Why I’m taking a break from travel.

January 21, 2020July 7, 2020 by Girl About Europe ♥ 13 Comments

Do you ever just sit and scroll endlessly through multiple social media platforms, gawping at photos of sandy beaches and sunsets from atop mountain ranges?

Or do you ever feel green with envy that folks are able to whip up several blog posts in the time it takes you to brew a coffee?

Welcome to the club!!!

I often feel deflated at the fact that I can’t quite measure up to the success of others I see on the daily.

Beating myself up about how I’ll never be as good a writer or photographer. Wasting copious amounts of time pining over the fact that I can’t travel full time or even afford a weekend break – then suddenly this got me thinking about my behaviours not just as a traveller but as a blogger too.

The internet has brought much richness to my life, such as the ability to connect with people all around the world, to access an endless supply of information at the click of a mouse and of course to share my own corner of the internet through blogging; but from time to time the negativities of social media also rears its ugly head and in enters jealousy and competition.

To some my life may look pretty exciting, but like many of us this simply isn’t the case and we’re all at least a little bit guilty of highlighting only our best moments.

Solo travel female in the USA — Aren’t we all guilty of sharing only our highlights?

This is why I wanted to write this post and challenge this mentality.

Now don’t get me wrong, I love the travel blogging community, the talent and creativity out there is unbelievable but at the same time I must pause and ask…

When did figures become such a thing?
Or why is it that all I’m seeing are sales pitches lately? When did this become more important than genuine engagement?

How many of you reading this are absolutely bamboozled with the thought of figuring out how social media marketing even works, or setting up a SEO plan?… jeez, how many of us even struggle to find just the motivation to create, pin and even write blog content?
I know I certainly do, daily.

I’d reached a point where all the joy of writing was being sucked out of me – because I was worried about how well ‘liked’ my content would be, or whether it would grab the attention of some fancy company, then stressing about trying to come up with edgy unique content.

Whilst in Slovenia I took a moment to ask myself whether I was actually there to enjoy the city or just to take photos for the Gram.
The fact I even had to ask myself this question said it all.
Travel and the community was becoming a chore.
It changed me.

I think in one way or another we’ve all been a little guilty of this, which is why I think it’s important to stop and ask ourselves just how honest are we about our travel and blogging motives?

Reflexion about my travels — Taking a moment to reflect.

So why am I taking a break from travel?

The simple answer – To get back to my roots.

To go back to a time when I found writing enjoyable and adapt a much healthier and creative approach to my work.
To stray away from the negative influences of online jealousy, competition and most importantly comparison.

Instead I plan to focus my efforts other aspects of my life, like honing in on other skills and interests such as art, languages and photography to name a few.

Secondly to branch out in other topics on my blog and add a ‘Journal’ section, to include other thoughts.

To take a Staycation.
Having spent so much time and energy trying to get away from the UK, I’ve realised I’ve taken for granted and neglected so much about where I’m from.
This year I want to dive into more UK based learning and exploration.

So what other factors have influenced this decision?

Money

I’m broke…. like all the time and haven’t spent wisely. Choosing travel over rent. Not a good idea.

This time around I’ve decided to put away a decently substantial amount of savings over the next few years (or to the best of my ability) for a more long term venture in the future.

Like most of us here, I too dream of being able to pack up and travel for a year, or even longer, however at the same time, I’ve decided not to make money be the primary focus. So I felt that this was the right time to cut down my work hours and use this to benefit my mental health.

Lastly to focus on other hobbies which cost little to no money such as going to the gym and painting.

Unhealthy Competition

To break the cycle of comparing my life to others and getting so caught up in the depression it brought along with it.
I no longer wanted to be in competition but instead support and encourage others to follow what they love.

To remember that numbers aren’t everything and isn’t the be all and end all.

To focus more on content

This year I want to actually take a step back and add more love to my blog, to steer away from the ‘5 Best things to do in Slovenia’ but instead actually approach my blog with a more personal perspective from real experiences.

Of course I didn’t tick off everything on my Ljubljana bucketlist but that doesn’t make what I have to say any less credible.

I find that some bloggers forget this.

So yes, this year is all about focusing on reigniting that that spark within my content, figure out my style. Write from present, past and eventually future experiences.

Incorporate new angles and ideas.

