Thursday, July 1 - The Adventure Begins
Direct flights are the bomb… and United Airlines “usually” has them from any airport. I usually fly United if I can not get a direct flight on Delta. A 4:00 p.m. Eastern flight out of Fort Myers RSW lands you in Denver just after 6:00 p.m. Mountain Time.
I was staying at my aunt's house in Boulder (Skier Suz) which is about 45 minutes from the Denver airport. Like we talked about in our previous episodes, Denver and Boulder are the two biggest and most fun cities in Colorado if you are NOT planning on driving into the mountains. Colorado is also the hub of breweries and exceptional BAR FOOD. My personal favorite grub hub is the Southern Sun on Boulder’s famous Pearl Street. This particular restaurant is currently closed for COVID-19, but have no fear, the Southern Sun has a sister restaurant called Mountain Sun that is super close. The Chorizo Burger and the Spicy chicken sandwich are my personal faves. Plus the craft brews are to die for!
Friday, July 2 - Beware of Bear
After some hot tub and coffee, the plan was to drive into the Mountains for some epic hikes. The best hike to hit if you are on your way to stay up at a summer ski resort is St. Mary’s Glacier. This hike is right off the highway, but keep in mind, GPS may take you through the mountain roads if there is bad traffic. My tip would be to get up early and head out Friday morning or Thursday night, especially if it is a holiday weekend. Traffic can turn a 2 hour drive in a 3-6 hour drive. If you choose to take the “mountain road” shortcut, DRIVE SLOW and KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE ROAD. The scenery is breathtaking but not meant for the driver! The roads are steep and winding and the speed limit never exceeds 35 mph. Watch out for other cars as you go around every corner and if you are afraid of heights… maybe let someone else drive (or close your eyes)! If there is rain, drive slow, and if there is snow and/or ice, stay on the highway. Also, always rent a car with all wheel or four-wheel drive in the winter. In fact, if you can afford it, it pays to rent a four-wheel in the summer because on some hikes, like the Mayflower Gulch (our hike from July 3), you can drive the first couple miles of the hike.
If you type in St. Mary’s Glacier on your GPS, it will take you past the parking spots so keep your eyes peeled. Bring one dollar bills for the $5 all day parking. The hike begins just north of the lot. If you don’t have ones there is a super cute and very tasty little restaurant called Two Bears Tap and Grill off the highway that is 30 minutes away from the hike. Stop your long drive to grab some grub and booze. I recommend the wings (parm garlic and thai chili), as well as the cheese curds! Their seasonal brews are great. Was this the most appropriate meal before a hike? Nope. But if you have a strong stomach, go for it. They also have salad (lol). On the subject of food, bring snacks for your hike, water and some type of electrolyte drink (like Gatorade etc).
St. Marie’s Glacier was an amazing first hike and my personal favorite solely because of the breathtaking views of the glacier, lakes and the surrounding mountains. About 10 minutes into your hike, you will come to a fork in the road. If you want a more chill path, go right. It will take you to the lake and you can picnic, relax, and even swim if you have no fear of freezing water. After hiking to the lake, you can go further up and hike next to one of the glaciers. The hike is a few miles and will take you 1-2 hours depending on how often you stop. If you go left, you can hike above the lake and make it to the top of the glaciers. This is the most amazing view. FYI - beware of bears and lightning. There is a bear cave on one of the traverses, however black bears are skittish and do not usually come near crowded trails.
Hiking Tips:
Before you go on any hike, check the weather, bring layers and extra pairs of clothes (especially rain coats), as well as bags for your phones in case you get caught in the rain. Download the lightning App, and keep in mind, you are an easy target for lightning if you are on top of a mountain! Depending on the hike, get hiking boots for good ankle support on long hikes and trail running shoes for lighter shoes or/and if you like to trial run/jog. There are also certain hikes meant for night hiking but most hikes are not meant for night hiking. Make sure you give yourself enough time to get down before dark (i.e. if your hike is 2 hours, give yourself 3-45 min two to get down).
