Amy and the Great World

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Little Moments

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Once, in one of the many travel books I’ve perused over the years (so many, I can’t remember exactly where this bit of wisdom came from–perhaps one of Rick Steves’ many tomes on Europe?) I read a passage that said something along these lines:
You’ll never see it all. It’s better to just assume you’ll come back–even if you never do.

This sentence completely changed the way I travel. I felt myself relax, and my desperation to see.it.all fade a little bit. It’s hard to completely let go of the fomo-mentality, but it’s really made me enjoy my travels so much more.

This point was driven home when, recently, planning a trip to Europe in November, E and I began to reminisce about our trip to Europe last November.

(November, by and by, is a totally underrated month to hit the road!)

As we talked about the highlights of that trip, where we visited Finland, Estonia & Denmark, I realized most of my favorite moments from this trip were the simple ones, the ones where it was just the three of us–me, E and baby A–hanging out and exploring.

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Our first lunch in Copenhagen at a random “activity church” we stumbled upon–it was one of our best meals, and I still don’t know even know what we ate. Just that it was crazy delicious.

There was dinner with our Danish friends, watching our little girls run around together.

Taking long naps with baby A, thanks to jet lag.

The ferry ride between Tallinn and Helsinki.

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Running out in the dark, cold evening, to watch them light up the Christmas tree in Tallinn.

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The three of us getting coffee in an atmospheric, cellar coffee shop.

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Baby A passing out and sleeping on the window sill of a restaurant while we got in a lunch date.

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Strapping baby A to my chest and finding our way to a local coffee shop in Copenhagen.

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Baby A saying “Mmmm!”, to the delight of the entire café, at her first taste of a Finnish butter-eye bun, voisilmäpulla.

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Stumbling upon a beautiful trail to Helsinki’s train station from our rental flat.

The sauna at our flat in Helsinki.

Baby taking her first steps in Helsinki.

Getting cute hand-me-downs from baby A’s little friend in Copenhagen.

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E riding the moving sidewalks in the Munich airport with our tired baby, trying to keep both of them awake and entertained.

The list goes on and on.

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It made me realize that sometimes the most special moments of a trip are the little ones, the ones that didn’t seem very significant at the time.

And, really, isn’t that what life is all about, too?

Belgium Lists

Ten Things to Do in Bruges

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Bruges, Belgium has the distinction of being one of those rare places I’ve visited more than once while living in Europe. I’ve been there in summer and over Christmas and it is such a delightful little town. I love it so much I’m hoping to experience it, someday, in the autumn and the spring!

Try the waffles

Let’s be real: one of the main reasons you are probably going to Belgium is the famous Belgian waffles, and you must try them immediately! Try the Liege waffle, named after a city/region, and take it for a stroll while you get oriented to the adorable Bruges. You can get it loaded with ice cream, whipped cream, the works–like I did below–but I think they’re just as delicious plain and warm from the waffle-maker.

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Climb the Belfry of Bruges

You won’t miss the Belfry, smack dab in the middle of the main square, or Markt. There’s been a belfry on this spot since around 1240, when Bruges was in its heyday. The climb isn’t bad and the views are gorgeous! Go on a clear morning to beat the crowds, and ideally your first day, to help you get oriented to the little city.

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Take a canal tour–from a boat!

This is quite a touristy pastime in Bruges (it’s not an undiscovered city by far!) but it’s so wonderful to see the beautiful city from the water. The tours last about thirty minutes and give you a good, quick overview of the city’s history. I loved learning the specific history of more of the distinctive buildings we passed.

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Choose the best fries in the Markt.

Apparently there is a debate over which fries are better–the ones from the cart on the left-side of the Belfry or the ones on the right-side. Really, you’ll just have to try both to decide for yourself! It’s a tough job but someone’s got to do it.

Visit the Groeninge Museum

If you are an art lover, this is a must-see! It’s a fairly compact museum with quite a few painting by important Flemish artists. Most of the paintings in this museum are from before the Renaissance, to give you an idea of how long Bruges history is.

View Madonna and Child

That’s right, there’s a Michelangelo…in Bruges! This tells you what a powerhouse Bruges was in the thirteenth century. This was actually the only piece of his to leave Italy during his lifetime. The Church of Our Lady, where you can find the statue, is also a beautiful cathedral to visit.

