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Julianna - Travel Tips + Inspo
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Have You got White Sands National Park, New Mexico on your bucket list?
Let's talk about White Sands National park! It’s one of the US’s lesser-known national parks – but it shouldn’t be.
The clue is kinda in the name - the world’s largest gypsum dune field stretches for over 275 square miles and the sand is very white - as in wear your sunglasses most of the year white.
Here's what you do when you get there.
🌾Take a Drive Along Dunes Drive
This 13-mile loop drive is a brilliant way to experience all of White Sands National Park’s highlights. The drive takes around an hour to complete – but you can (and should) stop off at various spots to go for a hike and explore the park.
🌾Sled down the sand dunes
To start, you’ll need a plastic sled and some wax. You can rent one from the Visitor Center’s gift shop. At the shop, the sleds cost around $20, so I recommend bringing your own if you have one.
It’s ridiculously fun, but for the best time, the park’s website advises choosing a gently-sloped faced dune and avoiding vegetation and other hazards.
🌾Hike one of the trails
The park has quite a few hiking trails, but I recommend The Alkali Flat Trail (be warned, this is kind of tough as it's over a lot of dunes) and the Interdune Boardwalk Trail, which is super easy.
🌾Catch a Desert Sunset
I didn't get to head out on one of the ranger-guided sunset walks but these take place daily, typically between 4 pm and 7 pm and are completely free.
So are you adding white sands to your bucket list?
#travel #bucketlist #nationalparks #whitesands #whitesandsnationalpark
Let's talk about White Sands National park! It’s one of the US’s lesser-known national parks – but it shouldn’t be.
The clue is kinda in the name - the world’s largest gypsum dune field stretches for over 275 square miles and the sand is very white - as in wear your sunglasses most of the year white.
Here's what you do when you get there.
🌾Take a Drive Along Dunes Drive
This 13-mile loop drive is a brilliant way to experience all of White Sands National Park’s highlights. The drive takes around an hour to complete – but you can (and should) stop off at various spots to go for a hike and explore the park.
🌾Sled down the sand dunes
To start, you’ll need a plastic sled and some wax. You can rent one from the Visitor Center’s gift shop. At the shop, the sleds cost around $20, so I recommend bringing your own if you have one.
It’s ridiculously fun, but for the best time, the park’s website advises choosing a gently-sloped faced dune and avoiding vegetation and other hazards.
🌾Hike one of the trails
The park has quite a few hiking trails, but I recommend The Alkali Flat Trail (be warned, this is kind of tough as it's over a lot of dunes) and the Interdune Boardwalk Trail, which is super easy.
🌾Catch a Desert Sunset
I didn't get to head out on one of the ranger-guided sunset walks but these take place daily, typically between 4 pm and 7 pm and are completely free.
So are you adding white sands to your bucket list?
#travel #bucketlist #nationalparks #whitesands #whitesandsnationalpark
So what REALLY is the difference between flight classes? ✈️
Is economy always the best option or should you splurge on business or even first class? Today I’m going to demystify a topic that every traveller will come in contact with and we’re diving in to the pros and cons of each airline class. All in all, my top tip is to always fly within your budget. Business and first are great – but the time you spend in the destination is more important than the hours it takes to get there – prioritise your budget accordingly. #airlinetips #arlineclasses #firstclassflights #traveltips #thediscoveriesof
Is economy always the best option or should you splurge on business or even first class? Today I’m going to demystify a topic that every traveller will come in contact with and we’re diving in to the pros and cons of each airline class. All in all, my top tip is to always fly within your budget. Business and first are great – but the time you spend in the destination is more important than the hours it takes to get there – prioritise your budget accordingly. #airlinetips #arlineclasses #firstclassflights #traveltips #thediscoveriesof
Looking for inspiration for where to travel in October but not sure where to head to? I’ve got you covered!👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽
✨Save this video for October travel inspiration. ✨
I’m a pro at travelling in shoulder seasons, so I’ve got the lowdown on the best places to travel to in October.
Check out some of my fave October destinations below:
✈️ Greek Islands
Even the busiest ones like Santorini are going to be a lot quieter than in the peak summer months. Plus it’s still warm enough to spend days frolicking on the beach and paddling in the sea. I recommend the lesser known islands like Folegandros, Sifnos, and Syros.
