Middle of the Pacific and the centre of excitement
Hawaii might be a part of the USA, but the scenery, vibe, history, and culture on these stunning islands make the 50th state seem like a distant cousin a couple times removed. Sail into the setting sun along Waikiki Beach, walk on an active volcano, join a traditional luau in Maui, and enjoy beach time in, well, all over. There’s no wonder Hawaii is the backdrop for paradise in the movies – the islands don’t have to act the part of “jaw-dropping oasis”, they’re naturals.
Just a short 1-hour drive from the Czech Republic capital, Prague, the region of North Bohemia offers a lot for the visitor. From scenic landscapes, the River Elbe, picturesque historical towns, unique rock structures, chateaux, wineries, craft beer and local gastronomic delights.
The North Bohemia region is usually left off the well-travelled tourist paths in the Czech Republic. But a town well worth a visit in the region is the pretty royal town of Litomerice.
Litomerice is one of the oldest towns in the Czech Republic, dating back to the 10th century. The town was granted ‘royal status’ by King Premysi Otakar II in 1262.
Two of the most popular hotels are the Grand Hotel Salva and the Hotel Roosevelt. Both are well recommended and provide the required comforts.
Where to Eat in Litomerice
A popular restaurant which is located in the centre of Litomerice in Peace Square is Restaurant Capra.
To Travel Too tip: Leave some room for a dessert!
What to See and Do in Litomerice
Peace Square (Mirove Namesti) is the place to begin your exploration of Litomerice. The square is home to some of the best-preserved medieval buildings in the whole of the Czech Republic. Some of these buildings are the longest inhabited homes throughout the Czech Republic.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Some of the must-sees are:
Town Hall – the oldest Renaissance building in town.
The Tower (Chalice) – we recommend that you climb the 99 steps to the top for outstanding 360-degree views.
The 1731 Jesuit Church which is now Bohemian Gallery of Fine Arts.
The 16th century Renaissance Black Eagle House built in 1564 with its unique façade.
The Bishops Residence with its large library on the ground floor that dates back to the 18th century.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral built in the 14th century in Gothic style.
Litomerice Castle – a Gothic castle that dates back to the 13th century.
The Gothic Twin House – oldest standing burgess house.
Architectural styles in Litomerice include Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance. Of the 256 buildings, 104 are classified as national monuments.
Visit a Local Winery
Litomerice, and the North Bohemian region in general, is famous for its wines. Although it is the smallest wine region in the Czech Republic, it is one of the oldest, with vines having been planted in the 14th century by Emperor Charles IV.
A great day out can be had at the Johann W Winery at Trebivlice, just 22 km from Litomerice. White and red wines are produced from their 35-hectare vineyard. Accommodation is available on-site.
We recommend spending at least a couple of nights visiting the historical town of Litomerice as a side-trip from Prague.
Post pandemic travel is a new and interesting experience. So many people, myself included, are ready to explore the world again. The question is, just how do we do that now?
Destinations are beginning to open to visitors but there are still many aspects that have changed and need to be considered before embarking on your next adventure. Especially for women traveling alone.
Solo Travel Has Always Been a Unique Experience
It required special planning to make sure that it was safe and enjoyable to travel alone. Not so different than how it is today.
Thinking about how to do this reminds me of when I first began to travel. Deciding where to go, how to get there, where to stay were just some of the decisions that I needed to make. Everything about the process was a little scary but very exciting.
I’m feeling that way again, and it is making this process even more enjoyable.
Jump Back in or Take It Slow
For some, this will be going full speed ahead, trying to regain their normal routine. For others, it will be a little slower and more deliberate. I probably fall somewhere in the middle. I want to go fast but also be mindful of real and relevant factors all over the world.
Pre-pandemic, I was travelling full-time, most of it internationally. Just the month before lock-down in the US I was in three different countries and planning the next.
Now that seems unrealistic and even careless in some cases. I had to remind myself that things have changed and if I want to continue to travel, I need to do somethings differently.
Back to Basics
As much as I love the experience of going somewhere far away, I don’t feel quite ready for that. What I am ready for is that feeling of wonder and joy that being anywhere new brings.
I began thinking of things to do and places to go a little closer to home. Places that would give me that sense of being away without having to go too far.
When I first started to travel alone, I would pick a nearby location and plan from there. What I found was that it didn’t matter where it was, it always felt like I was worlds away.
Start Small
Something I love to do when I am in a new place is to take public transportation, especially buses and trains. That is something I almost never do at home.
I started by checking stations and schedules near where I live and began to see all of the locations I can access without driving. What I didn’t expect is that it was as much fun, if not more, than researching flights, at a fraction of the cost.
The other thing I love about traveling is staying at a nice hotel and taking myself out to dinner. As much as I enjoy that, it is something I only do when I’m away.
Just this small amount of planning helped me to see that I can have all of the pleasure of taking a trip with a lot less of the anxiety producing aspects that I don’t want.
There Are So Many Options
Now, that I’ve decided that this is a good way for me to ease back into travel, I’ve realized just how many possibilities there are. I don’t have to fly to another city to enjoy all of the things I can have right here.
I’ve decided I will play tourist in my own city and state. Each trip will involve something that I love – visiting local parks and gardens, going out to lunch or dinner alone, staying at a nice hotel for just a night or two or booking a luxurious spa treatment. Anything I want.
Not only will it be convenient, but without having to pay airfare, it is much more affordable.
Just thinking about this new way to travel has reignited my enthusiasm for something that has been such a wonderful part of my life.
Wishing you safe and happy travels!
How do you feel about traveling again? Are you comfortable with planning and preparing for post pandemic changes? Have you ever been a tourist in your city? Share your stories
Madeira Island is one of Europe’s most beautiful travel locations with many thousands of tourists returning year after year. Why?
It offers not only an all year round summer climate, as well as wonderful fauna and flora, but it is also virtually crime-free and one of the safest holiday destinations in the world!
