Where I’ve been:

• Corse Island 2012
• Saint Tropez 2015
• First time in Paris 2016
• Strasbourg during Ersmaus in Germany 2016
• Second time in Paris 2017
• South of France June ( Nice & Antibes ) 2017
• Erasmus reunion in Lion and Dijon 2017 MISSING
• Erasmus + in Paris 2019/20
• New Caledonia January 2023
• New Caledonia October 2023
• Chamonix 2025
• Paris 2025

Corse Island 2012

( Me at Desert Des Agriates, Corse )

My fist time in France was with my aut in Corsica island in June 2012 that we did a road trip from Bastia to Bonifacio passing by the east coast, was an amazing tour by car and we where staying in camping with the tend.

DAY 1 – Sunday 24.06.12

( Genova port, Italy )

My auntie drive from Cereseto to Genova and once we get there we took the Moby Fantasy ferry from Genova Port at 10 pm to Bastia where we spent the night sleeping on the floor and we got there in the morning and we left the city and started to drive up.

DAY 2 – Monday 25.06.12

( around corse )

we explore the peninsula spending time on the beach and adjusting to the life just us two and the camping.

DAY 3 – Tuesday 26.06.12

( Ile de la Giraglia, Corse )

Wondering around the penisola, beautiful beaches arriving in the northern point of Corse at Ile de la Giraglia.

DAY 4 – Wednesday 27.06.12

( sea at Desert Des Agriates, Corse )

We spent the day at Desert Des Agriates in the park and than in the late noon we went to Saint Florent village to take a walk around.

DAY 5 – Thursday 28.06.12

( Torra di Campomoru near Propriano ( according to chat gpt ) )

In the morning we drive down and We spent the day with Laura the cousin of my auntie and her boyfriend the were camping as well with the motorbike, passing by Torra di Campomoru.

DAY 6 – Friday 29.06.12

( evening in Porto Vecchio )

We drove again a bit in the morning spent the evening visiting Porto Vecchio.

DAY 7 – Saturday 30.06.12

( Torra di Campomoru near Propriano ( according to chat gpt )

we spent the day again on the beach a bit relaxing during the day and by sunset took few pictures always around Propriano

DAY 8 – Sunday 01.07.12

chilling on the beach

DAY 9 – Monday 02.07.12

( around Corse )

exploring the beaches around

DAY 10 – Tuesday 03.07.12

( Night at: Camping des Iles, Bonifacio )

( Buvette de piantarella, Bonifacio )

we went to Ile piana by walk with the low tide and then Bouvette de piantarella we stpped there for a pizza and after i went out with th epermission of my autie with a son of a fisherman

DAY 11 – Wednesday 04.07.12

( at Cittadelle de Bonifacio )

In the morning we visited the Cittadelle de Bonifacio later on the evening we drove up in the direction of Bastia.

DAY 12 – Thursday 05.07.12

( visiting Bastia, Corse )

Driving up north and spending the evening in Bastia.

DAY 13 – Friday 06.07.12

( the boat in Bastia, Corse )

In the morning at 9:30 am we took the boat to leave to Genova.

Weekend in Saint Tropez 2015

My second time in France happened during my first year of university, while I was living in Alessandria, in the Piedmont region of Italy. My boyfriend at the time and I decided to take advantage of the long weekend around June 2nd — Italy’s Festa della Repubblica (Republic Day) — and head to the South of France for a quick trip.

We planned it together, nothing overly romantic or surprising — just a weekend away since we both had time off. He drove, since I didn’t have a car, and we made our way to Saint-Tropez and Sainte-Maxime. It wasn’t a huge adventure, but it was a nice change of scenery. The drive from Piedmont wasn’t too far, and it felt good to take a break and be by the sea for a couple of days.

DAY 1 – Saturday 30.05.2015

( Night at: Hotel Le Calidianus, Saint Maxime )

( Me on Saint Maxime plage, France )

We left early in the morning, and my boyfriend drove all the way down to Sainte-Maxime. The traffic was pretty heavy along the way, but we eventually made it. Once we arrived, we checked into the hotel and spent the afternoon relaxing at the beach nearby. Later in the day, we headed over to Saint-Tropez for a little walk around town and stopped for a drink at the port, taking in the classic Riviera atmosphere. After that, we made our way back to Sainte-Maxime for dinner at Restaurant La Réserve, a cozy French spot that made for a simple yet lovely end to the day.

DAY 2 – Sunday 31.05.2015

( Port of Saint Tropez, France )

The next morning, we woke up early, checked out of the hotel, and headed straight to the beach. We spent the morning at Plage de Tahiti, then made our way to Plage des Salins around noon — both beaches were absolutely stunning. We relaxed, took a few photos, and had a laid-back lunch by the sea. In the afternoon, it was time to head back home to Piedmont. On the way, we made one last stop in Saint-Tropez for an ice cream. It was actually my first time really seeing the city, and I was struck by how beautiful and elegant it was — such a charming spot by the sea.

First time in Paris easter 2016

I moved to Trier, Germany on March 14th, 2016, for my first Erasmus+ program. Just two weeks after settling in, Easter was approaching, and I wasn’t quite ready to spend the holiday alone in a new country. I couldn’t afford a flight back home yet, and everything still felt so unfamiliar. So, my boyfriend at the time and I decided to meet up in Paris for Easter weekend. It wasn’t too far from Trier, and I had never been to Paris before, so it felt like the perfect excuse to explore somewhere new.

DAY 1 – Saturday 26.03.2016

( Musee d’Orsay, Paris )

I woke up early and caught the 7:32 AM train from Trier, with a quick change in Saarbrücken at 8:41 AM, and arrived at Paris Est around 10:54 AM. It turned out to be a really easy and straightforward journey. My boyfriend met me at the train station, and from there we headed to the hotel, checked in, and dropped off our luggage before heading out to explore Paris.

