Grab a Coffe at Gravity Espresso

Gravity Espresso is one of those coffee shops that feels like a staple of the community. Their little artist gallery inside featuring new local talent is such a beautiful way to learn about the artisans who make their living in Inglewood. Sitting in this comfy shop you’ll get to watch locals meet up, chat with their favourite baristas and smile at strangers as their morning begins with a great cup of coffee. And the coffees are really that good!

Have Brunch at Red’s Diner

As fun as trendy and hip brunch places are, nothing really hits the spot better than a traditional greasy spoon-type diner. And Red’s Diner is the best of the best. Red’s Diner serves incredible all-day breakfasts inside a friendly and comfortable interior. They have all the classics and a specialty Prairie Breakfast Plate, which adds potato cheddar perogies and Rocky’s kielbasa to a traditional breakfast platter. Their Blueberry, Basil & Goat Cheese Stuffed French Toast was INCREDIBLE! Portions are enormous, so don’t hesitate to share.

Grab a Novel at Fair’s Fair Books

Inglewood is home to some of the best shopping in all of Calgary. Make your first stop at the famed Fair’s Fair Books. This shop has been open since 1988, curating one of the best-used books stores in the province. While some used bookstores are a real shot in the dark for finding what you’re looking for, this enormous store really feels more like a high-end new bookstore as their selection is so deep! Plus, the cute and quirky decorations really make the place so inviting.

Be Entranced at The Apothecary in Inglewood

If you’re looking to relax, then you need to visit the Apothecary in Inglewood! You’re overwhelmed with the intoxicating smell of aromatic herbs, spices, and more just walking in the door. This store is known for its zero waste goods, pure essential oils, bulk herbs and refillable products. Forget Lush bath bombs and instead grab yourself a few of their handmade herbal bombs to pamper yourself in an indulgent bath. I love their selection of locally crafted candles as well. Nothing better than scents to bring back travel memories!

Become a Cowboy at Smithbilt Hats Inc

There’s perhaps no better accessory to shop for in Calgary than a cowboy hat. And no better place to do so than Smithbilt Hats Inc. The Smithbilt’s company was started by Morris Schumiatcher in 1910. The Schumiatcher family immigrated from Russia to Canada and changed their name to Smith when they arrived. The family made and sold dress hats with small brims, as was the style in Europe at the time. But as they spent more time in the prairies, the Stampede Board wanted to have Smithbilt’s create a special hat to promote western wear. This was where the white cattleman hat was invented. The white cattleman hat soon became the symbol of the Stampede and of Calgary itself.

You can still buy your very own white cattleman hat today in the shop. But there are so many more designs to choose from. Everything from classic styles to modern, brightly coloured hats withs feather and jewelled embellishments. Even if hats aren’t your thing, checking out the artistry required to handmake these hats is well worth your time. Drop-in and visit this truly historic Calgary establishment.

Find some Indigenous Made Treasures at Moonstone Creation

Moonstone Creation is an Indigenous-owned and family-run business proud to represent over 60 Indigenous makers and artisans from across Turtle Island. So many people buy Moccasins as a souvenir when visiting anywhere in Canada but rarely are these created by Indigenous makers. To purchase an authentic pair of Moccasins is expensive, but that is because they are intricately made by hand, with genuine leather and embellished with meaningful beading. But most importantly, you are supporting and honouring the Indigenous culture by buying them from Indigenous creators.

If you are looking for a beautiful gift or souvenir, they also have lovely beaded feather & orange shirt brooch kits. It’s a great way to learn about the history of beading and the methods which they have used to create these crafts for hundreds of years. The kits come with all the supplies you need. They also run beading workshops throughout the year, so check their website to see if one is running while you’re in town!

Fill up on Stationary at Recess

For anyone who loves stationery as much as me, visiting Recess is like being a kid in a candy store! There’s nothing better than a bright white interior filled with vividly bejewelled paper treasures. If you haven’t grabbed a new journal to document your travel memories, this is the perfect place to get one. If you’re interested in learning how to create beautiful hand lettering to take your journaling game to the next level, then you should grab one of their customs Learn to Letter Guides. They have so many unique items that will spice up any desk drawer.

Bring Home a Plant

Even if you can’t bring any of these little beauties home with you, a visit to Plant Shop is sure to brighten any grey day. The Plant Shop aims to help re-connect people with the natural world and inspire them to build and maintain more beautiful spaces! Just walking around the shop and looking at all the exotic plants is such a serene experience. They have great selections of handmade and ceramic planters as well in a myriad of exciting designs. So if you have some green beauties at home, you can bring these home as a memento of your trip. Plus their custom DIY Terrariums are a gorgeous gift for anyone who wants a low-maintenance plant to bring some greenery into their home office.

Get Your Spices at The Silk Road Spice Merchant

The Silk Road Spice Merchant is my favourite shop in town. This is the perfect place to come to upgrade your pantry! The colours, smells and flavours of the spices on offer here are captivating. The Silk Road Spice Merchant started up when the owners couldn’t find the kinds of international spices they wanted to try in their cooking. So they aimed to start up their own store where they would carry every type of spice imaginable! One of my favourite things in their shop is their Hot Cocoa blends. They offer Spicy Mexican Hot Cocoa, Winter Spice (with cinnamon, ginger, cloves and mace,) Cinnamon Cardamom Hot Cocoa and even Chai Masala Hot Cocoa. All of these warm, exotic flavours are the perfect thing to warm you up on a cold night.

Lunch at Inglewood Drive-In

If it’s time to get something to eat for lunch, head on over to the Inglewood Drive-In. This retro Diner is one of those classic spots you just can’t miss. Don’t let the dated exterior fool you; this place is an iconic Calgary destination. Everything from their mouth-watering handmade burgers, thick milkshakes, crispy onion rings, and perfectly seasoned french fries will make you coming back for more. They even serve up a Dole Whip ice cream! One of the only places you can get this pineapple treat outside of Disneyland. But the old-school foods aren’t without a few modern twists. They have new additions like the curry veggie burger and the spicy kimchi burger.

Hop on a Scooter

If the weather allows during your visit, you need to spend the afternoon explore Inglewood on a Scooter. There are several different companies that serve the Calgary area, with the various brands of scooters littering the sidestreets of the city. Bird scooters, Lime and Neuron Mobility, are the most popular and readily available in the city. Download the related app, and you’ll be able to see which scooters are the closest to you. You can also see on the app which scooters have the most battery life since you don’t wanna get stuck with no battery.

These scooters are so much fun to ride. Although you can easily walk to the following destinations spread out around Inglewood, the scooters are a blast to use and make the journey a little more speedy and a lot more fun! Simply hop on the scooter and make your way into the parkland towards our next destination.

Relax at Harvie Passage

Head north along 13th Street and east along New St. along the Bow River. The residential neighbourhood quickly gives way to the beautiful natural environment of the Pearce Estate Park. This tree-filled pathway is such a calming part of the city and the fact its mere steps away from the main street is one of the amazing things about Calgary.

Making your way along the river, you’ll reach the Harvie Passage Lookout. The Harvie Passage Lookout is wonderfully designed to give visitors a stunning view of the rapids below. Harvie Passage is a fast-running channel off the Bow River. After a massive flood in 2013, the city went about an extensive redesign to not only make this part of the river safer (for the rafters who would constantly sneak onto the waters) but provide a more enjoyable experience for river-based recreationists.

Kids and adults can wear lifejackets and ride down the western passage, which was created as a natural river ride. Lots of locals bring floaties or small rafts to ride down the river rapids as well. Even if you don’t have any of these with you, the stone steps they have created make a great place to rest your feet on a hot day. It’s incredible to see the entire community come out on hot days to enjoy this amazing riverside feature. And best of all, it’s totally free!

Enjoy a 5-Course Dinner at Deane House

One of the best ways to end off your day is with dinner at Deane House. Deane House was initially built in 1906 for Captain Richard Deane, who worked at Fort Calgary. Eventually, the house was moved the where you find it today. It was moved in 1929 to an area with a better view of the Elbow River. Over the years, the house was used as a boarding home and then purchased by the city to be used as a gallery.

Today, it’s home to one of the best restaurants in the city. In the summertime, you can dine outside in their immersive garden, rain or shine. Although they have a complete a-la-carte menu, the best option is their delightful 5-course chef’s tasting menu. The chef curates this selection weekly to suit the flavours and fresh produce of the month. The 5-course menu is $90 per person, which is truly a great price for the quality of food you receive. It’s such a fantastic way to cap off your evening.

Sunset on Scotsman’s Hill

If you’re looking for a spot to watch the sunset over the city, take a walk through ENMAX Park to the top of Scotsman’s Hill. To get there you’ll walk through the Elbow Riverpath which is the most serene walking path surrounded by Calgary’s relaxing natural landscape. Scotsman’s Hill is one of the best places in the town to give a view of Calgary’s skyline set behind a steep escarpment facing the Elbow River.

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Late Night Drinks at Ol’ Beautiful Brewing Co.

To end the night, take a walk over to the Ol’ Beautiful Brewing Co. Ol’Beautiful Brewing Co. is located in this little hidden away corner of Inglewood, where you’ll want to while the night away. I’m not going to lie; the design of the beer cans drew me in right away but it was the amazing atmosphere that made me want to stay. The time-worn and well-loved interior designs of their taproom feels like it belongs in the hippest streets of Los Angeles or New York City. Inside this chic and vintage-adorned interior, you can sit and enjoy any of their amazing craft brews. Best of all surrounded by their friendly staff and incredible regulars. They are more than happy to help you find your perfect brew! If the weather is nice, their outdoor patio is a lively and fun place to enjoy your drinks.

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Play some Games at Revival Brewcade

If you’re a night owl and aren’t yet ready for your night to end, head back up to 9th avenue to Revival Brewcade. While the bar is stocked with incredible drinks, the best thing about this place is the retro pinball and arcade machines that line the walls. One of my biggest pet peeves about so-called “retro arcade bars” is how expensive the games can be. But here at Revival Brewcade, you can buy a $5 all you can play pinball card!! This will keep you there all night trying to get the top score!

After a day of cold brews, boutiques, beers and bars, it’s time to head back to your hotel or home for the night. Hopefully, you found more interesting shops along the way, which keep you coming back to Inglewood for more! Let me know in the comments if I missed your favourite place!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post How To Spend the Perfect Day in Inglewood Calgary first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

One of the ways to do so is to eat at convenience stores or konbins as they are nicknamed in Japan. While this might sound unappetizing, you need to TRUST ME and find out for yourself how delicious convenience stores in Japan really are.

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Where to Go?

If you’ve never been to a Japanese convenience store before you want to look out for one of these three names either: FamilyMart, 7-Eleven and Lawson. There are many other smaller chains but these are reliably the best options to find the most outstanding food options!

Since these are such large national chains most have comprehensive English labelling on a lot of their products. So even if you can’t read the package, you can check the white printed sticker label. These have listed the English ingredients so you can better understand what’s inside.

Get the Checklist!

Download my Japan Konbini Checklist to help find all my favourite items. It’s a fun way to make a challenge out of your adventures.

Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner (or even just snack time) there is always the perfect thing to enjoy! So dine on!

Breakfast

Coffee

Fresh Brew

While I do love going to the local coffee shop for your morning brew, you’d be amazed to find how incredible Japanese convenience store coffee is! Usually, right near the front of the store or beside the counter, you’ll find these large, self-serve coffee bars. You can get everything from a black coffee to a steamed latte at a FRACTION of the cost of those fancy cafes. They even have pre-packed cups of ice for your iced coffee if that’s your favourite way to enjoy your morning brew. I was addicted to these when we came in the summer. The coffee was shockingly smooth and not in the least bit bitter so it can perfectly be enjoyed over ice.

Coffee in a Can

One of the popular things which Japanese people seem to love is coffee in a can. Canned coffee was invented in the 60s and a quick and convenient way to start your day. It was invented by Ueshima Coffee Co and started off mainly being served from vending machines all over the country (which is still a popular way to find it today). The coffee became so beloved that you can find it pretty much anywhere these days not just in vending machines. Konbinis have entire fridges and shelves dedicated just to the canned coffee. They come both hot and cold in as many flavours and blends as you can imagine. Canned coffee is definitely not my favourite of the konbini options but a must-try at least once if you’re visiting Japan.

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Konbini Luxury Cafes

In select Lawson stores, you’ll also find a new feature called Machi café. This is Lawson’s own version of the McCafe. These shops sell exclusive, premium brews but at the same low prices you’re used to. They are still self-serve (as most Japanese people prefer the direct nature of self-serve), but the quality and variety are slightly more complex. They are also served in some of the most beautifully designed cups, which rotate throughout the season. You can get regular coffee, but they also have unique specialties like roasted green tea lattes, coffee jelly, jasmine lattes and more!

Cost: 100 – 220 yen depending on the kind and size of the drink.

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Tea

If coffee isn’t your thing, then fear not, the konbini still has plenty to offer you. If you’re a tea drinker, you’ve stepped into paradise. Lining the store’s shelves and fridges are dozens upon dozens of teas in easy to carry to-go bottles. They have cold tea in the fridge section, but there is also a hot counter for the brewed teas in bottles. Japan seems to sweeten their tea quite a bit, so if you’re looking for one without too much sugar, be sure to check the labels and sugar content. While green tea is doubtlessly the most popular flavour you can also find milk teas and unique flavours like barley and jasmine.

Cost: 100-180 yen

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Yogurt Drinks

If caffeine is your sworn enemy, you have GOT to try one of the many yogurt or smoothie drinks they have instore. These mini cups are beautifully packaged and just sweet enough to feel like a treat but not too sweet to feel like you can’t indulge in some pastries later. Some of these even come with tapioca balls in the bottle, which feels like a breakfast bubble tea.

