Cupcakes & Tea with Elizabeth

Tag: Travel

  • Bring a Little Irish Magic Into Your Year: My New Gaeilge & English 2026 Planner

    Bring a Little Irish Magic Into Your Year: My New Gaeilge & English 2026 Planner

    🌿✨ Planning with Irish Magic: Why I Created a Bilingual Irish & English Planner for 2026

    There are certain places in the world that stay with you long after you’ve packed your bags and returned home. For me, Ireland is one of those places — full of windswept coasts, warm cups of tea and coffee, music drifting from pubs, and a spirit that’s hard to put into words. It’s a place that feels alive with stories, heritage, and culture… my heritage, and it inspired something new that I’ve been so excited to share.

    This year, I created something that brings a little piece of Ireland into everyday life: a 2026 Irish & English Monthly Planner, written in both Gaeilge and English, for anyone who loves culture, slow living, and intentional planning. 🍀📅
    And because I’ve always felt that planning and reflection go hand-in-hand, I also created a matching Irish & English Journal to complement the planner. It’s perfect for notes, gratitude lists, travel memories, or practicing a little Gaeilge each day.

    But before I get to the planner, let me tell you how it came to be.

    Three women standing together and smiling along the grassy coastline in Ireland, with waves crashing against rocky cliffs in the background under a cloudy sky.
    My family and I exploring Ireland! A favorite from the trip.

    🍃 Ireland Has a Way of Staying With You

    My connection to Ireland began with heritage — stories passed down, family roots, and that quiet pride many of us with Irish ancestry carry. But when I visited Ireland? It transformed from a family story into something deeply personal.

    I still remember the first time Ireland truly clicked for me — not just as a beautiful country, but as a feeling. There’s an ease to the way people live. A spark in the music. A deep sense of history layered into the land. Even simple things like hearing the soft melody of Gaeilge woven into conversations made me want to hold onto that magic a little longer. That connection never leaves.

    And if you’ve followed my blog for a while, you know I’m a planner girl at heart. 🧁🫖

    I love intentional routines, cozy planning sessions, and any excuse to add beauty to everyday life.

    So naturally, one day it hit me:

    Why not bring my love for planning and my Irish roots together?

    ✨ The Inspiration Behind the Planner

    When I sat down to design this planner, I wanted it to be more than a calendar. I wanted it to feel like Ireland — gentle, warm, cultural, and full of little sparks of joy.

    I imagined a planner that could be:

    • A celebration of Irish culture
    • A gentle companion for planning your year
    • A bridge between Irish heritage and modern life
    • A tool for Gaeilge learners
    • A keepsake that feels soft, meaningful, and cozy

    So, I create done where every month includes headings in both Irish & English — a lovely way to be surrounded by the language, even if you’re only beginning to learn it. I also included:

    • A year-at-a-glance
    • Monthly calendars
    • Select daily planning pages
    • A vacation itinerary
    • A budgeting section
    • Irish cultural dates + celebrations
    • And that soft, intentional vibe I love

    It’s simple. Beautiful. Practical. And wrapped in Irish charm.

    📘 A Planner for Travelers, Heritage Lovers, and Learners

    This planner is for anyone who wants their year to feel more intentional — with a touch of culture woven through each page.

    It’s perfect for:

    • The traveler dreaming of Ireland
    • The Irish-American reconnecting with family roots
    • The language learner practicing Gaeilge
    • The busy mom who loves a pretty, functional planner
    • The heritage lover who wants something meaningful
    • The student or teacher who loves multicultural resources
    • And honestly… anyone who loves cozy, beautifully designed planners (hi, same 💛)

    Pair it with the matching Irish & English Journal for notes, gratitude, reflections, or even practicing phrases in Gaeilge each day.

    🌈 A Tiny Daily Dose of Culture

    One of my favorite features?
    The cultural dates sprinkled throughout the planner — everything from Lá Fhéile Pádraig to Lá Bealtaine.

