose, a comfortable fit, and enough versatility for repeat use. Thoughtful choices also reduce suitcase weight and simplify daily outfit decisions. Sleepwear deserves the same care as daytime clothing, especially during flights, hotel stays, and quiet mornings. Quality bamboo pajamas for women can provide breathable softness, flexible comfort, and light coverage without excess bulk. Allow me to explain how fabric, colour, fit, layers, and proper care can create a travel wardrobe that lasts. Start With a Coordinated Colour Palette A simple colour palette allows each garment to work with several outfits. Neutral shades such as black, cream, navy, taupe, or soft gray can form a reliable base. One muted accent shade can add personality without limiting outfit combinations. Choose two main colours and one accent that suits the destination and season. A neutral cardigan can pair with a dress, lounge set, or basic top. This approach creates variety without a separate outfit for every activity. Choose Fabrics Made for Comfort Fabric quality affects softness, suitcase space, durability, and overall comfort. Bamboo blends, fine cotton, and soft stretch fabrics can feel pleasant across long travel days. Lightweight materials also take up less room and adapt well to warm rooms or cool cabins. Look for fabrics that offer practical benefits: Check care labels before each purchase. A garment that requires complex treatment may become inconvenient during extended trips. Easy-care fabric supports repeat use and helps preserve the original texture. Create Three Core Outfit Options Three dependable outfit bases can cover most travel plans. A relaxed transit outfit, a polished daytime look, and a comfortable rest set offer enough variety for short or extended trips. Each base should pair with at least one outer layer and two shoe options. Transit Outfit Select soft pants, a breathable top, and a light cardigan. The fit should permit natural movement without loose fabric that catches on luggage. Comfortable shoes and a compact bag complete the look. Daytime Outfit A simple dress, soft trousers, or a coordinated knit set can suit meals, walks, and casual plans. A scarf, belt, or subtle jewelry can create a more refined appearance. The outfit should remain comfortable after several hours of wear. Rest Outfit A pajama or jogger set can support sleep, room service, early departures, and slow mornings. Choose enough coverage for shared spaces and enough softness for restful nights. A lightweight robe can add warmth without another bulky layer. Use Light Layers for Temperature Changes Airports, aircraft cabins, hotel rooms, and outdoor spaces may have very different temperatures. Several thin layers provide greater flexibility than one heavy garment. A tank, long-sleeve top, cardigan, and weather-resistant jacket can cover several conditions. Each layer should have a clear role. The base layer should feel soft, the middle piece should add warmth, and the outer garment should protect against wind or light rain. This structure prevents duplicate items that add suitcase weight without much value. A compact scarf can also serve several purposes. It can provide warmth during travel, add color to a basic outfit, or offer light coverage during an evening meal. Select a soft material that folds flat and resists deep creases. Select Sleepwear with Versatile Details Travel sleepwear should provide restful comfort and a neat appearance. Short sets can suit warm destinations, while long sets offer extra coverage in cooler rooms. Jogger-style sets can also serve as casual loungewear during quiet hours. Useful details include: Solid shades pair easily with robes, cardigans, and slippers. Subtle prints can add visual interest without reducing versatility. The ideal set should feel suitable for sleep, breakfast, or relaxed hotel time and is a key part of your travel wardrobe. Limit Shoes and Accessories Shoes take up significant suitcase space, so each pair should meet a specific need. A supportive walking shoe, a neat flat, and a compact sandal can cover most casual travel plans. Neutral shades help each pair work with every core outfit. Accessories should stay light and practical. A scarf, small earrings, a simple belt, and a versatile bag can refresh familiar clothing without excess weight. Foldable slippers can also add comfort during hotel stays. Choose Lasting Quality Over Extra Pieces A cozy travel wardrobe does not require a large collection. Fewer garments with durable seams, useful coverage, flexible fits, and dependable fabrics can support several trips. Careful selection also makes each suitcase easier to organize. One reliable set of bamboo pajamas for women can support hotel rest, long journeys, quiet mornings, and relaxed evenings. This versatility reduces the need for several separate lounge pieces while preserving comfort. A coordinated colour also helps the set pair naturally with robes or cardigans. A practical travel wardrobe should feel calm, comfortable, and easy to use from departure to return. Soft fabrics, coordinated colours, flexible layers, and reliable sleepwear create useful outfit options without excess bulk. Proper care protects fit, texture, and appearance across repeated trips. Each garment should support several moments rather than one narrow occasion. Thoughtful choices create a lighter suitcase and a wardrobe that remains useful for years.