Cost: 110-180 yen

Mochifuwa Pancake

While Japan doesn’t have a staple breakfast food, a fantastic pastry item I discovered while pouring through the shelves are Mochifuwa Pancakes. These are pre-filled with syrup and butter and gush out once you take a bite. You get two pancakes per package, and they are insanely moist! They are such a great breakfast item to grab to eat as you go or to throw in your bag for a brunch-time snack. You can also try the famous dorayaki pancake, which is the same pastry but filled with red bean paste instead of syrup.

Cost: 100 yen for two pancakes

Egg Salad Sandwich

Ok, now, don’t get me wrong, recommending an egg salad sandwich from a convenience store anywhere else in the world might seem like a death wish. But Egg Salad Sandwiches in Japan are one of the most fantastic food items in the country. Honestly, if I could choose just five things to eat in Japan, this would make a list! Foodie legend Anthony Bourdain himself is coined as saying they are “unnatural, inexplicable and delicious.” The bread used in all konbini sandwiches is soft as a pillow and correctly served with the crusts cut off.

The actual egg salad is creamy beyond belief. They make sure to remove a lot of the egg whites from the dish, making it less healthy, but it sure makes it taste better! These are the definition of umami and I’m not ashamed to say I ate one every morning! There is much discussion about who makes the best egg salad sandwich and I think everyone has their own preference, mine is Lawson but let me know what’s yours!

Cost: 195-224 yen

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Cream Sandwiches

If egg sandwiches aren’t your bag, you need to try one of the sweet cream sandwiches. These are perfect as a gourmet breakfast option. Cream sandwiches are served inside the same fluffy white bread but are filled with various fresh fruit and light as a feather whipped cream. There are even seasonal specialties depending on the time of year. The strawberries and custard version is a favourite for Valentine’s Day. But my personal top pick is the blueberries and cream.

Cost: 300-350 yen

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Onigiri

The classic breakfast food for many Japanese people is Onigiri. Onigiri is a rice ball formed into a triangle and traditionally wrapped in nori (seaweed). The nori wrapping provides a great cover so your hands don’t get covered in sticky rice. The rice ball is filled with various flavours—everything from tuna, mayo and shrimp, egg and pickled plum. The pickled plum flavour is meatless and an excellent option for vegans. While being vegan in Japan might be more difficult, it’s definitely not impossible and this is a fantastic choice for vegan eating. My personal favourite variety is the Mentaiko. Mentaiko translates to “spicy cod roe.” It’s not too spicy but has the perfect salty kick to get things started in the morning. 

Cost: 100-200 yen

Pastries & Donuts

Melon Pan

Despite their thin stature, Japanese people LOVE sweets. Walking into a konbini, you are immediately overwhelmed by the giant aisles FULL of pastries. Many of the pre-packaged sweets are still super fresh and brought in daily from mega bakeries. One of the traditional items to grab for breakfast is a melon pan (aka “melon bread”). There is no real melon in melon bread. It’s named as such for the hard texture on the top of the soft bun, which resembles a melon’s skin.

Cost: 110 yen

Donuts

If you would prefer a hot pastry, head to the counter to pick up one of the freshly made donuts. These darling creations are so soft and airy they almost melt in your mouth. Donuts are hugely popular in Japan and although there are lots of donut shops, the ones in the konbinis are honestly just as good!

Cost: 93-110 yen

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Lunch

Instant Ramen

If you’re coming to Japan, you need to be ready to eat your weight in ramen. And while there is no competition with the freshly made noodles at local ramen shops, the sheer variety and low-cost instant-ramen options are hard to beat at the konbini. Just walk into the store and down the ramen aisles. Yes, sometimes there is more than one aisle dedicated only to instant-ramen. But don’t worry, you won’t have to trek back to your hotel to get hot water. Every konbini has a hot water station near the front door. You can use their electric boiling water dispensers to make your instant ramen. There are also microwaves should that be required. The ramen station also has everything you need to eat your meal, from chopsticks to spoons and even tables and chairs should you need to eat right there and then.

Cost: 150 – 300 yen

Side Dishes

To really jazz up your instant-ramen, head to the fridges at the back of the store, where you can find a myriad of side dishes to add to your lunch. One of my favourite things to add to my ramen is a soft boiled egg. These can be purchased for 60 yen and plopped right into your soup. Bamboo shoots and bean sprouts are another great addition to upgrade your ramen. They also lots of different kinds of wakame (seaweed), both pickled, dried and fresh to add in there. You can throw pre-cooked meat, fish, pretty much whatever your heart desires to make your own custom ramen!

Cost: Varies depending on the dish

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Steamed Buns

A great side dish for lunch is the Chinese steamed buns that you can find at the front of the store. These come with fillings like pork, spicy curry, bean paste, Thai shrimp, even pizza! Pizza might sound weird but trust me, the Frankenstein creation is surprisingly delicious! These are little hot pockets of heaven and make for a great lunch on the go.

Cost: 130 yen

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Tonkatsu Sandwich 

One of the most simple and yet delicious lunches you can have is a Tonkatsu sandwich. Tonkatsu is a pork cutlet, which is literally sandwiched between two slices of that iconically soft bread, shredded cabbage and a thin layer of Japanese mayo. You can choose to warm this up in the microwave or just eat it right out of the bag. Either way, stunningly delicious!

Cost: 290-390 yen

Ice Cream

If you’re looking for a light dessert, head to the freezer section for some ice cream. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll really need one of these refreshing desserts. And it’s the perfect thing to cool down with after all that hot ramen. I’m quite partial to the Yukimi Daifuku, which are a pair of delicious mochi ice creams that come in a variety of flavours. There is always a little section of minature Haagen-Dazs ice creams, often with unique flavours found only in Japan. They had sakura flavoured ice cream when we were there, and it was divine!

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Finally, I’d be remiss not to mention Choco Monaka! This is Japan’s answer to the ice cream sandwich. Instead of a cookie, the ice cream and filling is smothered inside a light and crispy monaka wafer. These are super cheap, at only 140 yen a piece!

Cost: Varies

Dinner

Oden

As the perfect entry to your dinner at the konbini, start off with traditional Japanese comfort food, Oden. Oden originated as a Japanese-style food during the Edo period. The dish starts with a richly flavoured soup, and different ingredients are added to it. This adds more flavour and texture to the soup. Unlike other soups, you can actually pick and choose what items are added into your oden, making it a personalized experience. You can choose from things like fish cakes, grilled meat, daikon rashies, hard-boiled eggs, deep-fried tofu coin purses and seasonal veggies. Oden is a favourite food to eat during the colder winter months, but it is on offer all year round.

Cost: Varies depending on what you add

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Spicy Karaage

Karaage (aka deep-fried chicken) is a classic Japanese dish which you’ll find at all convenience stores. Although you can get karaage everywhere Lawson‘s does it best! They serve their Karaage in both regular and spicy nuggets, but let’s face it, if you want the premium version, you go for the spicy! Lawson’s brand is not only the most delicious (in my personal opinion), but their packaging with that cute little chick is adorable!

Cost: 200 yen per box of nuggets

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Yakitori

In addition to Karaage, Japanese convenience stores have introduced hot Yakitori in the front counter. Yakitori is another traditional Japanese dish. Yakitori are skewered meats, placed on bamboo stick, that are grilled over a charcoal fire. Once finished cooking they are topped with either salt or tare sauce. These are simple and tasty and another excellent starter for dinner.

Cost: 120-130 yen each

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Bento Boxes

One of the best ways to enjoy a well-rounded dinner is with a Bento. Bentos have been enjoyed in Japan since the early 16th century. The word bento translates to “packed meal.” The bento selection in convenience stores is immense. They always have the traditional ones, which generally contain some steamed rice, a side of fresh fish or tempura, seasonal vegetables and a small dessert like dried fruit or mochi. There are also complete hot bentos you can get like soba noodles or curry and rice. There are so many different options, but in general, you can try whatever catches your fancy. But avoid anything like Italian spaghetti or other European or American meals. Stick to the local goods.

Cost: 300-400 yen

Mont Blanc

One of the most beautiful and uniquely flavoured desserts sold in convenience stores are Mont Blancs. These desserts are little cakes with chestnut cream inside topped with the iconic stringy layers of whipped cream. They come in all different seasonal flavours throughout the year, so there is always something new to try! My favourite had to be the sakura & cherry mochi with red bean paste for springtime. As beautiful to look at as it was yummy to eat!

Cost: 290-350 yen

Parfaits

Another one of my favourite colourful desserts is the konbini parfaits. Parfaits are an iconic Japanese dessert. I’m not exactly sure why it became so popular, but my best guess is that it is because they are so colourful and exciting to look at! Even the konbini, parfaits are gorgeously created with layers of ice cream or yogurt, fruit, cookies and cream.

Cost: 215-300 yen

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Cheap Drinks

To finish off your dinner, grab a fancy nightcap. Konbinis have EVERYTHING. They are a verified liquor store. Everything from beer, sake, wine and hard liquor – they have it all. And in the most unique flavours and from brands from all over Japan. Even if you don’t drink, they sell tasty non-alcoholic beer. Same great taste but none of the side effects!

Cost: Varies

Vitamin Drinks

Last but not least, grab yourself a vitamin drink for the morning after! It’s especially great to cure hangovers, but they sell various different ones that can “cure” anything from stress to jetlag! If you can’t read the labels (although google translate is a great help with that), just grab whichever ones are highlighted as best sellers or look at what the locals are buying.

Cost: Varies

I really hope you enjoyed this foodie guide to the best things to eat at Japanese convenience stores! Remember, you can always download our Konbini Checklist to carry with you as you travel across Japan! Let me know in the comments what your favourite konbini food is or any which you can’t wait to try!

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post The Ultimate Foodie Guide to Konbini, Japanese Amazing Convenience Stores first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Launceston is untouched by mega-tourism and has a unique landscape only found in this part of the country. Launceston to me felt like a combination of New Zealand’s rich scenery and Australia’s vibrant culture. If you’re a tourist who wants to get off the beaten track and get a little peace and quiet, then Launceston is the place for you.

Table Of Contents

1. History
2. Access
3. Best Time to Visit
4. What to Pack?
5. Where to Stay
   • Launceston Backpackers
   • Kurrajong House
   • Hatherley Birrell Collection
6. What to do in Launceston
   • 1. Sweetbrew 
   • 2. Eat the Day Away at the Harvest Farmer's Market
   • 3. Explore Cataract Gorge
   • 4. Get up High on the Gorge Scenic Chairlift
   • 5. Wonder at the Works inside Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery
   • 6. Discover the old Craftsmanship inside the Old Umbrella Shop
   • 7. Indulge in Fine Dining at Stillwater
   • 8. Go Back in Time inside Franklin House
   • 9. Sip on Aged Ales at James Boag Brewery Experience
   • 10. Get Spooked on Launceston City Ghost Tours
   • 11. Wander down Memory Lane on a Self Guided History Walk

History

Launceston, located on the northern tip of the state of Tasmania, is one of their two main cities. The other being Hobart, located on the southern end. Launceston is Australia’s third oldest European settlement, established in 1806 after Sydney (in 1788) and Hobart (in 1803). The city is renowned for its well preserved historic buildings, artful food scene and lush countryside.

While I highly enjoyed visiting both Hobart and Launceston, and each had its own pros and cons, Launceston felt more in line with my creative travel sensibilities. The city streets were more artful, their parks lusher. The overall design seemed to be of the utmost importance, even if a bit dated. Like other Australian cities, Launceston features a thriving coffee scene, great food, excellent hikes and an intimacy with the natural environment that you wouldn’t expect from a big city.

Access

The best way to get to Launceston is by plane. A short flight from Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane will land you just 15 minutes outside the city’s centre. While renting a car is advisable to see the rest of Tasmania, we didn’t find that one was necessary at all for our time inside the confines of Launceston’s city centre and outer boroughs.

Best Time to Visit

Launceston and Tasmania, in general, is noticeably colder than the rest of Australia. Don’t come here without checking the weather! We saw a few people step off the plane in shorts and t-shirts in a climate that was more suitable for a winter coat.

From November to March are the best months to travel when the weather is at its most enjoyable. June, July and August are relatively chilly and rainy. Still, the prices of hotels are significantly discounted, and the city is almost empty! Summer is the peak travel season when you’ll find the hotels to be the priciest.

Whereas international travellers might not find their way to Tasmania, local Australians have been frequenting the island more and more, so be sure to check the dates of any Australia holidays or school breaks as these times may also be much busier and more expensive.

What to Pack?

As mentioned above, you might be surprised to see how different the weather is here compared to Australia’s arid deserts and beachy coasts. So much of Tasmania is made up of cool temperate rainforests. In addition to your regular travel essentials, there are a few critical items to bring to Launceston and Tasmania. It’s crucial to pack lots of layers that will help you keep warm in the morning, but which you can shed after a few hours of hiking which warms you right up!

It’s also essential to pack a good raincoat or waterproof windbreaker, which can be super useful since rain is a frequent visitor to Tasmania’s forecasts. The rainforests can get pretty wet. Umbrellas are also a good thing to pack in your bag for extra protection.

Where to Stay

When planning my stay in Launceston, I was so excited to find that almost every single home and hotel listed on Tripadvisor was over 4-stars. This meant that you could throw a dart and end up at a fantastic hotel. Everyone we met was so happy to see us, so proud of their city and more than willing to help us out in any way they could. Whether it was picking us up from the airport or showing us around town, Launceston’s residence were always going over and above our expectations.

Launceston Backpackers

We stayed at the Launceston Backpackers, a lovely old house renovated to hold guests. It felt more like staying in someone’s cottage rather than a hotel. I loved the architecture, the stained glass, the old furniture, pretty much everything. It was super affordable and right in the centre of town meaning we could easily walk from place to place without ever having to get on a bus or rent a car.

Price: $47 USD/night

Kurrajong House

Kurrajong House offers accommodation to adult-only guests who enjoy a quiet and tranquil stay. The house is a heritage property that has been lovingly restored. You can choose to stay in either their Heritage guest rooms within the main house or one of two courtyard rooms that overlook their small garden. They are located in Launceston’s luxury end and a short 5-minute walk to the city.