    These little notes feel like tiny reminders of connection, tradition, and heritage.
    Almost like Ireland tapping you on the shoulder as you move through your year.

    🍀 Want to Bring a Touch of Ireland into Your 2026?

    If this speaks to your heart the way it did to mine, you can explore the planner here:

    👉 https://a.co/d/4Y1estw

    It comes in two formats:

    📗 Hardcover 8×10 – a beautiful, spacious desk planner
    📘 Paperback 6×9 – lightweight and perfect for travel, bags, and everyday life

    I’ve loved watching this project come to life, and I hope it brings you as much joy as it brought me to create it.

    ☕ Final Thoughts

    Designing this planner and journal set has been such a meaningful experience — a blend of travel memories, Irish heritage, and the cozy creativity I love sharing with you here.

    And honestly? I think that’s the heart of planning itself.
    Not just lists and dates, but little rituals that keep us rooted in who we are.

    If you pick up the planner or journal, I’d love to see how you use it — your flat lays, your favorite spreads, your travel notes, your Irish-inspired moments. 💛✨

    Here’s to a beautiful, intentional, culturally rich 2026.

    Sláinte!

    ,

    © 2025 Elizabeth Settles — cozy stories, modern life, & honest reflections.

  • My Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom and Baby

    My Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom and Baby

    If you’re anything like me, packing your hospital bag feels equal parts exciting and “wait… what am I forgetting?” Whether this is your first baby or you’ve done this before, it helps so much to have a cozy little plan so you’re not tossing random things into a tote at 2 a.m.

    This is the hospital bag checklist that kept me feeling prepared, comfortable, and a little more like myself in the middle of a big, emotional, beautiful whirlwind.

    (Quick note: every hospital is a little different, so it’s always worth checking your provider’s list too.)

    The “Don’t Leave Home Without It” Stuff

    1. Birth plan (if you have one)

    Even if it’s just a one-page note with your preferences, it’s so helpful to have something written down. In the moment, it’s nice to not have to explain everything from scratch.

    2. Phone + long charger cord

    You’ll be taking photos, texting updates, and probably scrolling when you can’t sleep. A long cord is a small thing that feels like a luxury in a hospital room.

    3. Important documents

    If you want to be extra prepared, tuck these in a folder:

    • ID + insurance card
    • any hospital paperwork you’ve been given
    • your birth plan (if using one)

    Comfort Items for You

    4. Cozy socks or slippers

    Hospitals can run chilly, and warm feet just make everything feel a little less stressful.

    5. Flip-flops (for walking + showering)

    These are especially handy in the bathroom/shower situation. Easy, practical, and they can be washed later.

    6. Toiletries + “feel like a human again” basics

    This is the stuff that helped me feel refreshed after everything:

    • toothbrush + toothpaste
    • shampoo/conditioner + hair ties
    • face wash + moisturizer/lotion
    • deodorant + lip balm
    • any personal hygiene items you love

    7. Your own pillow (optional but amazing)

    Hospital pillows can be… not great. Bringing your own can make resting feel a lot more doable.

    8. A comfy robe

    Perfect for staying warm, feeling covered, and shuffling around the room without feeling exposed.

    9. Loose, comfy clothes for the hospital + going home

    Think: soft, stretchy, and not restrictive. (You’ll want comfort more than anything.)
    A simple going-home outfit you actually feel good in is such a win.

    Baby Must-Haves

    10. Baby outfits (and one extra!)

    Bring:

    • one outfit for photos or meeting family
    • one comfy going-home outfit
    • an extra outfit (because leaks happen, and babies stay humble 😅)

    Optional: “picture outfits”

    If you want those sweet first photos in the hospital, packing one special outfit makes it easy. For me, doing photos at the hospital felt way less stressful than trying to do it at home — you’ve got help nearby, and you’re not juggling everything alone.

