I Was Just Heading Out

Travel is amazing and fun, but it can be quite costly. Especially in bigger cities and capitols like Dublin. So, to make your next trip a little more budget friendly, here are some things you can do in Dublin for free.

1. Walking tour

There are several companies that offer Free Walking Tours in Dublin. The trick of a free walking tour is that instead of paying up front, you tip at the end. If you enjoyed the tour simply hand your guide a few euro’s at the end, but you don’t have to. And because the guides work for tips they do their best to make it a fun and informative tour.

2. Museums

Dublin houses several free museums. Art lovers should check out the National Gallery. History buffs will love the National Museum for Archeology. And everyone enjoys the National Museum for Natural History. For more info on the city itself you can head to the City Hall. Trinity College can be visitef for free as well, just like the bank across the street.

3. Phoenix Park

Enjoy some nature for free at the beautiful Phoenix Park. You may have to take a bus to get there, but there is no entrance fee. Walk around this big park and spot some deer! If you want to stay in the city, St. Stephens Green is lovely as well.

4. Listen to music

Dublin, like most of Ireland, is filled with music. Head down Grafton Street to see street performers, it would be nice to give them a few euro’s, but you are in no way obligated to do so. Most pubs will have live music as well, so for the price of a pint you can enjoy a complementary concert!

5. Walk around

Oh Ireland, country of fun and beauty. After visiting Ireland for the first time, it immediately became one of my favourite countries. I felt so at home here, with the friendliest people and the epic landscape. If you're looking for your next destination, here are the places you can't miss in Ireland.

1. Dublin

The capitol of the Republic of Ireland may not be big, but it will keep you entertained. There is something for everyone in Dublin. Go shopping in the many vintage stores, visit museums and parks, walk around the Kings College campus, stroll through the cozy streets, pucrawl (but avoid Temple Bar), bike through Phoenix Park and stuff yourself with pastries or trendy hipster food. For a more detailed list, check out: things to do in Dublin.

Where to stay: Jacob's Inn is a modern hostel just outside the centre, so you might actually get some sleep

Things to do in Dublin

2. Aran islands

The Aran Islands are boast epic landscapes as well as the friendliest people. It might get crowded during the summer, so opt for spring or fall so you won't have to share the gorgeous views. Check out my tips: things to do on Inishmore

Where to stay: in Killronan hostel you will feel right at home

Things to do on Inishmore

3. Galway

Don't let size fool you, Galway may be small, but it arguably has the best night-life in Ireland. On the weekends this University town in so full you won't be able to enter some bars. So visit during the week instead for slightly quieter, but nicer experience.

Where to stay: Galway City Hostel is clean, modern and cozy

things to do in Galway

4. Killarney

If you are looking to explore the Irish countryside, Killarney is the perfect base. Right next to Killarney National Park and the Ring of Kerry. Rent a car to drive around and hike through the epic nature of the National Park, you will not be disappointed.

Where to stay: hang out by the fireplace in the cozy Black Sheep Hostel

5. Kinsale

A short drive from Killarney you can find the adorable port town of Kinsale. Perhaps a bit touristy, but nonetheless great to stroll around, browsing the many art shops and cafes or walk up to the fort.

6. Kilkenny

Kilkenny is an old medieval city and boasts many beautiful buildings. Visit the beautifully restored Kilkenny Castle, the many churches and cathedrals. Kilkenny is also the home of Smithwicks beer, the factory is worth a visit as well as Kytelers Inn, rumoured to have belonged to a witch...

7. Wicklow Mountains

Galway is a small town with a big reputation. Although quite during the day, Galway lights up by night.

1. Go out

Galway is known for its night-life, so make sure you head out into the city at night. Enjoy live music in the pubs and buskers in the street. Beware, the city gets very crowded on Saturdays, but there is still plenty of fun on week nights. I recommend the famous Quays and Monroe's pubs. 

 2. Watch the street performers There is a vibrant music scene in Galway, including on the streets. Day or night, you can find musicians and street performers on Shop Street. 

3. Walk around

Galway is small and easily navigated. Join a walking tour or stroll around on your own. 

 4. Shop Aside from partying, Galway is also a great place to shop. There are little boutiques and big malls, something for everyone. 

Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands is a must see when visiting Ireland. The stunning island with its kind people offers a peek into the Ireland of the Celts.