✈️ Dalaman, Turkey
This place has a winning combination of warm temperatures, great food and reasonable prices. I recommend checking into Hillside Beach Club. Its combination of gorgeous rooms, stellar service and extensive amenities puts it at the top of the list.
✈️ Mauritius
Sweeping landscapes, untouched beaches and cosy temperatures? Count me in! If you are able to tear yourself away from the beaches, you’ll find cool spots like Chamarel Waterfall, the Seven Coloured Rock and (every rum-lover’s dream) Chamarel Distillery.
✈️ Dubai
Forget about travelling to the emirate in the summer when you’re more likely to spend your time hiding from the 40°C sun! It can be a bit “bling” but that’s no bad thing. Five-star hotels are ten a dozen – as are Michelin-starred restaurants and swanky bars and restaurants.
✈️ The Algarve, Portugal
Head to the picture-perfect town of Tavira for a stroll and some of the best seafood to be had. Beach-wise, you’re spoilt for choice in the Algarve. My pick is Praia de Albandeira, surrounded by dramatic red cliffs and boasting warm, turquoise waters.
✈️ Tulum, Mexico
Visiting the dramatic Tulum Ruins should be at the top of your list – a series of Mayan ruins in a gorgeous oceanfront setting is never something to sniff at. Diving, cenote swimming and good old sunbathing on your favourite beaches will keep you well and truly occupied during your trip.
Comment below if you’re booking any of these destinations and follow me for more travel tips! ⬇️⬇️⬇️
#thediscoveriesof #traveldestinations #traveltips #bestplacestotravelinoctober #octobertravel
✨Save this video for October travel inspiration. ✨
I’m a pro at travelling in shoulder seasons, so I’ve got the lowdown on the best places to travel to in October.
Check out some of my fave October destinations below:
✈️ Greek Islands
Even the busiest ones like Santorini are going to be a lot quieter than in the peak summer months. Plus it’s still warm enough to spend days frolicking on the beach and paddling in the sea. I recommend the lesser known islands like Folegandros, Sifnos, and Syros.
✈️ Dalaman, Turkey
This place has a winning combination of warm temperatures, great food and reasonable prices. I recommend checking into Hillside Beach Club. Its combination of gorgeous rooms, stellar service and extensive amenities puts it at the top of the list.
✈️ Mauritius
Sweeping landscapes, untouched beaches and cosy temperatures? Count me in! If you are able to tear yourself away from the beaches, you’ll find cool spots like Chamarel Waterfall, the Seven Coloured Rock and (every rum-lover’s dream) Chamarel Distillery.
✈️ Dubai
Forget about travelling to the emirate in the summer when you’re more likely to spend your time hiding from the 40°C sun! It can be a bit “bling” but that’s no bad thing. Five-star hotels are ten a dozen – as are Michelin-starred restaurants and swanky bars and restaurants.
✈️ The Algarve, Portugal
Head to the picture-perfect town of Tavira for a stroll and some of the best seafood to be had. Beach-wise, you’re spoilt for choice in the Algarve. My pick is Praia de Albandeira, surrounded by dramatic red cliffs and boasting warm, turquoise waters.
✈️ Tulum, Mexico
Visiting the dramatic Tulum Ruins should be at the top of your list – a series of Mayan ruins in a gorgeous oceanfront setting is never something to sniff at. Diving, cenote swimming and good old sunbathing on your favourite beaches will keep you well and truly occupied during your trip.
Comment below if you’re booking any of these destinations and follow me for more travel tips! ⬇️⬇️⬇️
#thediscoveriesof #traveldestinations #traveltips #bestplacestotravelinoctober #octobertravel
Chasing dreams and making memories that felt too surreal to be true ✈️🌍
What are some unreal travel experiences you've had?
Mine include:
✨Hot Air Ballooning in Luxor Egypt
✨Exploring the Salt Flats in Bolivia
✨Capturing the Northern Lights in Iceland
✨Taking a dip in the Sky Lagoon in Iceland
✨Catching the Sunrise from Dante's View in California
✨Taking a tour through Antelope Valley
✨Watching the sunset from a pool in Mykonos
#Wanderlust #TravelBlogging #WorldTravel #ImmersiveTravel #thedisoveriesof
What are some unreal travel experiences you've had?
