Wonderful Hidden Gem Destinations to Visit

Last updated on January 15th, 2023 at 08:39 pmWe visited some fantastic destinations over the last year that you should put on your radar. These are wonderful places filled with great scenery and delicious food, which offer great value. Here are 5 hidden gem destinations around the world! Puebla, Mexico Puebla charmed us for our…

Local Tips for Visiting Olympia, Greece

Birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games in 776 BC, Olympia is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Many tourists filter in through the cruise ship port Katakolo, which is lined with sandy beaches, seaside restaurants and shops. Between Olympia and Katakalo is the town of Pyrgos, where my father was born.

Naxos: An Authentic Greek Cyclades Island

Naxos is the largest of the Greek Cyclades islands and one of the best all-around Greek Islands to visit. Its popularity with tourists outside Greece has grown since being features on shows like Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown. Its main town of Naxos Chora features charming pedestrian-only laneways and has a picturesque harbor offering breathtaking sunsets. There are distinct similarities to Cyclades Island neighbors like Mykonos, but Naxos generally offers better value and a more authentic Greek experience.

Unlike some islands that largely abandoned agriculture for tourism jobs, Naxos strikes the perfect balance. Its fantastic culinary scene is rooted in local products grown and produced on the island, including fresh vegetables, meat, local cheese, honey, herbs, olive oil and wine. Beautiful beaches, delicious gastronomy, authentic mountain villages, ancient sites and stunning scenery combine to make this a growingly popular island with tourists. Here are some great tips for visiting Naxos as well as planning travels around Greece!

Bell looking away at Naxos Chora from the Temple of Apollo

Great Tips for Visiting Athens

The birthplace of democracy is an all-time classic. These are some of the highlights of visiting Athens, including ways to save visiting the archeological sites. Don’t miss a live Rembetika performance at a Greek Taverna – Greek folk museum captures the essence of the Greek spirit.

View of Athens with the Caryatides

Reasons to Experience more than just Amsterdam during a Visit to the Netherlands

Last updated on July 2nd, 2026 at 03:28 pmAmsterdam is a beautiful city with a walkable and bicycle friendly UNESCO World Heritage Site listed historic center. Unfortunately, it has suffered from over-tourism for many years, particularly during crowded summers. Amsterdam was home for three and a half years. During our previous visit, we were shocked…

Amsterdam Singel canal and 17th century guild houses