Price: $108 USD/night 

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Hatherley Birrell Collection

Hatherley Birrell Collection is a boutique hotel offering a high-end experience with some of the most exceptionally stylish rooms. With four unique spaces to stay in Hatherley Birrell Collection leaves your soul enriched and your creativity inspired during your stay in Launceston!

Price: $170 USD/night

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I’m back in Tasmania, first stop Launceston and the east coast (where I grew up). Next time you’re in Tas or plan a special trip, do yourself a favour and check in at @hatherleybirrellcollection (^ is part of their property) – my aunty and uncle have worked on every detail of their unreal boutique B&B #hatherleybirrellcollection #spring #time #boutique #art #north #tasmania

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What to do in Launceston

1. Sweetbrew 

The first thing to do in the morning is to grab yourself a cup of coffee! Australia is known for its incredible coffee culture, and Tasmania is no different. Sweetbrew is a local hangout for hipsters and tourists alike. Every coffee is perfectly crafted, and their summer berry cake is something I’ll remember forever!

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2. Eat the Day Away at the Harvest Farmer’s Market

For breakfast, head on down to the Harvest Saturday Farmers Market. Stock up on some doughnuts from @sandyssourdough and if you’re craving something savoury, hit up a gluten-free breakfast bowl from @mountgnomonfarm.

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Don’t leave without a bottle or two of manuka honey from Tasmania, something which is sure to cure what ails you. Even if you don’t have a kitchen at your hotel, this is the best place to load up on cheese, freshly cured meats, hot-smoked salmon, fresh berries and fruits and hot from the oven bread. This all makes for a super simple picnic luncheon to enjoy later on in the day.

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3. Explore Cataract Gorge

And where to eat your picnic lunch, you may ask? There’s no better place than Cataract Gorge! Cataract Gorge is a stunning park in the centre of Launceston. To get to the gorge, you begin by walking along a scenic pathway, called the King’s Bridge-Cataract Walk. This leads you around the South Esk River’s edge to the northern part of the gorge’s basin. From here, you can walk across the Alexandra Suspension Bridge. On the other side of the bridge, you’ll find a large swimming pool to be enjoyed in the summer months.

4. Get up High on the Gorge Scenic Chairlift

I found the best part of our visit to the gorge was getting to ride the antique chairlift! The chairlift, built in 1972, and is still the longest single-span lift in the world! We were one of the only people in the park during our visit and figured the lift wouldn’t be open. But to our surprise, a quiet old woman was sitting at the desk to welcome us in and let us ride. It felt almost strange like they had kept it open just for us. We giggled the entire way across the gorge, swinging our feet, nervously laughing as the chairlift climbed higher and higher. The chairlift covers 457 metres and moves pretty slowly for you to really take in the scenery around you.

When you get off the chairlift, you can explore the landscaped Victorian garden and small cottage restaurant on the other side of the basin. You’ll find unusual Tasmanian flora and fauna, including ferns, exotic plants, and even wild peacocks.

The trip costs $9 USD for a one-way ticket or $12 USD for an “Across & Back” ticket. We opted for the one-way sine we enjoyed the walk back to the entrance. The lift is open every day from 9am, 365 days a year! In the winter it closes at 4:30 pm, in the Spring and Autumn it closes at 5 pm and in Summer from 5:30 pm to 6 pm.

5. Wonder at the Works inside Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery

If you’re visiting Launceston, you should take some time to admire some local and National Australian art. I found that Australia has such a distinct fine art style and something completely unique compared to European or even American art. My favourite part of this museum was the Tasmanian art collection from the colonial era to the present day. Their gallery even has a focus on Tasmania’s convict history and the strange and powerful art produced by the prisoners.

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6. Discover the old Craftsmanship inside the Old Umbrella Shop

Launceston’s historic streets look as though they have been preserved in amber from the late 19th century. While other Australian cities, even in Tasmania, have moved along with modernization, Launceston captures the looks and feel of Australias at the turn of the century. One of the oldest shops which is still up and running is the Old Umbrella Shop. Three generations of the same family have produced and repaired umbrellas in this shop since 1860. The umbrellas here are even crafted from local Tasmanian wood. The historic signage out front is the same as it was in the mid-Victorian era. Giving you a glimpse of what this entire street once might have looked like.

7. Indulge in Fine Dining at Stillwater

For one of the best meals, you’ll have on your entire trip, be sure to book reservations in advance at Stillwater Restaurant. Stillwater is located inside a beautifully restored 1830s flour mill. If you’re lucky enough to get a seat with a view, you can soak in the stunning landscape of the Tamar River while you dine.

Stillwater prides itself on focusing on local food, grown by producers all across Tasmania. Their seafood options are my absolutely favourite dishes but their menu changes so often I can’t recommend one in particular. Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong. Their wine bar is also stacked with Australian wines, which we know, are some of the best producers of wine world-wide. So relax and indulge in some fine dining!

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8. Go Back in Time inside Franklin House

Franklin House gives visitors a glimpse into what life was like for the new colony of Launceston in 1838. It’s Tasmania’s oldest house museum, which has been restored to its original appearance. The house was first built for businessman, Britton Jones. Jones himself was an ex-convict who managed to escape the system and make a new life for himself and his family. It was so exciting to explore the home and discover the original furniture and decor. This allowed us to imagine how all the home here would have looked in years past, like stepping back in time.

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First National Trust house in Tasmania, giving a glimpse of how some lived in early days.

A post shared by pds7mow (@pds7mow) on Mar 25, 2020 at 4:33am PDT

9. Sip on Aged Ales at James Boag Brewery Experience

Tasmania’s most famous beer is the Boags beer, which is sold worldwide but highly regarded in Launceston where the brewery is located. On the Brewery Tour experience, you’ll learn all about what makes their beer unique, see how its made and learn about the history of this Tasmanian Brewery.

At the end of the tour, you’ll be invited into their bar where you’ll receive a 30-minute guided beer tasting! Here you’ll be able to taste a flight of their brews paired with locally produced cheese! I’ve been to many a beer tasting but never one which included cheese, so that captured my attention straight away (I’m a HUGE cheese lover) and I did think it really gave an interesting spin on the tasting.

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10. Get Spooked on Launceston City Ghost Tours

Ok, now I know ghost tours might seem like something kinda cheesy, but I LOVE them. To me, they are just like a history tour but with a slightly macabre angle. Launceston has a deep and dark convict past. It’s said that some of the prisoners who were sentenced here can still be seen roaming the streets, their ghosts clinging to the mortal world. Walking the old streets of Launceston, your guide will tell tales of the past, making the city’s history come alive. There is both an adult-only and family-friendly option, so there is something for all ages! Obviousy the family-friendly tour is a little less scary so if you spook easily that might be the tour for you.

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11. Wander down Memory Lane on a Self Guided History Walk

Launceston has some of the best colonial and Victorian architecture anywhere in Australia. Cameron street alone perfectly exemplifies what the rest of Australia would have looked like during the boom times of the 19th century. You can do your own self-guided walking tour from Albert Hall in the east to the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery in the west. This tour focuses on specific buildings along the route that tell rich tales of the city’s architectural and social history. There are little plaques along the way to help inform you of the stories as you go. And it’s a great way to explore the city on foot.

While Hobart might be the more famous of the two large Tasmania cities, Launceston is my favourite. It had a quiet charm which I find intoxicating. If you’re looking for a little escape from mainland Australia’s busy beaches and modern cities, Launceston is a great place to come.

Have you ever visited Tasmania? Let me know what you’re favourite part of this island is!

Happy Travel Adventurers!

The post 11 Amazing Things to See and Do in Launceston, Tasmania first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Day One – Trendy & Tasty

The Windsor

Brunch isn’t just for the big cities. There are tons of different restaurants in Phoenix where you can find an amazing Saturday brunch! But the Windsor is one of the best. I love the midcentury decor; the bright red brick walls feel so chic and welcoming. Their Highroad Sandwich made with eggs, belly bacon, tomato & garlic aioli is pure perfection and the best hangover cure. Their Matador is my favourite though; two eggs over easy stacked with griddled cheddar potatoes, a crispy tortilla, salsa verde & avocado relish. It feels like the epitome of Phoenix on a plate, a mix of traditional American, Mexican and southwestern flavours.

Frances & Stinkweeds

After finishing up your meal, head over to Frances to walk off that eggs bacon. Frances is an adorable boutique that features chic women’s clothing, shoes & accessories, and handmade gifts. All with that touch of vintage flair. They always have something super unique that catches my eye. And they also feature Arizonan themed items that you can’t get anywhere else which makes for perfect souvenirs. Stinkweeds right next door sells used and new vinyl records. If you’re a music lover this is one of the most welcoming and unpretentious record stores I’ve ever been too. We always have a great time pouring over the records and listening to their in-store selections.

Heard Museum

After a little bit of shopping, it’s time for some culture at the Heard. The Heard Museum is one of the best places to visit if you’ve never been to Phoenix or Arizona before. Here you’ll be able to learn about the indigenous people of Arizona. The museum has partnered with various native artists and local tribes to create a collection that presents the stories of the American Indian people from a first-person perspective. Inside are you can see more than 40,000 different items and revolving exhibitions. There is always something new to see here. I didn’t know much about the history of Phoenix’s native history before I visited and found the museum incredibly insightful. The indigenous art is so powerful and inspiring that you leave feeling absolutely invigorated!

MacAlpine’s Diner and Soda Fountain

After the museum, it’s time to get something to eat. MacAlpine’s is one of those Phoenix institutions that you can’t help but adore. Since 1938, this place has been serving up soda fountain pops inside what used to be an old pharmacy. In the 1950s, this was the place for greasers and pink ladies to hang out and share gossip over milkshakes and desserts. Today the original countertop and malt machine stands as a reminder of all that great history. You can still order up classic treats and get served by a waitress in victory rolls and vintage dresses. It’s like going back in time. Along the walls are an array of antique pieces of ephemera and packaging from as early as the 1930s, which makes you feel like you’re eating inside a museum. The food is delicious, homemade, and a freezing cold ice cream float really does the trick on a hot day in the desert!

2023 UPDATE: Due to the death of one of founders, Cary Heizenrader, MacAlpine’s are temporarily closed. They currently looking for staff and plan to reopen later this spring. 

Lola’s Coffee

If the heat is getting you down, or if you need a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, head over to Lola’s Coffee. Lola’s offers up some of the best brews in the city with one of the most chill environments. A jumble of vintage furniture makes the place feel like your grandmother’s basement but run by some of the best baristas in the valley. They serve up amazing hand-roasted coffees, which I always order over ice. Their back patio is a sanctuary in the middle of downtown where you can sit with your favourite book or just relax under the warm sun.

Roosevelt Row 

The Historic Roosevelt Neighborhood runs from McDowell to VanBuren and from Central to 7th Avenue. These houses were built between 1893 and 1930. Today the area around these houses is known as Roosevelt Row. It is one of the few walkable districts in downtown Phoenix. The Roosevelt Arts District is home to amazing street art, fabulous restaurants and trendy boutiques. But my favourite activity is walking up and down the side streets to admire the fantastic neighbourhood architecture. There is something so iconic about southwestern architecture and if you’ve never seen this kind of design before, then this little walkable neighbourhood is the best place to see it!

Phoenix Public Market Café

If you’re getting a bit hungry, head over to the Phoenix Public Market Café. This chic open-air market is located inside the heart of urban Phoenix. All the food is sourced from local vendors and farms, and you feel like you’re eating straight from the source. If you’re looking for something sweet, you HAVE to try the cafe sundae. Served atop organic vanilla soft serve, is a layer of raspberry sauce, toasted butter pistachios, and rich chocolate shavings. It makes me drool just thinking about it.

Antique Sugar

Antique Sugar is one of my favourite vintage stores in the city. It is wonderfully curated and a joy to shop inside. The shop is small enough that you don’t feel overwhelmed, and their racks are only stocked with the best-used clothing. They curate their selection with items that will suit the current trends while still being vintage. A great way to support the community and sustainable shopping!

Cibo Pizzeria

The best place in the city for a romantic evening is Cibo Pizzeria. The restaurant is located in a quaint, circa-1913 bungalow. Cibo Pizzeria features Italian staples, including red & white wood-fired pizzas. My favourite is the Diavola, with tomato sauce, mozzarella and spicy salami! Their unique and modern white pizzas are also very popular, one of the best being the Tartufata, with mozzarella, mushrooms, prosciutto and truffle oil. In the evening, the trees outside are covered in white twinkle lights, and on the weekends there are even local musicians who come to entertain diners under the setting sun.

The Vig Fillmore

After dining at Cibo, head just down the street to the Vig for a nightcap. The Vig is such a casual place to hang out, it almost feels like you’re at a backyard party. The bar also has a bocce ball playing area and bean toss games to enjoy while you’re having a drink. The outdoor patio is set up with fireplaces to sit around on cooler dessert nights. They have live music throughout the week, which makes it easy just to sit back and relax as the night winds on.

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Crescent Ballroom

If you’d rather have a more lively end to the night, I would recommend going to the Crescent Ballroom. This hip, brick-walled lounge features live entertainment, local and international, every day of the week. But the intimate nature of the place makes you feel like you’re just watching a band playing in your garage.

Day Two – Desert Immersion

Papago Park

Papago Park is one of the most amazing places in Phoenix to watch the sunrise. The enormous red sandstone ‘Hole-in-the-Rock‘ is an easily climbable geological formation whose iconic formations make peep-holes out to the desert. There is nothing like the sunrise in the desert and it an unmissable event. Yes, it means getting up early, but trust me, the view is more than worth it!

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Matt’s Big Breakfast

After a super early morning sunrise, it’s time for some coffee and breakfast! Kick off your last day at Matt’s Big Breakfast. Matt’s Big Breakfast is known for its cage-free eggs made “cracked to order.” There is almost always a line, but trust me, it’s worth it. The decor is hipster cafe meets high-school cafeteria. It feels warm and homey. Like you’re visiting old friends. Be sure to try the Chop and Chick if you’re feeling extra hungry. It comes with two eggs, and an Iowa seared pork rib chop! The enormous waffles are light and fluffy, and the griddle cakes are topped with sweet cream butter – drooling yet? Don’t wait – head on down to Matt’s Big Breakfast for some delicious comfort food.

