Spring has officially arrived in the northern hemisphere, bringing autumn chills south of the equator. To catch the last of Uruguays beach season, we headed to Punta del Diablo, a charming bohemian beach town near the Brazilian border. Despite occasional rain and ocean waters too cold for swimming (though locals braved it), sunny spells perfect for strolling miles of empty beaches abounded. Our stay at Hostel De La Viuda included a pack of friendly dogs who joined our walks with enthusiasm. The

One of the greatest joys of Costa Rica is its unparalleled wildlife. As experienced travelers, weve found no other destination matches its biodiversity.Strolling any path outside the urban Central Valley surrounds you with vibrant butterflies, hummingbirds, monkeys, anteaters, and stunning birds. With a keen eye, spot sloths in the treetops; a little research reveals sea turtles nesting on nearby beaches.Here at our current stay, the wildlife comes to us—no need to venture out. Howler monkeys ro

Upon checking into the Hotel Monaco in Denver, we were immediately captivated by the impressive lobby ceiling. A playful encounter with a familiar attacker from our past travels led to laughs and re-enactment photos. This superior downtown Denver boutique hotel embodies cowboy western chic throughout, though our suite featured a subtle equestrian theme—highlighted by an equestrian painting in the bedroom and a stunning white horse-head lamp in the living room that stole the show. We sank into th

Welcome to our Hotel Tip of the Week series. As full-time nomads with over 500 nights in hotels worldwide, weve experienced the best and worst accommodations. We recommend only comfortable, clean hotels offering great value and genuine hospitality. Every hotel featured on Globetrottergirls.com has been personally stayed in by us. This week: Hotel Viceroy in Washington, DC. Were grateful to Martin Luther King, Jr.s memorial unveiling for leading us to Hotel Viceroy. Our original hotel overbooked

After a short family visit, I returned to Berlin on Thursday for six days, eagerly welcoming two special guests from New York. Slightly fatigued from nonstop sightseeing, I thrive on guiding first-time visitors through this expansive, often daunting metropolis. We roamed the leafy streets of Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg, browsed the vibrant Sunday flea market in Mauerpark, cheered global performers at Bearpit Karaoke amid 1,000 spectators, savored an epic sunset from Klunkerkranich rooftop bar

The first time I encountered Brighton, Englands iconic seaside town on the south coast, was through a Sherlock Holmes novel set in 19th-century Brighton. It painted vivid pictures of elegant women in flowing dresses strolling the promenade, gloved hands holding ornate umbrellas amid Regency-style buildings with stuccoed facades and columned entrances. Years later, when I finally visited, that romantic image lingered.Upon arriving at the beachfront promenade, I could instantly envision Brightons

Rather than sharing another Polaroid from Berlin, Ive chosen to highlight my current spot: Brighton, England, where Im spending much of this week. After visiting for Brighton Pride last summer, I never imagined returning so soon—travels often surprise me! (Recall my unexpected Amazon adventure in March? No plans for that either.)Just last week, a beach day in Brighton was the furthest thing from my mind, but Im thrilled with this turn. Summer sunshine finally graced Britain over the weekend, del

From the moment I stepped into YHA Brighton hostel, I was captivated by its tasteful, stylish decor. It blurred the lines between a hostel and a boutique hotel. Instead of heading straight to reception, I was drawn to the inviting bar and restaurant area.Take a look:My first impression was outstanding, but would the room match? Accessing it with a key card—a hotel-like touch—I discovered a spacious, beautifully designed space on the top floor. It boasted breathtaking views over the promenade and

A stunning seaside city renowned for its tolerance and diversity, Brighton marked a milestone with its 25th Pride Festival under the motto Carnival of Diversity. What could go wrong? With Britains unpredictable weather, Pride events can vary wildly—from downpours to sunburns. Arriving amid a rainy chill, I feared the weekend might be washed out. But Friday dawned with clear blue skies, and the festive spirit was already palpable across the city, even before Saturdays main events. Typically drawi

After a refreshing week by the sea, I headed to London, my former adopted hometown, determined not to leave England without a quick visit. Summer was in full swing upon my Friday arrival—a rare treat for London! I took spontaneous time off work to enjoy a classic weekend: a morning run through Hyde Park, an afternoon picnic in Kensington Gardens (where I snapped the photo above), shopping on Oxford Street (less chaotic after time away), and a West End show, Guys & Dolls starring Rebel Wilson