We started at the Louvre, just admiring the museum from the outside, then took a boat tour along the Seine River — even though the weather was quite cloudy, it still felt special. Later, we visited Notre-Dame and stepped inside the cathedral, which was beautiful and moving. For dinner, I honestly can’t remember the restaurant, but I do remember ending the night with a visit to Montmartre. Seeing it lit up at night was the perfect way to wrap up our first day in Paris.

DAY 2 – Sunday 27.03.2016

The next morning, we visited the Musée d’Orsay, and I absolutely loved it. The art, the atmosphere, and even just being inside such a stunning building made it a highlight of the trip for me. After that, we stopped by the Arc de Triomphe, and in the afternoon, we made our way to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Despite the lines and the typical Paris crowds, the view from the top was totally worth it — it was such an unforgettable experience, seeing the city stretch out in every direction.

DAY 3 – Monday 28.03.2016

On our last day, we visited Galeries Lafayette, soaking in the beautiful architecture and maybe doing a little window shopping. After that, we went to see the Tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte — actually stepping inside and seeing the grand space was really impressive. Later, we returned to the Eiffel Tower, this time taking a few photos from Champ de Mars, capturing the classic Paris postcard moment. We also passed by the Moulin Rouge and spent some time wandering around Montmartre during the day, which had a totally different vibe compared to our nighttime visit. After all that walking, we eventually headed back to the hotel. I honestly can’t remember where we had dinner that evening, but the day itself was full and unforgettable.

DAY 4 – Tuesday 29.03.2016

On our final morning in Paris, I think my boyfriend had to leave early, and I ended up sleeping in a bit. I took it slow, had a bit of sushi for lunch, and then made my way back to Gare de l’Est to catch the train. I retraced my steps with a change in Saarbrücken, and by the afternoon, I was back in Trier. Just like that, my first visit to Paris came to an end — short but packed with beautiful sights and unforgettable firsts.

Deuxième fois à Paris, April 2017

The first time I visited Paris was in March 2016, during the Easter holidays. I had just moved to Trier, Germany for my Erasmus+ program and met up there with my boyfriend at the time. We spent a few days exploring the city together — it was a short but unforgettable first experience.

A year later, in April 2017, my boyfriend decided to go back to Paris again, this time for April 25th, which is Festa della Liberazione, a national holiday in Italy that commemorates the end of World War II. In Italy, it’s super common to go on a short vacation whenever there’s a public holiday — especially if, like me, you’re off from university and your partner has time off from work. So, about two weeks before, I spontaneously booked a flight to join him.

Even though I flew with EasyJet, the ticket wasn’t cheap — but I still went for it. I was living alone at the time in Alessandria, my university city in Piedmont, and I didn’t have a car. So I made sure to choose a flight time that worked well with public transport to the airport. It wasn’t the most budget-friendly trip, but I was excited to return to Paris and see it again from a different perspective — and to make some new memories together.

A few days before the trip, when I had already booked my flight, I saw on the news that there had been a terrorist attack on the Champs-Élysées on April 20th. It was shocking and honestly a little scary to watch on TV, knowing I’d be there soon. But despite the fear, I decided to go anyway — and I’m glad I did. The city still felt beautiful, alive, and full of stories to tell.

DAY 1 – Friday 21.04.2017

( Night at: Adagio Apart Hotel Access, Paris Reuilly )

( Amour and Psyche – Antonio Canova, Louvre Paris )
I woke up early and took the train from Alessandria to Milano Centrale, then caught a bus to Malpensa Airport. My flight was around lunchtime — 12:20 PM from MXP — while my boyfriend’s flight was scheduled for the evening after he finished work. We had booked a stay at the Adagio Aparthotel, a hotel chain we had already tried (and liked) during a trip to Brussels back in 2013. After landing in Paris, I made my way to the hotel on my own using public transport — it was located in the Bastille area, a lively neighborhood with great access to the city. Once I checked in, I couldn’t resist hopping on the metro and heading straight to Galeries Lafayette. Even though I had been there before, the temptation was too strong — that place always draws me back. The building itself is absolutely stunning, and each floor is filled with beautiful little boutiques and all the major luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, and Burberry. Later in the evening, I went back to the hotel to wait for my boyfriend. I was honestly a little nervous walking around alone at night in Paris — especially knowing that just two days earlier, a terrorist attack had taken place on the Champs-Élysées. The city felt different, and even though I love Paris, there was a quiet tension in the air.

DAY 2 – Saturday 22.04.2017

( Night at: Adagio Apart Hotel Access, Paris Reuilly )

( Eiffel Tower, Paris )

The next day, the weather wasn’t really on our side — it was cloudy and cold, but we made the most of it. We started our day with a visit to Père Lachaise Cemetery, a place I’d never been to before. It’s such a peaceful, historic spot, and we saw the famous tombs of Oscar Wilde, Chopin, and other legendary figures. For lunch, we went to McDonald’s — something we often do when traveling abroad. The quality is pretty much the same everywhere, and the prices are predictable, so if we don’t have much time or we’ve already tried the local dishes, it’s a safe and quick option. After lunch, we made our way to Trocadéro — it was my first time there, and honestly, the view took my breath away. It’s probably one of the best spots to see the Eiffel Tower, and even with the grey sky, it looked absolutely magical. In the evening, we met up with an Italian friend of my boyfriend and her boyfriend for dinner. We ended the day at a cozy restaurant near the Panthéon, enjoying a nice meal and great company — the perfect end to a Parisian day.

DAY 3 – Sunday 23.04.2017

( Night at: Adagio Apart Hotel Access, Paris Reuilly )

( Latona Fountain (Bassin de Latone) at Palace Versailles )

We decided to fully dedicate our time to Versailles, which we reached quite easily by public transport from Paris. At first, we considered renting a golf cart to explore the enormous grounds, but then we noticed it was also possible to rent bikes — and honestly, I think that’s the better option. With a bike, you can go anywhere at your own pace and really take in the beauty of the park. We started by exploring the area dedicated to Marie Antoinette, with her two charming estates and the adorable little farm. It honestly felt like stepping into the English countryside — peaceful, picturesque, and almost surreal. On our way back toward the main palace, we stopped to enjoy a delicious organic crêpe — warm, fresh, and just perfect as a quick snack. Then, at 5:30 PM, the fountain show began in the eastern part of the gardens. Watching the water dance to classical music was absolutely magical. Before leaving, we also visited the interior of the palace, which is truly breathtaking. The grandeur of the Hall of Mirrors, the royal chambers, and all the ornate details — it’s hard to put into words. Versailles is one of those places that really stays with you.