Mine include:
✨Hot Air Ballooning in Luxor Egypt
✨Exploring the Salt Flats in Bolivia
✨Capturing the Northern Lights in Iceland
✨Taking a dip in the Sky Lagoon in Iceland
✨Catching the Sunrise from Dante's View in California
✨Taking a tour through Antelope Valley
✨Watching the sunset from a pool in Mykonos
#Wanderlust #TravelBlogging #WorldTravel #ImmersiveTravel #thedisoveriesof
Rating All the Places I Ate At in Barcelona Part 1!
From hidden gem spots to the best of the best culinary experiences, I’m savouring the flavours of Barcelona one bite at a time.
Save these spots for your next Barcelona trip!
🍽 Batea @bateabarcelona
This one is for the seafood lovers! Majority of the menu is for sharing so keep that in mind. Highlights were the Cured Bonito Tuna with Red Pepper Emulsion and the Pickled Potato Salad. 8/10 because the experience felt a bit rushed
🍽 Can CIsa/ Bar Brutal @barbrutalbarcelona
The front part is a laid back wine bar (Can Cisa) while the back is a more upscale restaurant (Bar Brutal). The menu changes constantly but expect adventurous ingredients! 10/10
🍽 Berbena @berbenabcn
If you can manage to nab a reservation here then you're in for a real treat! My favourite dishes were the cheeses from local producers, the duck gyoza snd pickled beetroot with strawberry and olive oil. 10/10
🍽 El Chigre 1769 @elchigre1769barcelona
This place has an extensive menu so if you want to try lesser known Spanish cuisine then you'll definitely enjoy it here! Highlight for me was the bone marrow topped with flecks of dried fish. 10/10
#barcelonaeats #placestoeatinbarcelona #foodietraveltips #bestrestaurantsinbarcelona
From hidden gem spots to the best of the best culinary experiences, I’m savouring the flavours of Barcelona one bite at a time.
Save these spots for your next Barcelona trip!
🍽 Batea @bateabarcelona
This one is for the seafood lovers! Majority of the menu is for sharing so keep that in mind. Highlights were the Cured Bonito Tuna with Red Pepper Emulsion and the Pickled Potato Salad. 8/10 because the experience felt a bit rushed
🍽 Can CIsa/ Bar Brutal @barbrutalbarcelona
The front part is a laid back wine bar (Can Cisa) while the back is a more upscale restaurant (Bar Brutal). The menu changes constantly but expect adventurous ingredients! 10/10
🍽 Berbena @berbenabcn
If you can manage to nab a reservation here then you're in for a real treat! My favourite dishes were the cheeses from local producers, the duck gyoza snd pickled beetroot with strawberry and olive oil. 10/10
🍽 El Chigre 1769 @elchigre1769barcelona
This place has an extensive menu so if you want to try lesser known Spanish cuisine then you'll definitely enjoy it here! Highlight for me was the bone marrow topped with flecks of dried fish. 10/10
#barcelonaeats #placestoeatinbarcelona #foodietraveltips #bestrestaurantsinbarcelona
2 Days in Seville? Here’s the perfect itinerary 👇
Save this Seville, Spain travel guide for your next trip!
With architecture that charts the country’s history, a vibrant culture and a stellar culinary scene, it’s little wonder that Seville is such a popular destination. There’s so much to see and do here so here’s what you need to have on your Seville Itinerary to see this gorgeous city in 2 days:
Day 1:
📍Alcazar de Seville: You can’t go to Seville without taking a trip to the Alcazar of Seville.
It’s the oldest palace in use in Europe originating in the 11th century as a fortress built by the Moors who then ruled that part of Spain. If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, the Alcazar was used as a filming location for Dorne and the Water Gardens. How cool!
📍Cathedral de Seville: Just across the road from the Royal Alcazar, this church took over 100 years to build and it is magnificent! It is one of the largest in the world, an ochre tapestry woven with brick, complete with arches, spires and flying buttresses – you should go and visit for the exterior alone but the inside is just as spectacular so make sure to book a tour if you can.
📍Las Setas: Technically called the Metropol Parasol, this architectural marvel is better-known by its nickname Las Setas, which means “The Mushrooms”. It’s become one of the most popular places in Seville to visit thanks to the wide-reaching views you get from the path that leads around the top of the structure.
