London is a city that blends rich history with modern vibrance, offering something for every traveler. From Iconic landmarks to world-class museums, bustling markets, and charming neighborhoods, the city’s energy is undeniable.

Below are my top recommendations from my Solo Trip to London:

1- Walking tour through Kensington

A simple walking tour through the beautiful Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park will teach you some of London’s rich history. You’ll walk by and tour Kensington Palace and gardens, which is the royal residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales. Finish this beautiful tour with a high tea at Harrods.

2- Top Sights to See Walking Tour

This walking tour brings you through London’s history, culture and shares fun facts that you would not find anywhere else. You’ll pass by the iconic landmarks such as; Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the Prime Ministers Residence. But you also get to admire Trafalgar Square, the hustle and bustle of Burrough Market, and some of London’s dark history. I recommend ending this tour with a visit to inside Westminster Abbey.

3- Hampton Court with High Tea

Get 20-min out of town to tour the stunning grounds of Hampton Court and gardens. Take a self-guided audio tour so that you can go at your own pace. Specific times of the week you can book a tour with a high tea to complete the experience. Feel like a true royal in the former home of King Henry VIII.

4- Enjoying Battersea Power Station

Battersea Power Station is an amazing new and modern area full of the best shopping, restaurants and sites. Walk thru Battersea Park and wander into some activities. Book a reservation for Dishoom, the best Indian food and experience!

Day Tours

Take a couple day tours to Oxford/Cambridge and Windsor, Bath and Stonehenge. These tours will be expanded upon in another blog!

These are some very quick highlights from an amazing 7-days I had in London as a Solo Female Traveler!

Christmas in London is a magical experience, with the city transforming into a winter wonderland filled with lights, festive markets, and holiday cheer. Here are some of the highlights and things to expect if you visit London for the magical holiday:

Christmas Lights & Decorations

London is famous for its spectacular Christmas lights, especially on Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden. Each year, these streets are adorned with dazzling displays, attracting thousands of visitors. Covent Garden also features a massive Christmas tree and giant mistletoe chandeliers. You can’t miss the Ritz decorated with large Christmas bows and stunning decorations. You can spend the entire trip wondering around the city to see all the special displays cultivated in every neighborhood.

Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is one of the biggest Christmas attractions in the city. It features a Christmas market, ice skating rink, circus shows, a giant Ferris wheel, and Bavarian-style food stalls. It’s a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Truly an amazing way to spend an evening. You can book tickets at the entrance through QR codes. I will mention that the website was slightly tricky to encounter and you can’t go backwards on the site. You should be able to go into your account during your time to add activities.

Christmas Markets

London has several charming Christmas markets, such as:

• Southbank Centre Winter Market – Along the Thames with wooden chalets selling gifts and festive food.

• Leicester Square Christmas Market – A cozy market in the heart of the West End.

• Greenwich Christmas Market – Great for handcrafted gifts and unique finds.

• Borough Market— This amazing market dresses up for Christmas and selling amazing holiday themed food, gifts and more.

Visit all the Christmas markets to buy unique gifts and souvenirs. There is always incredible desserts to snack on or buy for later. Sip on some Glühwein to warm up.

Ice Skating

During Christmas, several iconic locations open ice rinks, including:

• Somerset House – One of the most beautiful ice skating spots with a grand neoclassical backdrop.

• Natural History Museum – A picturesque setting near the museum’s grand building (though this rink closed in 2021, alternatives like Canary Wharf and Hampton Court Palace remain popular).

• Tower of London – Skate with a historic castle as your backdrop.

Festive Shows & Concerts

London’s West End puts on special Christmas-themed performances, including classics like The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House. Carol concerts take place at St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey, creating a magical atmosphere.

Christmas Shopping

London’s famous department stores go all out for Christmas. Harrods, Selfridges, and Liberty have stunning window displays, while Hamleys is a dream destination for kids looking for toys.

Christmas Day & Boxing Day

On Christmas Day, London is unusually quiet as public transport shuts down, and most businesses close. However, some hotels and restaurants offer special Christmas lunch menus. On Boxing Day (December 26th), the city comes alive again with major sales in shops and department stores.

London at Christmas is a truly unforgettable experience, blending tradition, festivity, and the magic of the season. Would you like recommendations on specific events or places to visit?

Christmas in Paris is a magical and elegant affair, with the city of lights transforming into a festive wonderland filled with twinkling decorations, charming markets, and seasonal delights. Here are some of the highlights:

Christmas Lights & Decorations

Paris dazzles with beautiful Christmas lights, especially in iconic locations like:

• Champs-Élysées – One of the most famous Christmas light displays in the world, stretching from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe.

• Place Vendôme – Known for its elegant decorations and luxurious boutiques.

• Galeries Lafayette & Printemps Haussmann – These department stores feature spectacular window displays and a giant Christmas tree inside Galeries Lafayette’s domed atrium.

Christmas Markets (Marchés de Noël)

Paris has several charming Christmas markets, where you can enjoy mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and artisanal gifts:

• Tuileries Garden Christmas Market – The largest market in central Paris, featuring an ice rink, festive food stalls, and a carnival.

