Allie GN

Tag: travel

  • Ooh La La: How to Do Paris Right

    Ooh La La: How to Do Paris Right

    Bonjour from Paris! 🇫🇷

    I spent just 48 hours in Paris — but it was enough to fall in love. Here’s how I made the most of my weekend in the City of Love.

    Quick Overview

    Paris is the capital of France, located in mainland Europe — and it lives up to the hype. Nicknamed the “City of Love,” it’s also a global hub for art, fashion, food, and culture.

    From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral to cozy cafés and wide boulevards lining the River Seine, Paris blends timeless charm with big-city energy. Whether you’re here to museum-hop, window shop, or just eat your weight in pastries (guilty), there’s something for everyone.

    Explore the City

    🗼Climb the Eiffel Tower

    It’s touristy, but it’s iconic for a reason! I booked a ticket to the summit (€29.40) and watched the sun set over the Seine. Pro tip: Book in advance to skip the long lines, and go at golden hour if you can.

    View from the top of the Eiffel Tower

    🏛️ Arc de Triomphe

    Located at the top of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris’s most iconic monuments. I saw it from street level at night, and it was even more striking than I expected — beautifully lit and full of energy. You can also climb to the top for sweeping views of the city if you have time. Either way, it’s definitely worth a visit, especially if you’re already in the area.

    This is a picture of the Notre-Dame before the 2019 fire.

    🕍 Notre-Dame Cathedral

    Even though it’s currently under restoration after the 2019 fire, Notre-Dame is still a must-see. The gothic architecture is breathtaking from the outside, and the surrounding square has a magical energy. I walked along the Seine nearby, stopped for photos, and soaked in the history — it’s one of those places that just feels powerful.

    Admission is free, but you can reserve your entry online to avoid long wait times at the entrance.

    I was lucky enough to visit the inside back in 2017, and it was absolutely stunning — the stained glass windows, the vaulted ceilings, the quiet hush of the cathedral. Experiencing it before the fire felt really special, and I can’t wait to return once it reopens.

    🎬 Fun fact: Notre-Dame’s iconic bell towers inspired Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre-Dame — and the novel actually helped save the cathedral! After it fell into disrepair in the 1800s, Hugo’s story sparked so much public interest that it led to one of its first major restorations.

    🕊️ Sainte-Chapelle

    This lesser-known chapel has the most stunning stained glass I’ve ever seen. It’s small, quiet, and a peaceful break from the crowds. Tickets are just €19 (around $22 USD).

    🚲 Bike Along the Seine

    Paris has great public bikes (look for “Vélib’” stations). Riding along the river is a beautiful way to take in the city — especially at dusk!

    Dive Into the Arts

    🖼 The Louvre

    Okay, confession: I didn’t make it to the Louvre this time — but it’s absolutely at the top of my list for next visit. It’s the world’s largest art museum and home to some of the most famous works in history, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace.

    Even if you’re short on time, you can hit the highlights in a few hours. Entry is €17 (around $20 USD), and it’s free on the first Friday of the month for visitors under 26.

    🎨 Musée d’Orsay

    I absolutely loved the Musée d’Orsay. The building itself — a former train station — is stunning, and the views from inside were just as impressive. This museum is a must for impressionist fans. I saw works by Monet, Degas, and Van Gogh up close — seriously breathtaking.

    His “Van Gogh Self-Portrait” Painting
    Van Gogh’s famous “Bedroom in Arles” Painting

    Paris Must-Eats

    🥐 Croissants & Pastries

    No trip to Paris is complete without a flaky croissant or pain au chocolat.

    🍫 Fun fact: Pain au chocolat means chocolate bread in French

    🥖 Picnic by the Eiffel Tower

    I grabbed a baguette, cheese, and strawberries from a local market and had a DIY picnic at Champ de Mars. Cheap, delicious, and so picturesque.

    🍷 Crêpes on the Go

    There are street crepe stands all over the city! I got a Nutella-banana crepe near Notre-Dame for just €5, and it made my whole afternoon.

