And we’re away—road trip time! What do you actually know about Albania? Did you know there’s an Albanian Riviera? And what even is a Riviera? Is Albania the new Croatia for tourism? Communists kept the country completely sealed off until 1991, which makes you wonder… what were they hiding? And more importantly—what’s it like now? Should you visit? My friends and I set off on … Continue reading Albania Road Trip: Chaos, Coastlines, and the Start of the Riviera

I LOVED Tirana, the capital of Albania.  It’s a city full of surprises. It’s vibrant, has a rich history, both beautiful and terrible. It’s packed with unique attractions and whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a shopper or an architecture enthusiast, Tirana has lots to offer. In this post, I’ll take you through my journey exploring the city’s top spots, delicious food, and cultural … Continue reading Exploring Tiranë Albania: 10 Must-See Attractions

My European adventure continues, and this time, it’s been full of surprises—some planned and some, well, let’s just say, unexpected. From visiting a legendary knife-making town in Italy to running out of gas in the middle of Tuscany, crossing six countries, and dealing with yet another mechanical issue, this trip has been a wild ride. Here’s how it all unfolded. A Special Invitation and an … Continue reading My Epic Race Across Europe: Mechanics, Knives, and Unexpected Adventures

Bologna is known as the food capital of Italy, and for good reason! It’s where Italians go to eat, and after spending a day exploring this incredible city, I completely understand why. But Bologna isn’t just about food—it’s filled with history, quirky hidden gems, and stunning architecture. I couldn’t possibly show you everything, but here are 10 things that will give you a taste of … Continue reading 10 Things to Love About Bologna: Italy’s Food Capital

What do you need to see in Venice? Of course, the big attractions are a must, but I’m sharing 10 ideas and secret gems that will turn a day in Venice into something really special. From local spots to quirky traditions, good luck charms, and perfect photo ops, there’s plenty to discover. I’m Helen, traveling Europe in my van and on all kinds of adventures. … Continue reading Venice: 10 Secret Gems and Local Tips for an Unforgettable Day

Am I too late to get out of here, or are these guys going to burn my van to the ground? This adventure starts with two very different fiascos, both involving a mix of chaos, history, and a little danger. Lauren and Sophie join me in Pisa, and we explore UNESCO sites in Pisa and Florence, from the grand attractions to lesser-known gems. Along the … Continue reading Florence & Pisa: Fiascos, Fireworks, and Fantastic Finds

Bloody hell—Schwangau, Germany is not for the faint-hearted, especially if you have ants in your underwear. Yes, that happened. But before I dive into the insect horror, let me tell you about the magic of this place. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, Schwangau is home to Neuschwanstein Castle, the iconic Sleeping Beauty castle that inspired Disneyland. But there’s more than just fairytales here—there’s history, indulgence, … Continue reading Schwangau: Castles, Chaos, and a Mad King

If you think all of Germany’s medieval towns were lost to history—or worse, Hitler—you need to see Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This little gem survived intact from the Middle Ages to today, and it’s a treasure trove of cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and historical chaos. Here’s my whirlwind guide to exploring this town, with some of my favorite stories along the way. Park Smart, Walk … Continue reading Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Medieval Magic, Christmas Chaos, and Snowball Indulgence

Kenny and I have clocked 11,000 km across 12 countries, and along the way I’ve learned a thing or two about surviving—and thriving—in a van. If you’re thinking of hitting the road, here are my top 7 practical tips for living comfortably while embracing the chaos. Plus, stick around for a bonus tip at the end—because who doesn’t love a bonus? 1. Find Your Campsite … Continue reading Van Life Essentials: 7 Practical Tips from 11,000 km Across Europe