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Absorb the warmth of European spring
In little time, the whole of Europe will feel the warm embrace of spring. With the new season come some of the most fulfilling and memorable experiences for a naturally curious traveler. In other words, you could be one of those peaceful kayakers atop a Polish lake. Keep reading to get a sense of what you could discover if you venture into the outdoor splendors of this continent! Slide your kayak into a Polish lake Every year, when the birds begin to sing and the buds on trees begin to unfold, …
Scale Czechia’s Great Rocks
For me, reaching the top of a rock I've climbed is a uniquely satisfying accomplishment—a strange combination of conquering the rock and being one with the beauty of it. I just finished an exciting rock-climbing adventure at Via Ferrata on the Shepherd's Wall near Děčín (about an hour’s drive from Prague). I chose Shepherd's Wall for two reasons: the 16 paths one can choose from, some as high as 170 meters up. The other reason? When you reach the top, you have a gorgeous view of Děčín below as …
The Serenity of a Swamp
Contrary to popular opinion, a swamp can be a gorgeous natural place to explore! How do I know? I know because I just spent some time discovering the secrets of Latvia’s wetland Kemeri National Park, a protected zone. That this national park is protected makes total sense to me, given how much there is to protect. In these wetlands there is an extraordinary interaction between the dolomite bedrock and the bogs and ferns, which create a sort of Sulphur water. What’s more, the park is home to …
Dive into nature in Norway
In 1908, a landslide in Western Norway blocked off a waterway, which resulted in the flooding of large swaths of farmland and a village that stood in the valley below. Over a hundred years later, that flooded valley is now a lake (Lygnstøylsvatnet) and the remains of the village still stand. For me, as a #NaturallyCurious traveler, this lake presented the perfect way to literally dive back into history. All I needed to explore this village, frozen in time, was some scuba gear and a sense of …
Feel the Creative Current of Cologne
In the heart of Cologne, there’s a very special establishment that serves rich, hot coffee during the day, and then when the sun sets, transforms itself into a lively bar, where young people from the neighborhood gather. Hallmackenreuther is indicative of so much about what makes Cologne an attractive place: this is a city of vibrant, creative energy, where in every quarter of the city, people seem to be eating well, making art, and enjoying themselves. View this post on Instagram A post shared …
Aachen, the quintessence of Europe
On the far west border of Germany, right up against the Netherlands and Belgium, lies a city that’s fully off the well-trod traveler’s path. Yet with its rich history, stunning medieval architecture and modern flair, Aachen is a place well worth a visit! Not sure where to begin in Aachen? Never fear. I just returned from this gorgeous city and am here to guide you! Here are my suggestions about Aachen and what you can do there. A good place to start? The Route Charlemagne, named after …
Lucky to visit Luxembourg
It’s no coincidence that people who return from Luxembourg regularly call it one of the most stunning places in the world. With castles dotting the landscape, medieval bridges crossing clear rivers, and hearty, delicious food around just about every corner, it’s hard to be surprised! I certainly had that reaction to this lovely, if small, country in the heart of Europe! What were some of the experiences that stuck with me after my trip? The Bock Fortress, which legend tells us has long been a …
Soak up Monaco's history
The famous adage, size doesn’t matter, certainly applies in the case of Monaco! Even though it’s one of the smallest countries in the world, Monaco delivered on what’s important and what I was looking for: sun, sea-views, delicious food, and a fascinating history to explore! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mundo da Dani | Travel (@danikalk) I just finished an unforgettable trip to this old principality. What were my favorite experiences? I loved exploring the Monaco Cathedral and …
Copenhagen, the city of towers
When asked about his favorite secret activity in Copenhagen, local Danish ambassador, Michael, gives this stunning response: take a swim in the city’s harbor. In my experience, the water in most port cities is far too murky to be inviting. Yet in Copenhagen, it is clear and beautiful and ready for you. That is, if you dare! These waters are known to be a little cold! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Eric G Gagnon ???? (@tobrook) What else should you do in this city? Here’s what I …
The Peace of a Bulgarian Landscape
It is often said that in Bulgaria, you must make an effort to avoid the natural beauty that’s constantly around you. Ask anyone who has visited this stunning yet underrated country about its landscapes and you’ll understand. How do I know this? It was exactly the experience I had when visiting. From the coastline of the Black Sea or the majestic mountains in the interior, Bulgaria boasts high peaks, dense forests, and crystal-clear lakes—a veritable paradise for anyone who is #NaturallyCurious. …