Stressing less about how much or how often I post content and remember that quality over quantity is what matters.

Be more in the moment

When I first started blogging I would be eager to write down as many notes as possible in said place, therefore writing a post within a few days or even the same day.

Then soon enough I began realise I couldn’t remember much… as I was too focused on taking just photographs, rather than actually taking the time to just ‘be in the moment’, fast forward a week (who am I kidding, more like 4 months) and here I am still staring at a blank page when recollecting my thoughts

In future, I will limit the use of technology, enjoying the time spent in a location, maybe write down a few notes.
If I’m feeling particularly creative with the camera, then I plan to only take a select few photos, if any.

Be. More. Present

True vs. false expectations

As much as I love social media, Instagram it the absolute worst.
The overly edited, over saturated photos I see repeatedly throughout my feed.

Content Aggregators who gather and regurgitate other people’s content purely for the sake of followers and likes, many of which do not credit the original owners and their work.

Photos which have been altered to the point they are unrecognisable, therefore leaving us with unrealistic expectations, only to be disappointed when visiting these places for real.

I’m not against a little tweaking here or there, cropping, brightening etc…. but let’s keep it real, keep it ORGANIC.

Lastly….

Reflect
To learn to appreciate the opportunities which have presented themselves and be grateful for the opportunities to be able to travel.

This isn’t a post on why I plan to quit travel… I will again – but why I plan to take a step back for now and focus on creating and getting back to my roots and focusing on my blog with a renewed sense of fun and passion.

Why I began this adventure to begin with.

How to spend 72 Hours in Lviv

November 3, 2019May 15, 2020 by Girl About Europe ♥ 1 Comment

Lviv wasn’t initially on the itinerary but easily one of the best accidental stop over destinations I’m happy to have been stranded in.

The original plan was to head straight to Khmelnitsky for my Language Immersion Programme, however after a 5 hour flight delay (which inevitably resulted in missing my train from Lviv) I decided to ditch the station and look for a hostel instead.

It was dark, my phone battery was dying and I was desperate for a place to stay, so when I spotted availability at Dream Hostel I booked myself in. (I figured if my battery died or I got lost, Rynok square would be an obvious spot that anybody could direct me to)

The morning after I woke to a beautiful sunny day and a bustling hostel, I peered out of the window overlooking the street which leads to Rynok Square and was sold instantly.
Had it been dark and tired upon arrival I hadn’t even noticed how beautiful my surroundings where.
So I got dressed and went to explore.

Of course it was only fair to give Lviv the time it deserved and extended my stay, adding Lviv to my adventures across Ukraine.

Lviv –> Khmelnitsky –> Odessa –> Kiev

I didn’t have much time to plan and see everything I wanted to but what better excuse to return right?

A little about Lviv

Lviv, known as the capital of Western Ukraine and often referred to as the little Paris of the East, is a city steeped in a culturally rich and historical past.

Founded in 1256 by King Danylo Halitsky, he named the city in honour of his son Lev. (Also known as Leo)

Lviv historic centre Rynok Square is a UNESCO protected zone and the heart of the city.

Around the city you will find an eclectic collection of Ukrainian architectural styles (known as the Hutsul Secession) which bases its designs around local folk architecture as well as Renaissance and Baroque builds which can be found scattered throughout the city.

Nowadays the city is and so known for its plethora of coffee, chocolate and it’s welcoming atmosphere.

My Hostel

I’ve noticed that hostels in Ukraine are quite generous in terms of check-in and checkout times (Or at least from the 4 different hostels I’ve stated in so far in Ukraine)

Whilst in Lviv I stayed at Dream hostel, in central historical district (Krakivska Street) which is situated less than one minute walk away from Rynok square.

The hostel boasts orthopaedic mattresses which in itself are what sold it for me. Other perks include: Location, high quality accommodation at affordable prices, Free WI-FI throughout, a spacious kitchen and lounge area and onsite café.

I will leave a link to the hostel here.

So If like me and you’re just passing through for a couple of days, then here’s what I recommend;

Rynok square (Market Square)

Rynok Square is the heart of the historical old town, here you will find a collection of conceptual restaurants, coffee shops and of course the Tourist Information Center.