    🐌 Escargot

    Escargot means snail in French — and yes, I actually ate one. Hear me out though: it’s way better than it sounds. It’s served hot, drenched in garlic and herb butter, and honestly? Kind of delicious. I was nervous to try it, but it ended up being one of those “when in Paris” moments — and I’m so glad I did. If you’re feeling adventurous, give it a go. You might surprise yourself!

    What I Missed (But You Shouldn’t!)

    Even with a packed weekend, there were a few iconic spots I didn’t get to—but you definitely should if you have the time:

    • 💀 The Catacombs – An underground ossuary that holds the remains of more than six million people. It’s known for its haunting tunnels lined with bones and a chilling atmosphere. Tickets are about €29 with an audio guide — definitely worth considering if you’re up for something spooky and unique.
    • 🖼️ Musée Rodin – A beautiful sculpture museum and garden that’s a favorite among locals.
    • 🚶‍♀️Wander Montmartre – This artsy hilltop neighborhood is known for its charming streets, sweeping views of Paris, and creative spirit. From street artists in Place du Tertre to the iconic steps of Sacré-Cœur, it’s the kind of place made for wandering without a plan.
    • 🏰 Palace of Versailles – If you can, you must go — it’s absolutely gorgeous. Located about 45 minutes from Paris by train, Versailles is a former royal residence and one of the most opulent landmarks in France. Built during the reign of Louis XIV, the “Sun King,” the palace is famous for its Hall of Mirrors, sprawling gardens, and jaw-dropping architecture. I didn’t have time to go this trip, but it’s high on my list for next time.
    • ⛲ Luxembourg Gardens – The perfect place for a relaxed picnic or a morning stroll.
    • 🛍️ Rue Cler Market Street – A charming little street filled with bakeries, flower shops, and open-air markets.
    • 🍷 Wine Tasting Class – I wish I’d had time for one of the local tasting workshops!

    Hopefully, these make it onto your itinerary—because they’re definitely on my list for next time.

    The Easiest Way to Travel to Paris

    Getting to Paris is surprisingly easy, especially if you’re already in Europe. I took the Eurostar train from London to Paris, and it was smooth, quick, and scenic.

    The Eurostar high-speed train departs from St. Pancras International Station in London and arrives at Gare du Nord in Paris. The journey takes about 2 hours and 28 minutes, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between the two cities.

    Tickets can be found for around $65, with options for different classes depending on your budget. You can book directly through the Eurostar website here.

    Travel Tips

    💬 Start with “Bonjour”

    Parisians can come across as a little reserved, especially compared to American friendliness — but don’t take it personally. A polite “Bonjour” before asking a question or placing an order makes a huge difference.

    🗣️ Learn a Few Phrases

    You don’t need to be fluent in French, but knowing basics like merci (thank you), s’il vous plaît (please), and parlez-vous anglais? (do you speak English?) really helps — and people will appreciate the effort.

    🚬 Heads-Up: Everyone Smokes

    Okay, not everyone, but way more people than you might expect. Smoking is super common in Paris, especially at outdoor cafés and along the sidewalks. If you’re sensitive to smoke, just be aware — you’ll probably be around it more than you’re used to.

    🚇 Use the Metro

    Paris has one of the best public transit systems in the world. It’s fast, safe, and cheap (a single ride is around €2.10). Google Maps works well for navigating it, and most stations have ticket machines in English.

    🔐 Solo Travel Tip

    I felt safe in Paris overall, but like in any big city, trust your instincts and stay aware — especially in crowded areas like metro stations and touristy spots. I kept my crossbody bag zipped and in front of me, avoided walking alone late at night, and made sure someone always knew my general itinerary. Just be smart, and you’ll be fine!

    📱Download These Apps

    💡When in Doubt, Slow Down

    Paris isn’t a city to rush. Take time to wander, sip your espresso, and watch the world go by. Some of my favorite moments were unplanned — just walking along the Seine or stumbling into a hidden bookshop.