Desert Botanical Gardens

Back on the road, head over to the Desert Botanical Gardens. The gardens are spread over 140-acres outside Papago Park. This park was founded by the Arizona Cactus and Native Flora Society in 1937 to preserve, document and educate. Over 21,000 local plants and 139 species, which are rare, threatened or endangered are living in harmony and safety inside this huge garden. If you’ve never been to a desert before, you might have an image of it being arid, barren, without plant-life, but this couldn’t be further from the truth! Many people will go on long hikes around the mountains in search of native flora and fauna. But at the Desert Botanical Garden, you can see everything the desert has to offer without breaking a sweat! The best time to visit is during the Spring when the desert flowers bloom but throughout the year there is always something unique to see and experience.

Lunch at Gertrudes

While some museum cafes contain only awful coffee and stale pastries, Gertrudes Cafe inside the Desert Botanical Garden is a world-class restaurant all on its own. When we had a yearly membership, sometimes, we would come here just for the food! The flavours and recipes are all indicative of southwestern cuisine and the ingredients are sourced from local farmers. Giving guests a taste of the desert itself! Plus, the cafe is mostly outdoors, right in the centre of the gardens, so it feels like you’re dining in the middle of a cactus rich forest.

Taliesin West

Just up the hill from the Desert Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful, hidden sights in all of Arizona, Frank Lloyd Wright‘s Taliesin West. Frank Lloyd Wright is one of the most prolific American architects. Very few people know that he called Arizona his winter residence. In fact, he spent years living here even before he started up the architecture school. 2020 was the last year the architecture school was in operation but the house and the school buildings can still be seen today.

Throughout your guided tour, you’ll be entertained and educated by incredibly, knowledgeable guides. They will lead you around this stunning, desert-inspired property. This tour is a great place to learn about desert plants and their contribution to the ecosystem. And how these resilient plants, inspired Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture both in Arizona and beyond! The views across the valley from here are breathtaking and well worth the drive up the mountain.

Old Town Scottsdale

To get yourself something to eat after your tour of Taliesin West, head back down to Old Town Scottsdale. This western district is full to the brim with trendy restaurants, hip cafes, unique art, jewellery stores and anything to satisfy your sweet tooth. While the “old west” vibe and style might be a little on the nose for some, I love it!

The Mission

For dinner, head over to the Mission, which amply, is situated right beside the old Spanish Mission site. The decor inside the restaurant is dark and mysterious. A large Himalayan salt block wall and the twinkle of candlelit chandeliers welcomes you inside. The Mission serves up a mix of modern and traditional Latin cuisine. Don’t skip their Wagyu pastrami taco, they are to die for!

Shakes & Cones

For dessert, head over to Shakes & Cones. While Scottsdale is mostly known for its upscale dining, Shakes & Cones still feels like a simple, family joint. They make small batch, soft-serve ice cream and even offer non-dairy options for vegetarians. There aren’t a lot of bell and whistles here, just simple ingredients that highlight the fantastic flavour of their ice cream.

Rusty Spur Saloon

To end your perfect weekend in Phoenix, head over to the Rusty Spur for one last drink. The Rusty Spur Saloon is the oldest bar in Scottsdale, which opened in 1960. It was actually Scottsdale’s first-ever saloon too. The building is an officially registered historic landmark. Originally, the building was used as the Farmers’ Bank of Scottsdale. Walking inside makes you feel like you’ve entered a different period in time. Cowboys stand at the bar sipping whiskey and every night of the week, they have a band playing old country tunes. But it’s not just cowboys who visit. There are old folks, hipsters, tourists and yes, even cowboys. So you won’t feel out of place. Take a seat near the band, and enjoy the warm desert air before heading back to whatever time and place you had come from before.

Hopefully, this guide will help you on your way to exploring all the wonders Phoenix has to offer on your next weekend away! If you’re looking for more to do, check out my Top 10 Things to do in Phoenix!

Happy Travels Adventurers

The post How to Enjoy the Perfect Weekend in Phoenix, Arizona first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

As someone who hates the cold, I was worried the chilly weather would keep me from seeing everything. But what surprised me most was that with proper preparations, I actually enjoyed it. The look of the icy water, snow-topped hillsides and twinkling Christmas lights against the midnight blue sky. I found my time there in the winter, more enjoyable than in the summer! Maybe just because it was so different. There are a myriad of reasons to travel during the wintertime to these snowy destinations. Hopefully, this list inspires you to get out and enjoy the world, north of the equator in the winter months.

Table Of Contents

1. #1 Embrace "hygge"
2. #2 Deals on Airfare!
3. #3 Try out the Slopes
4. #4 Christmas Markets!
5. #5 Winter Comfort Food
6. #6 Coffee Culture
7. #7 Museums are the Perfect Escape from the Cold
8. #8 See the Northern Lights
9. #9 Staying inside an Ice Hotel
10. #10 Warm up in a Sauna
11. Here are some TIPS to ensure you have the most fantastic winter vacation!

#1 Embrace “hygge”

Hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) is a Danish and Norwegian word for a mood of coziness. It conveys the feeling of wellness and contentment. Hygge is so crucial to the people of Scandinavia that it is considered “a defining feature of our cultural identity,” according to Meik Wiking, the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute. These countries who practice hygge means that everywhere you go; you’ll find burning candles, cozy fireplaces, delicious hot coffee or chocolate and rich homemade sweets. Hygge makes every interior you find one of the most welcoming and warm places in the world!

But hygge is not just about hybernating. It is also about enjoying long walks outside. Despite the cold weather, you’ll find parks decked out in decorations, beautiful skating rinks and a feeling of a country that embraces the winter. Welcome the spirit of hygge into your heart during this season, and you’re bound to have a wonderful time.

#2 Deals on Airfare!

Winter is by far the cheapest season for travel in Europe. From early December to about mid-March, you’ll find flights around Europe super inexpensive. This time of year people are usually looking to escape to warm-weather destinations. Keep in mind you should always be booking these trips three months in advance as that is when the flight prices are usually the cheapest, outside of any last-minute sales. Travel during the week of Christmas is at its peak since families commute home during this time, so avoid going around those days if possible. If you’re worried about not being able to see Christmas Markets because the Christmas week is expensive to travel, fear not! Christmas Market opens as early as the last week of November.

#3 Try out the Slopes

If you’re someone who loves to hit the slopes, winter isn’t a downer but instead your favourite season! Just a short train ride into the countryside you’ll find ski resorts like Hemsedal, Riksgransen, Are Duved, Ruka, Vemdalen and Lillehammer. They are easily accessible from any major city in Scandinavia. If you don’t want to stay at the resort, the towns around these ski hills are full of alternative options for every budget. Also, if skiing isn’t your bag, many of these resorts also have toboggan or snow tubing hills. This allows you to enjoy the scenery and mountain top hot chocolates without needing an ounce of skill!

#4 Christmas Markets!

There is just something about a European Christmas market that gives me all those warm and fuzzy feelings. The twinkle lights on the trees, the smell of mulled wine floating through the air and freshly baked breads ready to warm your hands. If you’re a couple, there is something truly romantic about an evening stroll under the lights of the market. Most of the big cities have multiple Christmas Markets you can visit while you’re there. These places are not only beautiful but also great spots where you can find traditional handicrafts. You can also sample some of their famous Christmas foods.

If you’re looking for something outside the big cities, visit the Christmas Market in Lapland, which is the home of Santa Claus! As such, this town goes all out at Christmas time. Tivoli Park in Copenhagen is transformed during the holiday season into a real-life fairytale book. They even perform the traditional Christmas ballet The Nutcracker on stage inside the park, which makes for the ideal Christmas evening.

#5 Winter Comfort Food

Scandinavian foods are meant to be enjoyed in the winter. This is a country that knows how to make a warm and cozy meal. Almost all of their food is comfort food. Smørrebrød, rye bread, meatballs, stewed reindeer, pancakes and waffles are all the best things to enjoy in the winter. The portions are huge, as are the flavours. After you’re finished eating you’ll be ready to take on a long walk in the winter cold, without feeling a thing as you’ll be warmed from the inside out!

#6 Coffee Culture

Did you know that Scandinavia is at the top of the list of the most coffee-consuming countries? There is a good reason for this aside from just that their coffee is delicious. Coffee in Scandinavia is more than just a to-go cup you grab alone on your way to work. Having coffee is a chance to get away from the daily grind and catch up with friends. In Sweden, they call this Fika. Fika in Swedish means “to have a cup of coffee and a snack with a friend.” It’s absolutely built into the fabric of their daily life. They embrace the idea of bettering relationships while enjoying something scrumptious.

While other Scandinavian countries don’t have that words, the concept still remains. The prevalence of this coffee culture means there is an abundance of fantastic coffee shops to stop into on your trip to warm up while you enjoy the city. Take this time to step back for a minute, stop rushing around, enjoy the moment and reflect on your adventures.

#7 Museums are the Perfect Escape from the Cold

If you’re feeling particularly chilly, museums and art galleries are the best places to pop into to escape the cold. And what’s more, in Scandinavia, most state-run museums are free of charge to enter. Unfortunately, in countries like Denmark, recent government cuts have changed these policies. However, many of those museums are still open on certain days of the week for free. In Sweden, there are over 15 different museums and galleries which you can still enter free of charge everyday of the week! They make the perfect place to hide away from the cold without worrying too much about your budget.

I went to a myriad of different museums, some of which I didn’t even know anything about before I went. Still, since they were free, I didn’t have anything to lose. I could wander around and look at what interested me and simply head out once I finished. There was no pressure to make a whole day out of it since I didn’t pay a huge admission fee, which would have made me feel more inclined to “make it worth it.” It was the ideal place to get warm and see something exciting and new while I was at it.

#8 See the Northern Lights

Scandinavia is by far the best place to see the Aurora Borealis. The high latitude in Finland, Sweden and Norway makes these countries the best place for spotting those iconic green and blue waves in the sky. And winter (September to March) is the only time you can reliably spot them! Alta in Norway is probably the most famous city to travel to see them but other popular destinations are Abisko National Park and Porjus in Sweden, Senja in Norway and many cities in Finnish Lapland. Just remember you need to go far north for this, don’t think your visit to Oslo will allow you to see the lights!

#9 Staying inside an Ice Hotel

Ice hotels are one of the trendiest new things to come out of winters in Scandinavia! These luxury creations are somewhat of a novelty but combine cozy, fireplace lit interiors with icy architecture. The Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi Sweden was the first hotel in the world to be built out of ice. Every springtime, the ice melts, and come the next winter, a new design is created to form a brand new looking hotel. So every year, there is something unique to experience. Despite being at least -10°, you’ll be nice and cozy with the special thermal PJs, and cold weather insulated sleeping bag you’re given. These will keep you snug all night long while enjoying the once-in-a-lifetime views.

There are plenty of other Ice hotels around Scandinavia from The Lapland Hotel’s Snow Village in Finland to The Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in Alta Norway. All of these locations also have on-site activities like dog-sledding, an ice bar or ice church and even snow sculptures to see in ice galleries. It’s truly something you just can’t experience anywhere, or anytime other than in the winter in Scandinavia!

#10 Warm up in a Sauna

All over Scandinavia, you’ll find strangers getting together, in a small, hot spaces to indulge in sauna . Saunas originated in Finland, and the word “sauna” comes from the Finnish word for bathhouse. Pits dug into the ground were the first saunas. Stones were added atop a burning fire to fit the pit. Water was then thrown on top of the rocks to produce steam. There have been sauna pits discovered as far back as 4000 B.C.E in Finland. It is a commonly shared belief in the Nordic countries that saunas relax muscles, soothe pain, releases endorphins, increases blood circulation, flush toxins, relieve stress, help fight illness, cleanse the skin, burn calories and also provides a social space to enjoy with friends. It’s basically thought to be a cure-all for everything.

While there are some small differences between sauna culture in the different Scandinavian countries, overall, the experience is the same. While some same-sex saunas are clothing optional, in most big cities, you can find tourist-friendly options where bathing suits are worn. This is great if you feel like you might be uncomfortable being naked around strangers. But once you take the plunge, the feeling of freedom is pretty unparalleled.

Cold Dips

Speaking of taking the plunge, some saunas also offers a dip into cold, almost freezing water. This could be just a cold bath or some spots located near bodies of water offer access right into the frozen sea. The dramatic plunge into cold water from the hot sauna is thought to increase the blood flow in the body and help increase all those other benefits we spoke of before. While some might be scared to try it, I vote to give it a go. It sure might feel unpleasant at first, but man does it wake your body up in a way that is indescribable and entirely worth it!

Here are some TIPS to ensure you have the most fantastic winter vacation!

Dress for Success

Making sure you bring the right clothing is key to ensuring you are in the right mood throughout the day. There is nothing worse than being freezing cold to ruin a perfectly lovely experience. I was terrified of this exact scenario when I was planning for my trip, so I made sure to buy warm thermals to wear to help keep that heat in. In addition to this, I bought a few 100% wool sweaters, which were perfect for keeping the heat in without overheating and making me sweat. Wool sweaters can be purchased brand new online, but also you can find them at your local thrift shop for a 10th of the price of a new one! I found some with the most amazing designs, so don’t be afraid to go digging as you might find something amazing!

Hours are odd

Although I disagree with Rick Steves about not visiting Scandinavia during the Winter, I love this quote from him, “Scandinavia’s metabolism slows down like a hibernating bear’s, and many sights and accommodations are open on a limited schedule (especially in remote fjord towns).” This is something to be aware of. Outside of the official government holidays around Christmas, I never found anything to be altogether closed. But various attractions did run on shorter winter hours. Definitely nothing to cancel your trip over just something to be aware of and plan around.

