2 Days in Edinburgh: Itinerary for First Time Visitors

From historic buildings to Harry Potter, there are so many amazing things to discover during a 2 day Edinburgh itinerary. Gothic towers, cobblestone alleys, and a hilltop castle lend the city a fantasy-like atmosphere. And with a vibrant arts scene and diverse restaurants, there’s no shortage of things to do in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh city skyline viewed during 2 days in Edinburgh itinerary.

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Edinburgh in October: 10 Must Have Autumn Experiences

Edinburgh is a gorgeous city no matter what the season. But visiting Edinburgh in October is pure magic (even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan). From fire festivals to epic hot chocolate, find out why October is the best month to visit Edinburgh.

Birds-eye view of Edinburgh in October.

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Where to Eat in Edinburgh on Your First Visit

Confession time: Edinburgh’s food scene surprised me. When I first searched for where to eat in Edinburgh, I figured it would be a slew of pubs and a few posh traditional restaurants.

Teal facade of Thistle Street Bar, where to eat in Edinburgh.

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5 Ways to Visit Stonehenge for Free

Stonehenge is a place that captures the imagination. Its purpose and construction still hold mysteries after 5,000 years. But with admission costing nearly £20 per person, I’m certain that some people will never experience its magic unless they can visit Stonehenge for free.

How to visit Stonehenge for free and get this amazing view of the stone circle with grassy hill in foreground.

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Essential Kamikochi Hiking Guide for the Japanese Alps

If you’re staying in the Japan Alps region, it would be a mistake to not include a Kamikochi hiking excursion. With stunning mountain views, crystal clear waters, and well-placed food huts, Kamikochi National Park is one of the best Japanese Alps hiking experiences.

Two people hiking in Kamikochi Japan next to river.

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Nara Day Trip Itinerary: The Magical Deer City of Japan

When people ask me about the must see places in Japan, I always recommend a Nara day trip. With eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, roaming deer, and a stunning Japanese garden, you won’t regret spending one day in Nara!

Deer standing in front of Kasuga Taisha shrine gate and steps seen during during Nara day trip itinerary.

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Paris Itinerary: 4 Days in the City of Light

After 20 years of dreaming about the City of Light, I created and followed this 4 days in Paris itinerary to celebrate my birthday. It was everything I’d hoped for and more, filled with Eiffel Tower views, charming sidewalk cafes, and all the pastries I could eat.

Paris Itinerary: 4 Days in the City of Light view of Eiffel Tower with purple and pink sunrise sky.

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16 Best Places to Take Pictures in Paris

Fun fact: I took over 750 photos on my first trip to the City of Light. I arrived with an initial list of the best places to take pictures in Paris, but it quickly grew as I explored. And I’m sharing them all–including a few lesser-known ones–in this guide to the best Paris photo spots!

Eiffel Tower at sunrise from Trocadero, one of the best places to take pictures in Paris.

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31 Essential London Sightseeing Tips From a Local

With so much to see and do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed on your first trip to London! That’s why I’ve compiled tons of London sightseeing tips that I’ve picked up during my time exploring the city as an expat.

Covent Garden wooden flower cart with tourists doing London sightseeing in the background.

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Where to Eat a Typical French Breakfast in Paris

When I moved to London, the first holiday I booked was a birthday trip to Paris.  Having a typical French breakfast at a Parisian sidewalk café was at the top of my travel bucket list. Frankly, I was more excited to eat a real French croissant than I was to see the Eiffel Tower!

Exterior cafe seating at Treize Bakery, a typical French breakfast spot in Paris.

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