The island is easily reached by ferry from Roshill, which travels twice a day. Though a lot of people opt for a day trip, I would recommend staying at least one or two nights. Especially in the fall, the island is the perfect place to unwind and relax. And there is plenty to keep you busy, if the weather allows.

1. Black Fort

Dun Duchathair or Black Fort is my favourite place on Inishmore. The ancient Celtic Fort is perched on a cliff surrounded by a vast field of black stone. It is only a short 45 min hike form Kilronan and impressive both in good and bad weather. There is something about standing atop a cliff overlooking the wild Atlantic Ocean that makes you feel small and big at the same time.

2. Churches

There are old churches strewn all over the island. They make for some impressive ruins that perfectly complement the moody landscape.

3. Don Anghasa and Wormhole

Don Anghasa is the most popular visitor attraction on Inishmore and it is easy to see why. This large fort stands upon a 300 foot cliff and gives an impressive view of the whole island. At the foot of the hill you can find the ‘Wormhole’ a strange rectangular pool by the waters edge. You may know it from the Redbull Cliffdiving competition.

4. Make some furry friends

Inishmore has no shortage of wildlife and cute animals. At low tide you can watch the seals lie in the sun and in the spring the island is filled with lambs, calfs and more. Most of them are very friendly and are happy to be petted.

5. Buy a sweater

The Aran Islands are known for their high quality wool sweaters. Though a little pricy, these sweaters are worth the investment. Not only are they soft, warm and beautiful, they will last you a lifetime.

6. Go to the pub

Whether for a meal or a pint, pubs are always a good choice. There are 4 of them on the island and offer a warm friendly refuge from the cold and rain. The pubs function as a communal living room where locals come to hang out. My favourite is Ti Joe Watty’s as it has both a great atmosphere as well as good live music.

The Aran Islands are a group of three islands of the coast of Galway, Ireland. If you find yourself in Ireland, they are a must visit.

The islands were first cultivated around 3000-4000 years ago by the Celts. The rocky islands were devoid of vegetation. By clearing the rocks and creating soil from layers of seaweed and sand the Celts created farmland. This method took about 300 years and has left the islands covered in the iconic small fields surrounded by stone walls.

The sea climate allows the grass to remain green year round, although there are still few trees to be found.

The Celts also build some impressive fortresses on the cliffs. Standing on the windy cliffs now, looking at the ruins, it is hard to imagine that anyone chose to live here.

The largest of the islands, Inishmor, has around 800 inhabitants these days who make most of their living from tourism. In the summer the island is flooded by thousands of tourists, ready to climb the hills or explore by bike, bus and pony and trap.

However, the best time to visit the Islands is in the fall or spring when there are fewer tourists and you get a real taste of island life. The weather is reasonable in October and November, but you are likely to be the only person at a given landmark, adding to the desolate and moody atmosphere.

Aside from the nature and ruins, the only thing to do on the islands is drink. The four pubs provide food, shelter, beer and entertainment. They function as a living room for the locals who go there to warm up with a hot whiskey and listend to live music. Even when most of the tourists have left, they are still dancing the night away.

Like most islanders elsewhere, the citizens of the Aran Islands are warm and welcoming. They are happy to lend a hand, have a chat and share a pint. You will soon start to recognize the same people from the pub at the shops or on the street. Even though they have been hosts all summer, they are still happy to see you in the fall. But don't go too late in the year: after working hard all summer, most of the sights and hotels close for the winter at the end of November, only to open again in March.

So, don't miss out on experiencing both the roughness of the nature as well as the warmth of the local people on the Aran Islands.

Solo travel.

Two small words that scare a lot of people.

They used to scare me too. I let a a lot of travel opportunities pass me by because I had no-one to go with. Friends were either busy, broke or simply not as ‘wanderlusty’ as me. And I am perpetually single.

But turning 25 and graduating from University made me reexamine my life, my goals and how I would spend my meager paychecks. 

I decided it was time to be bolder, take more risks and go after the things I wanted. To get the hell out of my own way.

I was itching for adventure and longing to see the world. I started of slowly with Solo Together and a short trip on my own. It was scary at first, but I quickly realized that I loved it. 

But what will I do all day?

Well, whatever you want! Travelling alone provides the ultimate freedom. You have no one to answer to, no one to consult and the world before you. Whether you want to go sight-seeing, hiking, lying on a beach or stay in and read a book, everything is up to you. You decide what to do, what to eat, where to go. 