DAY 4 – Monday 24.04.2017

( Night at: Adagio Apart Hotel Access, Paris Reuilly )

( Montmartre, Paris )

Today it was the best weather of the trip — sunny, clear, and full of spring vibes. Since we knew it would be a beautiful day, we planned to squeeze in as many iconic sights as possible. We started with a quick morning visit to the Louvre — we didn’t go inside this time, but just walking through the courtyard and under the glass pyramid felt special. From there, we headed to Montmartre for lunch, where we bought a classic baguette and sat on the steps just below the Sacré-Cœur, soaking in the view over Paris. After lunch, we wandered through the charming streets of Montmartre, stopping by the Moulin de la Galette and, of course, the iconic Moulin Rouge. That neighborhood always feels like a little movie set, full of history and charm. Next, we made our way to the Luxembourg Gardens for a peaceful stroll. Then we stopped by Notre-Dame to admire it from the outside, before continuing our walk along the banks of the Seine. As the sun began to set, we ended our day at the Eiffel Tower, taking photos from Trocadéro as the sky turned golden and the lights slowly began to sparkle. It was the perfect way to wrap up a long, beautiful day in Paris.

DAY 5 – 25.04.2017

( Night at: Adagio Apart Hotel Access, Paris Reuilly )

( By the Seine behind Notre-Dame, Paris )

We spent the morning walking through the Le Marais area, a charming and trendy part of Paris full of little boutiques, cafés, and cobblestone streets. We eventually made our way to the Picasso Museum — personally, I didn’t find it anything too exceptional, but it was still a nice stop along the way. From there, we continued on foot toward Les Halles to check out the newly renovated market and shopping complex — modern, lively, and a fun place to explore. Later that day, we decided to visit La Défense, a totally different side of Paris that I had never seen before. With its towering skyscrapers and urban architecture, it felt more like a business district in New York than the Paris I knew — but still interesting to experience. To end the day, we visited Sainte-Chapelle, and this time we went inside. The stained glass windows were absolutely breathtaking — a real hidden gem. One thing I love about Paris is that, as a student under 26, you can get into so many cultural sites for free — it makes exploring the city so much more accessible. We had our last dinner in Paris at a lovely French restaurant called Le Passage. It was the perfect spot to wrap up our trip — cozy, authentic, and full of local charm. The atmosphere was warm and relaxed, and the food felt like a proper Parisian farewell. There’s something so special about ending a trip with a quiet, delicious meal in a place that makes you feel like a local.

DAY 6 – Wednesday 26.04.2017

( Night at: Adagio Apart Hotel Access, Paris Reuilly )

On our last morning, my boyfriend had to leave very early to catch his flight back to Italy for work. I stayed behind, had a quiet morning at the hotel, and after checking out, I made my way to Charles de Gaulle Airport using the metro and RER. My EasyJet flight back to Milan Malpensa was scheduled for 13:40, and thankfully, everything went smoothly. Once I landed in Milan, I took the bus to Milano Centrale, then hopped on the train back to Alessandria, my university city. It was the end of another Paris adventure — short but filled with beautiful memories, long walks, amazing views, and, as always, a bit of that Parisian magic.

Pause de quelques jours en Côte d’Azur 2017

( Nice, the beach next to the Prom. des Anglais )

une was a tough month for me. I had been studying intensely for my university exams, but one in particular — math — didn’t go well at all. That disappointment, combined with everything else going on in my life, really weighed on me. I felt the need to get away, to breathe, and to spend some time alone and reflect.

Since finishing my Erasmus in Portugal, I hadn’t really felt like myself. I was often sad, feeling lost in this strange in-between phase. My relationship was also going through a rough patch — on and off, full of uncertainty — and I honestly wasn’t sure if I wanted to continue or let it go. The idea of being alone for a little while felt necessary.

On top of that, coming back to my university city was harder than I expected. I had two new roommates I didn’t really connect with, I wasn’t seeing my high school friends as often as I used to, and everything felt overwhelming. I just wanted to leave, hit pause, and give myself the space I so badly needed.

DAY 1 – Wednesday 28.06.2017

( Night at: Hostel Altair, Nice )

So, I made a decision: I needed a break. I booked a direct train from Alessandria to Nice, packed a small bag, and left by myself in the afternoon. It was my first solo trip in a while, and honestly, the idea of going somewhere alone felt both exciting and necessary. I arrived in Nice just in time for sunset — the sky glowing with those soft pastel colors that make the French Riviera feel so magical. I checked into my hostel, which was conveniently located near the train station, dropped off my things, and headed out for the evening. For dinner, I found a cozy restaurant in the center of Nice. I sat alone, ordered something local, and just enjoyed the moment — no rush, no conversation, just me and the calm hum of a summer evening in the city. After dinner, I took a short walk through the streets, letting myself wander without a plan. It was peaceful and comforting to be somewhere new, with no expectations. Eventually, I made my way back to the hostel, feeling quietly proud of myself for taking that first step toward reconnecting with me.

DAY 2 – Thursday 29.06.2017

( Night at: Hostel Altair, Nice )

The next morning, I woke up feeling a little lighter. I had the whole day ahead of me and no schedule, no pressure — just me and the city. I spent the entire day wandering around Nice, discovering quiet corners, charming little streets, and soaking in the unique blend of French and Mediterranean vibes. One of my favorite parts was strolling along the iconic Promenade des Anglais — the sea breeze, the palm trees, and the rhythm of people going about their day made it feel almost cinematic. I stopped here and there to pick up some food, sometimes grabbing something warm from a bakery or putting together my own simple lunch with a fresh baguette and a few groceries from the local market. I found a spot by the beach and just sat for a while, taking in the view, letting my thoughts drift, and snapping a few photos to remember the calmness of the moment. It wasn’t a day full of plans or sightseeing — it was just slow, simple, and exactly what I needed.