Walking through the Square will transport you back in time, laid out are the beautifully decorated buildings, cobblestone paths and local produce stalls.
In each corner of the square you will find monuments depicting four Greek Mythological figures, Neptune, Amphitrite, Adonis and Diana.

Neptune Monument is also the meeting spot for local guided tours, which include the half day sightseeing tours, private Lviv Jewish history tours and free guided walking tour, all of which are operated in Ukrainian, Spanish and English.

Rynok square plays an important part in being the center for market for trade, hosting festivals and is the hub of social activity.

Town Hall

Here you will also find Lviv town hall, one of two spots where you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the city; all you need is a ticket and the determination to tackle 408 steps on your way up. The views are worth it, I promise.

Entrance to City Hall is free but a ticket to access the stairs/observation deck cost approx 20 Hyrivna.

(Unfortunately my phone started playing up by this point and was unable to snap a photo, so here’s an earlier shot of a Lada instead)

High Castle

Not quite what I expected but well worth the 2km hike from Rynok Square nonetheless. High Castle is in fact not really a castle but just a few remaining ruins of the historic castle remains.
It is basically a park located on the highest hill in Lviv, just outside the city centre.

The artificial Union of Lublin Mound is located on summit of the hill where the castle used to stand and there is an observation platform with a flying Ukrainian flag on the top of the mound.

The view from the platform is just fantastic and well worth the hike up the hill (approx 30 minutes).

Lviv Theatre of Opera and Ballet

Located in the heart of the city, Lviv Theatre of Opera and Ballet is one of the most distinctive and beautiful buildings in the city.
A neo-classical build combining influences of Baroque and Classicism.
Here you will have the opportunity to watch world-class classical performances or Opera music.

From the outside you can admire the stunning exterior of the building as well as enjoy a stroll up and down what seems to be a small square, equipped with seating areas, beautiful fountains and small craft market stalls.

Also, be sure to come visit at night too, the lighting of this building is truly beautiful.

Yard of Lost Toys

Located in one of Lviv’s oldest neighbourhood you will come across an eerily unusual attraction of lost toys which have been left behind.

The story goes that a local resident living in the area found two lost toys and placed them under a small roof located in the courtyard of 1 Mukachivska apartment block, in hopes that they would be found.

Unfortunately the owner of these lost toys never returned and has since become a little hub for other lost toys and items such as bicycles, instruments, furniture and even a swing, giving these forgotten items a home.

Items in which have been carefully placed to resemble some kind of colourful shrine.

New toys are added, some are retrieved but you can’t help but appreciate the quirkiness (and somewhat creepiness) of hundreds of dolls/clowns peering at you.

Restaurants I loved

Kryivka

For a truly quirky experience let me tell you a little about Kryivka, a restaurant with a secret address.
An underground wartime bunker of Kryivika was once the hidden hiding place of the Ukrainian insurgent army during WWII.

This is a must visit restaurant in Lviv. The fun starts with the guard in the entrance, to enter you may need some help you when you knock on the door.
To enter you must say the password “Slava Ukraini” meaning ‘Glory to Ukraine’, the guard will then pour you a shot of Honey Vodka and direct you downstairs to continue the fun, for example where ordering the wrong dish can see you imprisoned as a suspected Russian spy.
Release is only achieved by singing a Ukrainian song.

The interior of the bunker is dimly lit yet extremely cosy, the food is rustic, delicious and extremely affordable.

Honey Vodka and Borscht…. I ate/drank copious amounts.

Masoch Cafe

One of the more unusual places to visit and certainly not for the faint.
Masoch Cafe, dedicated to the famous writer Leopold Sacher-Masoch, who was born, raised and even crafted his masterpieces in Lviv, today you can still enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat – however this isn’t the only reason this place attracts so much intrigue.

What if I told you this was a BDSM bar too?

Who would have thought that masochism and dining can go together?

As soon as you enter you will be greeted by moody candlelight and BDSM-aesthetics which continually runs throughout the cafe, even down to the wall decor and ‘vagina’ carved seats.
The staff plays in important role too by whipping you as you enter and exit the cafe.

If you’re feeling particularly brave they will even blindfold you and tie you up and whip you more.

I wish I could have taken a few photos but upon reaching out for my phone, I was relentlessly whipped by the waitress.

Giggity.

The 5^th Dungeon – 5 Pidzemellya

How could I not include this place?
A restaurant entirely underground and made up of stone chambers and dungeons.