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Travel with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard

Paula — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 13:56:21 +0000

If you have an invisible disability and need to travel this tool can be invaluable worldwide for you and your family

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Why Bath England is the Ultimate Regency Delight

Paula — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:09:08 +0000

If you’ve ever watched Bridgerton and thought to yourself wouldn’t it be grand to be transported to the set for real, then you might need to visit Bath England. My recent trip to Britain and side quest to Bath on a bus tour, with my daughter Payton felt a lot like stepping onto the set of a Regency-era daydream. By now you know that we are big fans of our mother daughter trips. Payton and I travel well together and this year after I completed a strategic communications course and Payton graduated from university with her Bachelor of Arts in Thanatology, we wanted to celebrate. So, we booked our flights to London, England. Once we arrived in England then we booked our tours. This exact one is via Get Your Guide. Book It Now – > This is my affiliate link to the tour 3 UNESCO heritage sites in a day. Highly recommend. Even with a late spring heatwave turning up the temperature, there was something undeniably magical about wandering through the streets of Bath England. Here is why Bath is the perfect destination for any Bridgerton fan, history, or literature lover. A City That Needs No Filter Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason. It is first of all a 2,000 year old city. As a Canadian, that kind of history is wildly impressive to me. Bath’s Georgian architecture is almost instantly recognizable, if you studied history or art or even Latin you will be transported through history and time. It’s so easy to see how movie magic and the historical streets of Bath could be transformed to 19th-century London. Unfortunately some of the historic buildings in Bath England did not survive unscathed during WWII. While Hitler at that time had designs on living in Oxford or Windsor, he bombed areas like Bath and Bristol during his night raids. Seeing the history and embracing the literary feel of Bath England made my week. I remembered stories of the Roman baths well from Latin classes and from history too. So I was really into that at least, until I spied the Modiste storefront and had an immediate fangirl moment. Who doesn’t love Bridgerton? During our visit in late May and early June, the wild spring heatwave gave Bath such a languorous feel which seeped through to the Roman Baths. Walking around, you will spy The Royal Crescent which served as the Featherington family home interior. We almost expected to see a carriage pull up at any moment. You don’t need a costume to feel like you’re part of the plot. Strolling the streets is an immersive experience in itself. Some Real-Life Filming Locations Many movies and series have been filmed showcasing London area and Bath is frequently tapped for the sets as well. If you are a big Bridgerton fan then one of the best ways to get your fix is by hitting the filming hotspots. If you have seen the entire series and are eagerly awaiting the upcoming season, you’ll recognize these places: Four Bridgerton Filming Spots in Bath England: More Than Just a Backdrop While the Bridgerton connection is a huge draw, Bath has been a destination for tourists and literary lovers for over 2,000 years. If you need a break from the Bridgerton obsession, here’s how to channel classic Bath energy: The Roman Baths The Roman Baths are a must. They’ve been drawing visitors to these natural thermal springs since 60 AD. Take your time touring the Roman baths. Grab an interactive guide at the front when you enter the building and follow the instructions at each stop. There are so many instagram moments inside the baths and hundreds of artifacts from the time period that lend to the story. While you can’t dip your toes in the ancient Roman water anymore, you can head over to the modern Thermae Bath Spa to soak in the rooftop pool and look out over the city skyline. If that’s your cup of tea, then it might just be your ultimate main character moment. Jane Austen Channel Your Inner Jane Austen: Bath was a massive part of Jane Austen’s life, and you can visit the Jane Austen Centre to get a deeper look at the era. It’s a great way to bridge the gap between Regency fact and fiction. Tea and Treats You can’t do Regency England without a proper tea. Whether you’re stopping at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House or finding a quiet spot near the Pump Room, take time to slow down. Even during a heatwave, a drink and a bit of people-watching in a leafy square feels very proper. Also, I know, I know you are all thinking tea in a heatwave, in the summer? I was raised by a British Mom and my British grandma was also a role model for me so let me hold your hand when I tell you this: you can drink tea in the summer. Hot tea is comforting always. Maybe the patio at the pub works better for you. Maybe like us, you wanted a fast takeaway so you could see all the sights possible. We lucked out choosing the bakery with the longest lineup only because to me that’s a clear sign the food is great and it did not disappoint. Cornish Bakery has some of the most impressive Cornish pastys, coffees, teas and scones. Highly recommend the orange creme brûlée scone. It was perfection. My “Bridgerton” Takeaway Visiting during a heatwave added a certain intensity to the experience. We were constantly seeking shade, sipping iced drinks, and feeling the kind of dramatic energy that the characters often display in the show’s stressful moments. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Bridgerton, a history buff, or just someone who appreciates stunning architecture, Bath is a city that invites you to slow down, sightsee, journey back in time and pretend, even if only for a weekend, that you’re the talk of the Ton. Pro-tip: Dearest reader, book your walking tours or your bus tours in advance. They fill up fast, and there’s nothing worse than missing out on the best scandalous gossip. Have you been to Bath? Or are you still dreaming of your first trip? Let me know in the comments. These are a few of my favourite travel things I rarely fly without. Affiliate links provided as a service to my readers. I receive a small commission from qualifying links. My favourite travel items: Tiny Inui Portable power bank charger My Pink Packing cubes are not fancy but they do the job Anker Nano European adapter which works in over 100 countries

