There’s just something about New York City’s coffee scene that feels unmatched. Every café has its own personality—some loud and buzzing, others quiet and tucked away—and each one tells a little story about the neighborhood it lives in. After sipping my way through the city (more than once), I realized these spots are about so much more than caffeine.

Tucked away on Spain’s northern coast, Comillas is one of those places that instantly pulls you in without trying too hard. It’s small, charming, and quietly impressive—full of character, history, and moments that make you want to slow down and look around a little longer. From its striking architecture to its coastal setting and relaxed pace, Comillas feels like a town you discover rather than visit.

Nestled along Spain’s northern coast, San Vicente de la Barquera is one of those places that quietly steals your heart. It’s where dramatic green hills meet the sea, history blends effortlessly into daily life, and everything moves at a gentler pace. Whether you’re drawn in by the coastal views, medieval landmarks, or the promise of fresh seafood straight from the water, this town offers a beautifully authentic Spanish experience.

Florida might get all the attention for its beaches and theme parks, but if you’re anything like me, you know a place by its coffee scene. And trust me—Florida delivers. From laid-back coastal towns to buzzing city neighborhoods, there are so many coffee shops here that are genuinely worth seeking out.

If you’re craving an authentic slice of Spain—one that feels rich in history, full of character, and refreshingly uncrowded—Oviedo is a wonderful choice. Tucked into the lush Asturias region, this city surprised me in the best way. It’s elegant yet laid-back, deeply traditional yet quietly vibrant, with beautiful architecture, incredible food, and a cultural scene that feels genuinely lived-in rather than put on for visitors.

I have to admit—Burgos wasn’t even on my radar before our recent trip through northern Spain. But in a spontaneous, why not? moment, we decided to explore somewhere new. And honestly, that’s one of my favorite parts of traveling: leaning into the unknown and seeing where it takes you. I’m so glad we did, because Burgos ended up being one of the biggest surprises of the trip.

Toledo, Spain feels like stepping straight into a living history book. Perched high above the Tagus River, this city has been shaped by centuries of shared culture, earning its nickname as the “City of Three Cultures.” Christians, Muslims, and Jews once lived side by side here, and you can still see that layered history woven into Toledo’s streets, architecture, and everyday rhythm.

Ávila is one of the most striking and authentic fortified medieval cities I’ve come across in my travels. From the moment you arrive, it feels as though time has gently paused. The old town is incredibly well preserved, wrapped in imposing stone walls that are nothing short of breathtaking—and somehow, Ávila still feels like a hidden gem.

Just over an hour from Madrid, Segovia feels like a place pulled straight from a storybook. From its soaring Roman aqueduct to its dramatic castle perched above the city, Segovia has a quiet magic that’s impossible to ignore. Add in cobbled streets, golden stone buildings, and food you’ll think about long after you leave, and it’s the kind of destination that stays with you.

If Salamanca hasn’t been on your travel radar yet, let this be your sign. Tucked into the Castile and León region of Spain, Salamanca’s historic center was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988—and it’s easy to see why the moment you arrive.

If you’re dreaming of an alpine escape that feels both luxurious and wildly beautiful, St. Moritz truly delivers. Tucked into the heart of the Swiss Alps, this iconic resort town completely won me over with its glamorous charm, dramatic mountain scenery, and effortless blend of adventure and relaxation.

There’s something about Verona that just stays with you. Maybe it’s the history, the romance woven into everyday life, or the way the city feels effortlessly charming without trying too hard. I spent time wandering its streets, lingering in quiet piazzas, and letting Verona unfold slowly—and it didn’t take long to understand why so many people fall for it.

When you think of a place where mythical landscapes meet modern history, Northern Ireland truly stands apart. This small but striking region is filled with rolling green hills, dramatic coastal paths, and a cultural story that’s as layered as it is compelling. Whether you’re drawn here by Game of Thrones, fascinated by history, or simply chasing unforgettable scenery, Northern Ireland delivers in a way few places do.

While Belfast is sometimes overlooked in favor of bigger cities like Dublin or London, it has a distinct character all its own—one that feels creative, resilient, and quietly captivating. There’s an authenticity here that makes exploring the city feel both meaningful and refreshingly unpretentious. During our time in Belfast, we made it a point to truly experience the city—sampling its food scene, walking its neighborhoods, and immersing ourselves in its history and culture.

Ireland has a way of staying with you. From the moment I arrived, everything felt a little greener, a little slower, and deeply inviting. My journey began in Dublin, and it quickly became clear why this city is so loved. It’s vibrant without being overwhelming, rich in history yet effortlessly modern, and full of moments that feel both ordinary and special.

Milos is one of those places that quietly steals your heart. From the moment you arrive, there’s an ease to the island that invites you to slow down, breathe a little deeper, and truly savor where you are. With its dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, fresh seafood, and relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere, Milos feels like a perfect balance of adventure and calm—everything you want from a Greek island escape.

If you’ve ever dreamed of that classic Greek island moment—the whitewashed streets, blue shutters catching the sun, windmills perched above the sea—Mykonos delivers it effortlessly. Tucked into the Cyclades, this small but iconic island feels straight out of a postcard, and somehow even better in real life.

Athens is one of those cities that instantly pulls you in. From the moment you start walking its streets, you feel the contrast—in the best way. Ancient ruins sit side by side with modern cafés and shops, and it somehow all works. One minute you’re admiring centuries-old temple columns, and the next you’re browsing a sleek shopping center or sipping coffee on a lively corner.

Checking into and out of a hotel should feel effortless—part of the experience, not a hassle. Yet, it’s often the small, overlooked details that can turn an otherwise great stay into a frustrating one. To help you travel smarter and avoid unnecessary stress, I’ve rounded up the 10 biggest mistakes to avoid during hotel check-in and checkout. Let’s get into it.

Coffee has always been more than just a drink for me—it’s a ritual, a pause in the day, and often the starting point of my favorite travel memories. No matter where I am in the world, I’m always searching for that one café that feels just right: great coffee, a welcoming atmosphere, and a space that invites you to linger a little longer.