The general feel is incredibly atmospheric! Everything is thought out to the smallest detail, medieval style in everything: the interior, candle lighting, a menu of rustic dishes, craft beers and how cosy everything is.

I mean where else are you going to find a slab of meat with a side of chicken hearts served on a slab of stone right?

Even the service itself was like a theatrical performance made up of servers dressed as monks rushing throughout the halls!

Not forgetting the dozens of amazing photo ops to be taken, including the sword in the stone.

Honestly I wish I’d had more then 48 hours to explore but given the circumstances of having to attend my language immersion programme, I could have easily stayed here and extra week or so.

However I’ll take 48 hours over nothing, any day.

So here it is.

I hope you enjoyed this short but sweet post about Lviv, my post barely scratches the surface on the absolute amazing things to see, do and eat.
My list could go on.
I’ll be sure to visit again soon and hope this inspires your interest in visiting beautiful Ukraine.

But until then, Happy travels.

Trekking Crater Lake, Oregon

April 9, 2019November 15, 2020 by Girl About Europe ♥ 5 Comments

Oregon as a whole is often an extremely overlooked State in the US but most definitely one worth adding to any cross country road trip itinerary.

If you’re particularly fond of nature and other outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, camping and even swimming then Crater Lake, Oregon is definitely the place to visit.

With over 200 waterfalls spread across, 11 national forests and over 300 state parks, it’s no surprise that Oregon attracts thousands of visitors each year yet is still so underrated in comparison to its neighbouring National Parks such as Yosemite or Lake Tahoe.

Did you know that Oregon is home to the deepest and most vivid blue lake in the entire US?

Getting there
From San Francisco, California, you can take the I-5N which is the most efficient and fastest way, but if you have time to spare and prefer the more scenic route then definitely opt for Highway 1 Northbound along the Pacific North West Coast. You won’t regret it.

Once arriving across the Oregon State border you will have a few options for nearby* cities in which surround Crater Lake National Park, the most popular overnight stays being either Medford or Eugene. ( I stayed in Medford as it was closer and cheaper)

Just 66 miles (1hr 15m) North West of Medford via the OR-62 Route you will reach Crater Lake National Park.

Take full advantage of this gorgeous drive as you will be greeted by quirky little towns and stunning nature along the way such as Lost Creek Lake and the thousands of Ponderosa Pine Trees as you enter the National Park.

Oh and the occasional mountain…

Located in Klamath County, Crater Lake was once a former volcano (Mount Mazama) which erupted around 8000 years ago. Leaving behind a deep basin measuring 1949ft (594 meters) deep.

It has since been filled with years of rainfall and the melting snow from the surrounding mountains which have filtered and filled the lake, creating some of the most clearest and vibrabt blue waters to be seen.

Since there are no other streams or rivers which run into the lake, there is very little sediment affecting the clearness of the lake.

To put it super simply, it’s reflective blue hues are caused by the reflection of the sunlight which penetrates its depths. However I will leave a much more scientifically detailed explanation here.

Crater Lake relies upon climate, particularly the levels of evaporation and rainfall to keep its water steady throughout the year.

Steel Visitor Center

I entered Crate Lake via its south entrance and stopped off a Steel Visitors Center for a quick refreshment break before beginning the first part of the day around Crater Lake.

Here is a link to the Steel visitor center boop!

Here you will find tourist information, a cafeteria and outdoor parking.

Surrounding the perimeter of the lake is Rim Drive, a 33 mile scenic drive which loops the whole way round offering the most spectacular views.

There are even some viewpoints in which you can pull up to take a look and snap a few photos.

However be sure to check with the weather as during heavy snowfall periods these roads may be closed off for safety.

Despite this much effort is put into ensuring that access to the roads as well as Rim village is accessible throughout the year.

For the first part of the ‘hike’ I decided to follow the Discovery Point Trail, stopping off at various view points around the lake.

In comparison to the other hikes this was a fairly easy 4 mile trek, given that we visited during a scorching 104°F (40°C) summer, it was all we could handle.

Crater Lake certainly holds a certain spirit that speaks to the soul, the perfect place for anybody wishing to reconnect with nature.
You will truly be in awe at the raw power of nature and the forces of the earth can generate.