📍Las Teresas Seville: You can’t go to Seville without indulging in it’s incredible tapas and wine! Las Terasas does one thing: serving traditional Spanish tapas in the heart of Seville. Turns out it does it pretty well, and at reasonable prices to boot. Don’t be afraid to go for some of the restaurant’s less well-known specials!
Day 2:
📍Plaza de Espana: One of the most grandiose of Seville’s attractions is the famous Plaza de Espana. Although it might look centuries and centuries old (that’s deliberate), the Plaza was actually built in 1929 for an Ibero-American Exhibition. The spacious design incorporates fountains, canals, and bridges to represent the four ancient kingdoms of Spain.
📍Hospital Los Venerables: You’ll find this jaw-dropping display of Velazquez’s works (and gallery of other Spanish greats) tucked away in the rather unlikely setting of an old hospital for priests, the elderly and infirm in Barrio Santa Cruz. The setting is lovely – with ornate baroque architecture that’s framed by orange trees. Venture inside to check out paintings by Murillo, Valdes Leal, Martinez Montanes and Roldan.
📍Palacio de Duenas: Another one of my favourite places to visit in Seville, the Palacio de las Duenas is a historical palace in Seville’s old town. This is hands down one of the most beautiful sights in the city – and – because it’s not quite as well known as some of the other landmarks in the city, it’s not normally overrun either.
📍Mercado de Triana: This is a great spot packed with vendors inside selling fresh food, wine and local delicacies. If you are looking for authentic food, you can snap up freshly caught fish, cured meats and cheeses, and fruits and vegetables in the market.
📍Sunset Drinks at the Terrace Bar at EME Catedral Mercer Hotel: If you are looking for romantic things to do in Seville (or just fancy a great cocktail with stupendous views), go here for a sundowner or three. Boasting up-close-and personal views of the Giralda and the Cathedral just across the road, you can also grab an eyeful of Seville’s skyline.
#sevilleitinerary #sevillespain #explorespain #thediscoveriesof
Save this Seville, Spain travel guide for your next trip!
With architecture that charts the country’s history, a vibrant culture and a stellar culinary scene, it’s little wonder that Seville is such a popular destination. There’s so much to see and do here so here’s what you need to have on your Seville Itinerary to see this gorgeous city in 2 days:
Day 1:
📍Alcazar de Seville: You can’t go to Seville without taking a trip to the Alcazar of Seville.
It’s the oldest palace in use in Europe originating in the 11th century as a fortress built by the Moors who then ruled that part of Spain. If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, the Alcazar was used as a filming location for Dorne and the Water Gardens. How cool!
📍Cathedral de Seville: Just across the road from the Royal Alcazar, this church took over 100 years to build and it is magnificent! It is one of the largest in the world, an ochre tapestry woven with brick, complete with arches, spires and flying buttresses – you should go and visit for the exterior alone but the inside is just as spectacular so make sure to book a tour if you can.
📍Las Setas: Technically called the Metropol Parasol, this architectural marvel is better-known by its nickname Las Setas, which means “The Mushrooms”. It’s become one of the most popular places in Seville to visit thanks to the wide-reaching views you get from the path that leads around the top of the structure.
📍Las Teresas Seville: You can’t go to Seville without indulging in it’s incredible tapas and wine! Las Terasas does one thing: serving traditional Spanish tapas in the heart of Seville. Turns out it does it pretty well, and at reasonable prices to boot. Don’t be afraid to go for some of the restaurant’s less well-known specials!
Day 2:
📍Plaza de Espana: One of the most grandiose of Seville’s attractions is the famous Plaza de Espana. Although it might look centuries and centuries old (that’s deliberate), the Plaza was actually built in 1929 for an Ibero-American Exhibition. The spacious design incorporates fountains, canals, and bridges to represent the four ancient kingdoms of Spain.
📍Hospital Los Venerables: You’ll find this jaw-dropping display of Velazquez’s works (and gallery of other Spanish greats) tucked away in the rather unlikely setting of an old hospital for priests, the elderly and infirm in Barrio Santa Cruz. The setting is lovely – with ornate baroque architecture that’s framed by orange trees. Venture inside to check out paintings by Murillo, Valdes Leal, Martinez Montanes and Roldan.
📍Palacio de Duenas: Another one of my favourite places to visit in Seville, the Palacio de las Duenas is a historical palace in Seville’s old town. This is hands down one of the most beautiful sights in the city – and – because it’s not quite as well known as some of the other landmarks in the city, it’s not normally overrun either.
