Hiya guys! It’s been a bit quiet on my blog lately, so I thought it was time to post another life update. How have things been going for you? I hope you’re all ready for the new season, whether that happens to be spring or fall in your part of the planet. I started the new year with a much-needed city break in Athens before starting a new semester in Amsterdam. That’s not to say that living in Amsterdam hasn’t been fun! I’ve also had the opportunity to visit the Czech Republic, a country I hadn’t visited in almost 7 years. In short: it’s been busy, but definitely the good kind of busy.
Visiting Athens for the First Time
Although it was nice to be at home with my parents and siblings, I spent most of my Christmas break writing papers. Before the new semester was going to start, I wanted to go somewhere for a few days. I checked the ticket prices and the weather forecast and decided to head to Athens! I had a great time. The city oozes history and is full of friendly faces.
Admittedly, arranging a trip always takes some effort and, yes, it tends to raise my stress levels. But when I get there, I find solo travel one of the most relaxing activities out there. I can go wherever I want, do whatever I want, without having to think about anyone else. I know that sounds selfish and don’t get me wrong, I do love travelling with friends. When it comes down to it, I’m pretty sure I actually prefer travelling with friends. Still, sometimes I just need to get away and be on my own.
A New Semester in Amsterdam
After returning home from Athens, the new semester was just about to start. I can’t say I was completely ready, but I did recently decide to make the most of my remaining years as a student in Amsterdam. The days have been getting slightly sunnier and the streets are becoming livelier. I’ve been enjoying the urban vibes with a few of my friends. We’ve discovered a few really cool cafés and lunchrooms, devouring way too many cookies and cheesecakes. I also recently met up with a friend and visited the Hortus Botanicus. There is a cactus room, a butterfly greenhouse, and a jungle room that has constant temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius! Just what I needed on a cold and rainy day.
Exploring Pilsen: The City of Beer
Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to visit Pilsen for an exciting press trip with CzechTourism. It had been nearly 7 years since I last visited the Czech Republic, so it was nice to be back. The weather was exceptionally warm and sunny for the time of year, so it was great timing too. Pilsen is the birthplace of Pilsner beer, so there are lots of breweries and beer-related activities. Aside from beer, the city is absolutely stunning in terms of architecture. Look at all those pastel-colored houses!
One Day in Prague
After my press trip in Pilsen, I was lucky enough to spend a few hours in Prague! I only had about 5 hours before I had to head to the airport, but I managed squeeze in a visit to the Mucha Museum, ate a typical trdelník (strudel version, oh yeah), and had my picture taken at the John Lennon Wall (as you can see). It was raining quite heavily, but it was still an amazing day. I hope I’ll be able to come back sometime in summer!
Spring 2017 has arrived
Summer is definitely my favourite season and I always struggle during the winter months. Whenever autumn comes around the corner, I’m already looking forward to spring. Thankfully, spring 2017 has now definitely arrived. The cherry blossoms are always so pretty, I’m instantly happy whenever I see them. I think I want to visit the Japanese Garden in The Hague again. It was such an enchanting experience last year.
I’ll keep you updated! In the meantime, you can check my real-time updates via Instagram.
