A winter visit to the Baltics might seem crazy to some. Daylight hours are limited and the temperatures drop so low that the Daugava River has been known to freeze over. But there are so many fun things to do in Riga in winter that I think you’d be crazy NOT TO visit! The Christmas […]
Destinations
Winter Packing Tips for People Who Hate to Be Cold
Packing for winter travel can be super stressful. You want to be prepared for every possible weather condition, but airline baggage restrictions mean you can’t bring your entire wardrobe along. Plus, bulky winter wear takes up all the extra space you’ll need for your souvenirs on the way home. Whether you are chasing the aurora […]
Tips for Visiting a Traditional Latvian Sauna
Nē, nē, nē, duša ir pirmais! These were the instructions given by a Latvian grandmother in her birthday suit after I entered the bath complex and reached for the steam room door. Never mind that I was already clean. The Latvian sauna ritual always begins with a shower. Perhaps amused by my halting Latvian and my […]
The Best Meals We Ate in Croatia
Before my road trip across Croatia, I’d never given much thought to the country’s cuisine; now that I’m home, I can’t stop! The salty essence of just-caught seafood, the vibrant punch of saffron, the clean taste of high-quality olive oil, and the granular sweetness of figs all linger on my palate. Croatian food is a wonderful […]
Two Weeks in Croatia: A Road Trip Itinerary
My two week road trip across Croatia left me reeling from the country’s staggering scenery, lovely old architecture, and friendly culture. My adventure began in Dubrovnik, where I rented a car and drove north to Rovinj on the Istrian Peninsula. All told, I explored eight towns and cities, two national parks, and six UNESCO World […]