But don’t you get lonely?

The beauty of travelling alone is that you are automatically more open to meeting other people. People are more likely to strike up a conversation when you’re standing alone. Sure, it feels a little awkward to approach others, but once you get over that initial hurdle you’ll see how friendly and open others generally are. Locals are often happy to talk about their city and give you tips. And these days there are so many young people travelling the world alone that you are bound to meet some. And they’ll be happy to hang out and exchange stories, share a meal/drink or go explore with you. 

Still worried? I’ve provided a few tips on how to meet people when you are travelling alone.

If you’re new to the world of solo travel I would recommend starting with a short trip, like a weekend away in a city. There will be plenty to do and see and you are likely to meet others. Or go on a Workaway. That way you’ll save some money by working for room and board and you’ll be with other volunteers (depending on the work).

A lot of people are afraid of travelling alone, because they fear loneliness. Especially in the evenings. But don’t worry, meeting others while you travel is actually really easy! I’ve listed my tips on meeting new friends, dinner companions and drinking buddies on the road:

1. Stay in a hostel

If you are willing to sacrifice a little comfort for fun and budget friendly accommodation, then hostels are perfect. They are filled with young, broke backpackers who love to exchange tales and meet new people. The best hostels also organize activities to help you get in contact with the other guests and simply introduce yourself to your roommates when you arrive.

2. Join a free walking tour

Walking Tours are not just a great way to explore a city, they also help you meet new people. There will be plenty of material to pass awkward silences, simply comment on something you’re looking at or ask them where they are from. If there are other solo travelers in the group they might want to come to that museum with you, have lunch or join you for a drink later.

3. Join a pubcrawl

Just like walking tours, pubcrawls drop you in a group of stranger, with the added benefit of alcohol as a social lubricant. And pubcrawl often give you a great deal on a night out with free or reduced drinks.

4. Volunteer

Workaway, WOOFF and the like allow you to exchange a few hours of work a day for room and board. The work varies from babysitting to farming, cleaning or chores. This is especially suited for a longer stay and great for budget travelers. Working at a hostel is especially fun as you’ll have both your colleagues and guests to hang out with. 

5. Tinder

Tinder, or any other dating app, is designed specifically to meet people. Of course the first objective is not platonic, but it can still work for that as well. Simply edit your bio to reflect what you are looking for and how long you are staying. And if you are open to a date, who knows, maybe the love of your life is a local ;) 

6. Couchsurf

Couchsurfing allows you crash on a locals couch so it saves you money as well. Couchsurfing hosts love to meet new people, show you around their city and hang out. Not ready to sleep at a strangers house? Couchsurfers also organize activities for travelers that you can join anyway.

7. Meetup

Meetup is a website and app that let’s people organize events around certain hobbies, interests or commonalities. There are probably some like minded people in the city you’re visiting that are meeting up while you are there.

8. Talk to strangers

Okay, okay, this one is a little on the nose. But it is the key to all of it. It scary and awkward, but very worth getting out of your comfort zone. As soon as you get over the hurdle and just strike up a conversation you will notice that most people are very happy to chat with you. It can be someone standing next to you in a museum, someone in line at the supermarket, the waiter at a restaurant, someone sitting at the bar. Just saying ‘hi’ can go a long way. But of course, always keep your wits about you and don’t put yourself in risky situations.

1. Pubfood

Many pubs in Dublin offer hearty food for decent prices, especially outside the Temple Bar area. If you're a fan of pies, stews and burgers, irish cuisine is for you.

2. Vegetarian

Irish cuisine is mostly meat and potato based, but don't let that fool you. Dublin is filled with hip vegan and vegetarian friendly food on a budget. Try the popular Umi falafel or have authentic Mexican food at Aztek.

5. Pastry

The Irish have a real sweet tooth judging by the amount of donut shops in Dublin. And who can blame them...

4. Beer

Whether in the evening or for lunch, beer seems acceptable in Dublin at any time of day. There's of course Guinness, but if that's not your taste Smithwicks red and blonde ale are great as well.