DAY 3 – Friday 30.06.2017

( Night at: Payone camping, Biot )

On my last morning in Nice, I continued exploring a bit more of the city — slowly, with no rush. I wandered through the streets, soaking in the soft summer light and the calm atmosphere. At one point, I stopped at Amorino for an ice cream — their signature flower-shaped scoops always feel like a little treat to myself, and it was the perfect way to mark the end of my solo stay. In the evening, I took a train to Biot, a small, peaceful town not far from Nice. That’s where my boyfriend met me, and we headed together to Camping Le Payonne, where we stayed for the next two nights. It was a big shift from my solo time — from city walks and solo reflections to being together again in a more natural, quiet setting.

DAY 4 – Saturday 01.07.2017

( Night at: Payone camping, Biot )

The next morning, we headed to Antibes to enjoy a full beach day. The sun was shining, the sea was crystal clear, and we spent the morning just relaxing by the water, swimming, and soaking up the sun. It felt so good to slow down and just enjoy summer in the South of France. Later in the afternoon, we explored the old town of Antibes, full of charm with its narrow streets, local shops, and views of the marina. One of the highlights was visiting the Grimaldi Castle. The mix of history, art, and sea views made it such a special spot — and it added a little cultural touch to our seaside day.

DAY 5 – Sunday 02.07.2017

On our last day in France, we decided to make the most of it with one final adventure. In the morning, we drove to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and I absolutely fell in love with it. The nature, the peaceful vibes, and the sea views were just stunning. We did a little hike around the coast, soaking in every bit of the scenery — it felt like the perfect way to wrap up the trip. Before heading back to Italy, we made one last stop in Monaco, Monte Carlo. Even if it was just a quick visit, it’s always a cool place to walk around — elegant, polished, and full of that unique Monaco energy. After that, we drove back to Alessandria, where my boyfriend dropped me off, and just like that, the trip came to an end. It wasn’t a long vacation, but it gave me exactly what I needed — a mix of time for myself, moments of calm, and a little sunshine along the way.

Erasmus reunion in Lyon & Dijon 2017

May 21, 2020/BCtravelblogger/ Edit

We organize to see each other in France before I left to Riga in September 2017, fist to Lyon which is really close to my home and than also Dijon where Lindsay lives. It was very nice be again all together to remember the Erasmus vibes and having fun more than a yera later.

DAY 1 – Friday 01.09.2017

I left my home early in the morning and my mum she bring me to the train station in Asti and from there in Turin Vittorio Emanuele I took the bus at 9.25 to Lyon Part-Dieu and I arrived at 2:10 pm, there Tiphaine comes to pick me up and we went me her Pauline and Aline to the supermerkets to buy alcool to bring to Lindsay house, because after the supermarkets they drove to Dijon first Lindsay house where we had dinner and pre drinking and than we went in Dijon at the concert of Vitalic techno party in the main square of th old town and than we went back to Lindsay house to sleelp there with also few of their friends.

DAY 2 – Saturday 02.09.2017

In the morning everyone left so we stayed there was just me and Lindsay in the morning we stayed at home a bit in hangover and than we went to Dijon to visit the city together and with met again one of her frind from the night before and than in the noon we went back to her house which we had a raclette together absolutely delicious with all the french cheese. Than I slep in her house again.

DAY 3 – Sunday 03.09.2017

In the morning me and Lindsay we woke up kind of early we packed everything and together by car we we to Lyon at the family house of Tiph for a lunch all together with also her French friends, which it was very nice we had a very nice lunch with the parents of Tiph and her sister as well and after lunch Lindsay left to Montpellier for her University and me, Tiph and Pauline we stayed in the village of Tiph meeting other friends and spending the noon together around and for the evening we moved to Lyon city center to her apartment. We had an aperitif all three together on the boat very nice I relly liked Lyon by night was really nie and than we met again her friends and after dinner we sterted to drink a lot in pubs which we get kind of wasted again we went in little club but wasn’t too good because was Sunday night so almost everything closed and than we went to sleep in her apartment.

DAY 4 – Monday 04.09.2017

We woke up totally in hangover but we tryed to have few energy for me to visit the city and for them to show me the city. It was really amaizing the city the weather everything except that I was too in hangover so very tired and without energy. We spent all day around the city, we had a typical French lunch and we walked a lot, in the noon we went to visit the university apartment of Pauline as well than we had a fast food quick dinner togethr and than I went to the house of Tiph just me and her to chat a bit and than slep early because the day after she had to work and I had to took the bus to come back at home.

DAY 5 – Tuesday 05.09.2017

We woke up very early and Tiph she bring me at the bus station and as usual was very sad say good bye but it was a very nice week and and we really enjoy the time spent together.

New Caledonia 2023

It was a pretty spontaneous decision — I needed to make a stop somewhere between New Zealand and Japan, so I figured, why not explore somewhere new? I looked into New Caledonia and Vanuatu, and since New Caledonia turned out to be the more budget-friendly option, I went with that. Originally, I wanted to visit some of the surrounding islands too, but I knew the weather wasn’t going to be great during my stay. I thought about booking a few day tours instead, but in the end, I didn’t go through with it — I just wasn’t feeling my best.

DAY 1 – Wednesday 18.01.23

( Night at: Mocambo, Noumea )

( On the plane with New Zealand airways to Noumea )

I woke up at 6 a.m., got ready, and ordered an Uber to the airport. After dropping off my bags, I grabbed a quick breakfast at McDonald’s before boarding my flight at 9:05 a.m. An hour later, I landed in Nouméa at 10:05 a.m. The airport process was surprisingly smooth — quick checks and controls, probably because it’s technically France. After that, I figured out where to catch the shuttle to my hostel. The ride took over an hour, and once I finally checked in, I headed straight to the supermarket. I was starving. After eating, I crashed — hard. I felt awful from all the traveling and ended up staying in bed for the rest of the day.