Christmas Holidays

If you’re planning on staying over the Christmas Holidays, December 24th and 25th specifically, you will want to check to see what’s open on those particular days. While I heard EVERYTHING would be closed in Sweden on Christmas day, I actually found a few museums which were still open and holding special events. I also managed to find some once a year community events to take part in while I was there that made me feel like celebrating with a huge group of new friends. So many people might tell you there will be nothing to do, but trust me, I found a bunch of things to do, you just need to dig a little bit. If you know a particular museum will be open on those government holidays, make note of that and save that activity for those days when lots of other things might be closed.

Christmas Day

I also found that attending a church service on Christmas Day was a great experience. There were plenty of services which were non-denominational if you want to enjoy the spirit of the holiday but might not identify with a particular denomination. While there are some restaurants still open on these days, I did find that the majority were closed so you might want to hit up a grocery store on the 23rd to grab some easy to make meals. If you don’t have a kitchen, you can always buy cheese and meats, which you can make into an in-hotel-room charcuterie dinner. A lot of fast food restaurants remain open on those holidays as well so that’s always a last-ditch option.

Daylight is Precious

In Scandinavia, there are only a few hours of “daylight” in the winter, and depending on how far north you’re going, this could be as short as 4 hours of light with 20 hours of darkness. While the locals might find this darkness exhausting, I actually found the long hours of darkness exciting since it wasn’t something we experience in North America. But if you’re planning on taking any photos which require the light, such as any wide cityscape shots, just be sure to plan your schedule accordingly. I always headed out early in the day to take my pictures of the city and then scheduled my indoor activities, which didn’t require sunlight, for the afternoon into the early evening.

Be Cautious with Winter Air Travel

I had a near-disastrous flight to Sweden this winter. Luckily for me, everything worked out by some Christmas miracle, but I’m sure I’m not always going to be that lucky. Flying during the winter means weather might impact you more than other times of the year. To avoid as much stress as possible, be sure to book a direct flight if at all possible. This means should your outbound flight be delayed, you won’t need to worry about missing a connection. If you can’t book direct, ensure the layover between your two flights isn’t too tight. I BARELY made my connecting flight and felt so silly, not ensuring I had more time to account for bad weather. Yes, this might mean not getting to your destination as fast as possible, but trust me, it is worth it for the peace of mind. 

Let me know if you’ve ever travelled to somewhere cold in the winter and how you enjoyed your experience. Or comment to let me know what’s holding you back from a snowy adventure in the north!

Happy Travels Adventurers!

The post 10 Reasons Why You Need to Take a Winter Vacation to Scandinavia first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. It's really not that cold!
2. The Lack of Tourists
3. About That Smell…
4. Accommodation & Airfare are Cheaper!
5. Use Those Savings for Something Special
6. Most Big Ticket Attractions are Inside
7. Embrace Cafe Culture
8. Discover Covered Passages
9. Skip the Noisy Construction
10. You Avoid Smokers
11. People Are Just Nicer
12. The Christmas Markets!
13. Christmas Lights & Decor
14. Winter Sales
15. Winter Fashion
16. Festival of Lights
17. Vin Chaud
18. Parisian Hot Chocolate
19. Roasted Chesnuts
20. Winter Comfort Food
21. Winter is Easy in Disneyland Paris
22. Cheaper Prices on Famous Entertainment

It’s really not that cold!

If you’re from a colder climate (like me – I’m from Canada), the winters in Paris are laughable. It seldom gets below 35°F or 2°C. Check the chart below for winter temperature predictions for Paris. For those of you from warmer climates, you might find this temperature a little chilly. But just make that an excuse to buy yourself a cute new winter wardrobe. Make being out in the cold something fun instead of something frustrating. In November and December, there is actually more rain than snow, so be sure to bring along a good umbrella. In January and February, there is more snow which creates a gorgeous white dusting across the city! There is honestly something so beautiful about the snowfall and especially when it’s across a town as beautiful as Paris!

The Lack of Tourists

If you’ve ever been to Paris in the summer or even the spring these days, you’ll see the telltale lines which seem to sweep all around the city. Paris is filled to bursting and getting into your favourite restaurant or museum always entails a lengthy wait. But in the wintertime, the tourists, scared of the “cold” stay away. And I’ll take it. And you will too! In the winter you can walk down famous streets and find them almost empty. That crowd around the Mona Lisa, maybe won’t disappear but it will be much less intense. Overall, the wintertime brings this peaceful atmosphere to a city which often gets a bad reputation as being rude, crowded and smelly!

About That Smell…

One of the biggest things I hear time and time again from people on their way back from Paris is about the smell! It smells terrible, it really does. Not everywhere, of course, but Paris, as a big city, has a big garbage problem. And garbage, along with dog pee (another prevalent issue on the streets) is responsible for the horrible smell. In the summer, the heat amplifies these smells to a thousand! But in the winter, you’ll barely notice the scent. I never had this experience when in the city except perhaps for the occasional steamy grate near the metro.

Accommodation & Airfare are Cheaper!

With this lack of tourists comes cheaper accommodation and flight prices. There are almost always flight deals during the winter months to entice visitors into the city. Take them up on that offer! Except for the dates right around Christmas, you can almost ways find a significant reduction in airfare and hotels. Prices seem to begin to increase after Easter and start going down after American Thanksgiving.

Use Those Savings for Something Special

There is only one thing better than a hot bath on a cold day. A trip to the spa! There are dozens of fantastic resorts in Paris which cater to locals who want an intimate experience in those colder months. These spas come with steam rooms, swimming pools, saunas and of course, lengthy massages. It’s the perfect way to wind down (which is what a vacation is for after all) but also to warm you up from the inside out if you’ve spent an unusually chilly day outside.

Most Big Ticket Attractions are Inside

Paris truly has the best collection of museums in the world. In such a condensed space, you’ll find hundreds of different places you’ll need to visit! And the best part, they’re all inside. Going to the Louvre in summer and winter is exactly the same experience, except for the number of tourists. Notre Dame is particularly stunning in the winter before Christmas when the entirety of the nave is decorated for the holiday season.

Visiting the underground catacombs in the winter, when the chill in the air is replaced with an oddly warm underground warmth is a truly remarkable experience. Even Versaille, which boasts some of the longest lines, is a great place to visit in the winter. If you’re lucky enough to be there when it snows, you’ll be treated to one of the most unique perspectives on this illustrious palace. And the rest of the enormous tour is all inside.

Walking around the city and seeing the incredible French architecture everywhere you look is an unmissable part of the Parisian experience. But the fact that you can duck into a museum or indoor attraction every few minutes is a great relief for anyone who doesn’t like to be outside for too too long. You can’t walk very far without finding something which will catch your attention.

Embrace Cafe Culture

Another way of escape the cold, if you are getting a bit too chilly on your wanderings, is to duck into one of the many cafes which Paris is so famous for. If you’re a millennial, it seems impossible not to have escaped the lasting impression which the film ‘Amelie’ had on our young minds. Cafes in Paris are THE place to be to soak in the local ambience and sip smooth coffee. Winter means it’s ok to pack on those pounds and hide them under layers. So indulge yourself in the pastries which these cafes serve up by the dozen! Vacation is no time to retrain yourself, have a little fun and satisfy your taste buds!

Discover Covered Passages

Most Metro stations will stop off underground. Inside these little underground passageways are covered arcades and secret entrances to some top attractions. The Louvre’s default (and extremely crowded) entrance is outside near the glass pyramids. But most people don’t know it can also be accessed underground, without ever having to go outside, directly from the Metro station. And in fact, this entrance is FAR less busy since it’s not out in the open where people like to take their pictures. In addition to hidden entries, you’ll also find underground shopping centres. Paris’ covered passages were built during the early 19th century, sort of like Europe answer to North American malls. The oldest of these passages is the Passage des Panoramas which dates back to 1799! During the wintertime, the window displays are lushly styled, and at Christmas, they are a feast for the eyes!

Skip the Noisy Construction

In an old city like Paris, construction is almost constant. If you’ve ever been woken up by noisy jack-hammering on your relaxing vacation, you know how annoying this can be. But in the winter, when it’s colder, it’s much harder to do construction work, and therefore this noise is significantly reduced. If you’ve ever dreamt of visiting a specific attraction only to show up and see its covered ins scaffolding you’ll know how disappointing this can be. Sure this might be unavoidable, but in the winter you’ll have a better chance of it not being under construction.

You Avoid Smokers

There are lots of smokers in Paris. It’s one of those cities where this vice is still hanging on. In the summer, everyone on the street seems to have a cigarette in their hands. If you’re like me and hate the smell of this stuff, then you’ll find that in the winter, fewer people are willing to take those smoke breaks, to avoid standing out in the cold.

People Are Just Nicer

I’ve you’re a resident of a famous tourist city, anywhere in the world, you’ll know what it’s like to be invaded by hoards of tourists every summer. In Toronto, right in the centre of downtown, the streets seem to erupt with tourists. And while it’s great for the economy and brings in lots of exciting events and festivals, it means transit is more crowded, streets are filled with slow walkers (my personal bane), and pretty much everything has a line. In Paris, it’s no different, so its no surprise to find that locals are just a little bit grumpier in the summer when they can’t move about their own city.

The French already have a bad rep for being rude, so add the heat and humidity of summer on top of the crowds, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster. But in the winter, people seem more relaxed. More accepting and inviting. You made an effort to come here at a time when others don’t. There appears to be a silent appreciation which they give tourists around wintertime, which I think is just peachy.

The Christmas Markets!

Despite the week of actual Christmas being pricey, the early parts of December are still pretty affordable. And with December comes Christmas markets! Europe does Christmas better than anyone else, and Christmas markets are one of the most beautiful ways to enjoy the holiday season. Wander the wooden huts of the market outdoors under the watchful eye of Paris’ splendid architecture. Visiting a Christmas market is one of the best places to do your Christmas shopping. You can find such unique treasures which your friends and family will just gush over! There are markets all over the city and even one at the base of the Eiffel Tower, what better ambience could you ask for?

Christmas Lights & Decor

Once again, this only applies if you’re visiting before, or just after Christmas, but the Christmas decorations around the city during the holidays are honestly magical. I freak out over fairy lights and Christmas trees and travelling anywhere in Europe during the holidays means this in spades!

Winter Sales

Many many people come to Paris to shop. And with good reason, Paris is the fashion captial of the world, and some of the most luxurious brands have their flagship stores here. Even if you’re not into those uber expensive brands, the dribble down effect is real, and many extremely affordable local brands also have some fantastic shops here. In the winter, there are government-mandated sales in Paris where stores cut their prices down on almost everything! This usually happens between early January and early Feb. The famous Galeries Lafayette is one of the best shopping malls to hit up to find rows and rows of deals all in one easy to find place! And the best part – it’s indoors!

Winter Fashion

Being the fashion capital of the world, means you’re going to see just how good winter can look on the French. And you might even be able to grab some of this style for yourself! Learning how to dress stylishly for the winter is a skill, and there’s nowhere better to learn that in France. Sit at your favourite cafe, and people watch. Study their looks, fabulous coats, boot and hat combinations as they walk by. You can spend an entire afternoon doing this, much better than rifling through a magazine.

Festival of Lights

From November 18th to January 19th, the Jardin des Plantes (Garden of Plants) hosts an incredible exhibition of enormous lanterns set amongst the greenery of the garden. Each one is designed to look like a different part of the ocean, which is a nice juxtaposition outdoors on land. It’s a fantastical place to explore for adults and kids alike. This exhibition is only on during the winter when the plants have all died out and yet they are interested in still getting visitors to come out to see the rest of the gardens.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Vin Chaud

France is known for its wines. But what you might not know is that during the wintertime they indulge in vin chaud (hot wine). This is similar to the North American tradition of mulled wine but made in a French fashion. It’s served at most cafes and markets places and makes for the perfect drink to keep you all warm and fuzzy as the sun sets at night.

Parisian Hot Chocolate

If you’re not someone who drinks alcohol or are travelling with children, there is another traditional beverage you can’t miss, and that’s hot chocolate. While it might seem like a childish treat, Chocolat Chaud in France is rich, decadent and is made from wonderfully high-quality chocolate! It’s a fantastic treat for young and old alike. And just doesn’t take the same on a hot summer day. No, as the snow falls, there is nothing better in your hand than a cup of this creamy liquid!

Roasted Chesnuts

Chestnuts have long been a staple of the Parisian winter season, and vendors can be found on nearly every street corner selling the warm, sweet treats. The chestnuts are roasted over open flames, creating a smoky fragrance that entices passerby. Taking a break from exploring the city to enjoy a handful of hot, fresh chestnuts is a timeless tradition for both Parisians and visitors alike. Whether enjoyed as a snack or paired with a warm mulled wine, winter roasted chestnuts are a true delight of the season.

Winter Comfort Food

Every country has its own way of dealing with the cold, and in France, they did it through the cusine. Winter foods in France are rich and hearty. They warm you from the inside out. They are full of fatty meats, heavy starches and sweets mixed in for good measure. Stews, cassoulets and confits are all just some of the marvellous foods you’ll find on the menu in the winter. No one would imagine serving a casserole in the heat of the summer, so getting a chance to try these fantastic meals is something you’ll only get in the winter!

Winter is Easy in Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris might not be on every traveller’s list, but if you’re a Disney-head like me, you’ll know it should be. Like almost every Disneyland in the world, one of the most significant downsides of visiting is the crowds. But in the winter, you’ll find the lines are almost twice as short as any other time in the year. And the fact that half the rides are indoors is a great incentive to ensure you’re not out in the cold all day. Around Christmastime, the entire park is decorated for the holiday season in magical baubles and sparkling garlands which just amplifies the already enchanting atmosphere.

Cheaper Prices on Famous Entertainment

With fewer tourists, come discounted ticket prices on almost everything to incentivize both locals and tourists alike to attend shows. Palais Garnier, one of the most famous architectural masterpieces in the city, hosts opera and ballet performances all year and during the wintertime, you can find tickets for a fraction of the cost. Even try to go up on the day and see what’s left, and you might find yourself with front row seats for the price of the nose bleeds. Even if you don’t know anything about the performance, being inside this historic building and seeing all its luxury and elegance is entertainment enough.

