Author Profile: Sonia Monahan

Korčula Island, Croatia is known for its medieval charm, lush landscapes, and incredible food and wine. Situated in the stunning Adriatic just off the Pelješac Peninsula, this “mini Dubrovnik” is a place where you can explore back to the days of Marco Polo in the morning, and go island and beach hopping in the...   view more

Split, Croatia, is a center of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, dating back over 1,700 years. Beyond the UNESCO Heritage Site and Game of Thrones filming locations, be sure to explore the many beaches, nearby islands and national...   view more

Located on a secluded part of the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, Kotor is a UNESCO heritage site that captivates visitors with its medieval charm, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history. Whether you’re drawn to Kotor’s narrow cobblestone streets, the bay of Kotor, or hikes from the center of town, Kotor has something for...   view more

Tempe, Arizona, located just south of Phoenix, is known for being a vibrant college town and having scenic desert landscapes and a lively arts scene. Budget-conscious travelers will find plenty of free activities in Tempe, that let you experience the city without breaking the bank. Keep the extreme summer heat in mind when planning your Tempe...   view more

Located in Portugal, midway between Porto and Lisbon, Coimbra is a captivating city steeped in centuries of history. Visit Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and learn about Coimbra’s academic traditions. Once the capital of the country, Coimbra’s royal and intellectual past is still present today in its historic cathedrals, cobblestone streets, and storied university, one of the oldest in...   view more

Tomar, a small city steeped in history, is one of Portugal’s most captivating day trip destinations. Located about 135 kilometers northeast of Lisbon, it’s a lesser visited treasure filled with Knights Templar history and stunning architecture. We’ll explore the history of the Knights Templar in Portugal, the grand Convento de Cristo, the nearby serene Almourol Castle, and the charming lower town of Tomar. Join us as we take an unforgettable journey into Portugal’s past on a Knights...   view more

Nestled amidst the lush green mountains, the UNESCO World Heritage town of Sintra is a well-known day trip destination from Lisbon. Most focus on visiting the well known sites including the Castelo dos Mouros and Pena Palace. While its iconic palaces and mystical gardens draw large crowds, Sintra has many hidden gems waiting to be...   view more

Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively culture. Lisbon is a wonderful city to visit for solo travelers, couples, or larger families and groups. This comes with a large number of visitors, often leading to crowds around the main...   view more

Just a short drive from the historic university city of Coimbra is one of Portugal’s most fascinating archaeological treasures. The ancient Roman city of Conimbriga is hidden amid rolling hills and quiet countryside. Visitors can step back nearly two thousand years and explore the remnants of a once-thriving settlement. I was amazed by the sheer size of the Roman ruins, from incredibly well preserved mosaic floors to the foundations of grand villas and public...   view more

The charming seaside town of Vila Franca do Campo, located on the southern shore of São Miguel, offers a quieter and more authentic Azores experience than you’ll find in the capital of Ponta Delgada. Once the island’s capital, this historic fishing village is best known for its picturesque offshore islet, hilltop chapel, peaceful beaches, and sweet...   view more