Unfortunately I was only able to spend a quick weekend away here but yet so pleased I chose to come here.

Even to this day I can still picture the mind blowing scenery and absolute peace I felt there and cannot wait to return again.

Some things of note before you visit Oregon State

• Pumping your own gas/petrol is illegal in the state of Oregon; however there will be an attendant to do this for you.

• There is also no sales tax, so the price that you see posted is what you’re actually paying.

I really hope you enjoyed reading this short but sweet post about beautiful Crater Lake and hope that it inspires you to add it to your itinerary.

This place holds so many special memories and hope you fall in love with it just as much as I did.

But for now,

Happy travels. Xo

The Best Budget Hostels in Europe

March 27, 2019July 7, 2020 by Girl About Europe ♥ 11 Comments

For anybody planning a trip to Europe, finding the right hostel which won’t kill your budget or compromise comfort can certainly be a task.

Fortunately if this is your first time hostelling then Europe is a great place to start.

With so many options and ‘styles’ of hostel accommodation to choose from, you will easily be spoiled for choice.

For me, what makes a great hostel is memorability and atmosphere. Despite even staying in some pretty run down places, the staff and people I met were definitely what made the experience worth while.

There are so many hostels I could include in this, especially over the past 12 years I’ve been staying in Hostels but I thought it would be a fun idea to get you started by putting together a small list of my absolute favorite so far.

So here is a list of my top 8 hostels to date, in no particular order:

😀

1. Ostello Santa Fosca, Venice, Italy

Location – Cannaregio, 2372, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy

About
Ostello Santa Fosca is situated in the Cannaregio District of Central Venice. Looking at the building entrance and courtyard you would think it was once a church and you would be right.

Parts of the building incorporating parts of Chiesa di servi dei Maria, which once served as the 3rd largest Catholic Church in Venice.

Whats nearby
Ostello Santa Fosca is within easy walking distance to popular Venetian sites and landmarks such as:

– 15 minute walk to St Marks Square
– 10 minutes walk to Rialto Bridge
– 8 minute walk to Museo Wagner
– 10 minutes walk to Santa Lucia Train Station
– 5 minutes away from local food shops and markets

Atmosphere
The vibe of the hostel is extremely relaxed, with a large open plan communal kitchen and private courtyard equipped with deck chairs and picnic tables, this makes this the ideal place to mingle with other travelers.
Inside, the building is light and airy with it’s basic decoration, however what gives this hostel its appeal is the spaciousness and simplicity.

The hostel gives off more of a Riposo (Siesta) vibe than a party hostel which is ideal place to unwind when the tiredness of the busy city tires you out.
Ostello Santa Fosca overall is a very pleasant youth* hostel which is open all year round.

Amenities
I will include a link to their website here.

– No curfew
– Bedding/linen and blankets are included
– Free WiFi
– Hot Showers plus hairdryer hire etc.
– Fully equipped kitchen with cooking facilities
– Wheelchair Access
– Free luggage deposit after check out
– TV lounge/seating area
– Lockers available

My experience
I thoroughly enjoyed my stay here, I felt safe, comfortable and found the hostel very easy to find. The staff were extremely friendly and I would highly recommend this hostel if you are looking for a more relaxed environment.

Ostello Santa Fosca is a popular hostel which does sell out quickly, I just thought it was worth mentioning.

The only downside is that breakfast isn’t included, however there are local food shops nearby.

2. Rossio Hostel, Lisbon, Portugal

Location – Calçada do Carmo 6, 1100-193 Lisboa, Portugal

About
Rossio Hostels wonderfully inviting atmosphere is not to be missed. Located on the very doorstep of Lisbon’s beautifully iconic Rossio Square, Rossio Hostel offers the perfect central location. Just a short walk away from many of the cities sight and attractions.

Rossio Hostel has won many awards such as being voted the 2nd best Hostel Worldwide in 2008 and 2009 as well as 2nd Best Small Hostel Worldwide in 2010. Rossio Hostel was by far my favorite place I stayed in Lisbon.

Here’s a link to their website.

Whats nearby
Rossio Hostel is in super easy reach of many sites and attractions, either by walking or from the nearby metro station and tram systems.