All in all, visiting in the colder winter months has so many wonderful advantages; you’ll just have to try it out for yourself to see if they stack up to any perceived negatives! What’s your favourite place to travel to in the winter? Let me know in the comments.

Happy Travels Adventurers!

The post Why Visiting Paris in the Winter is the Best Time to Explore this Amazing City first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

#1 Don’t Rush!

Italy isn’t a country you want to rush through. Not only will the infrastructure of Italy itself render this impossible, but it just doesn’t do the landscape and culture any justice either. Italy is a place for exploring, for getting lost and discovering something you never knew was there. Lists and guides are essential to make sure you don’t get TOO off track but make sure you don’t overbook yourself. I’m one of the LEAST flexible people in the world. I LOVE making schedules and itineraries and get flustered when things don’t go to plan.

Be Open to Change

But sometimes, being forced into a situation where just those things happen, forces you to change. To become adaptable. To open yourself up to new possibility and just let things flow. Italy changed me as a person. It forced me to slow down, to savour in a mid-afternoon glass of wine under an ancient clock tower. I didn’t ask for the bill or try to rush to my next destination. I just sipped my drink under the literal Tuscan sun and reflected on how lucky I was to be experiencing that moment in time. Rushing meals is a mainly North American thing. We are used to fasting food, even at a slow restaurant.

But in Europe, especially in Italy, everything is relaxed, laid back and at a snail’s pace. Find a way of adapting to this new kind of living. I found I loved to bring my books with me and spent these hours of dining reading. It’s a great time to plan your next adventure or just catch up with old friends or family.

#2 Don’t Drive Inside Big Cities

Driving in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the countryside. Emphasis on the countryside! Driving inside the BIG cities is a nightmare. I witnessed one of the biggest fights between my parents while driving in Florence and that imprinted itself on my brain as “note to self: never drive in the cities in Italy!” Renting a car in Italy is actually one of the cheapest modes of transportation but don’t let that sucker you into using it for the entirety of your trip! You need specific permits for your car to bring it into some major cities. If you haven’t got the right one to expect a HUGE fine when you return your vehicle at the end of the trip. An expensive bill is something no one wants to get after a dream vacation.

In addition to these significant fines, there are also dozens of weird rules of the road in these large cities. You’ll also find heavy traffic, problems with parking and more incidents that you really don’t need to stress about on your vacation. Trains between big cities in Italy are easy to use and a great way to watch the landscape fly by. While they might not always run on time (there is that laid back Italian attitude once more) they get you from point A to point B lickety-split, without any hidden fees. Once you’re finished in the big cities, head just outside town to pick up your rental car for a drive to see the smaller villages across Tuscany. 

Driving TIP

If you are travelling on trains in Italy a word to the wise: be sure to always validate your train tickets. When you buy your tickets on regional trains, there won’t be a time or date on it. This is because you need to validate it before you board the train to mark it as used. Look for a yellow machine on the platform or near the entrance to the station. If you can’t find one, ask any employee to point you in the right direction. If you find yourself onboard without validation and run into a transportation officer expect to pay a BIG fine! They don’t fall for the whole “I’m a tourist I didn’t know any better,” line. They make big money off these fines so won’t hesitate to give you one.

#3 Don’t Assume Food is that Expensive!

Dining out in Italy is cheaper than you’d imagine. When I was a backpacker in my early 20s, I had been anxious about eating out in Italy. It is known as one of the best culinary cities in the world, and I had imagined that all restaurants would cost a fortune. I thought for sure I’d have to resort to buying supermarket food and cooking it back at the hotel. I was SHOCKED to find that by making smart choices, I was able to eat pretty much anything I wanted. And more than that, the prices were way lower than I thought they would be! If you only look at restaurants with English menus, you’ll come away with a totally wrong idea of food prices in Italy.

Avoid English Menus

These restaurants are geared towards tourists who might be swayed by an easy experience to pay more for a less authentic experience. Keep an eye out for menus only in Italian only and always be sure to wander the streets at least five minutes away from the busy areas. Here you’ll find some absolute gems! Also be sure to avoid any restaurant with a greeter outside, yelling in English about their menus. That’s a sure sign it’s not the real deal. In Italy, as long as you stick to those points, you don’t need to worry about checking YELP or TripAdvisor.

I always ended up at places I never had written down, and the food was ALWAYS spectacular. If you can speak even a few words of Italian, try to ask for the daily special or chef’s recommendation. If you don’t have any allergies, give it a try! You never know when you’re next favourite meal will appear out of nowhere. I was shocked to find how much I loved squid ink pasta, a traditional meal in Venice which I had never seen anywhere else in the world.

#4 Don’t Expect to Eat on Your Schedule

Italians eat late. Or at least it seemed pretty late to me when usually eats her dinner around 6 pm. The earliest any self-respecting Italian would have their dinner would be around 8 pm. While many restaurants catering to tourists are open earlier, this is a dead giveaway that the food isn’t authentic. I found waiting for dinner was one of the hardest things to get used to.

Eat and Drink Late

That was until I found out about Aperitivo (more on that later). To get used to this later schedule, I found the best thing that worked for me was to take a nap in the middle of the day. This is the same thing many Italians do. It’s very typical to see restaurants open in the morning and night but closed in the afternoon. Despite being a Spanish name, many (or most) native Italians will go home for a siesta in the middle of the day.

This is just one part of the Italian dedication to a better quality of life. Shop owners will close down in the afternoon to go and make a home-cooked meal in their apartment. They sacrifice any sales they would have made during that time for the chance to eat their own food, maybe see their family or even have a nap. So I did the same. I would head home around 3 or 4 pm after a busy day and take a nice long relaxing nap. It recharged me for the rest of the night and resting always makes me feel less hungry than if I was walking around killing time before dinner.

#5 Don’t Expect Half-Priced Drinks during ‘Aperitivo‘ 

Many North American are used to this thing called “happy hour” between the hours of 7 and 9 pm. This time is usually reserved for half-priced, watered-down drinks. In Italy, they have something similar, but all kinds of different! It’s called ‘Aperitivo‘ (which literally translates to appetizer). Aperitivo is heavily advertised outside bars in the city, and also happens during the hours of 7 and 9 pm. But you won’t find any half-priced drinks here, and if you do see somewhere offering half priced wine, you know its not the an authentic aperitivo.

Free Food NOT Drink

Aperitivo is meant as a time for people to relax after work but before dinner. Locals jovially catch up with friends and family over a few glasses of wine while they wind up their metabolism for dinner (maybe this is why Italians eat so much pasta but remain so thin). But what aperitivo does offer instead of half-priced drinks, is FREE food! These “bonus” snacks are a way to stave off starving before your 9 pm dinner.

Different bars offer up different kinds of snacks. Some offer simple things like nuts, bread and fruit but others have full-on buffets of appetizers all free of charge if you’re drinking. Most big cities charge about 8 and 10 euros for a great glass of wine (reduce this slightly if staying in a smaller, less touristy village). But more than just a glass of wine, you’ll get a real experience out of it! Aperitivo brings out the best in people and a chance for you to meet the locals and ingrain yourself in Italian culture.

#6 Don’t Underestimate Coffee Culture

Coffee culture in Italy is almost a religion. There are many rules and rituals you’re expected to know and follow. One of the biggest don’ts to know, which will help you out financially is, don’t sit to drink your espresso. Often a coffee will have an added “table charge” if you drink it sitting down. This is rarely, if ever listed, so you’ll either have to ask or take your chances. Especially if you’re having a drink near a trendy tourist site, these charges can be as much as 20 euros! My husband was backpacking in his 20s and grabbed a coffee in front of the pantheon with his friend. They unwittingly sat down and had FOUR coffees, which ended up costing them 60 EUROS! A mistake we still laugh about to this day but I’m sure at the time it was anything but funny.

Even at cheaper cafes, drinking the espresso at the counter will always be more affordable and also how real Italians do it. If you have an espresso, don’t miss out on the crema. While you are not supposed to put any milk or cream in espresso, lots of cafes will have crema on the bar. Creama is whipped milk mixed with sugar that you can spoon into your espresso for a deliciously creamy and sweet drink.

Tips on What to Order and When

Another tip for ordering coffee is not to order a cappuccino after 11 am. Cappuccinos are thought to be meant only for breakfast. If you order one after dinner, you’ll either be politely corrected or just simply brought a latte macchiato instead. Speaking of lattes, don’t go up to a coffee counter and order only a “latte“. Latte in Italian means milk, so you might be served up a cup of warm milk. If you’re interested in a North American latte, as for a latte macchiato or caffe macchiato. When ordering an espresso, you can also ask for a caffe (which is what they call an espresso in Italian). If you’re not a fan of strong espresso order a caffe lungo which adds more water for a less intense taste.

#7 Don’t Ask for Free Tap Water

Trying to save a few dollars when travelling is obviously something most people will want to do. And to do this often, you’ll order some tap water to have during your meal. In Italy, this is called “acqua di robinetto“. But if you try ordering it at most restaurants, you might be met with a dirty look. You might also be flat out refused or, on the odd occasion, begrudgingly have it brought out to you. For the most part, I found it wasn’t worth the trouble of asking for it in the end. There are many reasons people don’t think tap water is standard in Italy. One is that although potable, restaurants can’t guarantee the contents of the water they served, which is against health regulations. Others say that it’s because they don’t make a profit from the water.

Another theory is that it merely isn’t a cultural thing for Italians. Whatever the reason, I keep to the saying, “when in Rome” and order the same thing to locals are ordering. Honestly, sometimes it’s cheaper to order a glass of the house wine than a bottle of sparkling water, so take this as an opportunity to live it up and sample some fantastic Italian wines. If you don’t drink alcohol, Italy has a variety of freshly made sodas which I found at most restaurants. Freshly squeezed lemons and oranges with soda water are fantastically refreshing on a hot day.

#8 Don’t Patiently Wait In Line

Even though Italians are so laid back about table service in restaurants, they are outright frantic when it comes to ordering things to go from anything with a counter. I am a pretty shy and orderly person, so when I was in Italy and went to order a coffee, I patiently waited in line. Without hesitation, I found a woman suddenly push her way in front of me to order, and without pause, the barista served her immediately. I thought for sure, him having seen me, he would have asked her to go to the back of the line. But he did not.

After this happened multiple times, I realized that line jumping was just a part of their culture, like yelling or talking with their hands. If an Italian sees a gap in the line, they’ll jump right in. So either be sure to leave no space between yourself and the person in front or find the courage to start line jumping! Or at least being a little pushier and showy when it comes to ordering at counters. Some places have started using a number machine to control this queuing problem, but if you’re stuck somewhere without it, you’ll need to figure out the game. Remember, they’re not trying to be rude, it’s just all apart of that fiery Italian attitude.

#9 Don’t Go in the Summer

Ok, now I know this point will get everyone going! Italy is a fantastically popular place to travel. As it should be, it’s gorgeous! You can’t blame people for wanting to visit it. But summer is especially busy. For many families, the summer is the only time they can travel with their kids, so the cities become overrun with Europeans and international travellers. The weather has been getting increasingly hotter and hotter (thanks global warming) and what once was a relaxing summer vacation on paper, turns into a humid, sticky and sweaty affair. Combine that with the huge crowds, long wait time to get into attractions and you’re in for a horrid equation.

Summer = High Prices, Lots of Tourists

Prices for hotels are also the most expensive during this time as well, and even some popular train route are often booked up well in advance. Summer also has its pests, in this case, mosquitoes, which can have a field day on bare legs. For me personally, Italy is one of those landscapes that look stunning any time of the year. The visual difference between Venice in the Summer and Venice in the Winter is almost non-existent (they rarely get snow).

And if you’re lucky enough to see a snow-covered Italy what a unique and special moment that would be! What is the most different during those months outside of the summertime are the crowds and the costs. In both cases you’ll see a big reduction. The colours along the vineyards in the fall are spectacular, and the springtime blooms along the roadways make driving a joy. So if you can avoid it, skip the summer! If you can’t, just be sure to plan far in advance and make smart choices.

#10 Don’t take Heavy luggage

Italy is known for its gorgeous cobblestone streets and old, historic residences. But what those two things have in common is that they were designed for a different time. A time when luggage was made for being carried in your hands, not huge suitcases being rolled down the street on wheels. Too many of us have a tendency to overpack. And you’re never all too aware of this fact until you’re facing a 20 minutes walk down an extremely bumpy road, followed by a six-storey walk up. With airlines charging more and more for checked luggage, this is your opportunity to save, and scale down all at once. I have a great post about how to pack for 2-weeks in a carry-on which will save you a ton of hassle, exhaustion, stress and, best of all, money!

#11 Don’t wait to Book Tickets to Popular Attractions

Even if you’re not travelling in the super-duper popular months, buying tickets online in advance to busy attractions is highly advisable. If there are a few items on your list which are unmissable, you don’t want to find yourself unable to get in because they’re sold out or the line is too long. Buying tickets in advance also means that that portion of the sightseeing costs is already paid for before you arrive in the city. For those on a tight budget, it means you might have a little bit more to spend once you’re there.

#12 Don’t ONLY Stay Inside the City Walls

So many people, when travelling to a new city, might want to stay right in the centre of town! And while this sounds good in practice, close to sights and all that, in reality it’s a bit more complicated. If you’re someone like me who enjoys a quiet evening, these hotels or apartments in the centre of busy cities are often pretty loud. Not only that, they are expensive! Since transport, even in smaller cities is so prevalent in Italy, it’s easy to stay either just on the outskirts of town or in a nearby village just a few minutes away. If you’re travelling by car, this also means you can park the car at one of these hotels easily and won’t need to worry about bringing it into town.