DAY 2 – Thursday 19.01.23

( Night at: Mocambo, Noumea )

I woke up around 7:30 a.m., went downstairs for breakfast, and then headed out for a walk to the nearest beach — Plage de la Baie des Citrons. I took a few photos, but the weather wasn’t great, so I didn’t stay long and went back to my room. I wasn’t feeling well at all, so I decided to visit a clinic. I walked to one nearby, but it turned out to be just office spaces — no actual doctors. They directed me to another clinic, but it was much farther, and I would’ve needed a taxi and more effort than I had energy for. So, I gave up and went back to the hotel to rest. I spent most of the day in bed, trying to recover. Just before sunset, I pushed myself to get out and went back to Plage de la Baie des Citrons. The sunset wasn’t particularly spectacular, but at least I got some fresh air and a moment outside the room.

DAY 3 – Friday 20.01.23

( Night at: Mocambo, Noumea )

I woke up around 8 a.m., had breakfast, and then went for a walk around the city. It was pretty cloudy, though, so I didn’t end up taking many photos. After a bit of wandering, I stopped by the supermarket to grab some food and headed back to the hotel around 1 p.m. to eat. The rest of the day was super low-key — I just relaxed, did a bit of writing, and stayed in my room.

DAY 4 – Saturday 21.01.23

( Night at: Mocambo, Noumea )

I woke up later than usual and had breakfast downstairs. It started raining not long after — and it pretty much didn’t stop all day. So I ended up staying in the room the entire time. Luckily, I had a four-bed dorm to myself for most of the day, which made it feel a little more peaceful. Sometimes, a quiet, rainy day is just what you need.

DAY 5 – Sunday 22.01.23

I woke up at 7 a.m. and, to my surprise, the sun was shining — even though the forecast had predicted rain all day. I got ready right away and went out for a walk to take some photos. I walked all the way to The Roof, and on the way back, I stopped for breakfast at Lemon Bay Café, which was a lovely little spot. Back at the hotel, I quickly changed and headed to Plage de la Baie des Citrons to soak up the sun. I stayed there until around noon, when the clouds started to roll in. I went back to the hotel, took a shower, and later returned to the beach to catch the sunset — and this time, it was actually a beautiful one. At 8:30 p.m., the shuttle picked me up to go to the airport. I had a bit of a wait before my flight to Narita at 1:05 a.m., but luckily time passed quickly, and I managed to sleep well on the plane.

Fiji, Vanuatu and NC 2023

After ten weeks of work in Darwin, I felt it was time for a vacation. At first, I was planning to go to Bali solo, but then I decided I wanted to travel with Carmel instead. We started looking at options together — if not Bali, I was really keen on visiting Vanuatu, but the flights from Darwin weren’t ideal. So we ended up going to Fiji for a couple of days, and then headed to New Caledonia, staying on an island I had actually wanted to visit the last time I was there. It all came together pretty spontaneously, but I was excited for a mix of relaxation and exploring somewhere new.

DAY 1 – Monday 9.10.23

( Night at: Grand West Villas, Nadi )

( Layover in Brisbane, Australia )

Our journey started with a 1:10 a.m. flight to Brisbane with Jetstar, landing at 5:15 a.m. After a bit of a layover, we boarded our next flight at 11:35 a.m. to Nadi, Fiji, and landed around 5:10 p.m. local time. From the airport, we grabbed a taxi to our villa, settled in, and later went out for dinner at Smugglers Cove — a laid-back spot right by the beach. After a long day of travel, we just relaxed for a bit and then headed back to the accommodation to catch up on some much-needed sleep.

DAY 2 – Tuesday 10.10.23

( Night at: Nakelo Tresure Island )

( Nakelo Tresure Island, Fiji )

We woke up at 6:30 a.m. and walked to Smugglers Cove, arriving around 7:15 a.m. to catch the transfer bus to Port Denarau. From there, we boarded the 9:00 a.m. South Sea Cruises boat headed to Treasure Island. As soon as we arrived, we were welcomed with a Fijian Day celebration, followed by tea time — a lovely introduction to island life. Later, we took a nap under the sun (or should I say “in the moonlight of midday laziness”), then wandered off for a peaceful walk around the island. We ended the day watching the sunset by the pool, and had dinner while local performers sang and danced for us — such a warm and joyful atmosphere that made the whole experience feel special.

DAY 3 – Wednesday 11.10.23

( Night at: Nakelo Tresure Island )

( Sandbar in front of Nakelo Tresure Island, Fiji )

We woke up around 8:30 a.m. and decided to rent a kayak for a little adventure. We paddled out to a private sandbar, where we spent the morning relaxing, enjoying the views, and just soaking in the peaceful vibe of the ocean. After heading back to the island, we had lunch and took it easy for the rest of the afternoon — just chilling and unwinding. As evening rolled in, we returned to our favorite spot by the pool, watched another beautiful sunset, and ended the day with a laid-back dinner right there.

DAY 4 – Thursday 12.10.23

( Night at: Coco Beach Resort, Port Vila )

( Nakelo Tresure Island, Fiji )

We woke up at 5 a.m. to catch the sunrise — a peaceful and quiet moment before getting ready to leave the island. After breakfast, we boarded the South Sea Cruises boat back to Nadi at 9:45 a.m. Once we arrived, we took a taxi to the airport to continue our journey. Our flight left Nadi at 2:30 p.m., and we landed in Port Vila, Vanuatu around 4:05 p.m. After clearing the airport, we caught a shuttle to our accommodation. The weather wasn’t great when we arrived, but we still managed to enjoy a bit of the atmosphere before having dinner at the property and calling it an early night.