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A Self Guided Edinburgh Literary Itinerary

Paula — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 14:22:32 +0000

The towering aging Sir Walter Scott Monument is the first thing you see, like a signal you have arrived in Edinburgh, a UNESCO City of Literature. Completed in 1837, second largest monument to a writer in the world, we catch the first glimpse of the monument upon arriving by train from Glasgow. It’s one of those moments that travel and culture hits you in the best way, reminding you that you are definitely not at home anymore. On one of the days you visit Edinburgh, if you are a literature loving guy or gal like me, you might wish to build a day in for exploring all of the literary landmarks and haunts dedicated to a love of the written word. Sir Walter Scott and perhaps also J.K. Rowling are the most well known writers globally to have strong ties to the city. But there are so many more. There are 63 UNESCO Cities of Literature worldwide. Some are known for their ties to publishing industry and others are true literary destinations. Turns out Amsterdam is also on that list which I didn’t know when we visited the city. Here’s a Look at an Easy Edinburgh Literary Itinerary Take a day and make it literary. You are, after all, in a UNESCO City of Literature. 1. Visit the Writers’ Museum The Museum is free and easy to find – it’s just off Lawnmarket, a part of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, in Lady Stair’s Close. There are low ceilings and narrow staircases. It’s more than worth the visit but note it’s an old building and not accessible. Pay attention to the surrounding area. There are several adorable Instagram photo spots and winding closes that are gorgeous to stroll on the way there from the Royal Mile and also on the way to your next spot. What’s Inside? Situated within the 17th-century walls of Lady Stair’s House, the Writers’ Museum serves as a sanctuary for the stories of Scotland’s literary titans. These three are key: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Beyond a remarkable collection of rare manuscripts and portraits, the museum offers an intimate look at these authors through personal items, such as Burns’ writing desk and the very press that gave life to Scott’s Waverley novels. 2. Scott Monument Sir Walter Scott was widely considered the founder of the literary scene in Edinburgh. Scott’s writing drew attention to Scottish culture and then fell out of favour before his writing a reputation surged yet again in the 20th century. Obviously he is a necessary stop in any Edinburgh Literary Itinerary. Standing proudly in the heart of Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens, the Scott Monument is a striking Victorian Gothic tribute to one of Scotland’s most celebrated authors, Sir Walter Scott. Completed in 1846, this 200-foot-tall statue was designed by self-taught architect George Meikle Kemp and remains one of the largest monuments dedicated to a writer anywhere in the world. The structure is adorned with 68 figurative statues of characters from Scott’s novels, while its base features a magnificent Carrara marble statue of the author accompanied by his faithful hound, Maida. 3. Greyfriar’s Kirkyard Find the inspo for many Harry Potter characters here. I have another post about Greyfriars on Thrifty Mommas Tips. Don’t miss it. This is the old moody and historic cemetery which gave JK Rowling some of the ideas for the names of characters. All of the Memento Mori art details on several headstones and tombs reminded me thematically of the series. 4. Stroll down Diagon Alley and browse literary spots Find the Harry Potter themed stores that remind you of the series. There are many used book stores in the city and a couple of them are extremely well known. For instance, walk down Diagon Alley – Elizabeth Street – and locate the Museum Context, which will have a lineup. It is always busy so plan ahead. If you are a diehard fan and need to go inside prepare to wait. There are great souvenirs inside if you are willing to wait. Down the street just a little, you will find John Kay’s Shop. 5. Peruse the National Library of Scotland The National Library of Scotland hosted a one-day pop-up display in November 2025, focused on Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and we happened upon it on the last day in Edinburgh. Highly recommend visiting to see what they have in store when you are in town. This is a great last stop in an Edinburgh Literary Itinerary. Held at their George IV Bridge building in Edinburgh, this popup featured rare letters, including one where Shelley corrected Sir Walter Scott on the book’s authorship. ‘It was me who wrote it and not my husband.’ If you know me at all, you know why this hooked me and my daughter Payton. The library is a marvel of architecture and accessibility and frankly more like an art gallery than a library in that it had some insanely impressive exhibits including one about disability. Edinburgh is one of the most walkable cities we have ever visited. Take advantage and explore on foot. You can easily turn any afternoon into a self guided tour if you do some research first and bookmark the locations you want to see. Enjoy this gorgeous UNESCO city of literature. What other UNESCO heritage spots have you visited?

