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🌎 Tried & True Travels: My Must-Do Picks Abroad
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items Every spot on this list is something I’ve personally done and loved — from colorful markets in Central America to dreamy nights in European cities. These are the activities, tours, and experiences that lived up to the hype (or totally surprised me). ...
Sections
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Mexico – Coastal Gems & Cenote Dives
Spain – My Study Abroad Staples & Spanish Soul Spots
Hungary – 8 Trips Later, These Still Wow Me
Caribbean Cruise Ports – Port Day Pro Tips & Must-Dos
Mexico – Coastal Gems & Cenote Dives
From hidden cenotes to iconic ruins and island escapes, these are my favorite must-dos (and dream-to-dos) around Cancun and Cozumel. Whether you're a beach bum or an adrenaline chaser, I’ve got you covered.
Swimming alongside whale sharks is hands-down one of the coolest things you can do in the Cancun area — and yes, it’s absolutely as magical as it sounds! This experience is perfect for all ages and adventure levels, and it's only available during cer...
🐋 Swim with Whale Sharks – An Unforgettable Ocean Adventure!
While the dolphin experience here is decent (there are stronger options in other countries), the real highlight is the Manatee Encounter — and it absolutely stole my heart. If swimming in the open ocean isn’t your thing, this lagoon-based activity is...
🐬 Hidden Gem: Manatee Encounter at Dolphin Discovery, Isla Mujeres
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Looking for a quirky, kid-friendly activity with plenty of laughs and amazing photo ops? The 3D Museum of Wonders is a perfect pick! It’s a bit cheesy in the best way, making it a great spot for family fun or a rainy day escape in Playa del Carmen. G...
🎨 3D Museum of Wonders – A Fun, Cheesy Adventure for All Ages
If you’ve ever been nervous about swimming with stingrays, Stingray Beach in Cozumel is the perfect spot to ease those fears! All the stingrays here are debarbed and rehabbed, living safely in captivity, so you can enjoy an up-close experience withou...
🐾 Stingray Beach – Safe & Stunning Stingray Encounter in Cozumel
Explore the stunning Mayan ruins of Tulum, set against the breathtaking Caribbean coastline, then cool off with a refreshing swim in a nearby cenote. It’s the perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty all in one unforgettable day!
Tulum Ruins & Cenote Swim – A Perfect Mexican Adventure
Xcaret truly has it all — from underground rivers and snorkeling to cultural performances and wildlife encounters. Whether you're looking to relax, explore, or soak in Mexican history and traditions, this eco-archaeological park delivers on every lev...
🌿 Xcaret Park – All-In-One Adventure in Playa del Carmen
This breathtaking underground river system is consistently ranked as a top experience near Playa del Carmen—and for good reason. With crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone formations, and awe-inspiring caves, Rio Secreto looks like something out o...
🌌 Rio Secreto – Nature’s Underground Masterpiece
While I haven’t had the chance to visit Cenote Cristalino myself (I’m a bit wary of snakes and fish!), it comes highly recommended by friends and travelers alike. This crystal-clear cenote is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing surrounded ...
💧 Cenote Cristalino – A Natural Oasis You Can’t Miss
While group tours can be fun and social, this private Chichén Itzá experience offers something even better: freedom and personalization. Skip the hassle and travel comfortably at your own pace. Whether you're a history buff or just checking off one o...
🏛️ Private Chichén Itzá Tour – History Without the Hassle
Spain – My Study Abroad Staples & Spanish Soul Spots
I lived, studied, and siesta’d my way through Spain—and these are the places that stayed with me. From everyday gems to weekend trips I’ll never forget, here’s my guide to making Spain feel like home.
The Prado Museum is a must-visit while in Madrid, home to some of the most iconic masterpieces in European art. While wandering the halls solo is always an option, taking a guided tour truly elevates the experience—bringing stories, history, and hidd...
🎨 Skip-the-Line Prado Museum Tour – Art That Comes Alive
The Royal Palace of Madrid is one of Europe’s largest functioning royal palaces — a dazzling blend of history, art, and grandeur. Opting for a guided, skip-the-line tour means you breeze past the sometimes-hour-long queues and dive straight into magn...
🏰 Royal Palace of Madrid – Skip the Line & Get the VIP Experience
Step back in time with this incredible day trip from Madrid that explores two of Spain’s most historic and picturesque cities. From the towering medieval walls of Ávila to the fairy-tale Roman aqueduct and Alcázar of Segovia, this tour is perfect for...
Day Trip Dreams: Ávila & Segovia from Madrid
I took a weekend trip to Valencia and was blown away by how much there was to explore—especially the City of Arts and Sciences. This place is more than just a museum—it’s an architectural icon packed with interactive exhibits, beautiful outdoor space...
Wonders of Valencia: City of Arts & Sciences, Valencia
If you want the quickest, easiest way to see all of Madrid’s highlights, this hop-on hop-off tour is it. Even though I lived there for three months, I did this tour twice just to soak up the sights from a fresh perspective. It’s super cost-effective ...
Madrid Made Easy: Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
If you’re curious about the rich tradition of bullfighting but want to skip the actual fight, this guided tour of the bullring is perfect. You’ll get a deep dive into the history, rituals, and artistry behind the spectacle — all without the gore. A r...
Dive Into Bullfighting Culture — Without the Bullfight
The Madrid Theater is an absolute gem, and watching a live flamenco show here is unforgettable. I saw Carmen and was completely captivated by the passion, energy, and skill of the dancers. If you want to experience authentic Spanish culture through d...