• La Défense Christmas Market – One of the biggest in the city, with over 300 chalets selling crafts, food, and holiday gifts.

• Montmartre Christmas Market – A cozy, picturesque market near Sacré-Cœur, offering local crafts and treats.

Ice Skating in Paris

During the holiday season, pop-up ice rinks appear in beautiful locations:

• Eiffel Tower Ice Rink (when available) – Skate with a breathtaking view of Paris.

• Grand Palais des Glaces (when hosted) – A massive indoor ice rink under the stunning glass dome.

• Hôtel de Ville Ice Rink – Located in front of Paris City Hall, this rink is a festive favorite.

Festive Shows & Concerts

Paris offers magical Christmas performances, including:

• The Nutcracker Ballet at the Opéra Bastille.

• Christmas concerts in Notre-Dame Cathedral (before the fire) and La Madeleine Church.

• Cabaret shows at Moulin Rouge and Lido, which have special holiday editions.

Christmas Shopping & Specialties

Paris is a dream destination for holiday shopping:

• Champs-Élysées & Boulevard Haussmann – Perfect for luxury and department store shopping.

• Christmas Chocolates & Pastries – Try bûche de Noël (Yule log cake) from famous patisseries like Ladurée or Pierre Hermé.

• Marché des Enfants Rouges – One of the oldest markets in Paris, perfect for gourmet treats.

Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

• Many Parisians celebrate Réveillon (Christmas Eve dinner) with a feast that includes foie gras, oysters, and a bûche de Noël.

• On Christmas Day, some restaurants and brasseries offer special menus, while the streets are quieter as families gather to celebrate.

New Year’s & Beyond

The festive atmosphere continues into New Year’s Eve, with fireworks and celebrations at the Champs-Élysées and Eiffel Tower, leading up to Epiphany (January 6th) when Parisians enjoy galette des rois (King’s Cake).

Paris at Christmas is an unforgettable experience, blending romance, elegance, and festive charm. Would you like recommendations for specific events or places to visit?

Portland, Maine, is a coastal gem known for its historic charm, stunning waterfront views, and world-class food scene. Whether you’re a foodie, outdoor enthusiast, or history buff, there’s something for everyone. I had an amazing girls weekend getaway in Portland in September. The weather was perfect and the crowds were minimal. Here are some of the top highlights:

1. Old Port

Portland’s Old Port district is the heart of the city, featuring cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a bustling waterfront. Here you’ll find boutique shops, art galleries, and some of the best restaurants in Maine. Strolling along Commercial Street, you can watch fishing boats unload fresh seafood while exploring local breweries and cafes.

2. Portland Head Light & Other Lighthouses

• Portland Head Light (Cape Elizabeth) – Maine’s most famous lighthouse, located in Fort Williams Park. It offers stunning coastal views and a small museum.

• Bug Light – A small but picturesque lighthouse in Bug Light Park with views of downtown Portland.

• Spring Point Ledge Light – A scenic lighthouse with a breakwater you can walk out on.

3. Incredible Food Scene

Portland is a foodie’s paradise, famous for its lobster rolls, oysters, and craft beer. Must-visit spots include:

• Eventide Oyster Co. – Known for its unique brown butter lobster roll.

• Fore Street – A farm-to-table favorite with wood-fired seafood and meats.

• Duckfat – Famous for Belgian-style fries cooked in duck fat.

• The Holy Donut – A local favorite for potato-based donuts.

4. Craft Breweries

Portland has one of the highest breweries-per-capita ratios in the U.S. Popular spots include:

• Allagash Brewing Company – Famous for its Belgian-style beers.

• Bissell Brothers – Known for hazy IPAs.

• Oxbow Brewing – Great farmhouse ales in a rustic setting.

5. Casco Bay & Peaks Island

A short ferry ride from downtown, Peaks Island is perfect for a relaxing day trip. Rent a bike, explore the quiet beaches, and enjoy waterfront dining with a view of Casco Bay.

6. Portland Museum of Art

This museum features works by famous artists like Winslow Homer, Edward Hopper, and local Maine painters. It’s a must-visit for art lovers.

7. Eastern Promenade

The Eastern Promenade, or “Eastern Prom,” is a scenic park overlooking Casco Bay. It’s a great spot for walking, picnicking, or catching a sunrise. The adjacent Back Cove Trail is another beautiful waterfront walk.

8. Day Trips & Nearby Attractions

• Freeport (20 minutes north) – Home to the L.L. Bean flagship store and great outlet shopping.

• Kennebunkport (45 minutes south) – A charming coastal town known for its beaches, historic homes, and seafood shacks.

• Sebago Lake (45 minutes inland) – Perfect for hiking, boating, and swimming.

Why Visit Portland?

With its combination of coastal beauty, rich history, and an unbeatable food and beer scene, Portland is one of New England’s best small cities to explore. Would you like recommendations based on a specific interest—like outdoor activities, history, or food tours?