    Final Thoughts

    Paris completely lived up to the hype — and then some. Between the buttery croissants, sunset views from Montmartre, and slow walks along the Seine, it’s a city that invites you to savor every moment. Even as a solo traveler, I never felt alone here. Paris has this way of making you feel like the main character, even when you’re just sipping espresso at a corner café.

    Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fifth, there’s always something new to discover. I already can’t wait to go back. ✨

    🛬 Have you been to Paris or are you planning a trip soon? I’d love to hear your favorite spots (or what’s on your bucket list) — drop a comment below or send me a message! 💬🇫🇷

  • She Travels, So Can You: How Intrepid Travel’s CSR Campaign Supports Solo Female Travelers

    She Travels, So Can You: How Intrepid Travel’s CSR Campaign Supports Solo Female Travelers

    Traveling solo as a young woman can be empowering—but it also comes with real concerns about safety, affordability, and access. For many 20-something women, these barriers make travel feel more intimidating than exciting. That’s why Intrepid Travel, a global adventure company and certified B Corporation, launched its “She Travels” initiative—one of the most powerful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) campaigns focused on women in tourism.

    This campaign centers on Women’s Expeditions: small-group, affordable travel experiences designed by and for women, led by female guides in countries like Morocco, Jordan, India, and Nepal. The program offers more than just a safe way to travel—it opens up leadership opportunities for women in local tourism industries, supports gender equality, and creates global connections among female travelers.

    🧭 Meet the Brand: Who Is Intrepid Travel?

    Intrepid Travel is one of the world’s largest adventure travel companies and a leader in ethical tourism. Its entire business model is built around sustainability, community engagement, and cultural respect. Intrepid is a certified B Corp, meaning it meets high standards for social and environmental performance.

    Its CSR initiatives include:

    • 125% carbon offsetting for every trip
    • Financial support for local nonprofits through The Intrepid Foundation
    • A longstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion in travel spaces

    “She Travels” aligns directly with these goals, focusing on empowering female travelers and increasing women’s participation in tourism economies.

    📣 Communication Strategy: How They Got the Word Out

    Intrepid’s success with “She Travels” is due in large part to a smart, multi-platform communications strategy. Here’s how they made it work:

    • Emotional storytelling: Their website and blog feature stories from both travelers and guides, capturing the emotional and practical sides of travel as a woman.
    • Social media campaigns: Using hashtags like #SheTravels and #BeIntrepid, the company shares vibrant content—photos, videos, quotes—to build community.
    • Influencer and media partnerships: Travel bloggers and influencers were invited on the trips to help amplify real experiences. The campaign also earned attention from Forbes, National Geographic, and Condé Nast Traveler.
    • Email and content marketing: They built landing pages specifically for Women’s Expeditions and used email newsletters to promote trip themes and success stories.

    These strategies built authenticity and trust, which are essential for connecting with young solo female travelers.

    📈 Was It Effective?

    Yes—both in terms of brand success and community impact. The campaign has:

    • Attracted 12,000+ travelers to Women’s Expeditions globally
    • Increased employment of female guides in regions where women rarely hold leadership roles
    • Created a strong online community of travelers who share and recommend their experiences
    • Reinforced Intrepid’s reputation as an ethical, forward-thinking travel brand

    This success is especially notable because it’s not built on flashy luxury—it’s built on affordability, empowerment, and real-world experiences, which are core to your blog’s audience.

    🤝 CSR That Matches the Brand

    Intrepid’s core values—ethical travel, gender equality, and environmental care—aren’t just marketing points. They’re embedded into every decision the company makes. “She Travels” fits seamlessly with Intrepid’s mission and provides a clear example of brand-aligned CSR that feels authentic and lasting.

    While other travel brands might offer one-off “women’s weeks” or influencer trips, Intrepid created a full, ongoing product line rooted in purpose and impact.

    💬 Why It Matters to You

    If you’re a young woman dreaming of solo travel but worried about going it alone, campaigns like “She Travels” are game-changers. You get the freedom of solo exploration, the safety of group support, and the joy of knowing your trip contributes to a bigger cause.