– 1 minute to Rossio Square
– 2 minutes from Metro Station
– 10 minute walk to Praça do Comércio
– 10 minute walk to the beach front
– 20 minute walk to Castelo de S. Jorge

Atmosphere
The hostel inside is very modern and beautifully decorated with cozy seating areas and wooden beams. The kitchen is fully equipped for you to cook meals and is a handy supermarket located just behind the hostel.

The hostel as a whole is very clean and comfortable and gives off a very laid back yet sociable vibe.

I stayed during winter and although a little quieter, I found everybody there to be very chatty.

It was easy to get to know the staff who were very knowledgeable about the area.

Amenities
– Towels, Linen and blankets included
– Breakfast included
– Tea/coffee available all day
– Free and fast Wifi
– Bar and Media Cinema Room
– Hot showers/Towels Included
– Luggage Storage and 24 hour reception
– Book exchange

My Experience
The staff were extremely kind and diverse, speaking many languages between them.

I told them of my previous bad experience at another hostel nearby and they went above and beyond to ensure I had a comfortable stay.
The manager was kind enough to upgrade me to a private room with amazing views over Rossio Square for no additional cost.

3. Avenue Hostel, Budapest, Hungary

Location – Budapest, Oktogon 4, 1067 Hungary

About
Set in the heart of the Oktogon Intersection, Avenue Hostel is a modern and lively hostel which is easily accessible by tram.
The hostel may be tricky to spot at first so look for the corner with Starbucks, from there the hostel entrance is 50 foot to the right. There is a lift available once you get inside so the hostel is wheelchair accessible.

Whats nearby
The beauty of staying in Oktogon means you have direct access to the excellent public transport, trams and buses are the most popular and cheapest way around and only costs roughly €2.00 = 641 HUF in local currency.

– 15 to 20 minute walk to Vajdahunyad Castle, Art Museums and Heroes Square
– 5 minute tram ride to the River Danube
– 5 minutes from Terézváros a popular spot for traditional Hungarian food
– 5 minute tram plus 10 minute walk to the Hungarian Parliament building
– 20 minute bus ride to Fishermans Bastion (Line 105 bus)
– 20 Minutes from Citadella via tram or bus (Line 6)

Atmosphere
Avenue Hostel is one of the larger hostels I’ve stayed at, offering a simple yet industrial design with a casual yet busy buzz about the place. I found this hostel to be very popular with groups and tours.

Upon return to Budapest quite recently I decided to stay here again as I enjoyed it so much.

The staff were very approachable and always happy to help.
The hostel itself is very spacious and clean and the breakfast is one of the best ones I’ve had. Think continental but with added extras.

You can read more about Avenue hostel here.

Keep in mind during check-in you may be queuing for quite some time, this is a large hostel.

Amenities
– 24 hour reception
– Self catering kitchens
– Breakfast included
– Free Wifi
– Fresh linen provided
– Bar and lounge area
– pub crawls and tours available
– Airport transfers available
– Locker provided

My Experience
I have stayed at Avenue hostel on two occasions during my visits to Budapest, I just really like the location which makes getting around so easy.

I loved that I was so close by to Heroes Square and Vajdahunyad Castle and parks.
In winter you can also enjoy a spot of ice skating next to the castle.

4. Whole Wide World Hostel and Bar, Zagreb, Croatia

Location – Kačićeva ul. 3B, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

About
Situated in the Commercial district of central Zagreb, Whole Wide World Hostel was definitely one of the more vibrant and livelier hostels I’ve stayed at and highly recommended by other friends and travelers.
Often referred to as your ‘home away from home’ WWW hostel hosts many themed nights and international holidays taking place.

Be sure to check out the windows of this place which are decorated with flags from around the world. A really cool touch.

Side note: Be sure to book direct with them either on their website or at reception to get the best deal.

…and the link to their website here.

Whats nearby
– 15 minute walk from Dolac Market
– 15 to 20 minute walk from Zagreb Cathedral
– 20 to 25 minutes from the main train station Zapadni
– 15 minute walk from Old Town Zagreb
– 15 to 20 minutes from the Museum of Broken relationships and St Marks Church
– 10 minute walk from Ban Josip Jelačić Square (also the meeting point for free city tours)
– 1 minute from tram services

Atmosphere
This hostel was an absolute blast, there was always something going on from guided tours and day excursions to celebrating holidays and national/Independence days from countries around the world.

