Guide to Hostels

Hostels are popular and cheap accommodations when traveling abroad. Hostels are usually dorm style rooms with shared bathroom and kitchen facilities. Their greatest advantage is often their low price, but access to a kitchen and the social atmosphere are desirable perks too.

Lisbon, Portugal

We are excited to start a short new series featuring my sister’s trips to the Iberian peninsula. Her first destination, and one of the favorites, was Lisbon.

Barcelona, Spain – Part 2

Once we were joined by Jon’s parents, our entourage was complete and we were ready to tackle Barcelona’s most famous and grand sights. We were also lucky to have our parents with us to experience the vibrant neighborhoods and delicious food of Barcelona.

Barcelona, Spain – Part 1

Move over, thirty-somethings. The sixty-somethings have arrived (Alexis’ mom, MaryLou, guest blogger, and dad, Ed). Barcelona is a city best seen on foot, and Alexis and Jon (A&J), having been there 6 years ago, showed us why they fell in love with it.

Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca has a bit of everything you could want on a tropical island; historic port cities, sandy beaches with wild nightlife, and small villages tucked into mountains so lovely they are a world heritage site.

Seville, Spain

A visit to Seville is also a visit to Naboo and Dorne. Early Roman and Muslim roots have shaped the architecture of Seville creating what might be the most beautiful city on Earth. The maze like cobble stone streets hide plazas filled with orange trees and ornate buildings.

Madrid, Spain

Spain is one of our favorite destinations. Madrid embodies all that we enjoy about this country: the food, the architecture, and the vibrant city life.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin has a tremendous history and one of the coolest cultures in Europe. Berlin may just have been the most educational and eye-opening stop on our trip.

Amsterdam, Netherlands – Part 2

Jon and I were lucky enough to have a few extra days in Amsterdam after visiting the many tour attractions with my sister. Having this extra time allowed us to visit the nearby city The Hague and treat ourselves to a fancy seafood dinner.