📍Mercado de Triana: This is a great spot packed with vendors inside selling fresh food, wine and local delicacies. If you are looking for authentic food, you can snap up freshly caught fish, cured meats and cheeses, and fruits and vegetables in the market.
📍Sunset Drinks at the Terrace Bar at EME Catedral Mercer Hotel: If you are looking for romantic things to do in Seville (or just fancy a great cocktail with stupendous views), go here for a sundowner or three. Boasting up-close-and personal views of the Giralda and the Cathedral just across the road, you can also grab an eyeful of Seville’s skyline.
#sevilleitinerary #sevillespain #explorespain #thediscoveriesof
Ever wanted to step into a living postcard?
Welcome to Volterra in Tuscany. Top travel tips below 👇🏾 Save for your Tuscan trip!
Volterra is Tuscany’s beautiful hilltop gem. This historic town is like a fine Italian wine—rich, textured, and steeped in history.
So here’s the tea: Volterra’s history dates back to Etruscan times. I mean, we’re talking 3,000 years!
Now, top things to do in Volterra? Let’s go:
1️⃣ Palazzo dei Priori* This is Italy’s oldest town hall. Snap a pic of its medieval facade and feel the history vibes.
2️⃣ Pinacoteca Art lovers, unite! This museum has a collection of Tuscan masterpieces that’ll make your heart sing. 🎨
3️⃣ Alabaster Workshops: Volterra is famous for its alabaster. Stop by a local workshop and pick up something exquisite.
4️⃣ Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta: A jaw-dropping example of Romanesque architecture. Trust me, you’ll wanna light a candle here. 🕯️
5️⃣ Eat and Eat: Tuscan cuisine is something to write home about. Think truffles, pecorino cheese, and the best olive oil of your life.
#volterra #volterraitaly #italytravel #tuscanylovers #europedestinations #italytrip
Welcome to Volterra in Tuscany. Top travel tips below 👇🏾 Save for your Tuscan trip!
Volterra is Tuscany’s beautiful hilltop gem. This historic town is like a fine Italian wine—rich, textured, and steeped in history.
So here’s the tea: Volterra’s history dates back to Etruscan times. I mean, we’re talking 3,000 years!
Now, top things to do in Volterra? Let’s go:
1️⃣ Palazzo dei Priori* This is Italy’s oldest town hall. Snap a pic of its medieval facade and feel the history vibes.
2️⃣ Pinacoteca Art lovers, unite! This museum has a collection of Tuscan masterpieces that’ll make your heart sing. 🎨
3️⃣ Alabaster Workshops: Volterra is famous for its alabaster. Stop by a local workshop and pick up something exquisite.
4️⃣ Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta: A jaw-dropping example of Romanesque architecture. Trust me, you’ll wanna light a candle here. 🕯️
5️⃣ Eat and Eat: Tuscan cuisine is something to write home about. Think truffles, pecorino cheese, and the best olive oil of your life.
#volterra #volterraitaly #italytravel #tuscanylovers #europedestinations #italytrip
Stepping into a surreal dreamscape that seems plucked right from a cinematic masterpiece. 🌵🎬
You can catch this ethereal sunrise view from Dante’s View in Death Valley National Park, California. It sits 5,575 feet above Badwater Basin along the ridge of the Black Mountains, with white salts flats beneath you.
#deathvalley #dantesview #epicsunrises #findyourpark #usnationalparks #discovercalifornia
You can catch this ethereal sunrise view from Dante’s View in Death Valley National Park, California. It sits 5,575 feet above Badwater Basin along the ridge of the Black Mountains, with white salts flats beneath you.
#deathvalley #dantesview #epicsunrises #findyourpark #usnationalparks #discovercalifornia
Imagine a place that looks like the surface of Mars – surrounded by vast salt plains, volcanic craters and surreal rock formations.
Welcome to the Atacama Desert. 📍
With an environment that is as harsh as it’s beautiful, it’s a place like no other. ✨
#atacamadesert #unreallandscapes #exploretheatacama #thediscoveriesof
Welcome to the Atacama Desert. 📍
With an environment that is as harsh as it’s beautiful, it’s a place like no other. ✨
#atacamadesert #unreallandscapes #exploretheatacama #thediscoveriesof