    Quick Printable Checklist

    • Birth plan / preferences
    • ID + insurance card + any paperwork
    • Phone + long charger
    • Cozy socks/slippers
    • Flip-flops
    • Toiletries (toothbrush, hair ties, lotion, lip balm, etc.)
    • Pillow
    • Robe
    • Comfy clothes + going-home outfit
    • Baby outfits (2–3 total)
    • Optional: photo outfit(s)

    Wishing you all the best! What was your “so glad I packed that” item? I’d love to hear it in the comments.

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  • Our Nightmare Honeymoon in Maui: Travel Fails, Laughs, and Lessons from Paradise

    Our Nightmare Honeymoon in Maui: Travel Fails, Laughs, and Lessons from Paradise

    Nightmare Honeymoon in Maui: When Paradise Goes Wrong 😅

    Excited to Travel Again… Until Maui Had Other Plans

    After months of wedding planning, we were beyond thrilled to be traveling again — and what better destination for a honeymoon than Maui, Hawaii? 🌺

    I can’t help but laugh as I write this because, while Hawaii is usually paradise for everyone, our honeymoon didn’t exactly go as planned. From resort mix-ups to transportation troubles, we somehow turned paradise into a series of unfortunate (and hilarious) events.

    A Promising Start in Paradise

    After our wedding-day chaos, we were ready for smooth sailing. Our flights were perfectly on time, luggage intact, and we were greeted in Maui with a beautiful flower lei from our travel agent. Everything seemed perfect.

    We checked into Mana Kai Maui Resort, thrilled by the ocean view and ready for the ultimate romantic getaway. The resort’s tagline — “Where heaven meets earth” — soon became an inside joke between us, because what followed was… not exactly heavenly. 😂

    1. Resort Restaurant & Store Closed

    Upon arrival, we learned that the resort’s restaurant, bar, and general store had all closed weeks earlier. Since we hadn’t rented a car, thinking we’d spend most of our time relaxing at the resort, this was not ideal.

    After our long 10-hour trip, we decided to deal with it the next morning.

    Highlight: We woke up early, walked down to the beach, and soaked in the sunrise. The warm breeze, golden sand, and sound of the waves turned into one of the best moments of our trip.

    2. The Mystery of the “Honeymoon Package”

    The next morning, I asked the front desk about our honeymoon package — champagne, chocolates, and macadamia nuts — which we had prepaid for. They claimed to have no record of it and asked for proof!

    Two days (and several emails from our travel agent) later, a grocery-store bottle of champagne and a bag of nuts arrived at our room. Not quite what we imagined!

    Then, to top it off, they said they could only hold our luggage until 4 p.m. on our departure day — even though our flight wasn’t until later. After more confusion (and some persistence from our travel agent), we were finally allowed to stay until 8 p.m.

    Highlight: That evening’s Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise was amazing! The couple who hosted it went above and beyond with live music, dancing, and Hawaiian history. The sunset views were stunning, even without the whales. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Maui! This is a low key event. Very small. So keep that mind.

    3. Stranded at the Lavender Farm 🌸

    Our next adventure took us to the Kula Botanical Garden, which was cute but still recovering from storm damage. Then we headed to Ali‘i Kula Lavender Farm, a beautiful (though smaller than expected) spot filled with the scent of lavender and a cute gift shop.

    Afterward, we planned to head to Maui Wine — but soon discovered there were no taxis or rideshares available in the area. After asking the staff for help, we were told cars rarely came out that far.

    We ended up walking for 30 minutes down the hill in the hot sun (not exactly dressed for hiking!) before finding a driver. Our winery reservation time had passed, but at least we made it back to the resort in one piece.

    Highlight: Our driver — originally from Poland — kept us entertained with conspiracy theories about Eastern Europe the entire ride back. He even recommended the resort’s “amazing restaurant,” not realizing it had closed. 😂

    4. The Beach Massage Disaster 💆‍♀️

    After all that, we decided to book a couples massage by the beach to relax. We confirmed everything by email — including that it would take place outdoors.