    This isn’t just responsible tourism—it’s relatable tourism.

  • Castles, Cliffs, and Cobbled Streets: My Guide to Edinburgh

    Castles, Cliffs, and Cobbled Streets: My Guide to Edinburgh

    Halò from Edinburgh! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

    Traveling solo can be a little intimidating, but Edinburgh made it feel magical. With its dramatic castle views, cobblestone streets, and cozy charm, it’s the kind of place that instantly feels like a storybook. Whether you’re spending a weekend or extending your trip, this city has so much to offer—especially if you’re on a budget!

    Quick Overview

    Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, one of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom (alongside England, Wales, and Northern Ireland). It’s located at the northern tip of the UK and is packed with history, character, and postcard-worthy views.

    I visited Edinburgh twice during my study abroad program in London in the summer of 2023. The city pulled me in so quickly that I had to go back after my program ended. Even after two visits, I still wasn’t ready to leave!

    If your trip happens to fall in August, try to catch the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. It’s a large-scale, outdoor performance featuring military bands, pipers, drummers, dancers, and other performers from around the world, held nightly against the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. If your schedule allows, don’t miss it—it’s truly unforgettable.

    🥁 Fun fact: The word “tattoo” actually comes from a Dutch phrase meaning “turn off the tap,” once used to signal the end of the day for soldiers.

    A Must-See: Edinburgh Castle

    Perched high above the city on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. It dominates the city skyline and holds centuries of history within its walls. From royal drama to military strategy, this fortress has seen it all–and it’s one of the best places to start your Edinburgh adventure!

    🪨 Fun fact: Castle Rock is actually an ancient volcanic plug, formed by an eruption hundreds of millions of years ago.

    The castle dates back to the early 1100s and was originally built by King David I. Over the centuries, it served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison. It’s known as the most besieged place in Great Britain, having endured countless attacks throughout history.

    Today, the castle is Scotland’s most visited paid attraction, drawing over two million people each year. It’s still an active military site and also hosts events, concerts, and even weddings.

    🎟️ Admission is £21.50 (around $24 USD), and for just £3.50 more, you can rent the audio guide. I did, and it made the visit so much more engaging. Highly recommend!

    Photo courtesy of VisitScotland

    👑 Honours of Scotland
    Inside the Crown Room, you’ll find the oldest Crown Jewels in Britain, along with the legendary Stone of Destiny, used in royal coronations.

    🕐 One O’Clock Gun
    This tradition dates back to 1861—a cannon is fire every day at 1:00 p.m. (except on Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day) to help ships keep time. Today, it’s a fun moment for visitors to witness.

    🕳️ Prisoners’ Escape Hole
    In 1811, 49 French prisoners of war carved a hole in the Devil’s Elbow wall and used laundry lines to lower themselves down Castle Rock. The hole is still there today—a small but fascinating piece of the castle’s layered history.

    🛣️ The Royal Mile

    The Royal Mile is the heart and soul of Edinburgh’s Old Town—and one of the most iconic streets in Scotland. It stretches for about a mile between two royal landmarks: Edinburgh Castle at the top and Holyrood Palace at the bottom.

    Walking this historic street feels like stepping back in time. You’ll pass centuries-old buildings, street performers, tartan shops, whisky bars, and secret little alleyways called “closes” that lead to hidden courtyards. There’s something fascinating around every corner.

    🎒Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—the cobblestones are charming but a little bumpy!

    🏰 Holyrood Palace

    The official Scottish residence of the British monarch, this palace has beautiful grounds and centuries of royal history to explore.

    🎶 Fun Activities in Edinburgh

    🎸 Stramash

    One of my most fun nights in Edinburgh was at Stramash, a live music and sports bar in Old Town. It’s located in a converted 18th-century Free Church, which gives it a unique and electric atmosphere. The crowd was full of energy, and the live music made it impossible not to have fun.


    🍺 Fun fact: The word “stramash” is Scottish slang for a noisy commotion—pretty fitting for a place full of music, dancing, and good chaos!