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Join Me on the Trip of a Lifetime: Christmas Market River Cruise

Paula — Fri, 22 May 2026 15:17:00 +0000

Cat’s out of the bag. I have been working on a most amazing once in a lifetime itinerary for a Christmas market river cruise down the Danube River. This collaboration is with Indus Travels, providing exceptional experiences for group travel since 2001. We leave November 30th on an epic 9 day, 8 night River Cruise with Christmas markets down the Danube! Read on for all the details. Partnering with Indus on this adventure is a dream come true! A Little About Indus Travels Navigating global travel can often be complex, requiring meticulous planning. Indus Travels and their team of expert Travel Planners design each itinerary in close collaboration with a trusted network of local partners. Thanks to buying power and long-standing relationships with airlines and suppliers, they are able to negotiate the best possible rates and pass the savings directly to you. Indus Travels delivers exceptional value, maximizing your budget without ever compromising on quality or cutting corners. Option 1 pricing is available with flight included above and the lower price is with flight not included in the event you want to book the flight yourself. Check out the Market Itinerary Now We will sleep on the cruise ship. Many meals on board included. Please check the link below for all the details. All rooms are based on double occupancy. The Christmas market river cruise is one of a kind and a truly memorable trip that often sells out fast. Drop a deposit of $500 to commit to attending and pay the remainder by the end of the month. The Amazing Christmas Market Cruise Itinerary: Christmas Markets are magical and I am so looking forward to this trip more than you know. The cruise leaves from Munich and then goes on to Passau, Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava and Wachau and Melk. I mean these ports and markets are brilliant. Imagine This Picture this: November 30th arriving in Munich, Germany, settle in on board and relax before we sail away down the Danube. Wake up to breakfast on board and a tour of some of the most well known and memorable Christmas markets in Europe. I imagine it feels like being dropped into a Hallmark movie! Contact Sabine for more information. sabine@indus.travel. Of course, you can always reach out to me if you want any other details. You deserve this adventure and the price is reasonable for the content and the inclusions. Join us for this one of a kind Christmas market cruise. The Christmas market river cruise often sell out. Indus Christmas Market trips are extremely well done and always a joy! This is your sign to book the trip now. See this link for more information and to book the trip now.

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