    When the masseuse arrived, she looked shocked and said, “You expected me to fit in here?!” Confused, we explained it was supposed to be on the beach. After some back-and-forth (and getting permission from the resort), she reluctantly set up on the most crowded part of the sand.

    It went downhill from there. The massage was… aggressive. When I asked for lighter pressure, she said, “Trust me, you don’t want it any lighter.” 😬 Let’s just say it wasn’t the peaceful spa moment we’d imagined. She even stuck her hand down my bikini bottoms.

    Highlight: She did manage to fix my neck pain — so at least there was that!

    The Bright Spots 🌴

    Despite the chaos, Maui still offered some unforgettable experiences:

    Sea Turtle Cove — Right by our resort. We spotted multiple sea turtles up close — a truly magical experience.

    Maui Tropical Express Tour — A must-try! Affordable, fun, and the best smoothie I’ve ever had.

    Ocean Vodka Distillery Tour — Educational and delicious. Fun fact: their chef once cooked for Tom Cruise! The poke bowl was incredible.

    Was our Maui honeymoon perfect? Not even close. But honestly, every mishap turned into a memory (and a funny story).

    If I could do it again, I’d double-check every detail — even when working with professionals. But sometimes, things just go wrong, and all you can do is laugh, stay flexible, and enjoy the ride.

    Here’s to future adventures — hopefully with fewer surprises! 😂

    Kula Botanical Garden
    Kula Botanical Garden
    Kula Botanical Garden
    Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
    Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
    Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
    Ocean Vodka Distillery
    Sea Turtles
    Honorable Mention
    At the sea turtle cove!
    Ocean Vodka Distillery

    Send me a coffee! ❤
  • Craving Chinatown: My Unforgettable Bite at Super Taste NYC 🥢

    Craving Chinatown: My Unforgettable Bite at Super Taste NYC 🥢


    There’s just something about the energy of Chinatown that makes my foodie heart so happy — the hustle, the steam rising from street stalls, the smells that draw you in at every corner. On my latest trip to New York City, I found myself wandering down Eldridge Street when I stumbled upon Super Taste, a cozy little gem tucked at 26 Eldridge St, New York, NY. Let me just say… wow.

    The moment I took a bite of their pork and chive dumplings, I knew I was in trouble — the good kind of trouble. Perfectly chewy on the outside, juicy and flavorful on the inside, and when you drizzle on a little chili oil and soy sauce? Pure magic. I swear I could have eaten an entire tray by myself (okay, maybe I did).

    What I love about Super Taste is that it’s unpretentious, affordable, and full of soul. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve found a local secret, even though it’s beloved by so many NYC foodies. The portions are generous, the flavors bold, and the atmosphere? Comfortingly chaotic in the best way.

    If you ever find yourself in Chinatown, do yourself a favor and stop by. Grab some dumplings, maybe some noodles too, and take a little walk afterward to soak in the vibrant neighborhood around you.

    Until next time, Super Taste — I’ll be dreaming of your dumplings. 🥟💛

  • ❄️ Chilling Out at Stockholm’s Famous ICEBAR

    ❄️ Chilling Out at Stockholm’s Famous ICEBAR

    There’s just something magical about travel, isn’t there? The thrill of exploring somewhere new, the little surprises tucked into every street corner, and that first sip of a local drink you’ll dream about for years to come. ✈️ I’ve been daydreaming about my next adventure, but until then, I’ve been reminiscing about one of my coolest (literally!) travel experiences — visiting the ICEBAR in Stockholm!

    Sweden stole my heart for so many reasons, but one of the highlights had to be how easy it was to get around. The Stockholm public transportation system is a traveler’s dream — clean, efficient, and super easy to navigate. My friends and I hopped on the metro and followed the map right to Hotel C Stockholm, where the ICEBAR is located. And let me tell you, getting there felt like part of the adventure! If you ever need a hand, the station attendants are kind and helpful, and in my experience, Swedes are some of the friendliest people — especially when you ask with a smile.

