Three years ago I had a layover in Frankfurt between volunteering in Thailand and sailing in Croatia. I had no idea what to do in the airport for 8 hours, so I placed my bag in storage and took the train into central Frankfurt. Unfortunately, I was there at 6 am, so nothing was really open. And … [Read more...] about How to Spend a Layover in Frankfurt
Europe
Visiting Braga’s Bom Jesus
Bom Jesus do Monte, or "Good Jesus on the Mount," is a sanctuary high above the city of Braga in northern Portugal. Records indicate a shrine here dating back to 1373. It's present incarnation has been on the site since 1722. The sun was shining, the flowers were blooming and I was inspired … [Read more...] about Visiting Braga’s Bom Jesus
Living Large in Viana do Castelo
Most people assume that my life of nearly-constant travel is luxurious. While most of the time it's the exact opposite, more smelly laundry and ramen noodles than anything else, there is the occasional spot of luxury. One particular night was at Pousada Monte de Santa Luzia in Viana do Castelo, … [Read more...] about Living Large in Viana do Castelo
Berlin’s Cold War Bunkers
Disclaimer: Sensitive readers may find this post to be graphic, but I think it's a part of history rarely mentioned. Read at your own risk. He who builds bunkers is the first to drop bombs. It could happen any day now. The end of the world. World War 3. Doomsday. Not as the Mayans … [Read more...] about Berlin’s Cold War Bunkers
Touring Schonbrunn Palace
My history with Europe's most beautiful palaces and residences isn't stellar. I almost had heatstroke while wandering the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles and was sick to my stomach at Hampton Court. But when in Vienna, the Hapsburg residences are unavoidable. You literally can't turn a corner in … [Read more...] about Touring Schonbrunn Palace