Look in Bnbs

Often hotels outside the city are a fraction of the cost of the ones in town and come with so much more character and charm. We stayed in plenty or airbnbs, farm stays or just tiny bed and breakfasts on the outskirts of town on our travels through Italy. Every single one was owned by the most interesting characters! Airbnb makes it easy to search for accommodations using their map function so you can find the town you want to visit and then zoom out slightly to explore the options just a few minutes outside the centre.

We even stayed in one place where the owner would drive us into the city in the morning and pick us up in the evening. Like a personal chauffeur or bus service! PLUS staying in these little towns also means you can visit their local restaurants which are often so excited to have visitors. They serve up some of the best authentic food at the lowest prices!

#13 Don’t Forget to Bring cash

Despite the rise of credit cards, tap and, apple pay, it seems like cash money has become something of an ephemeral thing. Even I rarely have cash on me at home, heck sometimes I don’t even walk around carrying my wallet. But especially when travelling I always make sure to bring cash with me. For anyone visiting a marketplace, flea market or even smaller restaurant, you’ll find cash is either the only accepted form of currency or at least the much more preferred option. Especially in small towns which might be a little bit more behind the times, cash is essential. And if you’re interested in doing any haggling at the antique market, you’ll need cash for sure!

#14 Don’t Skip pastries for breakfast

Breakfast in Italy is a sweet affair. If you come to Italy, don’t try to find a restaurant that does a full English or an omelette with hash browns. Along with the mandatory caffe (espresso), you need to pick up your favourite sweet pastry to enjoy alongside. There is the iconic biscotti, brioche or cannoli but my favourite is the cornetti (cornetto if singular). A cornetto is the Italian’s version of a french croissant. It is slightly sweeter (right up my alley!) and eaten dipped into your coffee as you indulge. Pastry shops often have a fantastic coffee counter as well so you can easily get your morning brew and meal all in one place.

Italy is honestly one of the most incredible places in the entire world, and although that’s not really the most original opinion, it’s cliche for a reason. Hopefully, these tips help you out on your next trip over to the city of astounding food, unbelievable architecture and extraordinary people. Let me know if the comment any others tips you might have for first-time travellers to help them out on their future ventures.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post 14 Travel Mistakes NOT to Make on Your First Trip to Italy first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. 1. Thinking Portuguese is Spanish
2. 2. Rushing Through the City
3. 3. Waiting for the Santa Justa Elevator or Torre de Belem Elevator
4. 4. Not Exploring with a Local
5. 5. Not Bringing Shoes with Grip
6. 6. Thinking that Bread is Free in Restaurants
7. 7. Not Jumping in an Uber
8. 8. Forgetting to a Buy a Transport Card
9. 9. Paying for Overpriced Fado Shows
10. 10. Not Tasting Ginjinha on the Street
11. 11. Not Being Aware of your Surroundings
12. 12. Not Remembering to Reapply Sunscreen in the Afternoon
13. 13. Only Sampling the Belém Pastéis de Nata
14. 14. Not Learning How to Order Coffee

1. Thinking Portuguese is Spanish

While many travellers might initially assume that Portuguese is similar to Spanish, trust me, it’s NOT! I had just been to Mexico City earlier in the year, and when I started my Portuguese lessons, I thought all that Spanish would have helped – nope, that was not the case! I found Portuguese a harder language to learn than even Japanese, and I greatly respect anyone who has mastered the language.

Don’t try to speak Spanish thinking that locals will understand that more than English if you don’t know how to speak Portuguese. Most Portuguese people prefer English to Spanish. I was surprised by how many locals spoke terrific English, but don’t rely on that. Ensure you learn at least a few words; the basics are pretty easy to grasp, and it makes a big impression on those you speak to. Below are a few key phrases I found to be the most useful.

Hello – Olá
Goodbye – Adeus
Good Morning – Bom dia
Good Afternoon – Boa tarde
Good Night – Boa noite
Thank You – Obrigado (if said by a man) Obrigada (if said by a woman)
Sorry – Desculpe
Yes – Sim
No – Não
Please – Por Favor
This (good for pointing to menu or food items) – isto
How Much? – Quanto custa?

2. Rushing Through the City

One of the biggest mistakes I think people make is trying to rush through cities. And a part of me understands this, we don’t all have unlimited vacation time, and flights are expensive, especially if you’re visiting from outside of Europe. We cannot pop over from Spain or France on a long weekend. But Lisbon is such a vibrant city, and even though it appears to be very small, it’s both dense in physical form and history, steeped inside its walls. Spending a week here made us feel more like we could explore those hidden corners or get lost without worrying about losing precious time.

I know many people can see all there is to see here in a jam-packed three-day itinerary, but we adored having an entire week to relax and see the sights. Europeans, in general, but perhaps Portuguese more so, take things slow. They don’t like being rushed or on time, for that matter. So being able to adjust to their way of doing things felt more authentic than trying to rush through lunch and run out without savouring that last glass of wine. I felt like a week with one or two little outings outside the city was a perfect time!

3. Waiting for the Santa Justa Elevator or Torre de Belem Elevator

The Santa Justa Elevator is one of the city’s oddest yet most stunning sights. It was initially built in the 19th century for locals to use to get up the steep hill from the Baixa district to the Largo do Carmo. Its elegant design made in wrought-iron and covered in neo-gothic arches and striking geometric patterns is a spectacle for the eyes. But when the city of Lisbon bought the tower, they changed it from being a free mode of transportation and turned it into a touristy nightmare. Now lines run around the block, and tourists pay €6.40 for a 1-minute trip up to the top.

At the top, you do get one of the most astonishing views across the city, but this area is easily accessible without taking the lift. If you take the escalators inside Rossio Station, up to the Carmo Convent, the viewpoint is located just around the corner. To get to the viewpoint, you pass through a small restaurant but don’t worry about going inside, they are used to this, and it’s not a problem. On there, you’ll find the same view all those other tourists, who wasted hours in line, get to see. The Torre de Belem has the same kind of issue.

While the outside is a must-see in town, the interior is pretty lacking, and the view from the top of the tower is not that impressive. The lines can be hours long, and it is much better to skip it altogether and spend more time walking along the beautiful waterfront with waterside views of the tower.

4. Not Exploring with a Local

Lisbon is one of those cities which seems to have a million hidden secrets and things you can’t learn from a book. We hired a private tour guide to give us a 4-hour walking tour of the city on the first full day we arrived. This is the PERFECT way to get introduced to the town. Bruno, our historian for the day, told us many charming stories as we wandered the streets. He took us to the tremendous must-see sights and unknown little treasures.

There are plenty of free tours you can take, but Lisbon is booming with tourists, and often these tours are enormous, with over 30-40 people in one group with one guide. This makes it hard to hear the sound of streetcars and traffic and almost impossible to ask those burning questions you might be wondering. If budget allows, go for the private tour options, which can also be customized to your group’s interests.

5. Not Bringing Shoes with Grip

I realize you might think this is obvious; comfortable shoes are essential when travelling, but I’ve never had so much trouble walking as I did in Lisbon. The worn-down cobblestones sidewalks and the steep hills mean that you need comfy shoes and shoes with a great grip! I have a few excellent pairs of travel shoes which I’ve never had problems with that failed me on a few occasions when I was almost sent flying down the hill!

Thankfully, a few other party members had grippy shoes, and we would take turns holding onto each other when walking down those steep hills. I had heard that Lisbon was like Rome in that it was a town built on seven hills, but unlike Rome, these hills are incredibly steep, and climbing up and down the streets of Alfama is a workout and a half!

6. Thinking that Bread is Free in Restaurants

At many restaurants in Lisbon, not just those cheesy touristy ones, you’ll often be served bread and olives before the meal. Coming from North America, where bread before a meal is usually served without charge, I assumed it was free. It wasn’t, and although the cost wasn’t expensive, I was surprised to see a cost associated with something to me without asking for it.

Thinking that this one restaurant experience was a fluke, we had dinner the next night and experienced the same charge when we got the bill after digging into the olives and bread. I finally looked this up, wondering if this was something that just kept happening to me and found that it’s prevalent. If you aren’t interested in paying for the bread and olives, say no, before they place them down on your table, and they will take them away without incident. But sometimes you’re starving, and bread and olives sound like just the ticket to tide you over before dinner is served. If that’s the case, ask the server for the cost, so you know what to expect and make your decisions.

7. Not Jumping in an Uber

In a city as hilly as Lisbon, you can quickly get tired. Many times people might think of hailing a cab to get home after a long day but often are afraid to in case they take a long, unnecessary route to get to their destination to run up the meter. Uber, on the other hand, is all priced upfront. We loved taking Uber in Lisbon since we were a group of four, and often, taking an Uber was much, much cheaper than for each of us to pay for a ticket on the metro.

The Ubers we took were all super clean, the drivers extremely friendly, and some would even give us a little tour of the buildings we were passing by! A trip from the airport via Uber costs less than 10 euros (leaving from the departure terminal), including our luggage. Ubers make it so you can take that trip up to a miradouro (lookout point) before sunset, even if your legs are tired and there isn’t a nearby metro station. It’s a great way to make the most of your time in the city without tiring yourself going up and down those hills.

8. Forgetting to a Buy a Transport Card

You can buy these little reloaded metro cards at all the metro stations in Lisbon. They only cost 0.50 euros; you can load them up with as much money as you think you’ll need. This makes getting on and off trains a breeze, with no need to buy separate tickets or calculate the fares. Simply tap on and off, and the money will automatically be calculated and removed from the total on your card. The line-ups for train tickets can get long, especially at stations like Rossio, where the trains depart for Sintra. Having a swipe card will mean you don’t need to line up either at the ticket booth or electronic machines, savings yourself what can be a lot of time!

9. Paying for Overpriced Fado Shows

Fado is a form of Portuguese singing which originated in the 1820s in Portugal’s urban cafes and pubs. It is notable for being profoundly melancholic, and despite these sad tunes, it’s one of the most popular things for tourists to seek out when in Lisbon. There are signs all over for tickets to Fado dinners & show experiences. Most of these places are super overpriced, and the food is incredibly subpar, especially when there is SO MUCH great food for cheap you can find in this city.

There are plenty of amazing places to see real Fado around the town, which won’t cost you an arm and a leg. A Tasca do Chico puts on FREE Fado music Mondays and Wednesdays in the Bairro Alto district. The restaurant can get SUPER crowded, so get there EARLY! Fado is a late-night experience, so expect performances to start around 9 pm and go till 1 or 2 am! Unlike other places which might charge a cover fee, this restaurant doesn’t. That being said, since you need to show up so early to save yourself a table, it’s only right to order some drinks and perhaps a few bits of tapas to make your time there worth it for the servers and staff. But this cost is far and away cheaper than what you’ll find at the Prix-fix places.

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10. Not Tasting Ginjinha on the Street

Ginjinha or Ginja is a Portuguese liqueur from fermented sour cherries blended with sugar and cinnamon. You’ll see dozens of shops selling and advertising this sweet treat. And despite its prevalence in tourist hubs, you’ll be surprised to know it isn’t just a touristy thing. You’ll see old ladies sipping it outside ancient bars and men grabbing one quick glug before heading to dinner.

Ginjinha has been around since the Romans brought cherries to Lisbon in the 5th century. The same family has run many of the tiny closet-sized shops which sell shots of Ginjinha for multiple generations. Here, they serve just one thing; Ginjinha. You can order it two ways, with or without the fruit. (I found the fruit to be SUPER strong, so I preferred it without). You can also get it served in chocolate cups, but this was actually a modern-day invention by the Portuguese chocolate manufacturers who made a chocolate Ginjinha cup at one of their conventions, and it seemed to catch on from there. Still a delicious way to have Ginjinha but not as authentic.

Every different brand tastes a bit different. Some are more strong, and some are a little sweeter and wine-like. The little shots cost just 1-2 euros, so it’s easy to grab one wherever you see them sold to find your favourite.

11. Not Being Aware of your Surroundings

Locals we met with mentioned to us time and time again to beware of pickpockets. Having been to Barcelona without incident, I employed many of my same techniques, most importantly of which is to be AWARE. If you’re in a crowd, always be sure to have a hand on your bag or, at the very least, we are conscious of who gets close to you. You don’t need to be paranoid about it, but there is always an element of catching people off their guard, which is when pickpockets make their move. If someone seems too nice or if you have a bad feeling about something, go with your gut and just remove yourself from the situation.

Tourist trams are one of the worst places for pickpocketing since space is at a premium, and thieves do most of their business when you’re too busy taking pictures to notice. There are plenty of great theft-proof bags you can buy, but a solution I found was to buy a tiny lock which latches the two zippers of my back bag together, rendering it theft-proof. Always keep your bag on your lap at an outdoor restaurant or cafe, not on the floor or on an empty chair where it can quickly be snatched up. I didn’t feel like there was ever a moment when I felt unsafe or vulnerable, but I also felt that knowing these things and taking precautions would be much safer than if I had gone about my business without considering it.

12. Not Remembering to Reapply Sunscreen in the Afternoon

The sun is the strongest in Portugal between noon and 3 pm, and you’d be surprised that late in the afternoon is when you’ll actually feel the warmest. Even at 6 pm, the sun was beating down on my shoulders, hotter than it felt at 2 pm! I’m someone who puts on sunscreen in the morning and forgets to reapply, which resulted in a mighty sunburn on this trip. Painful enough to teach me a good lesson! Around when you have lunch, it’s always a good idea to grab some sunscreen out of your bag and reapply for the rest of the afternoon.

During the afternoon, when the sun is high in the sky, and the temperature is at its hottest, try to schedule some indoor fun if you find it unbearable. Bring a good hat (which won’t blow off in the high winds which Lisbon is famous for) and drink plenty of water. Obviously, this advice is moot if you’re travelling during the winter months, but even in the springtime, it can get surprisingly hot, so don’t hesitate to slather on that sun protection or you’ll be left like I was, having to get after-sun cream from a very judgmental pharmacist.