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Visit the Chocolate Line

I know you’ve heard of Belgian chocolate–and it most definitely lives up to the hype. You can pop into almost any chocolate shop and be happy, I think, but you must visit the Chocolate Line–reputed as some of the best in the world. My now-husband tried the Cuban cigar flavor, mostly to say that he had, and I tried the lavender. This is a pricey spot that probably won’t be where you buy your souvenir chocolates, but it’s worth a visit just to try the most interesting flavors around.

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Bicycle to the nearby town of Damme

Damme is a mini-Bruges a leisurely bike ride away from the actual Bruges. This was one of my favorite activities we did while in Bruges because you bike along a canal and past windmills. It is incredibly picturesque! It’s also nice to get away from the city and into the countryside of Belgium. The town itself is cute and has its own little church and is known for its bookstores and book fairs.

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Find your favorite Belgian beer

Yet another gastronomic delight Belgian is famous for? The beer, of course! I quickly found my favorite (Kasteel Donker, if you’re wondering) but doing a tasting at a place like Cambrinus is another way to go. It’s not a hardship to taste a few before choosing the best, after all. Just remember, Belgian beer tends to be strong compared to most beer, so take your time unless you really want to party!

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Get lost in the streets

Bruges is a magical little city that often does feel lost in time. However, there are a lot of tourists. Luckily, just a few blocks away from the main tourist center and the Markt, you’ll be able to find quieter, small streets to explore. Follow your feet and see where the charming little streets take you!

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BONUS: Visit the Christmas festive-ness around town–from various Christmas trees, to a market, and more!

This one obviously depends on when you go, but I can attest that Bruges at Christmas is just as magical as you might suppose. There’s even a holiday-themed version of my favorite beer!

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Have you been to Bruges? What would you recommend for a first-time visitor?

Originally published for Big World, Small Me. If you’re not already following Sara, you should! 

Thailand Tips

Five Ways to Make the Most of a Holiday in Thailand

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Are you planning your first trip to Thailand? You’re in for a treat. This country is every bit the paradise it looks on Pinterest and in travel guides.

But there are also a few unexpected things to be aware of before your first visit. If you’re getting ready for your first adventure there, here are five ways to make the most of your trip:

1. Get ready to negotiate

If you plan to do some shopping while you’re there—or even take part in excursions—be prepared to negotiate.

Haggling is common—and even expected—in most parts of Thailand. This is especially true in the markets, so don’t take the first price you’re offered if you want to come home with some souvenirs.

The same applies to transport too. It’s a good idea to agree a fixed price with a taxi driver or a tuk-tuk before you get in—unless you’re certain they’re using a meter.

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2. Spend a few days in Bangkok

Whilst it’s likely the lure of the islands—and the golden sands of their beaches—that have lured you in, plan to spend a few days in the capital.

This is a place like no other.

And there’s something for everyone, so it’s perfect if you’re heading to Thailand in a group too. You can check out the Buddhist temples, eat some delicious food—and check out the famous Khao San Road.

We recommend scheduling this for the start of your trip, so you can spend the rest of your time recovering from the craziness on the beach.

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3. Beware of scams

Thailand is a relatively safe country. But it’s built on tourism—and that always carries a risk.

Keep your wits about you, and be aware of people trying to scam you. Trust your gut. If something seems a bit dodgy, it probably is.

One scam involves two people. The first will find out information about you—such as your name and when you arrived. They will then pass this information onto a colleague, who will try to trick you into thinking you’ve already met, before trying to get money from you in one way or another.

Make sure you have adequate travel insurance—which is essential in Thailand—and can help you out if you get into a tricky situation.

4. Take appropriate clothing with you

If you want to visit cultural sites—such as the many temples and Buddhist monuments around the company—make sure you take appropriate clothing with you.

These landmarks will expect you to dress modestly, with your legs, arms and chest covered. Although this is a matter of respect, you may be also be denied entry if your clothing is deemed inappropriate. Don’t risk it!

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5. Stay wary of animal tourism

There are still a number of excursions available that involve elephant rides or tiger temples.

The sad truth is, the majority of these ‘attractions’ do not have the animals’ best interests at heart. Respect the wildlife, and don’t contribute to this unfair industry.

There are plenty more attractions to keep you busy!

So, what do you think? Are you read to go to Thailand??

***All images are taken from Unsplash.com.

***Disclaimer: This is a collaborative post. 

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