DAY 5 – Friday 13.10.23

( Night at: Coco Beach Resort, Port Vila )

( Coco Beach Club, Vanuatu )

We woke up to find that the weather and water conditions weren’t great, so we ended up just chilling for most of the day, taking it slow and doing pretty much nothing — which honestly wasn’t too bad. In the evening, we headed down to the beach to catch the fire show at The Beach Bar, which was a fun way to wrap up an otherwise quiet day. After the show, we made our way back to the accommodation and called it a night.

DAY 6 – Saturday 14.10.23

( Night at: Coco Beach Resort, Port Vila )

( Eden on the river, Vanuatu )

We woke up early, had breakfast, and got picked up near our accommodation for a day tour of the island that we had booked online through GetYourGuide ( https://www.getyourguide.com/port-vila-l32388/port-vila-island-tour-bbq-lunch-and-swimming-with-turtles-t300160/?ranking_uuid=bf79dc97-9a58-411b-925a-f35c97904f1c. ).

The tour was enjoyable — a little short for the price, but it gave us a nice overview of the island. After the tour, we headed into town to check out the local markets, which were vibrant and full of life. On the way back, we hopped on a shared minibus to return to the accommodation. In the evening, we had dinner by the beach at the accommodation’s restaurant — a lovely and relaxing way to end the day — and then called it a night.

DAY 7 – Sunday 15.10.23

( Night at: Tranquility Eco Dive Resort, Moso Island )

( Moso Island, Vanuatu )

We were picked up from our hotel at 7:45 a.m. and headed north toward Havannah Port, where we caught a ferry over to Tranquility Island Eco Resort. The journey itself was already scenic, but once we arrived, the real magic began. The island was absolutely stunning — a wild, untouched paradise that’s home only to the resort. It felt like we had stepped into another world. Our little bungalow was beautiful, simple yet charming, and surrounded by nature. We had lunch at the resort, then spent the afternoon relaxing, exploring the island, and snapping photos. As the sun set, we joined the other guests for a cozy group dinner, sharing travel stories and soaking in the peaceful island vibes.

DAY 8 – Monday 16.10.23

( Night at: Auberge du Mocambo, Noumea )

( Moso Island, Vanuatu )

We woke up early, had breakfast, and packed our lunch to-go for a little adventure. We decided to go on a hike across the island to visit another beach — and it turned out to be absolutely incredible. We were completely alone, not a single soul in sight, just us and the ocean. It honestly felt like our own private paradise. After soaking it all in, we made our way back to the accommodation and boarded the boat around 4 p.m., heading back to Port Havannah, where our shuttle was waiting to take us to the airport. Our flight with Aircalin departed at 9:55 p.m., and we landed in Noumea around 11:00 p.m. From there, we went straight to the accommodation and crashed into bed, exhausted but so content from the experience.

DAY 9 – Tuesday 17.10.22

( Night at: Double Tree Hilton Hotel, Ilot Maitre )

( Double Tree Hilton at Ilot Maitre, Noumea )

We woke up early and had breakfast at Lemon Bay Café, then I grabbed a taxi to Port Moselle, heading to pier K0 for the 9:00 a.m. boat transfer to Ilot Maître. Once we arrived on the island, we went to check in, but since it was still too early, we decided to go for lunch first. Afterward, we headed to the room to relax — the weather wasn’t great, so it was the perfect excuse to take it slow. In the evening, we ordered room service, enjoyed a hot bath, and had a cozy night watching TV. Not a bad way to unwind, even with the gloomy skies.

DAY 10 – Wednesday 18.10.22

( Our room at Double Tree Hilton at Ilot Maitre, Noumea )

We woke up early and had breakfast at the hotel on the island. Since the weather had started to clear up, we took the chance to snap a few last photos and soak in the views one more time. By 2:00 p.m., it was time to leave Ilot Maître and head back to the main island, where we caught a bus straight to the airport. Our first flight with Qantas departed at 5:05 p.m., landing in Brisbane at 6:40 p.m. We had a short layover in Brisbane, just enough time to grab some dinner and stretch our legs, before boarding our second Qantas flight to Darwin at 8:45 p.m., arriving just after midnight at 12:35 a.m. Tired but happy, we made our way home to finally rest.

Chamonix and Milan 2025 

( Mount Blanc from Chamonix, France ) 

After our time in Poland, Carmel decided — or rather, insisted — that she wanted to visit QC Terme in Mont Blanc, which I had actually gifted her for Christmas. So, from Poland, we flew to the nearest (and cheapest) airport to Chamonix and made our way there. We spent some time exploring the town of Chamonix and, of course, enjoyed a relaxing day at the Terme, soaking in the incredible views and warm waters. Organizing everything with public transport was a bit of a mission, but definitely doable — and totally worth it. After that, we headed to Milan for the weekend, where I got to show Carmel a bit of Italian culture — the food, the architecture, and just the overall vibe of the city. Then, on January 27th, we continued our journey, making our way up to Lugano, Switzerland, for the next chapter of the adventure.

DAY 1 – Monday 20.01.25 

( Night at: Hotel le Chamonix ) 

( Flight KLM from Krakow to Geneva, Switzerland ) 

We woke up at 7:00 a.m., got ready, packed everything, and checked out of the hotel. We walked to the train station, grabbed a quick breakfast there, and bought tickets for the 9:06 a.m. train to the airport. At Kraków John Paul II Balice Airport (KRK), we had some time to wait, so I used it to send out a few CVs before our 11:45 a.m. flight to Amsterdam. The flight was slightly delayed but very smooth and super short — we landed in Amsterdam around 2:00 p.m. From there, things got hectic. We were a bit nervous about missing our connecting flight to Geneva at 3:10 p.m., so we rushed through the airport. Thankfully, we made it just in time and landed in Geneva at 4:40 p.m. After picking up our luggage, we caught a FlixBus (operated by another company) to Chamonix at 6:00 p.m. Once we arrived in Chamonix, we walked from the bus station to our hotel and went straight to bed — completely exhausted after a day that took us through four different countries.