13. Only Sampling the Belém Pastéis de Nata

Portuguese custard tarts are one of the most popular things tourists come to eat while visiting Lisbon. They are a centuries-old recipe passed down from monks in monasteries, and one of the most popular places to try them is in Belém, where they originated the recipe. While the Belém tart shop is undoubtedly the most popular and historical, there are many other places to try all over Lisbon. It would be a shame only to try this one location when there are so many others you can try.

Give that diet a break while in Lisbon, and eat to your heart’s content! You can find these “pastéis de nata” in trendy cafes and tiny unknown bakeries hidden around quiet street corners. The line at the Belém location sometimes stretches for blocks, and although it might give you a good idea of the benchmark flavours of the original, modern chefs as well as enterprising home bakers, have developed their own versions, which might be even more appealing to you! They also sell these pastries at the grocery store; you never know where to find your favourite.

14. Not Learning How to Order Coffee

If you’re anything like me, no morning starts off on the right foot without a nice cup of coffee. I’ve learned from travelling worldwide that ordering coffee is never the same in one country as in the next. , I managed to order my coffee in Lisbon just fine, but all my friends who were travelling with me had great trouble ordering. Cafés function in a completely different way in Lisbon than they do in North America. In Lisbon, most coffee shops aren’t a place to have a seat, pop open your laptop, and relax with Wi-Fi. No, in Lisbon, cafés are where workers order a shot of espresso and down it at the bar before quickly heading off.

There are no signs across the counter with menu options. It’s up to you to give your order to the barista to get what you want. To get something similar to a latte, you should order “Um galão,” and for a coffee with milk, ask for “uma meia de leite,” which is half milk, half coffee. You’ll almost always be given a side of sugar since it seems like the Portuguese never drink black coffee. To order a standard espresso, ask for “uma bica,” a Portuguese word only used in Lisbon.

If you’re looking for something similar to an Americano ask for “um abatanado, “and if you want milk with it, ask for “um abatanado com um pouco de leite.” Cafes in Lisbon are places people pop in and out of all day. Instead of getting one colossal coffee in the morning, you’re more likely to be served a little coffee, which means you can visit more cafes throughout the day!

Let me know if you found anything on your last trip to Lisbon, you’d recommend travellers avoid or be aware of! Or, if you’re planning a trip, let me know anything else you’re curious about for your first time in Portugal!

Happy Travels Adventurers!

The post 14 Tourist Mistakes NOT to Make on your First Trip to Lisbon first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Mercado De Artesanias La Ciudadela
2. Peletería Continental
3. Velas Cerería de Jesús
4. Xinú Perfumeria
5. Dulcería de Celaya
6. La Casa Del Coleccionista
7. Mexican Coffee Beans
8. Mole Paste
9. Happening Store
10. Cafebrería El Péndulo

Mercado De Artesanias La Ciudadela

The Mercado De Artesanias La Ciudadela, located near the historic city centre, was my favourite market to shop for Mexican crafts and souvenirs. I’ve never felt so overwhelmed by colourful trinkets and found it almost impossible not to buy absolutely everything I saw here. The market is pretty big, so big in fact that we had to come back twice and even then, felt like there was so much we didn’t see. Unlike other Mexican markets I’ve been to in places like Nogales and Punta Cana, I didn’t feel like there was anyone chasing me down the hall for a sale or even hassling people to come in a visit their story.

Address: Emilio Donde S/n, Colonia Centro, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Centro, CDMX, Mexico

It was oddly calm and civilized, and that’s something I didn’t expect. People were willing to haggle, but I think there is definitely a tourist markup price you’ll get here. That being said, the prices are so cheap it almost feels bad to ask them to lower it any more than it already is priced. Sometimes, we paid exactly what they asked because it seemed fair. In other cases, we would attempt to haggle for a lower price, especially if we were buying multiples. I want to post just about this market and my favourite shops. But if I had to make a shortlist and pick a few highlights, it would be the tin sacred hearts, the brightly coloured pom-poms and tassels and the richly embroidered tablecloths.

Peletería Continental

Peletería Continental is one of those places which I feel almost hesitant to talk about since I truly think it’s my the best place I found in my time in Mexico City. There is something about keeping it to myself that felt like I held a precious secret, but it’s truly too cool to keep to myself. On paper, if you look up Peletería Continental you’ll find that it’s a just leather wholesaler. So why would a tourist want to go there? Well, it’s not just leather they sell, and it’s not just wholesale. In large display cases on the outside of the store are beautiful pieces of embroidery and jeweled patched. There are dozens of other fabric embellishments like bows, rhinestones and more! These are meant to sold for wholesale, perhaps for clothing manufacturers and fashion designers but if you want to just buy one, that’s totally ok!

Experience Inside

I was lucky enough to have someone in the store who explained the process in English to me, but in case you don’t find an English speaker here is what you do. Write down the letter and number code of the item you’re interested in. There is a huge tv sized iPad near the doors where you can input the item # and it will tell you the price in pesos per item.

Then once you have the list of items you want and the number of each, just take that list to the counter and someone will go to find your pieces. They’ll give you a total for all your items (which I think if you were buying in bulk you could probably haggle down) and you can then excitedly watch as the items are sent down in an antique style elevator from the stock room above. There were people buying thousands of items all around me and it was so exciting to be a part of. This shop has been open for years and remnants of the old world trading still remain. It’s like shopping with a side of history.

Address: José María Pino Suárez 28, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06060 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Velas Cerería de Jesús

Just down the street from Peletería Continental is Velas Cerería de Jesús. This seemingly small and unassuming candle shop is amazing. As soon as you walk in the doors you’ll see tall candles hanging from the ceiling. Each one fantastically decorated with flower petals and blooms made from wax. There are some which are almost 2 feet tall and are a rainbow of colours. Some look more like flower arrangements than candles. I purchased a few of the smaller versions which ranged from $2-$5! They packaged these up in boxes for me and I didn’t have any issues travelling home with them. I also purchased some of their tall stick candles since I’ve never seen so many different colours at such a good price! 35cm candles were only 20 pesos, which is about $1 USD.

Address: Calle de Venustiano Carranza 122-C, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06010 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Xinú Perfumeria

Xinú Perfumeria is located in the high-end district of Polanco. When we first visited we thought it was closed but turns out you just need to ring the doorbell to unlock the front door. This store is mind-blowing and visiting is an experience all to itself. When we first entered the entry room, there were framed pieces of tobacco on every wall. The smell of this gently roasted tobaccos filled the room and beckoned you in further.

From there you enter another room, so dark you can barely see. Xinú means ‘nose’ in Otomi. Otomi is a beautiful tonal language still present in various regions of Mexico. In so many ways your nose is what guides you to your destination here. On one wall sits a set of beautifully designed olfactory devices. You then climb a never-ending set of stairs until you reach the top where you find the store itself. Inside the main room is a naturalist’s table. A naturalist’s table is used to observes, gather and collect elements from their natural surroundings. Here it is being used to display all the pieces of flora, natural to Mexico City, which are used in developing these unique scents.

Xinú’s Philosophy

Xinú’s philosophy is that it appeals to our individual olfactory memory. Their perfumes were all unlike anything I had smelled before and so rich, even a small whiff transcended me into another realm. Xinú is also very passionate about saving the environment from which so many of these natural elements grow, and without whom, these perfumes could not be produced. Their innovative bottle designs can be re-purposed into vases or incense holders once the perfume has run out. My favourite scent was the UMMO. It was their newest scent containing absolute tobacco, jasmine tobacco flower, liquid amber resin and cedar essence. It was incredible but unfortunately, it was the one scent they had sold out of! I was pretty heartbroken but gives me another reason to return to Mexico City as they aren’t available online just yet!

Address: Alejandro Dumas 161, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Dulcería de Celaya

Dulcería de Celaya, located in the heart of the historic district, is a tiny, old shop which has been selling traditional Mexican candies and sweets since 1874. Walking into the shop it feels like nothing has changed in over 100 years. When the family-run shop first started selling candy it was all made in a small, improvised factory using wooden shovels, copper saucepans and a minature oven. They could only produce so much per day, often only one tray of candy. But the candy was so popular that they would sell out day after day and as the demand rose, they managed to expand their production.

Even today they produce candy in much the same way as it was made in that tiny kitchen. You walk in the door and the smell of fresh pineapples, strawberries, guavas and coconut fill the air. The candy is very well priced so even if you don’t’ recognize anything just let the smells guide you can just try whatever your eye is drawn to.

Address: Av. 5 de Mayo 39, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

La Casa Del Coleccionista

La Casa Del Coleccionista in Coyoacan is a tiny antique store located right near Centenario Garden. This store houses precious treasures from years past and if you’re looking for something for your home to bring back with you this is the place to go. There were so many old paintings, candlesticks and wall hangings which were incredibly charming and held within the memories of the past. While it’s nice to buy something new, an antique is a wonderful way of experiencing the Mexico City of year’s past and something you can’t just buy in any store. Each antique collection is unique to that one location and pilfering through their collections offers up singular treasures.

Address: Av Francisco Sosa 1, Santa Catarina, Coyoacán, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Mexican Coffee Beans

Mexico is one of the world’s best producers of coffee beans and while the coffee beans might not be grown in Mexico City, Mexico City is one of their best roasters. Coffee culture is a huge part of this city! In areas like La Condesa and Roma there are chic coffee shops on every corner. Coffee is a very personal choice to many people, some like a darker roast, other like ones with more subtle flavours.

Instead of just going to the grocery store to buy some beans, I would explore the local cafes, almost every coffee shop offers bulk purchases of their own unique roast of beans. I would recommend exploring all the coffee shops in your area and when you find your favourite, ask to purchase a few pounds to return home with you. When you get home you’ll be able to brew a little bit of Mexico City in your home. We loved ‘Cardinal’ in La Condesa who serves up Cosautlan de Carvajal from Veracruz, which has notes of orange and chocolate. Absolutely delicious!

Address: Córdoba 132, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Mole Paste

Mole is a traditional sauce used in Mexican cuisine made from fruit, chili pepper, nut, and such spices as black pepper, cinnamon, cumin, and chocolate. It’s a very unique flavour and although it might not be for everyone, if you love it, you LOVE it! You’ll see (and hopefully you’ll also taste) this sauce on street corners and fancy restaurants all over the city! While the mixture might seem like an overwhelming recipe you can actually buy the dried paste in various markets across the city. The best stuff is made from scratch but if you’re not an aficionado or have access to all those local ingredients at home, this will do just fine. The Coyoacan Market has an incredible section of different mole flavours and was my favourite place to shop for these rich flavours of Mexico City.

Address: Ignacio Allende s/n, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Happening Store

Happening Store has two locations in Mexico City. They sell a variety of different goods made by local Mexican designers. They have everything from footwear, to jewellery to houseware and soaps. There is definitely a hipster quality to the products sold here but if you’re a fan of that kind of stuff then you’ll be in heaven! It’s always nice when visiting a city to try and support local, small business and shopping here you’ll find you’re able to explore a variety of designers right in one place!

Address: Tabasco 210, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

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Cafebrería El Péndulo

Cafebrería El Péndulo is a magical little place where you can explore all different literary fantasies. The bookshop was established in 1993, and as the name states, it is a combination of Cafeteria and Bookshop. On the first level is where you’ll find hundreds of shelves of books and on the second floor you can sit and enjoy a cup of coffee or a lazy, mid-morning brunch. There are six different locations across Mexico City, each with the same open and luminous architecture and eclectic decoration. If you can’t read Spanish it’s still worth browsing the store and seeing all the different amazing books, music and art on sale. I loved the selection of notebooks and journals from local artists with that same stunning Mexican colours and design which make this city so enchanting.

Address: Mario Pani 200, Lomas de Santa Fe, Contadero, Cuajimalpa de Morelos, 01219 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

There is truly something for everyone in this magical city! Let me know what your favourite places are to shop in Mexico City and hopefully I can add them to my list the next time I’m visiting this amazing place.

The post The Ultimate Souvenir Shopping Guide in Mexico City first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

The building was constructed in the Art Nouveau style. Art Nouveau architecture in the Czech Republic was made famous partly due to the success of painter, Alphonse Mucha. Mucha’s pieces featured images of curvy women with long, organically flowing hair, surrounded by leaves and swirling facades.

The features that separate Art Nouveau from other architectural designs are it’s obsession with asymmetry, embracing natural elements like; flower, vine, insect wings, and buds. These objects all have graceful lines and a rhythmical force. In Art Nouveau architecture there is a substantial use of ironwork, glass, ceramics and brickwork. There is a desire for lightness in the construction instead of reason and structure.

Inside the Municipal House contains a small but sparkling cafe called the “Kavarna Obecni Dum. Inside this sparkling cafe are some of the best original art nouveau decorations from all over the world. It’s like dining inside a museum. The windows are a stunning example of the importance of light in art nouveau design. The chandeliers are another eye-catching feature that you can’t help but stare up at.

Towards the back of the cafe is a large marble statue of the Carrara Nymph, standing against the wall like the guardian of the cafe.

Even the smallest details are styled to match the architecture around it. From the dishes to the menu, everything follows suit. Although this place has since become mainly a tourist spot, it still maintains the pleasant atmosphere reminiscent of what Prague would have been like in 1920’s.

The menu contains an array of Czech dishes and classic cafe favourites We watched intently as the cake trolley was pushed around from table to table, thinking only of dessert even as we ate our delicious dinners.

We picked out an assorted berry cheesecake to finish off our meal, but there were also walnut cakes with whipped cream, raspberry temptations or Schwarzwald cherry cakes which all look delicious.

I also ordered a Rose Tonic Water which was one of the best non-alcoholic drinks I’ve ever had. We tried to find it elsewhere throughout Europe, but this was the only time we managed to track it down.

Kavárna Obecní Dům café is the least expensive of all the restaurants inside the Municipal House but looking up at all the richly decorated decor you’d never believe it. If you have a little more to spend, check out one of their other more upscale restaurants which will treat you like a Bohemia King or Queen for a day.

The post Dining at Kavárna Obecní Dům Café, Prague first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.