    Walking into the hotel, you’ll see signs leading you down a hallway to the bar. That’s where the magic begins. Don’t worry — they’ve got you covered (literally!) with warm coats and gloves before you step inside. Everything, and I mean everything, is made of ice — the walls, the chairs, the glasses, even the bar itself! It’s like walking straight into a frozen fairytale. I chickened out on sitting in the icy “Game of Thrones” throne (I’m from Iowa, but I still have my cold limits! 😂), but I did snap some seriously fun photos.

    Now let’s talk about the drinks. I tried a vodka and elderberry syrup cocktail, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it made my Top 3 Drinks of All Time list. It was crisp, slightly sweet, and the perfect contrast to the chilly atmosphere. I could’ve easily stayed there all night — if not for the freezing temps, of course.

    If you ever find yourself in Stockholm, do yourself a favor and stop by the ICEBAR. It’s such a unique, bucket-list-worthy experience. Whether you go for the photos, the cocktails, or just the novelty of sipping from a glass made of ice, it’s an adventure you won’t forget. I’m already counting down the days until I can go back!

    Have you ever been to the ICEBAR or something like it? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments below — let’s share some cozy travel stories together. 💙

  • A Taste of Stockholm: A Summer Foodie Adventure You’ll Never Forget

    A Taste of Stockholm: A Summer Foodie Adventure You’ll Never Forget

    If you’re looking for the perfect way to kick off summer in Sweden, A Taste of Stockholm is the place to be! This lively food and beverage festival takes over Kungsträdgården and celebrates everything delicious about Swedish and international cuisine. It’s truly a foodie’s dream come true — filled with flavor, fun, and sunshine.

    Getting there couldn’t be easier. Sweden’s public transportation is wonderfully efficient, and the metro station near Kungsträdgården is worth a visit in itself. (Naturally, I had to snap a picture of my friend Brittany there — the aesthetic was too good to pass up!)

    Once you arrive, get ready to wander through rows of food stalls, each more tempting than the last. From lobster rolls and Ethiopian tacos to every kind of sweet treat imaginable, there’s something for every craving. And let’s talk about the drinks — the wine stands are absolutely worth exploring. I even discovered my new obsession: a crisp pear wine that instantly became a summer favorite.

    Beyond the incredible food, A Taste of Stockholm offers live music, cooking demonstrations, and even appearances by some of Sweden’s top chefs. The entire festival buzzes with positive energy, laughter, and the scent of something delicious always in the air.

    If you ever find yourself in Stockholm in early summer, make sure this festival is at the top of your list. Between the amazing food, vibrant entertainment, and that unbeatable Swedish summer vibe, A Taste of Stockholm is an experience you’ll want to relive again and again.

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    Lobster Roll
    Ethiopian Tacos

  • 👻 A Haunted Adventure in Chicago: Ghosts, History, and a Little Bit of Lunch

    👻 A Haunted Adventure in Chicago: Ghosts, History, and a Little Bit of Lunch

    If you’ve been following my adventures for a while, you know I love three things: food, ghosts, and Chicago. So when I stumbled across a Facebook event for a haunted bus tour through the Windy City, I knew I had to go. A day filled with eerie stories, historic landmarks, and a good meal? That’s my kind of itinerary.

    The tour ran from 10 AM to 4 PM and even included lunch—perfection. Since Chicago is only a five-hour drive from home, I packed my bags, grabbed my camera, and hit the road. We stayed in a charming little suburb, just ten minutes from the train station, which made exploring the city so easy. I have to admit, taking the “L” again gave me a bit of nostalgia—it’s such a classic Chicago experience.