Also, keep in mind, Colorado Altitude is tough and gets tougher as you go up into the Mountains. If you are not acclimated, drink TONS of water before, during and after your hikes (even if you do not feel thirsty) and bring toilet paper on your hike because you will have to potty (lol)! Be smart with Altitude. If you have time, do a front range hike first, before you head up further into the mountains. This will help you acclimate easier and keep you from getting altitude sickness. Also, bring gum on your hike to keep your throat wet! If you are an ambitious expert hiker (so not me), you can continue hiking to the famous James peak (about 14 miles). Another great hike right next to St. Marie’s is Crater Lake. Bring Begay or Icy Hot if you are planning on hiking 3-4 days straight and/or you are not an avid hiker.
When the hike was over we headed up to Copper Mountain (the end of the line of ski resorts). To finish off our day, guess what we ate…bar food. The Dillon Dam brewery is a must try dinner spot on your trip into the mountains. Their nachos and french onion soup are amazing. Bojous pizza is another great joint on the way up.
Saturday, July 3 - St. Can’t Hike
On Saturday morning, Mike, Sebbie, Jess and I rose early for another great adventure. We got up early because a) it is not as hot, and b) trials are less crowded in the morning. We drove over to Mayflower Gulch, which is about a 15 minute drive from Copper. The cool part about this hike is that it is long but not super steep, and you can drive the first half of it (the boring half). So we drove up to the valley and hiked the rest of the way up, in the gulch. The view was breathtaking because you are hiking up sharp rocky mountains with a view of the beautiful valley that stretches into green and brown rolling mountains. Along the hike, you can find an old mine shaft, some snow and ice as well as many cute spots and rocks to sit on, have a picnic around and take cool pics!
After this hike, we trotted back to the car and stopped at Leadville on our way home. Leadville is a beautiful historic town– famous in the adventure community for the Melanzana headquarters. Melazana is an outdoor clothing company that manufactures and sells all of their outdoor clothing under one roof – in downtown Leadville. The company uses only U.S.-made parts and fabric. So we got some ice cream, waited around for them to place some merch on the racks, and headed back to Copper Mt. for a party! Many mountains usually have festivals for the ski slopes’ closing weekend, Labor Day weekend, and 4th of july etc. In this case, Center Village at Copper had a Party with tents, food, and a Sublime tribute band.
Sunday, July 4 - Independence Day!!!
July 4 was EPIC (not the ski pass)! We woke up, and traveled back down to Boulder, stopping at Georgetown to tour the unique historic homes, grab more ice cream (a recurring theme), and to grab some CO merch. Georgetown is one of the many historic towns that you see along the drive back out of the mountains. Unique aspects include: a year-round Christmas store, old fashion churches, and an energy museum. They also had a whip show going on with actors dressed up as old westerners.
Once we arrived back in Boulder, we met up with my friend Gabby Schuck and headed to hike the front range at Chautauqua park. There are many cool hikes around Chautauqua and the area is warm and grassy. The red rocks are beautiful and if you hike high enough you can see the entire city!
Some other fun hikes around Boulder include; Skyscraper Reservoir (north of Boulder), and Settler (a night hike).
Monday, July 5 - Back Home!!!
On Monday our excellent adventure came to a close; but not before we swung by the Denver Biscuit company first! Heads up; order from them online and at least 1 hour ahead of time because they are always slammed, especially on the weekend.
One de-recommendation: United Airlines. United (because of bad weather) moved my direct flight from 6:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. with a connection in Houston. I tried to call and my customer service rep spoke hardly any english... Good thing we checked in on our phones before our flight!
We landed in Fort Myers safe and sound to tell the story of our excellent July 4 Colorado adventure!
We're back for another episode with Jamie Beebe this week! We ask her about some of her most memorable travel stories from her many travels, as well as about her two podcasts - Strictly Stalking and The Last Trip. We get into some of the nitty gritty of what travel abroad can look like and what all she has learned through researching and hosting her two podcasts. You won't want to miss it!
Join your Travel Brat Hosts as they interview Jamie Beebe, the host of the podcast The Last Trip. She tells us about some of her favorite places to travel, as well as a little about herself and her podcast journey. She is a solo traveling and true crime junkie. You won't want to miss this episode. Enjoy!
Brittney Traudt is a children's book author who started writing from a very young age. Whether it was poems, notes, letters, or stories, she was always creating something. In 2015 she started a blog, Traudt's Two Cents, as a platform to share her thoughts, opinions, accomplishments, and advice. Brittney's writing career really took off when she blogged her first solo travel experience, which then became the inspiration for her second children's book, Shelly Goes To The Capitol.