5. Whiskey

Dublin is a fantastic lively city, perfect for a weekend away. It has somethings for everyone: culture, history, food and nightlife. I would recommend:

1. Walk around

Dublin is a pedestrian friendly city, with manageable distances. To make the most of it you should join a walking tour. Free walking tours are a great way to get some context behind everything you're seeing. Since the guides work for tips they are highly motivated. They will offer information and stories you otherwise wouldn't know, are happy to answer questions and give recommendations for activities, restaurants and bars.

2. Museums

Dublin houses plenty of museums and landmarks. Churches, art, history: whatever your taste. I loved the Little museum of Dublin. This quaint little museum is housed in a Georgian house and offers a lot material on the history of Dublin. They have a tour every hour. Budget art lovers should visit the Chester Beatty Library, it's free and houses and beautiful and impressive collection of books and art. For a more interactive museum experience try EPIC. This museum tells the story of Irish emigration through a fun exhibition that will entertain both edults and kids.

3. Trinity College

The oldest University of Ireland is located in the middle of Dublin. The large campus is beautiful on its own, but also houses a library and science museum.

4. Shopping

If you want to take a break from culture and don't mind spending a little money, Dublin lends itself to a shopping spree as well. Everything from designer to high street and a large number of vintage stores. Grafton street is the main shopping street, but don't skip ... market where you can snoop around the cute little stands.

5. Eat

Foodies should definitely visit Dublin as well. From Irish pubfood to hipster vegan, there is something for everyone here.

6. Drink

The Irish pubs are a worldwide phenomenon for a reason. Pubs in Dublin are cozy and fun. Most of them have life music to accompany any your pint and food. But avoid Temple Bar area as it is very touristy and drinks are overpriced there. You are better off walking a little bit further. If you are looking to party hard and/or meet new people, join one of the many pubcrawls. They're a fun way to explore the nightlife and often offer great deals on drinks.

I decided to start my trip somewhere I had never been (j.k. the flight was the cheapest): Dublin. The capitol of Ireland is known for it’s great nightlife and it did not disappoint.

I booked two night in the Jacobs Inn Hostel, because of it’s good price and reviews. Jacobs Inn turned out to be a really nice hostel, modern and comfortable with nice, helpful staff and plenty of other travelers to hang out with.

I spend two and a half days walking around the stunning city, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, surprisingly good weather, great food and beautiful architecture. 

Dublin really has something for everyone: fun nightlife, culture and history, museums, shopping and sights. I can highly recommend it for a weekend trip with your S.O., friends, family or on your own. Two days is enough to explore the highlights of the city, three allows you to also take a trip to the coast or countryside. 

You can spend the day being cultural and end the night with a pint in a pub, perfect!

Want some specific recommendations on activities, food and drinks?

What do you do when your friends are moving in with their S.O.’s, working full time and generally acting like responsible adults? You sublet your room, pack your bags and get on a plane. I decided to continue my travelling by planning a 1,5 month trip starting on November 1st, the day my freelance contract ended.

For the first leg of my final trip of 2017 I opted to trade the cold and rain of the Netherlands for...

The cold and rain of Ireland and the UK.

After visiting the UK for the first time last May, I knew I had to explore more of this beautiful country and it’s neighbour Ireland. Everyone I spoke to loves Ireland and could not recommend it enough. I also completely fell in love with Edinburgh, so I was looking forward to spending some more time in Scotland.

Greek cuisine is one of my favourites. Greeks know just how to combine fresh ingredient for simple, but tasty dishes. Here are some of my must eats in Corfu (although this really goes for the whole of Greece)

1. Greek salad

Greek salads are a lovely combination of fresh vegetables, with creamy feta, salty olives and a tart vinegar dressing. The tomatoes are especially delicious in Greece, sweet and full of flavour. Best enjoyed with a side of french fries or baked potatoes.

2. Pita gyros, souvlaki or keftedes

The Greeks know how to make a sandwich. Fluffy pita bread filled with grilled meat, french fries, vegetables and sauce. Perfect for lunch, dinner or a midnight snack.

3. Tsatsiki

Hard to pronounce, but easy to eat. This Greek yoghurt sauce pairs well with just about everything and makes a delicious snack when used as a dip for pita bread.

4. Beer

I am not a big fan of Greek wine. Sure, there are some good ones, but I most house wines are a little too sour for me. They sure brew some good beer though! My favourite is Mythos, Perfect for cooling off after a day on the beach, with a side of pita and tsatsiki perhaps? If you’re looking for a local brew, Corfu Red is a great choice. 