    Our haunted journey began at the historic Congress Hotel, a fittingly spooky place rumored to be one of the most haunted hotels in America. I was thrilled to see that our tour guides were the same pair I’d met years ago on a similar trip. It felt like a full-circle moment, especially since one of my favorite memories growing up was going on ghost tours with my mom.

    🕯️ Historic Haunts & Chilling Stories

    Our first stop was the Battle of Fort Dearborn plaque—a quiet piece of history with an unsettling past. Many believe the area is still haunted by the soldiers who died there. It gave me chills to stand where such tragedy once took place, especially since the plaque is one of the only remaining markers of that historic event.

    Next, we visited the school once attended by Bobby Franks, the 14-year-old victim of Leopold and Loeb’s infamous 1924 murder case. Standing there, knowing what happened just down the street, was haunting in a very human way. The tragedy still lingers in the air.

    Of course, no Chicago ghost tour would be complete without a stop at the site of H.H. Holmes’ “Murder Castle.” Even though the building no longer stands, one of its original basement walls remains as part of the current post office’s foundation. Tour guides shared stories of workers who refuse to go down there alone, citing oppressive, negative energy. I couldn’t help but get goosebumps just listening.

    The conversation about Holmes’s mysterious death fascinated me—some believe he faked his execution, others that he switched identities. DNA testing hasn’t solved the mystery either, which makes his legend all the more eerie. I was genuinely shocked to learn he was allowed to be buried under concrete at his own request. The irony isn’t lost on me—his victims never got that choice.

    Then came the story of Richard Speck, the murderer of eight nurses in the 1960s. Standing in front of the apartment where it all happened was truly unsettling. One of our guides even shared that her aunt had been the neighbor who heard the lone survivor cry for help. It’s a chilling reminder of how these stories are not just tales from history—they happened to real people, in real neighborhoods.

    Battle of Fort Dearborn Plaque
    Location of the Richard Speck murders
    Where the main part of where the murder castle stood.
    Where the main part of where the murder castle stood.
    The location of the murder castle now is the location of a post office.

    🍗 Lunch with a Side of Ghosts

    After a morning filled with dark history, we stopped for lunch at The Great Escape Restaurant, known for its delicious comfort food and haunted past. The chicken and potatoes were absolutely divine—and as an Iowan, I can confirm their homemade ranch dressing was next-level good.

    The owner even joined us to share a few of his own paranormal encounters at the restaurant. Employees have seen apparitions, heard unexplainable noises, and some refuse to enter the basement alone. During renovations, they even unearthed two pairs of buried hands. (Yes—actual hands!) Needless to say, I didn’t ask for a basement tour.

    The Great Escape Restaurant
    The Great Escape Restaurant
    The restaurant’s windmill

    🌆 Final Thoughts

    Between the food, history, and paranormal tales, this ghost tour was everything I could’ve hoped for. Chicago never disappoints—whether you’re there for deep dish pizza, architecture, or stories that give you goosebumps.

    If you ever get the chance to take a haunted history tour, do it. You’ll walk away with incredible stories, a little more knowledge, and maybe even a few goosebumps of your own.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTz4G9JTUjs

  • Things to Do in Stockholm: My Travel Itinerary & Budget-Friendly Guide

    Things to Do in Stockholm: My Travel Itinerary & Budget-Friendly Guide

    Things to Do in Stockholm: My 4-Day Itinerary & Budget Travel Tips

    What an incredible trip so far — I can’t recommend Stockholm, Sweden enough! From historic palaces to cozy cafés and fascinating museums, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a longer backpacking adventure, here’s a look at my Stockholm travel itinerary, complete with money-saving tips and local highlights.

    🥐 Day 3: The Nobel Museum & Vasa Museum

    Rise and shine in beautiful Stockholm!
    I started my morning with a delicious breakfast at the Zinkensdamm Hostel — one of the best hostels in Stockholm for budget travelers. A good breakfast sets the tone for the day, and this one did not disappoint.