Brittney is the author of the Adventures of Shelly and Coco children's books series! The educational traveling series includes three books to date: Shelly Goes to Summer Camp, Shelly Goes To The Capitol, and Shelly Goes to Massachusetts. Traudt also has a standalone book, It's okay to be You. In addition, she has a new book launching soon, Shelly Goes to Arizona! Stay tuned for more details! If you'd like to learn more about Brittney, please visit her site at traudtstwocents.com.
Brittney Traudt is a children's book author who started writing from a very young age. Whether it was poems, notes, letters, or stories, she was always creating something. In 2015 she started a blog, Traudt's Two Cents, as a platform to share her thoughts, opinions, accomplishments, and advice. Brittney's writing career really took off when she blogged her first solo travel experience, which then became the inspiration for her second children's book, Shelly Goes To The Capitol.
Brittney is the author of the Adventures of Shelly and Coco children's books series! The educational traveling series includes three books to date: Shelly Goes to Summer Camp, Shelly Goes To The Capitol, and Shelly Goes to Massachusetts. Traudt also has a standalone book, It's okay to be You. In addition, she has a new book launching soon, Shelly Goes to Arizona! Stay tuned for more details! If you'd like to learn more about Brittney, please visit her site at traudtstwocents.com.
Some are old, some are new, some are wild, and some are blue. Bachelorette parties can often be too much or too little. It can be hard to please everyone, especially with a group of different personality types. In reality, the only one who needs to have the time of their life is the bride, but it's always better when everyone has a great time!
When I flew to Austin, Texas, for my future sister in law's bachelorette party, I did not know what to expect. I had never been to Austin, and I had never met any of the girls coming besides Jess (my now sister-in-law) and her maid of honor, Natalie. I was pleasantly surprised by the entire trip and the people I was with. We had an absolute blast, getting along famously, and got a little bit of everything Austin had to offer in just a few short days.
When to Go and Where to Stay.
The best time to visit Austin is in March when there is lots of sunshine, but the weather isn't too hot yet, and the air is breezy and filled with the blooming of Texas spring. For a bachelorette party, there are many excellent Airbnbs to choose from. Their price ranges are very fair. Plus, staying in a house with a group for bonding is always better!
Lunch/Brunch
For a fantastic Tex-Mex spot, try Gueros Taco Bar. I had some of the best breakfast tacos I have ever had, and I also got a frozen margarita that was top-notch. My favorite lunch spot was, hands down, Terry Black's BBQ. The brisket melted in my mouth, and because I was so stuffed, I took my cornbread on the plane ride home with me!
Shopping
The streets of downtown Austin were lined with thrift booths and handmade jewelry. From cowboy boots to handmade copper jewelry and unique fringe jackets, this little shopping area was such a blast! I got a super cute floral blazer at one of the vintage vendor booths. When moseying around downtown, don't forget to get an "insta pic" with the famous "I love you so much" wall downtown!
Dinner
My favorite dinner spot was at the Oasis. This is a MUST-do when in Austin. The entire restaurant, bar, and shopping center sit on the cliff overlooking the gorgeous Lake Travis. The view is spectacular and unlike anything I have ever seen. It had a serenity, and you felt like you were looking at a coastal area in Greece! You can eat excellent Mexican food on the cliff with the view of the setting sun. The stars come out after and set in a rich blue-shaded sky that looks like the ocean.
For a fancier dinner night, try Il Bruto. Il Bruto is a charming Italian-inspired eatery nestled within the heart of the city. It is a mix of rustic, stylish, and cozy! Renowned for its handmade pasta dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Il Bruto is basically traditional Italian cuisine mixed with innovative twists.
Snacks
My favorite local culinary delight had to be the Kolache. Originating from Central Europe, this delectable pastry is a sweet treat filled with an array of delightful fillings like fruit, cheese, jam, or meat. Crafted from a yeast-based dough, it's then generously stuffed with the chosen filling before being baked to perfection. Kolaches are widely enjoyed as a breakfast staple across various countries, including the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, and the United States. In the late 1880s, Czech immigrants brought the tradition of Kolache to Texas, and it soon found its place in Texan culture!
