-
What to Do in Florence When It Rains: Best Rainy-Day Activities
There’s nothing quite like planning a trip to Italy with visions of sunny piazzas and leisurely walks through Florence…only to wake up to pouring rain. Fortunately, it only rained one day during my trip to Florence—but when it rained, it poured. I’ve somehow developed a habit of encountering rainy days on my travels (Tokyo and Paris, I’m looking at you), so I’ve become pretty good at finding ways to enjoy a city when the weather refuses to cooperate. And Florence is actually a pretty easy city to enjoy in the rain. I spent my rainy day exploring places like the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo, with strategic café stops thrown…
-
St. Regis Florence Review: What It’s Really Like to Stay Here
I recently stayed at the St. Regis Florence to celebrate a milestone birthday, and if you’re looking for a truly luxurious place to stay in Florence, it’s hard to imagine a more beautiful setting. Housed in a historic palazzo overlooking the Arno River, the St. Regis combines old-world Florentine elegance with modern luxury. And yes, the property is every bit as gorgeous as you’d expect from the photos. But is the St. Regis Florence worth the splurge? And what is it actually like to stay there? After my stay, I’m sharing my honest take on the rooms (beautiful), location (ideal), service (top notch), amenities (thoughtful), and the little things I…
-
How to Get Around Paris: Metro, RER, Buses, Taxis & Walking
Getting around Paris is easier than you might think, and thankfully, you don’t need to spend a fortune to do it. Whether you’re staying central or venturing out to the edges of the city, there’s a transportation option to fit your style and budget. My favorite way to get around Paris? A combination of walking and the Metro. Paris is compact enough that you’ll often walk between neighborhoods and attractions, but the Metro can save you a lot of time when you’re crossing the city. Metro & RER Trains The Paris Metro is hands-down the most efficient and cost-effective way to get around the city. With 16 metro lines and extensive coverage,…
-
Where to Stay in Paris: Best Neighborhoods for First-Time Visitors
Paris is made up of 20 arrondissements (districts), each with its own distinct feel. Where you stay can shape your entire experience, so I’ve broken down some of the best neighborhoods in Paris and what each one is best for—from first-time visitors and solo travelers to Eiffel Tower views, nightlife, and a more local experience. Area Best for Le Marais First-time + solo Saint-Germain Classic Paris + solo Latin Quarter Value seekers + lively atmosphere 1st Convenient sightseeing 7th Eiffel Tower 9th/Opéra Convenient culture + vibrant nightlife Montmartre Dreamy atmosphere 11th Local vibes 4th Arrondissement (Le Marais) – Trendy Meets Historic Le Marais blends cobblestone streets with hip boutiques, cozy…
-
First Trip to Paris: 8 Must-Do Experiences for First-Time Visitors
If it’s your first trip to Paris, you don’t need to see everything to have an amazing trip. After my first visit, these are the eight experiences I’d prioritize—from iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre to wandering Montmartre and simply getting lost in the city. If you only have three days in Paris, you definitely won’t see everything—and that’s okay. Paris is a city that keeps you coming back for more! One quick tip before you start: Paris is one of those cities where I recommend combining the Metro with walking. The Metro will get you across town quickly, but some of my favorite Paris moments came from…