The staff (or ninjas as they’re called at the hostel) are an extremely fun bunch who really make an effort to get guests involved with themed nights, parties and other games.

The guests were very sociable and fun to be around, it would be hard not to make friends here.

A very lively place to be.

Amenities
– 24 hour reception desk
– Linen included
– Free Wifi
– Laundry Facilities
– Communal kitchen with cooking facilities
– Breakfast included
– Bar and cozy lounge area with beds
– Airport shuttle if required
– Food shops nearby

My Experience
I stayed for 4 nights but wish I could have stayed longer. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay and I’ll definitely be back.

During my stay the manager was ridiculously generous and made it his mission to offer the best Thanksgiving dinner to the American guests.

As I stayed just before Christmas, the hostel team very kindly took all us guests out for a dinner. A very kind gesture and an amazing experience.

I highly HIGHLY recommend this hostel!

5. Hostel Tivoli, Ljubljana, Slovenia

Location – Lepodvorska ulica 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

About
Just across the road from Tivoli Park is the small yet cozy Tivoli Hostel. Located just a 10 minute walk away from the city center of Ljubljana.
This peaceful yet friendly hostel has only 3 rooms which includes 1 Double room, an 8 bed mixed dorm and a slightly larger 12 bed mixed dorm.

From the outside the building almost looks like a converted shipping container which is tucked away at the side of a motor repair garage but inside it is a very modern and bright little space.

Don’t be put off by how this hostel looks on the outside, it truly is a gem.

You can check out the photos here.

Whats nearby
– 2 minute walk to Tivoli City Park
– 10 minutes walk to from Ljubljana train and coach station station
– 15 minutes into Ljuljana City Center where you will find popular sites such as the Prešeren Square, Franciscan Church of the Annunciation and the Dragon
– 45 minute walk to Ljubljana Castle however there are other modes of transport such as the Funicular Railway or buses. I will leave a link here.
– 15 to 20 minute walk to Metelkova

Atmosphere
During my visit in November there were only 5 guests staying so it was very easy to get to know one another and spend in the city together.

The hostel really is quite special.

If you’re one for a peaceful area next to a beautiful park then I highly recommend this place.
Another bonus is that because there were so few people, it meant a great nights sleep with minimal to no disturbance.

Amenities
– Free Parking
– Linen and bedding included
– Breakfast included
– Free Wifi
– Communal kitchenette made up of a kettle, microwave and fridge
– Lounge area with TV
– Laundry Facilities
– Bike rental

My Experience
The moment I entered the hostel I was greeted by extremely courteous staff and given a shot of Viljamovka, a type of Slovenian pear Brandy.

The staff were extremely enthusiastic to share and tell stories about the history of Slovenia and the amazing things to see in Ljubljana.

For me the people of Slovenia were some of the most friendliest people I’ve ever met.

6. Wild Elephants, Bratislava, Slovakia

Location – Františkánske námestie 8, 811 01 Bratislava, Slovakia

About
Ahhh the Wild Elephants Hostel, the clue is in the name. It is a wild place which I think everybody should visit at least once.
Cheap in price and perfectly situated in the heart of the city, Wild Elephants is a vibrant arty hostel which hosts a variety of colorful people to match.

Be sure to check out the artwork around this place, it’s spectacular.

Located in Bratislava’s historic Old Town Hall, be sure to look up as the hostel is sneakily located above a Mexican Restaurant.

Here’s the link if you wish to know more here.

Whats nearby
– A 6-minute walk from the Jesenského tram station
– 10 minute walk from the Slovak National Museum
– 10 minute walk from St. Martin’s Cathedral
– 5 to 10 minute walk for Michaels gate
– 1 minute to the main street and markets
– 20 to 25 minute walk up to Bratislava Castle

Atmosphere
Most of the staff who work/volunteer there are also big time travelers so they’re always keen to get you involved with activities such as live music, drinking games and city tours.

At the back of the hostel is a fully equipped communal kitchen with a large table where guests love to gather.

Keep an eye on the menu as vegetarian/vegan meals can be purchased for a small price.

Overall the atmosphere is lively and busy, particularly in the attic bar, so be sure to check that out.
Wild Elephants attracts folks from all walks of life.

YOU WILL GET DRUNK!