Dancing
Austin has a poppin' party scene! Whether you are looking for a club vibe or boot scootin', you will be pleased. Some hot bars were the Neon Grotto, Shangri-La, Sam’s Town Point. Also, check out Rainey Street, where a local told us the fun is at. The night we went out on the town, we stopped at Domo Alley-Gato Tatsu-Ya for drinks, went to Il Bruto for dinner, and learned to western dance with some real cowboys at The White Horse.
Texan Vino
If you are with a group of wine girlies, check out The Duchman Family Winery in Driftwood, Texas. This hidden gem sits at the heart of the Texas Hill Country, and they're all about crafting wines that scream Texas pride. From their vineyard tours to tasting sessions, they're all about letting your group hang out while letting you sip on some funky vinos. And guess what? They only use Texas-grown grapes, so you know you're getting a taste of the Lone Star State in every glass. When we went, the weather was perfect, and we continued bonding in the breezy yard out front of the winery. Whether you're into a zesty Vermentino or a bold Aglianico, a trip to the Duchman Family Winery is a fabulous place to hang out in the sunshine and taste Texas charm.
Outdoor Activities
Austin has beautiful scenery with a mix of rolling hills, rivers, and cityscape. It also has quite a few natural hidden gems. The two-mile hike to Hamilton Pool Preserve was quiet, & relaxing. It was non-strenuous, and the rocky cliffs and sparkling streams were serene. The pool was spectacular, but the water was cold! I took a relaxing nap in the warm sun with the sound of the trickling water.
Another must-see spot is Zilker Park. Here, you can relax in the cool river or rent kayaks and adventure through the calm water. We saw so many turtles tanning on logs and Grackle birds. We kayaked through the tranquil water under bridges, getting a great view of the city. Afterwards, we relaxed in the park and had a little picnic with the view of the city behind us.
Austin, Texas is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable bachelorette party. With its lively atmosphere, diverse entertainment options, and vibrant nightlife, Austin offers the perfect backdrop for celebrating the bride-to-be in style. From indulging in mouthwatering barbecue and craft cocktails on Rainey Street to dancing the night away to live music on Sixth Street, there's no shortage of excitement in this bustling city. With its abundance of trendy boutique hotels, scenic outdoor activities, and pampering spas, Austin provides endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure alike. Whether cruising down Lady Bird Lake on a party barge or exploring the city's eclectic shops and art galleries, Austin promises a bachelorette party experience that's as unique and memorable as the bride herself.
Located in the Flemish region of Belgium, Ghent is the capital of East Flanders and a major port city. Its location makes it a convenient spot to explore both the Dutch and French-speaking parts of the country.
Ghent’s city center is full of historical buildings, including the majestic Castle of the Counts and the iconic St. Bavo Cathedral. The city is also home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters, making it a cultural hub.
One of the city’s most famous attractions is the Gravensteen Castle. The castle was built in the 12th century and served as the seat of the Counts of Flanders. Today, it’s a popular tourist destination, allowing visitors to explore its ancient walls and learn more about its history.
The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs to choose from. Ghent also boasts several festivals throughout the year, including the Ghent Festival, one of Europe's most significant cultural events.
Ghent is also a great place for shopping. From its bustling markets and boutiques to its designer stores and malls, Ghent has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or want to pick up some new clothes, Ghent has it all.
Overall, Ghent is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a cultural getaway or a night out on the town, Ghent has something to offer. With its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, Ghent is a must-visit destination.
Q1: Why is travel coverage necessary, and what aspects does it typically include?
Travel coverage is crucial for mitigating unexpected events during your trips. Ben emphasizes that it usually includes medical coverage, trip cancellation, lost baggage, and even coverage for unforeseen travel disruptions. Having comprehensive coverage ensures peace of mind and financial protection.
Q2: Are there common misconceptions about travel insurance that people should be aware of?
Ben sheds light on the misconception that travel insurance only covers trip cancellations. Travel insurance encompasses a broader range of situations, including medical emergencies, travel delays, and even coverage for activities like adventure sports. Understanding the full extent of coverage is essential for making informed decisions.
Q3: How can travelers find the right coverage for their specific needs?
It is crucial for travelers to assess their individual needs and preferences. Factors such as destination, duration of travel, and planned activities play a significant role in determining the proper coverage. Shopping around and comparing policies from different providers can help travelers tailor their insurance to match their unique requirements. This comparison and contrast for the right travel insurance plan is what Travel Defend can do within seconds!