DAY 2 – Tuesday 21.01.25

( Night at: Hotel le Chamonix )

( Red train of Montenvers, Chamonix ) 

We woke up at 8:00 a.m., had breakfast at the hotel, and then made our way to the Gare de Chamonix to catch the Montenvers Train up to the Mer de Glace glacier. Even the train ride itself was such a cool experience — winding through the mountains with stunning views all around. At the top, we explored the Grotte de Glace (Ice Cave) — while it was quite small, it was definitely a unique and surreal experience to walk through tunnels carved into the glacier. After that, we warmed up with a hot chocolate and a delicious onion soup at Le Panoramic Bar. The weather was sunny and clear, so we sat outside to enjoy the mountain views — absolutely magical. By 3:10 p.m., we took the train back down to Chamonix and spent some time wandering around the town, eventually stopping for a treat at Amorino Gelateria. Later, we headed back to the hotel to freshen up before going out for dinner at Restaurant La Moraine, where we had raclette and hot mulled wine — the perfect cozy meal to end the day. After dinner, we walked back to the hotel and fell asleep happy and full.

DAY 3 – Wednesday 22.01.25 

( Night at: Hotel le Chamonix )

( QC terme monte bianco, Chamonix ) 

We woke up at 8:00 a.m., had breakfast at the hotel, and got ready for a full day of relaxation at QC Terme Mont Blanc. It was about a 20-minute walk, and we arrived just before 11:00 a.m. The spa was absolutely beautiful — set against the mountains, with soft snowflakes falling throughout the day, adding to the magical atmosphere. We spent hours trying out all the different rooms and pools, fully embracing the peaceful vibes. Around 4:30 p.m., we enjoyed a little aperitivo included in our ticket, complete with two drinks and some small bites. As the evening set in, we went back out to the outdoor pools, soaking under the stars — such a surreal and relaxing moment. By 8:00 p.m., we showered, got changed, and made our way back into town. On the way, we stopped at Burger “Poco Loco” for a crêpe and a glass of hot mulled wine, which hit the spot after a day of soaking and chilling. Then it was back to the hotel for a cozy night’s sleep.

DAY 4 – Thursday 23.01.25

( Night at: Aurora Hotel Milano ) 

( Lunch at Calèche, Chamonix ) 

We woke up around 8:00 a.m., had breakfast at the hotel, and then packed up everything to check out. With a bit of time before our departure, we went for a final walk around Chamonix, snapping a few last photos of the charming mountain town. For lunch, we stopped at La Calèche, where we indulged in another round of raclette — and it was absolutely delicious, the perfect farewell meal for our time in the Alps. Afterward, we strolled through town a bit more and grabbed one last hot chocolate at Café Tartine to warm up before leaving. We returned to the hotel to pick up our luggage, then walked to the bus station to catch our FlixBus to Milan at 4:20 p.m. The ride was smooth, and we arrived at Milano Lampugnano around 8:20 p.m. From there, we hopped on the metro to our hotel, checked in, and called it a night — ready to explore a new city in the morning.

DAY  5 – Friday 24.01.25

( Night at: Aurora Hotel Milano ) 

( Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milano ) 

We woke up at 7:30 a.m. and started the day with breakfast at Pasticceria Bottarelli, a cozy local spot with great coffee and pastries. At 10:00 a.m., we joined a free walking tour of Milan, which turned out to be a fantastic way to explore the city and learn some local history. The tour took us through some of Milan’s most iconic spots, including the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Teatro alla Scala, Castello Sforzesco, and Piazza Affari. It was a great mix of culture, history, and architecture. After the tour, the guide recommended a typical Milanese restaurant — Cantina della Vetra — where we had lunch. It was the perfect place to try some local dishes in a traditional setting. In the afternoon, we headed back toward our area — Carmel had an appointment to get her lashes done, so we relaxed a bit before heading out again in the evening. We finished the day in one of Milan’s most charming neighborhoods: the Navigli. There, we enjoyed an aperitivo at The Mas, where Carmel tried both an Aperol Spritz and a Campari — a real Milanese experience. Afterward, we took the tram back to the hotel and called it a night.

DAY 6 – Saturday 25.01.25

( Night at: Aurora Hotel Milano ) 

( Court yard parallel to via Monte Napoleone, Milan ) 

We had a slower start today, waking up around 9:00 a.m., and made our way to the Duomo with the intention of visiting the inside. But when we arrived, we were met with a massive queue — so we decided to skip the line and explore the shops around the Duomo instead, since Carmel needed to pick up some new winter clothes. Later, we headed over to Via Monte Napoleone, Milan’s famous high-end shopping street, to window shop and take in the stylish vibes of the city. For lunch, we stopped at Kiku, a cozy sushi restaurant, and enjoyed a really satisfying meal before heading back to the hotel to relax and digest after all the walking (and food!). In the evening, we went out again to Corso Buenos Aires, browsing the shops while on a mission to find a baby shower present for Stacy. After ticking that off the list, we made our way back to the hotel to wind down and get some rest.. 

DAY 7 – Sunday 26.01.25

( Night at: Aurora Hotel Milano ) 

( At lunch with Stacy and Simone, Cereseto ) 

We woke up at 7:30 a.m. and started the day with a tram and train ride to Vercelli, where Silvia met us and drove us to Monferrato Resort in Cereseto for Stacy and Simone’s baby shower. The venue was absolutely beautiful — nestled in the countryside with gorgeous views and a warm, relaxed vibe. The event itself was super fun, filled with laughter, lovely people, and a delicious lunch. It was the perfect way to celebrate with friends in such a stunning setting. After the party, Silvia and Emanuele kindly dropped us back at the Vercelli station, and we took the train back to Milan. Before heading to the hotel, we made a quick stop at the Duomo to see it beautifully lit up at night, which felt like the perfect way to wrap up the day. Then it was straight back to the hotel for some well-earned rest.