    💡 Budget Tip: I saved money by making sandwiches from the breakfast buffet to enjoy later for lunch (the staff was totally fine with it!). They also provide free pasta in their shared kitchen, which was a lifesaver for longer stays. For extra snacks or picnic food, visit a local COOP grocery store — they’re everywhere and super convenient.

    After breakfast, I took the short ferry across to Djurgården Island to explore the Vasa Museum. The ferry ride takes less than five minutes and offers beautiful views of the city’s waterfront. Stockholm is made up of many small islands connected by bridges and ferries — it’s part of what makes exploring so fun.

    Next, I toured the Nobel Prize Museum. Admission is around $13 USD for adults and free for anyone under 18 — I wish more countries followed this model! My favorite exhibits included tributes to Barack Obama and Martin Luther King Jr., which were incredibly inspiring.

    👑 Day 4: The Royal Palace & Skansen

    Day four began with a visit to the stunning Royal Palace, located right in the heart of Stockholm. It’s one of Europe’s largest palaces and home to some of Sweden’s most historic treasures.

    While I personally preferred Drottningholm Palace (which I’ll share in a separate post), the Royal Palace has a unique charm — part regal, part modern. Getting there is super easy thanks to Sweden’s efficient public transportation system.

    Afterward, I spent the afternoon at Skansen, one of my favorite experiences in Stockholm. It’s the world’s oldest open-air museum — part cultural village, part zoo — where you can stroll through a recreated 19th-century Swedish town, meet native animals like moose and lynx, and enjoy live demonstrations of traditional crafts. It’s such a peaceful and educational way to experience Swedish culture.

    💰 Stockholm Travel Tips

    ✅ Get the Stockholm Pass if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions — it covers many of the top sites and can save you quite a bit.
    ✅ Use public transit. The metro and ferries are clean, safe, and easy to navigate.
    ✅ Eat smart. Try local cafés and bakeries instead of restaurants for most meals — or cook a few times if your accommodation allows it.
    ✅ Visit museums on free days. Many offer free entry at certain times of the month.

    ✈️ Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Stockholm

    Stockholm completely stole my heart. Between the serene ferry rides, beautiful palaces, and friendly locals, it’s a city that blends old-world charm with modern simplicity. Whether you’re a history lover, foodie, or budget-conscious traveler, Stockholm, Sweden has something for everyone.

    Have you visited Stockholm? Share your favorite spots or travel tips in the comments below! 💬

    📸 Photo Gallery

  • Reflections from Sweden: My Grandma’s (Mormor) Words and the Vasa Ship

    Reflections from Sweden: My Grandma’s (Mormor) Words and the Vasa Ship

    While in Sweden, I came across one of my grandma’s old diary entries from her own trip decades ago. On a page titled “Comparisons,” she wrote:

    “Comparison:
    In those days, people feared things
    like lion’s faces. We fear things in
    the shape of mushroom clouds — nuclear bombs.”
    ~ June 1986

    She was writing about the Vasa Ship, the 17th-century Swedish warship that famously sank on its maiden voyage and was later recovered and preserved. The “lion’s face” she mentions refers to the carved lion figurehead at the front of the ship — a symbol of courage and power that’s been part of Swedish culture since medieval times.

    Reading her words while visiting the Vasa Museum myself in the summer of 2017 was surreal. It felt like we were sharing a moment across time — her thoughts from 1986 intertwining with my own experiences.

    I remember watching teams of researchers working carefully on the ship, preserving it for future generations. The recreated colors of the Vasa were so vivid and striking — a reminder that history can breathe again when we take the time to care for it.

    Her reflection about fear — how it changes shape across generations — stuck with me. The world she knew was different, yet her words still ring true.

    Maybe that’s the beauty of shared experiences: even when years and oceans separate us, our thoughts and emotions still find a way to connect.

    vasa2

    VASA
    A picture of the lion I took at the Vasa Museum!