5. Kumquat

Although originally from China, the tiny citrus fruit thrives in the Corfu climate. They are used in everything from jam to soap, but most notably: liquor. You can buy the bright orange liquid in every grocery store and tourist shop on the island. It is often served in restaurants as a dessert liquor, such as limoncello, although less strong and sweeter.

6. Seafood

Corfu is a stunning island. Due to its location relative to the Greek coast, the island stays deceptively green year round. Tourism has declined in recent years, so what can you do on Corfu?

1. Beaches

The coast of Corfu is splattered with white sandy beaches and bright blue water. It’s perfect for lounging with a good book in the sun and going for a dip to cool off. For the more adventurous type, there are water sports to try or go explore some of the less accessible hidden beaches. 

2. Quad or scooter

Corfu has a pretty good network of buses, but the best way to explore the island is by quad bike or scooter. There are rental services all over the island and it pays to look for one outside of Corfu Town. The traffic might take some getting used to, but the roads are decent overall. Do prepare for some steep mountain paths and dirt roads. Although scooters are cheaper, a quad bike is more stable and will comfortably seat two. And those steep mountain roads will take you to some pretty spectacular views!

3. Boat trip

The waters around Corfu are insanely blue. I highly recommend taking one of the numerous boat tours on offer around the island. They often include lunch and drinks (but be sure to ask!) and what’s better than spending a relaxing day on the water?

4. Corfu Town

Corfu Town is the capital of the island boasts some pretty spectacular architecture, history and culture. The city is not big, but there is plenty to see as the Romans, Venetians, British and French all left their distinct marks.

5. Monastery of Paleokastritsa

Greece is one of my all-time favourite vacation destinations. It offers pretty beaches, blue water, beautiful nature, great food and lovely people. Everything I need to have a good summer.

I have been to the Greek mainland as well as several islands, each place with its own atmosphere and highlights. This year my best friend and I decided to give Corfu a try.

Corfu is one of the larger Greek islands just off the north coast of Greece, close to Albania. Corfu has an interesting history having been occupied by Romans, Venetians, British and French before becoming a part of Greece. 

The empress Sisi had a summer palace on Corfu and it is easy to see why. Due to its location, the island remains green year round. An exception within the Mediterranean climate. The island is filled with lush nature and perfect beaches. Tourism on Corfu was booming ever since the 1920′s, but it has died down in recent years. You will now mostly find Russian and Italian tourists as well as drunk British teenagers (but luckily only in Kavos). As a result, the island now has an air of faded glory, with boarded-up hotels and restaurants. A real shame as the people of Corfu are incredibly kind and hardworking.

Now as a vacation destination Corfu is great on a few conditions:

- You are a couple: we only encountered couples and families during our two-week stay. If you are single and ready to mingle Corfu is not the place for you. 

- You like to relax: Corfu is an island made for lounging in the sun. I love to spend my vacation unwinding on a beach with a good book, but if you are looking for adventure or parties, you won’t likely find it here.

- Stay for two weeks max: we travelled around the island staying in Messonghi, Palekas, Paleokastritsa and Corfu Town for a total of 12 days. Which was plenty. Corfu is not that big, so do not expect to be entertained here for weeks on end.

1. Pierogi

Pierogi are the famous Polish dumplings. They resemble ravioli and they are so good! I especially loved the classic cheese and potato filling. These soft little pockets of goodness can be found at traditional Polish restaurants as well as specific pierogi places.

2. Mezze

Krakow has a large Jewish community, which means amazing Jewish and middle eastern cuisine. The Jewish quarter is filled with great restaurants, but my favourite has to be Hamsa. They have a cute little courtyard where they serve mouthwatering mezze. They also sell adorable t-shirts with their slogan: ‘Make hummus not war’. 

3. Ice cream

The Polish love ice cream. And why shouldn’t they? I have never seen so many ice cream shops in my life as is Krakow. Not even in Italy. The very best ice cream in the city is without a doubt at Lody na Starowislnej. You will probably have to stand in line to taste one of their five flavours, but is worth it!

4. Vodka

No post about a Polish city would be complete without vodka. And don’t worry, the vodka they serve in Krakow is nothing like the cheap lighter fluid you drink after a few too many beers. Polish vodka is strong, without the unpleasant burn, and smooth. I especially recommend hazelnut vodka, it is like drinking boozy Nutella.

5. Pastry