    🍫 The Chocolatorium
    If you’re a chocolate lover like me, The Chocolatorium is a must. We learned about chocolate’s history, sampled all kinds, and even made our own custom bars. It costs £38 (about $43 USD) and was one of the sweetest parts of the trip.

    🥃 The Scotch Whisky Experience
    I didn’t get the chance to go, but The Scotch Whisky Experience is right on the Royal Mile and offers tastings and guided tours. The Silver Tour starts at £24 (around $27 USD). At the end of the day, definitely make sure to try a glass of Scotch Whisky—it’s incredible.

    🎉Fun fact: Scotch is a type of whisky made in Scotland. The “whisky” spelling without the “e” is used for Scotch whisky. A whisky cannot be called Scotch unless it is entirely produced and bottled in Scotland.

    ✨ Final Thoughts

    Edinburgh is one of those places that just stays with you. Whether you’re standing on castle walls overlooking the city, sipping whisky in a cozy pub, or wandering through old stone streets, it feels like you’re walking through a storybook.

    If you’re traveling solo like I was, don’t worry—Edinburgh is welcoming, safe, and easy to explore. You don’t need a huge budget to enjoy everything the city has to offer. Just bring your curiosity (and maybe a rain jacket), and let Edinburgh work its magic.

  • Empowering Solo Travelers: How the Girls LOVE Travel® Foundation Supports Women on a Budget

    Empowering Solo Travelers: How the Girls LOVE Travel® Foundation Supports Women on a Budget

    Traveling solo can be one of the most empowering experiences — but for many women, it can also feel intimidating, expensive, and out of reach. That’s where the Girls LOVE Travel® Foundation comes in. This nonprofit organization is making it easier for women of all backgrounds to experience the world with confidence, community, and financial support.

    About the Girls LOVE Travel® Foundation

    The Girls LOVE Travel® Foundation is the nonprofit branch of the larger Girls LOVE Travel® community, which has built a Facebook group of over 1 million women travelers. Their mission is simple but powerful: to empower and support women by making travel more accessible, safe, and inclusive.

    Through financial grants, mentorship, and educational resources, the Foundation aims to remove barriers that prevent women — especially those traveling solo or on a budget — from pursuing their travel dreams.

    You can learn more about their mission here: Girls LOVE Travel® Foundation

    Core Services

    The Foundation’s main services include:

    • Travel Grants: Financial support to help women afford travel experiences that otherwise might not be possible.
    • Mentorship and Community Support: Access to experienced solo travelers who offer advice, tips, and encouragement.
    • Educational Resources: Occasional workshops and informational content focused on safe, smart, and budget-friendly travel.

    These programs create opportunities not just for adventure, but for personal growth, cultural exchange, and confidence-building.

    How They Meet Community Needs

    Travel can be expensive, and many women — especially young, solo travelers — face extra barriers related to cost, safety concerns, and lack of knowledge. By offering grants and building a strong support network, the Girls LOVE Travel® Foundation addresses real, tangible obstacles that prevent women from traveling independently.

    The Foundation also emphasizes diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that support isn’t limited to a particular background or experience level. This wide reach makes it especially valuable for solo travelers who may not find this kind of encouragement elsewhere.

    Another community strength is their global network. Through the Facebook group and Foundation resources, travelers can connect with women from around the world, ask questions, get safety advice, and find travel buddies — all of which are critical for building confidence while traveling alone.

    My Perspective on Their Effectiveness

    From my point of view, the Girls LOVE Travel® Foundation is extremely effective in its mission. Travel is often seen as a luxury, and by offering grants and building community, this nonprofit turns travel into something accessible and achievable for more women.

    What I love most about their model is the combination of financial support and community empowerment. They don’t just give out money — they also offer a supportive space where women can ask questions, share stories, and inspire each other to step outside their comfort zones.

    Compared to other travel nonprofits, the Girls LOVE Travel® Foundation feels especially personal and relatable — it’s not just about funding trips, but about creating a lasting community of empowered women travelers.