Continued from Walking Through Italy: Highlights from the Via Amerina, Part I – my pilgrimage trek from Assisi to Rome. The Via Amerina Trek Continues Refreshed after the initial stage from Castel dell’Aquila to Amelia, a restful night’s sleep, and a classic Italian breakfast of cappuccino and fresh pastry, we set off for Orte, about 10 miles (17 km) south. Traversing vineyards and fields, we climbed hills with steady determination. Along this stretch of the Via Amerina, an open-air chapel remi

When the Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen earned the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award just eight months after opening, it immediately caught my attention. Such rapid recognition signals exceptional quality and service. Designed by renowned Mexican architect Sordo Madaleno and the award-winning New York-based Rockwell Group, this resort demanded a personal visit during my recent Yucatan road trip. The Grand Entrance Arrival sets an impressive tone: A spacious driveway leads to a massive fountain

It was a profound moment receiving my pilgrim’s passport at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels in Assisi—even as a non-religious traveler. This marked the official start of my six-day journey along the historic Via Amerina, culminating in Rome, the eternal pilgrimage destination. Assisi holds deep spiritual significance as the birthplace and resting place of St. Francis, founder of the Franciscan orders and Custody of the Holy Land—one of history’s most revered figures.Numerous trails

I couldnt head home to Germany for Christmas without a stopover in New York en route to Europe. After months away from my adopted hometown, I was eager to reconnect with friends and soak up the magical holiday season in the Big Apple. Last December, during my full month in NYC, I planned to ice skate, visit Christmas markets, admire Fifth Avenues window displays, gaze at the iconic Rockefeller Center tree, and explore the famous Dyker Heights lights. Unfortunately, I missed ice skating and never

Can you believe that by my next Polaroid post, the holidays will be nearly over? Time truly flies! Lacking any Christmas spirit last week, I explored New York Citys holiday markets, ice rinks, Fifth Avenue window displays at Saks and Macys, and the iconic Rockefeller Christmas tree. NYC at Christmastime is pure magic! The over-the-top department store displays werent entirely my taste, but the childrens wide-eyed wonder made me smile. That said, NYCs holiday markets feel like a subdued versio

I’ve launched my European train adventure, and the first rides were exceptional. My inaugural journey whisked me from Berlin to Amsterdam in under seven hours—a city I’ve explored multiple times, though my last visit was over a decade ago. With rave reviews of its beauty and my hazy memories, I spontaneously included it in my Euro train itinerary. Amsterdam’s distinctive charm captivated me instantly upon arrival: its iconic canals, legions of bicycles, stunning 17th-century merchant houses wi

I once thought I disliked fall, but Ive realized its November I dread, not the season itself. Last October and in 2011, I loved watching leaves transform in Chicago. This year in New York, the spectacle has been equally enchanting. Ive long dreamed of a Vermont fall getaway, renowned for North Americas most vibrant foliage from abundant maples bursting in orange and yellow. Though broader New England plans proved too ambitious, I carved out a day trip upstate. Convinced I could navigate NYC driv

One of the highlights of my train journey from Germany to Milan was anticipating Italys renowned cuisine. As a vegetarian, I eagerly awaited pasta, pizza, risotto, breads, pastries, and more—dishes that showcase Northern Italys unique flavors, especially in Lombardy. While friends rave about the meats and seafood, Ive never felt deprived. Discovering the Flavors of Lombardy and Northern Italy Join me on this vegetarian culinary tour of Lombardy and Veneto from my recent travels. Note: This cove

We instantly fell in love with Cambodia—a pleasant surprise. This Southeast Asian gem isnt flawless and has its rough edges, but our initial impressions were captivating. Here are key observations and fun facts from our travels! Cambodia Fun Facts and Observations The Iconic Temples of Angkor Wat Cambodias pride shines through: Angkor Wat appears everywhere—on currency, beer labels, hotel and restaurant names, and the national flag. We noticed this within hours of arrival. Water Buffaloes: As C

Having traveled across Europe for nearly three months this year and lived in London for years, I can confidently say it remains my favorite European city. No other destination rivals its unparalleled culture, food, nightlife, markets, shopping, green spaces, activities, theater, and urban exploration opportunities. Recently, I guided a first-time visitor through the city, drawing on my extensive experience as a former resident. Heres my expert-recommended 3-day itinerary for an unforgettable we