Amenities
– Free Wifi
– Linen included
– TV and lounge area
– Fully equipped kitchen
– Attic bar and smoking area
– Chalkboards and graffiti friendly walls
– Laundry facilities
– Clothes Swapping
– Cheaply priced evening meals

My Experience
The staff certainly know how to throw a crazy party.

Almost every night I was there I ended up on some wild night out around the city.

Tours which take place in and around the city are also offered if you fancy a more relaxing day to nurse your hangover.

Overall Bratislava was a quaint and wrongly overlooked city. I would 10/10 go back.

7. Cosmopole Hostel, Prague, Czech Republic

LocationSpálená 8/3, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia

About
Cosmopole is a fairly new addition to the city and a beautifully renovated build, holding many of its original features which are spread across 6 floors.
Cosmopole Hostel is a centrally located within the city and just minutes away from the Vltava River and popular attractions.

Whats nearby
– 1 minute walk from the bustling main street which is loaded with shops, restaurants and bars
– 14 minute walk to the famous Charles Bridge
– 15 minutes walk to Old Town Square
– 8 minutes walk to the Dancing House
– 30 minute walk to Prague Castle
– 20 Minute walk to the main train and coach station (Praha hlavní nádraží)

Atmosphere
The atmosphere here at Cosmopole even though a hostel didn’t feel like one, it almost felt like a hotel.
Although fairly quiet during my stay I can certainly see this being a popular spot for groups.

Equipped with an amazing roof top terrace with views overlooking the city, a couple of snooker tables and an on site library which I absolutely adored.

The staff were very informative and were happy to answer any questions I had in regards to walking tours and recommended places to eat.

Amenities
– Breakfast included
– Lockers included
– Full kitchen and appliances
– Linen included
– Roof top terrace
– 24 hour reception
– Library
– Games room

My Experience
Having come from another terrible hostel in Prague, I felt completely spoiled once I arrived here, I was sad I hadn’t booked sooner.
The other guests in my dorm were very diverse bunch which just proves that Prague attracts people from the world over.
During my Euro Trip Prague was definitely a major highlight for me.

Here’s a link to the hostel website here.

8. Castle Hostel 1004, Bled, Slovenia

Location – Grajska cesta 22, 4260 Bled, Slovenia

About
Castle 1004 hostel in itself was fairly standard, however what really made this place special was the unbeatable location and absolutely amazing views over the town of Bled.

Located just a 2 minute walk from Bled bus/coach station is the hostel situated to the right. If you reach the convenience store you’ve gone too far.

The hostel is basic in design but does have a great roof top terrace, a computer/communal area.

Upon check in you will be given a special wristband which gives you x% off at selected restaurants and tours.

Whats nearby
– 12 minute walk to Bled Castle
– 5 minute walk to Lake Bled
– 2 minute walk to local shops and grocery store
– 10 to 15 minutes walk to the lake side cafes and restaurants
– 90 to 120 minutes to walk around Lake Bled
– 2 minute walk to the bus and coach station

Atmosphere
The overall atmosphere here was very ‘walking tour’ oriented, I can see why.
Bled itself was everything I had hoped for and then some.
As I mentioned previously for Hostel Tivoli, the people here are so friendly and hospitable, which certainly brought in the right crowd of people.

This place is perfect for anybody who wishes to get back to nature and enjoy a more peaceful trip.

Amenities
Here I will include a link to the hostel here so you can check out more.

– 24 Hour reception
– Daily free walking tours and pub crawls
– Breakfast included
– Rooftop Terrace
– Bed linen included
– Library/Lounge
– Fully equipped kitchen
– Free Wifi
– Free food swap

My Experience
I fell in love with this place, which makes me eager to return. I do hope to come back later in 2019 and explore more of this beautiful country.
I cannot fault anything. 1000% recommend.

So there we have it, just a hand full of my favorite hostels in Europe.
Hopefully these recommendations will inspire you to check out these hostels.
I will be putting together a part two later down the line as fitting them all into one post would go on forever.

I want to know, have any of you folks stayed at any of these hostels or do you have any recommendations for me to check out?

I’d love to connect and hear your thought on what you think about these hostels.

For now though…

Happy travels.

XO
O8

Girl About Europe

Trying to see the world, or at least see it differently

Tag: Solo Travel

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