Climbing the Florence Duomo: Key Tips for Brunelleschi’s Dome

Climbing the Florence Duomo: Key Tips for Brunelleschi’s Dome

Rising above the rooftops of Florence, the Brunelleschi Dome crowns the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, serving as the city’s instantly recognizable icon. More than 500 years later, Filippo Brunelleschi, the architect of the Dome (and its enduring namesake), still holds the record for creating the world’s largest masonry dome. I’m always impressed when something…

7 Marvelous Things to Do in Messina, Sicily (2025 Update)

7 Marvelous Things to Do in Messina, Sicily (2025 Update)

Messina sits almost at the northeastern tip of Sicily, just across the strait from Reggio Calabria, the southernmost city in mainland Italy. Despite its prime location, Messina is often overlooked by travelers compared to flight hub cities like Palermo and Catania, it is still a rather popular stop for cruise ships due to its port,…

11 Best Things to Do in Winter in Toulouse [2025]

11 Best Things to Do in Winter in Toulouse [2025]

If you’re planning a trip to France this winter but are not in the mood for the cold and hectic energy of Paris, head south and visit the beautiful city of Toulouse in winter instead! With its historic landmarks, renowned museums, and delicious Occitan food, Toulouse offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities that…

15 Magical Things to Do in Madeira, Portugal’s Island Paradise

15 Magical Things to Do in Madeira, Portugal’s Island Paradise

Madeira is an island of breathtaking beauty and captivating charm. Nicknamed the “Island of Flowers”, it boasts a stunning landscape that can be enjoyed in many different ways. From sun-soaked beaches to verdant forests, there’s something for everyone here. 🇵🇹Planning your trip to Madeira in a hurry? Here are my quick picks! 🐋Best Madeira ActivitiesFull-Day…

15 Wonderful Things to Do in Bordeaux in Winter [2025]

15 Wonderful Things to Do in Bordeaux in Winter [2025]

Only a two-hour high-speed train ride from Paris and about the same to Toulouse, Bordeaux is the largest city in southwestern France. While the spotlight is definitely on the area’s wine production, Bordeaux is a proper all-seasons destination, perfect for wine lovers and culture fans alike. In fact, I’d argue that Bordeaux in winter has much…