Q4: What are some noteworthy tips for saving on travel insurance?
It is wise to build coverage with other policies, such as home or auto insurance, to potentially secure discounts. Additionally, booking insurance early and considering annual coverage for frequent travelers can be cost-effective strategies.
Q5: What are some key takeaways from the podcast episode regarding travel coverage?
One key takeaway is the importance of understanding the specific terms and conditions of the insurance policy. Reading the fine print is crucial in avoiding surprises during claims. Additionally, the episode stresses the value of proactive planning and choosing coverage that aligns with the individual's travel habits.
When it comes to the world of travel coverage, Travel Defend has you covered. With Ben's expert advice on selecting the right insurance for a worry-free travel experience, travel enthusiasts can get protected and ensure confidence and secure travels.
The region is home to historic cities such as Florence, Siena, and Pisa, each boasting stunning architecture, art masterpieces, and a vibrant atmosphere. Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, houses renowned museums like the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia, where Michelangelo's David stands as a symbol of artistic brilliance.
Tuscany's culinary scene is a feast for the senses, featuring world-class wines like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino, along with traditional dishes like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and the famous bistecca alla fiorentina.
Siena
Siena, Italy, is a charming medieval city renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Siena is famous for its well-preserved medieval streets and the iconic Piazza del Campo, one of Europe's most fabulous medieval squares.
The city's medieval center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing Gothic and Romanesque architecture that transports visitors back in time. Siena's most iconic landmark is the Duomo di Siena (Siena Cathedral), a magnificent example of Italian Gothic architecture adorned with intricate sculptures and beautiful frescoes.
Siena is also renowned for the Palio, a historic horse race that takes place twice a year in the Piazza del Campo. The Palio is a centuries-old tradition that captivates locals and visitors alike, adding a touch of excitement to the city's cultural tapestry.
Beyond its historical treasures, Siena offers a culinary experience that captures the essence of Tuscan cuisine. Visitors can savor local delicacies, including Pici pasta, ribollita soup, and the region's exceptional wines.
With its timeless beauty and cultural richness, Siena stands as a testament to Italy's enduring charm and is a must-visit destination for those seeking a glimpse into the country's medieval past.
San Gimignano
San Gimignano is a picturesque medieval town nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. Known as the "Town of Fine Towers," its skyline is dominated by 14 well-preserved medieval towers, offering a unique and enchanting atmosphere. The town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its medieval architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and rich history.
Visitors to San Gimignano can explore the Piazza della Cisterna, a central square surrounded by medieval buildings and inviting cafes. The town is also home to remarkable landmarks, such as the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta, featuring stunning frescoes and art.
Aside from its architectural wonders, San Gimignano is celebrated for its local produce, including the famous Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine. The surrounding vineyards and olive groves contribute to the region's gastronomic delights, making it a haven for food and wine enthusiasts.
With its well-preserved medieval charm, breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside, and delectable local offerings, San Gimignano is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Italian experience.
Pisa
Pisa, a charming city in Tuscany, Italy, is renowned worldwide for its iconic Leaning Tower. Nestled on the banks of the Arno River, Pisa is not just a one-tower wonder; it boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, part of the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), is a masterpiece of medieval engineering. Its unintentional tilt has captivated visitors for centuries, making it one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet.
Beyond the tower, Pisa is a treasure trove of historical gems. The Pisa Cathedral, also located in the Square of Miracles, is a breathtaking example of Romanesque architecture adorned with intricate sculptures and artwork. The Baptistery, adjacent to the cathedral, is another architectural marvel that adds to the city's allure.
Wandering through Pisa's narrow streets, you'll encounter charming cafes, lively markets, and centuries-old buildings. The city's university, founded in 1343, adds a youthful energy, making Pisa a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity.
Pisa's cultural scene is vibrant, with museums showcasing art, history, and science. The Palazzo Blu, for instance, hosts rotating exhibitions, providing a glimpse into Italy's rich cultural heritage.
Whether you're drawn to the Leaning Tower's quirkiness or the city's historical charm, Pisa offers a delightful escape into the heart of Italian culture and history.
Whether exploring charming medieval villages, enjoying the serenity of the countryside, or indulging in the region's culinary delights, Tuscany offers a truly enchanting experience for every traveler. It's a destination that seamlessly combines history, art, and nature, making it a must-visit for those seeking a taste of authentic Italian beauty and culture.