DAY 8 – Monday 27.01.25 

( Night at: Guesthouse, Lugano ) 

( Arriving in Lugano to start a new chapter with the train during a rainy winter day, Switzerland ) 

We woke up around 8:00 a.m. and headed out for one last breakfast at Pasticceria Bottarelli, which had become a bit of a favorite spot during our time in Milan. After breakfast, we returned to the hotel, packed up our things, and walked over to Milano Centrale. Before catching our train, we made a quick stop at Aldi to grab some groceries for the trip. We then boarded the direct train to Lugano at 12:43 p.m., and by just before 3:00 p.m., we had already arrived and checked into our hotel — super smooth journey! The rest of the day was slow and quiet. We stayed in, worked on CVs, organized our stuff, and just took some time to rest and recharge. After a busy stretch of travel, it felt good to have a bit of downtime. We wrapped up the evening with an early night.

Paris as a quick honey moon 2025

( Eiffel Tower, Paris ) 

After our wedding, we decided to spend a few days in Paris—a city Carmel had never seen, and one often called the most romantic in the world. I had lived there before, but returning with her felt completely new, like rediscovering it from the heart outwards. It was a bit of a spontaneous trip, squeezed in just before her tourist visa was due to expire, but somehow everything fell into place. We planned it with care, making space for both the must-sees and some hidden corners I had never explored myself. One of the most magical moments was waking up before dawn, slipping into our wedding dresses once more, and heading to the Eiffel Tower for a sunrise photoshoot. The city was still asleep, the light soft and golden—it felt like we had Paris all to ourselves.

DAY 1 – Sunday 06.03.25

( Night at: Sublim by Sweet, Paris ) 

We woke up at 4:30 AM, checked out of the Airbnb, and walked to Milano Centrale to catch the Terravision bus to Malpensa T2 at 5:30 AM. Our flight to Paris Orly was at 7:15 AM and went pretty smoothly – we even slept a bit. Once we arrived, since we didn’t have much luggage, we went straight to the Trocadéro, bought something to eat at the supermarket, and watched the Eiffel Tower. It was an amazing day, so we walked around, went to Champ de Mars, and had Nutella crêpes while enjoying the view. Around 1 PM, we tried to go to the YSL Museum, but it was sold out. So we took the bus to the hotel, waited for about half an hour, checked in, and took a nap. Later, we got up, got ready, and went on a romantic dinner cruise on the Seine starting at 7:15 PM. It was such a beautiful experience during sunset, just one day after our wedding. Afterwards, we walked back to the hotel and went to sleep.

DAY 2 – Monday 07.03.25

( Night at: Sublim by Sweet, Paris ) 

We woke up around 8 and headed to the supermarket to grab some breakfast essentials. With our pain au chocolate and baguette in hand, we walked to the Jardin du Luxembourg and had a little picnic there. It was freezing, though, so after a short while we decided to find a nearby shop to buy some warmer clothes. Once bundled up, we made our way to the Pantheon for a quick visit from the outside, then continued to Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle, both admired from the exterior as well. From there, we wandered through the streets until we reached the Seine, where we paused under the sun for a second breakfast—just soaking in the views and the peacefulness of the river. Our next stop was the Louvre, where we had timed-entry tickets for 1 p.m. It was incredibly crowded, as always, but still absolutely worth it. After the museum, we made another quick supermarket stop and took our snacks to the Tuileries Gardens, right next to the Louvre, where we relaxed and people-watched. Later, we strolled through the gardens and caught the metro to visit Le Mur des Je t’aime, a sweet little spot filled with “I love you” in every language. From there, we made our way up to Montmartre, wandered around for a bit, took some photos, and enjoyed the vibe—though by then, we were starting to feel the tiredness set in. We headed to the hotel to rest for a bit before going out for dinner at Café Basile in the 15th arrondissement. After a cozy meal, we made our way back to the hotel and called it a night.

DAY 3 – Tuesday 08.03.25

( Night at: Sublim by Sweet, Paris ) 

We woke up bright and early at 5:30 a.m., got ready quickly, and hopped on the metro to Trocadéro for our sunrise photoshoot. By 6:40 a.m., we were already in place, and to our delight, the area was completely empty. It felt surreal to have the iconic view of the Eiffel Tower all to ourselves. We took tons of photos in the soft morning light—it was truly magical. After the shoot, we grabbed a quick breakfast from a nearby supermarket and then headed back to the hotel to change. Not long after, we walked over to the Catacombs of Paris, where we had tickets booked for 10:30 a.m. The experience was haunting and fascinating—wandering through tunnels lined with centuries of history was unlike anything else. From there, we took the metro to the Arc de Triomphe, snapped a few photos, and then strolled down the Champs-Élysées, making a sweet stop at Ladurée for some delicious macarons. Our late morning continued with a visit to the Galeries Lafayette, followed by a quick look at the beautiful façade of the Palais Garnier before heading back to the hotel for lunch and to rest. After a short nap, we got ready for an unforgettable night out. By 7 p.m., we were at the Moulin Rouge for dinner and the iconic show. It was vibrant, fun, and full of energy—I absolutely loved it! The evening wrapped up around midnight, and we went straight to bed, hearts full and feet tired from another amazing day in Paris.

DAY 4 – Wednesday 09.03.25 

On our final morning in Paris, we woke up early at 6:30 a.m., got ready, and caught the metro and train out to Versailles. On the way, we passed by a supermarket, picked up some breakfast, and enjoyed it in the gardens of the palace as the day slowly began. At 9 a.m., the gates opened and we entered the Palace of Versailles, making our way through the stunning halls and, of course, the famous Hall of Mirrors—even more breathtaking in person. After the indoor visit, we headed back out into the gardens one last time, soaking in the grandeur before saying goodbye and took few pictures. By noon, we were on our way to Charles de Gaulle Airport for our flight back to Italy. Our plane departed at 15:25 and landed at Milan Malpensa around 16:55. From there, we hopped on a train to Milano Centrale, grabbed a quick dinner at McDonald’s, and then caught another train to Brescia. One final bus ride took us to Gussago, where we arrived around 9:20 p.m.—tired but full of memories. We went straight to sleep, hearts full from such a beautiful trip and still dreaming of all we had just experienced together.