  • Top Things to See, Do, and Eat in Amsterdam

    Top Things to See, Do, and Eat in Amsterdam

    Hallo from Amsterdam! 🇳🇱

    Traveling solo can feel a little overwhelming at first, but Amsterdam made it easy — and so much fun! With its beautiful canals, cozy cafés, and friendly vibe, it’s the perfect city to explore on your own. Whether you’re planning a quick stop or a longer adventure, here are my favorite budget-friendly things to do, see, and eat in Amsterdam!

    Quick Overview

    Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, located in Europe next to Belgium, Germany, and Denmark. Thanks to its central location, it’s an easy city to reach if you’re already traveling around Europe — and absolutely worth adding to your itinerary!

    I was lucky enough to visit Amsterdam during my study abroad trip in the summer of 2023. Although I didn’t have a lot of time (I arrived August 1 and left August 5), I still managed to fit in a lot of amazing experiences!

    Explore the City

    🚲 Yellow Bike Tour

    One of the best ways to get to know Amsterdam is by bike. I took a two-hour guided ride with Yellow Bike Tours for just €31, and it was a highlight of my trip. You’ll cover a lot of ground and learn fun facts about the city’s history, all while feeling like a local!

    🚶‍♀️ Self-Guided Walking Tours

    Prefer to explore at your own pace? There are tons of great free walking tours available! Here are two self-guided options I recommend:

    🚤 Canal Cruise

    Amsterdam is often called the “Venice of the North,” and you’ll see why once you’re on the water. I took a one-hour Amsterdam Canal Cruise for €15.50 — it was relaxing, beautiful, and surprisingly informative!

    Dive Into the Arts

    🎨 Van Gogh Museum

    Art lovers, this one’s for you! The Van Gogh Museum is home to some of his most iconic works like Sunflowers, Almond Blossoms, Bedroom in Arles, and Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat. It’s moving and inspiring to see his pieces up close.

    🖼 Rijksmuseum

    The Rijksmuseum is a must-visit if you love art and history. It’s packed with masterpieces, but the highlight for me was seeing the incredible works of Rembrandt, a master of the Dutch Golden Age.

    Amsterdam Must-Eats

    🥞 Poffertjes (Mini Pancakes)

    If you do one foodie thing in Amsterdam, make it trying poffertjes! These fluffy mini pancakes are a Dutch classic, traditionally topped with powdered sugar and butter.
    I recommend visiting PANCAKES Amsterdam to try them — they have a whole menu of fun variations.

    Learn more about poffertjes here.

    Unique Amsterdam Experiences

    🏠 Anne Frank House

    The Anne Frank House is one of the most moving and important places to visit in Amsterdam. Even though I only had time to walk by, standing outside was a powerful experience.
    Tip: Tickets are €16 and sell out months in advance, so plan ahead if you want to tour the inside.

    ☕ Coffee Shops

    In Amsterdam, a “coffee shop” means something very different than it does in the U.S.! Coffee shops here are licensed places where you can buy and use cannabis. Even if it’s not your thing, it’s a fun cultural difference to know about while exploring the city.

    💡 Red Light District

    The Red Light District is world-famous — and it’s worth a visit, especially at night. It’s colorful, lively, and a huge part of Amsterdam’s history and culture. (It’s also generally safe for solo travelers, but like anywhere, be aware of your surroundings.)

    If You Have Extra Time…

    🌷 Visit the Keukenhof Tulip Gardens

    If you’re visiting in the spring (mid-March to mid-May), make a trip to the Keukenhof Gardens. Located just 25 miles from Amsterdam in the Bollenstreek region, Keukenhof is home to millions of blooming tulips — a true Dutch dream come to life!

    Final Thoughts

    I hope this guide helps you plan your own unforgettable trip to Amsterdam! Whether you’re biking through the city, sampling sweet poffertjes, or soaking in centuries of art and history, there’s so much to love here — especially when you’re traveling solo. Safe travels and happy exploring! ✈️🌷

    P.S. Have you been to Amsterdam or are you planning a trip soon? I’d love to hear your favorite spots (or what’s on your bucket list) — leave a comment below!