A Renaissance of Wonders: Exploring Florence, Italy
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Florence is a city that breathes history, art, and culture at every cobblestone turn. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence boasts a rich tapestry of architectural marvels, world-class art, and delectable cuisine. If you're planning a visit to this enchanting city, here's a Travel Brat-approved guide to help you make the most of your time.
The Duomo and Brunelleschi's Dome
No visit to Florence is complete without marveling at the iconic Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral or Il Duomo. Admire the intricate facade and climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic city views. Be sure to appreciate the genius of Filippo Brunelleschi's Dome, a masterpiece of Renaissance engineering. Don't forget to visit the baptistry and bell tower too!
Uffizi Gallery
Home to an unparalleled Renaissance art collection, the Uffizi Gallery is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts. Works by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Raphael adorn the walls. Some favorite works include Birth of Venus or Primavera Botticelli, Doni Tondo by Michelangelo, Annunciation, Adoration of the Maji, The Baptism of Christ, Davinci, Madonna del Cardellino, Saint John the Baptist in the Dessert Rafel, and Madona and Child by Filippo Lippi. Book your tickets in advance to skip the lines and allow ample time to explore this artistic haven.
Galleria dell'Accademia
The Galleria dell'Accademia is where you'll find one of the most celebrated sculptures in the world – Michelangelo's David. Witness the sculptor's mastery up close and explore other works by Michelangelo and other renowned artists. Here, you will also find four other unfinished works by Michelangelo.
Ponte Vecchio
Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, Florence's oldest bridge spans the Arno River. Lined with charming shops, Ponte Vecchio is the perfect spot to shop for jewelry, art, and souvenirs. The bridge offers splendid views of the cityscape, especially during sunset.
Palazzo Vecchio
Palazzo Vecchio is a medieval fortress turned town hall located in the heart of Florence's historic center. Admire the impressive frescoes, sculptures, and the opulent Salone dei Cinquecento, which showcases the city's political and artistic legacy.
Boboli Gardens
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a visit to the Boboli Gardens, a stunning example of Italian Renaissance garden design. Wander through the landscaped greenery, fountains, and sculptures, enjoying a peaceful respite.
Piazza della Signoria
This historic square is an open-air museum, surrounded by iconic sculptures like the Fountain of Neptune and a copy of Michelangelo's David. Sit at one of the cafes, soak in the atmosphere, and witness the pulse of Florentine life.
Florentine Cuisine
Indulge your taste buds in Florence's culinary delights. Savor local specialties such as ribollita (a hearty Tuscan soup), bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), and gelato from one of the city's renowned gelaterias. For a relaxed and delicious meal, try Bis Trot Tre Tavoli authentic casual, and for an upscale meal, try II Guscio.
Santa Croce Basilica
Visit the final resting place of some of Italy's most illustrious figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. The Basilica di Santa Croce is not only a place of worship but also a testament to Florence's cultural and intellectual heritage.
Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
Wrap up your Florence adventure with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo, a panoramic terrace offering unparalleled city views. As the sun sets over Florence, you will be treated to a magical sight that perfectly encapsulates the timeless beauty of this remarkable city.
Medici Chapels
The Medici Chapels, located in Florence, Italy, are a stunning testament to the wealth and cultural influence of the Medici family during the Renaissance. Commissioned by the powerful banking family, the chapels are part of the Basilica di San Lorenzo complex and serve as a final resting place for several members of the Medici clan. The New Sacristy, designed by Michelangelo, is a Renaissance art and architecture masterpiece. Its grandeur is characterized by intricately carved statues and elegant tombs, including those of Lorenzo the Magnificent and Giuliano de' Medici. The Chapel of the Princes, another notable section of the complex, was intended to be a grand mausoleum for the Medici rulers.
Perfume Making
If you need a break from sightseeing, you can make your very own perfume right in Florence at the Antica Spezieria Erboristeria San Simone Firenze.
Where to stay
Stay like a local in the heart of Florence at the Horto Convento.
Florence, with its artistic legacy and timeless charm, is a destination that transcends the boundaries of time. Whether you're an art aficionado, a history buff, or simply seeking the pleasures of Italian culture and cuisine, Florence is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart. Immerse yourself in the Renaissance spirit, and let Florence cast its enchanting spell on you.