Mesmerizing Flamenco at Madrid’s Stunning Theater
Barcelona is an absolute must-visit, even if just for a day or two. The city is bursting with stunning sights, delicious food, and vibrant culture. Seeing the Sagrada Familia up close is unforgettable—after over 140 years, it’s finally slated to be c...
Barcelona Day Trip with Iconic Sagrada Familia Visit
The Alhambra is a must-see treasure in Spain. From its intricate architecture to the stunning gardens of Generalife, it’s absolutely picturesque. Don’t miss climbing to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside—it’s an unforgettab...
Alhambra & Generalife Skip-the-Line Tour
Santander is a small treasure filled with beautiful architecture and charming streets. This guided tour in English lets you soak in the city’s rich history and stunning sights, making it a perfect way to explore this coastal gem.
Guided Tour of Santander City Center
Benidorm offers absolutely stunning beaches that are perfect if you want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. With crystal-clear waters and beautiful sandy shores, it’s a must-visit destination for beach lovers seeking something a little differ...
Discover Benidorm’s Stunning Beaches
Puerta del Sol is a must-visit spot in Spain—think of it as Madrid’s mini Times Square with all the lively energy, stunning architecture, and a truly European vibe. It’s where the city comes alive!
Puerta del Sol – The Heart of Madrid
Hungary – 8 Trips Later, These Still Wow Me
✨ Hungary has my heart—and my passport stamps to prove it. After 8 trips, these are the experiences I keep coming back to and always recommend. Think history, hot springs, hidden cafes, and a whole lot of charm.
One of my absolute favorite experiences in Budapest, this nighttime cruise on the Danube showcases the city’s breathtaking landmarks beautifully lit against the night sky. Having done it several times, I can promise it’s a must-do for stunning views ...
Magical Danube River Night Cruise – A Budapest Favorite
The Castle District is an absolute must-see, boasting stunning architecture and rich history. Visit during the day to enjoy breathtaking views of the Danube, then come back at night for a panoramic cityscape that will leave you speechless.
Budapest Castle District – Step Back Into Medieval Hungary
Walking across the bridge provides panoramic views of the Danube River, Buda Castle, and the Hungarian Parliament Building. The bridge is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere. In 2023, the bridge was reopened as a car-free ...
Széchenyi Chain Bridge – Budapest’s Iconic Landmark
The Buda Castle Funicular offers a quick and scenic ascent from the Danube to the Castle District. Operating since 1870, this UNESCO-listed railway provides stunning views of the city, including the Chain Bridge and Parliament. It's a must-do for pan...
Buda Castle Funicular – Scenic Ride with Spectacular Views
The Széchenyi Spa is one of Budapest’s most famous and beloved thermal baths, featured in movies like The Grand Budapest Hotel and Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol. These stunning outdoor and indoor thermal pools offer a truly unique experience, ...
Széchenyi Thermal Bath – Budapest’s Iconic Relaxation Spot
Nestled in the heart of Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Square is a vibrant pedestrian haven where locals and visitors converge to savor Hungarian culture. Surrounded by the iconic Liszt Academy of Music, this charming square boasts a plethora of outdoor café...
☕ Liszt Ferenc Square: Budapest’s Lively Café Hub & Cultural Corner
Experience the grandeur of Budapest’s most iconic religious landmark w to St. Stephen’s Basilica. This neoclassical masterpiece, named after Hungary’s first king, stands 96 meters tall—symbolizing the founding year of Hungary—and offers visitors a bl...
⛪ St. Stephen’s Basilica: Entry to Budapest’s Iconic Landmark
Embark on a comprehensive journey through Budapest with the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour—an essential experience for first-time visitors. This tour seamlessly connects the historic Buda and vibrant Pest sides of the city, offering panoramic views and ...
🚌 Budapest Big Bus Tour: Your Ultimate Introduction to the Twin Cities
Caribbean Cruise Ports – Port Day Pro Tips & Must-Dos
Whether it’s your first cruise or your fifth, I’ve gathered my go-to picks and smart tips for exploring Caribbean ports. From beach breaks to cultural must-sees, these are the things that made my port days unforgettable — and worth every minute.
This combo tour is a cruise port gem! While Stingray City is amazing, the real standout here is the Turtle Farm. You can book just the turtle farm directly if you prefer (and arrange your own transport), but however you get there, don’t miss it. Snor...
GRAND CAYMAN ISLANDS: Turtle Farm & Stingray City Combo
If you’ve ever been nervous about swimming with stingrays, Stingray Beach in Cozumel is the perfect spot to ease those fears! All the stingrays here are debarbed and rehabbed, living safely in captivity, so you can enjoy an up-close experience withou...
COZUMEL: Stingray Beach – Safe & Stunning Stingray Encounter
Out of all the dolphin encounters I’ve done, this one in Willemstad, Curaçao stands out as the absolute best. These dolphins are incredibly well cared for — they go on open ocean swims and are free to leave if they choose. The pre-swim education sess...
Curaçao: Dolphin Academy – Most Ethical & Memorable Swim in the Caribbean
This was truly one of the most magical days of my life — lounging on a stunning private beach with flamingos casually strolling by, feeding them by hand, all while surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters and swaying palms. This exclusive island ...
ARUBA:🦩 Renaissance Island – Private Flamingo Paradise in Aruba
This tour is the perfect way to see all the highlights of St. Maarten in one go! From delicious rum tastings to a stop at a local cheese shop, every stop adds flavor to your day. But the real showstopper? Maho Beach, where planes fly right over your ...
St. Maarten: Best Island Tour – Rum, Cheese & Airplanes!