Euro Odysseys

  For my final blog, there were a few places to choose from, but Edinburgh stood out as the most deserving. I could have easily chosen Glasgow, however, Edinburgh has a unique charm, blending history with a captivating local vibe.  I started my visit at Edinburgh Castle , which sits high on Castle Rock and has some amazing views over the city and the Firth of Forth. The exhibits inside offered a look at Scotland’s history, including the famous Stone of Destiny, which added a unique touch. From there, I walked down the Royal Mile , the main street stretching from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It’s packed with street performers, historic sites, and quirky shops, giving a real taste of Edinburgh’s character. As I walked, it was hard not to notice the Harry Potter vibe – Edinburgh was the birthplace of the famous wizard. Many spots in the city inspired J.K. Rowling, including Victoria Street which inspired Diagon Alley, and the café where she wrote part of the books,...

                                                             Copenhagen   Copenhagen is a city that mixes modern design with history. It offers a great blend of culture, food, and style. From the colourful buildings of Nyhavn, to cozy cafes with delicious pastries, the city has something for everyone. Start your Copenhagen weekend trip at the iconic Nyhavn. Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. This scenic area, dating back to the 17th century, was once home to writer Hans Christian Andersen. Today, Nyhavn features hotels, restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops, but a stroll through this lively area is still a must. My friends and I went on a scenic run through Copenhagen, taking in some beautiful views along the way. We eventually found ourselves at Reffen food market, a lively spot featuring over 50 food stall start-ups. R...

Ayia Napa, on the eastern tip of Cyprus’s southern coast, is one of the island’s top destinations, known for its lively nightlife and beautiful beaches. Imagine a mix of Phuket, Thailand, and Cancun, Mexico, with plenty to offer at cheap prices.   The main street is packed with restaurants, bars, clubs, shops, and grocery stores, making Ayia Napa perfect for a lively or laid-back beach getaway. Nissi Beach is the area’s most famous, with white sands, turquoise waters, water sports, and sunbeds for rent (€2.50). During the summer, Nissi Bay Beach Bar hosts beach parties with famous DJs, guest artists, and foam parties. For a beachside stay, Nissi Beach Resort is a top choice. For a more natural experience, visit Cape Greco for unspoiled beauty, turquoise waters, and iconic sea caves. You can even take a jump into the water from the cliffside (be careful climbing back up) .   WaterWorld, one of Europe’s top water parks, is open April to October. Entry costs €38 for adults and €2...

  Barcelona is a vibrant city with a rich history, known for its beaches, architecture, and amazing food  I spent 4 days with all of the above at my fingertips. As soon as we arrived, we grabbed a 5-day metro pass for €40 - essential for a cost-effective trip. This pass allowed us to zip across the city whenever we wanted. This is a brief guide to our adventure, with recommendations covering everything from food to nightlife. We started our trip with a stroll down La Rambla, a bustling boulevard full of shops, cafes, and street performers. Despite some negative reviews, I found it the perfect first stop to feel the energy of Barcelona. St Josep Market (La Boqueria) was a highlight, filled with fresh fruit, meats, and sweets. Getting lost in the Old Town streets was a personal favourite. The authentic Gothic architecture creates a unique vibe. The locals were so friendly, as someone who studies Spanish at University, it was great to learn some Catalan! La Sagrada Familia is ge...