Back in 2019 to celebrate graduating from college and getting into the Master’s program, Hannah and her friend Jamie used Costco travel to plan a trip. They paid one price for a round trip flight, a hotel stay in both Barcelona and Madrid as well as transportation to and from the airports. The trip was for 8 days!
Barcelona: Stayed at the NH Collection Barcelona Podium Hotel
Customs was really easy in Barcelona, and they made it there pretty quickly. Immediately after putting their luggage in the hotel room, went on a double decker bus tour of the city-this was a good idea because Hannah says they had some things planned but let the bus tour tell them where they would want to go after that.
At night they went to Fonta Magica de Montjuïc and saw the coolest fountain and light show!
After that they walked down to the restaurants to find some food and ended up at a rooftop bar in a hotel. Great drinks and food! It's called 173 Rooftop Terrace Tapas Bar.
The next day they went to see the prize of Barcelona, the Sagadra Familia Basilica. This thing is MASSIVE. They went inside and looked at all the stained glass and got to go up in one of the turrets! She says it was scary and breathtaking.
After this they ate lunch at a cute spot nearby called Casa Angela where she had the best croquetas and patatas bravas!
After that they went to Parque Guell- which is one of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous architecture works. It’s like a botanical garden meets a surrealist painting. It is made up of interesting buildings and features built into the side of a mountain.
Montserrat Monastery
They then took a train from Barcelona to a sketchy little outpost station in the middle of the country. Hannah says they then took the scariest rickety cable car ride of her life up the mountain. It opens up at the top where you can see the craggy rocks of the mountainside. This area is a beautiful monastery that is built into the side of the mountain. It is known for having a black Madonna carved in the 12th century-known as “the dark one, our lady of Montserrat." It survived the storming of the abbey during the Spanish civil war.
There are tons of things to do in this area: fun hikes, a few cafes, outside viewing of the living quarters of the monks and nuns, walking around the gardens with the holy water fountains, and listening to the choir and organ inside the nave.
Madrid NH Collection Madrid Abascal
The next portion of the trip was Madrid! They took the train from Barcelona to Madrid, and had lunch service on the way, lots of fields, rural areas, not a lot of houses or villages but we saw a lot of farms, lots of pigs-Spain is known for their ham.
On their first day in Madrid they went to the Royal Palace and got to see all of the rooms. Lots of history-over 3000 rooms, a grand staircase, beautiful art including “Salome with the head of John the Baptist”, and the royal armory! After the palace they explored more of the city.
Text next day, went to the Del Prado Museum which is the classical art museum in Madrid-they got to see so many baroque paintings and Hannah's favorite painting Las Meninas by Diego Velasquez which is one of the most analyzed paintings ever.
The next day they went to the modern art museum called the Reina Sofia—and saw the Picasso and Dali exhibits! Because it was a rainy day they spent a lot of time there.
For almost every dinner in Madrid they went to this little tapas bar right down the road from the hotel because it was so good!! Hannah says she had ropa vieja empanadas and paella that was to DIE for-this place is called La Gabinoteca.
Toledo Aka Castillo La Mancha
They took the train from Madrid into the country and stopped at yet another sketchy outpost station! Toledo is Medieval walled city on top of a mountain that is surrounded by the Tagus river on three sides. It is the oldest city in Spain and built pre-Roman empire but captured by the Visigoth Kingdom after the fall of the Roman Empire in like the 5th Century. Known for being the “City of the Three Cultures” where there are heavy influences of Christians, Muslims and Jews throughout history. In the city you can still see mosques, cathedrals, and synagogues from over the centuries that hold art that is culturally and historically significant to those religions.
Hannah and Jamie stopped at McDonalds and had some interesting combos—they have eggs on some of the sandwiches, and you can get just plain cherry tomatoes as a side.
Top sites to see:
Cathedral de Toledo-13 century cathedral
Alcazar de Toldeo- the fortress during the Spanish Civil War, Military Museum
Sinagoga Santa Maria La Blanca- one of two of the twelve surviving original synagogues in Toledo
Iglesia de Santo Tome-home of El Greco’s most famous work: “the burial of the count of Orgaz”
Stay up to date
For any inquiries, please email us at hello@podcastworld.io