Author Profile: Aiva Vocisa

My reason for returning to Venice was fueled by a purpose, too. I desired to feast my eyes on its architectural marvels, go on a photography adventure as well and deepen my knowledge of the region by engaging in various activities because exploring the sights and sounds that form the fabric of each city is as important as immersing in its art and architecture...   view more

This part of Ireland is speckled with some of the most stunning coastal views, endless stopping points, plenty of photo opportunities, and, most importantly, some of the best surf beaches in all of Ireland. Exploring the Surf Coast, one doesn’t have much time to settle back in the car before layering back up for the next adventure. The Surf Coast starts in Donegal Town, winds through Sligo and goes all the way to Erris in County Mayo. While I have a dozen half-baked stories in my draft section...   view more

One of our favourite places on our two-week Ireland road trip itinerary, where we happily traversed across five different counties and gasped in amazement at the myriad of views on offer, was County Kerry, nicknamed the Kingdom. It is one of the most sought-after destinations in Ireland, as it brims with majestic landscapes at every turn. It’s a place where the lush green forests are thriving with bluebells and where the mountains reach down to the lakes, forming beautiful...   view more

Strolling through Burge’s unfamiliar streets and squares filled to the brim with small cafés and vintage shops, we stopped many times to gaze into the beautifully decorated shop windows, trying to imagine what the rooms looked like behind those pink-painted window frames, admiring its medieval...   view more

The primary emotion that washed over me once the hissing doors of the Airport shuttle bus closed behind me and my feet hit the wet pavement was pure adoration. Edinburgh is a ridiculously good-looking city, and there is plenty to stimulate the senses as you roam between Edinburgh’s Old Town attractions and the elegant New Town...   view more

Edinburgh is divided into twelve unique neighbourhood areas, each with its own special charm. During the three years we lived in the city, we slowly combed through all of them, and I can confidently say that some of Edinburgh’s most noteworthy stays, sights and experiences are found off the main tourist trail. It’s impossible to see everything that Edinburgh has to offer in one trip, and we don’t suggest you...   view more

Derry is a compact city on the River Foyle wedged between the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coast route, known by two names, each with different connotations attached that involve distinct histories, different religious beliefs and opposed political values. The city has found new fame in recent years as the setting for the comedy TV series Derry Girls, which tells the story of a group of local girls growing up...   view more

A trip to Northern Ireland would not be complete without some time spent exploring the streets of Belfast, and luckily, that is an easy dream to achieve. You’ll find a range of tours that all begin in either Dublin or Belfast, and, depending on what you want to do, you can travel through the rest of the country from there. Belfast is Northern Ireland’s largest and most populous city, with almost half a million people calling it...   view more

Around four years ago, after visiting Biarritz and Brittany and exploring its beautiful creeks, ports and UNESCO World Heritage sites, we discovered a new passion for France. So when the opportunity arose for us to travel further down south to the French Riviera, a place that doesn’t even need an introduction as it is very well known worldwide, we both agreed and jumped at the chance to discover for ourselves if this place really is so chic and...   view more

If you are keen to discover the historical, cultural and culinary highlights of Ghent, fill yourself up with Cuberdons, a cone-shaped sugary Belgian candy, hard on the outside – gooey on the inside and catch a boat trip on the canals to take in the view from the water that gives you the full experience of Ghent, then a trip to Belgium’s third-largest city should be on your travel wish list. Once you arrive, begin your day in Kouter, a grand square that has for centuries been the meeting...   view more

Located in the south of Estonia, Tartu, its second largest city in size, has a whimsical appeal to it drawing you in with its pastel-coloured buildings, overflowing flower beds and cosy cafes that invite you to spend a few hours in the sun, slowly sipping a cup of tea in pure, undiluted peace. Tartu is best known as Estonia’s student capital thanks to the University of Tartu, which was established in 1632 and is one of the oldest universities in...   view more

Here is the city’s best angle, I noted quietly, beaming with joy. Edinburgh in a single macro-glimpse. Well worth the journey up the hill for a newcomer. Whether you are keen to admire Edinburgh’s rugged stone buildings, stroll the streets with your camera or learn about many gruesome tales from the long history of Scotland’s capital, it will be impossible to get...   view more

After a blissful summer lull, the city quiets down. Wildlife scavenge before hibernation. The burns babble before they freeze. Stormy skies add a dramatic flair to the already beautiful city. And with colourful leaves framing its every corner, Edinburgh turns into an autumnal dreamland that feels like a world away from the rest of...   view more

Walking around Seville on a cold and gloomy spring day wasn’t what we had in mind while planning a trip to a city which is known to have fantastic weather and gorgeous blue sky. When I close my eyes and imagine Andalusia, swirling red dresses, never-ending sunshine, and blossoming orange trees lining the streets come to...   view more

Whether it’s the seagrasses graciously swaying in the sea breeze, secret caves lying beneath the steep clifftops or the ocean that’s groaning and gasping through the storms, coastal adventures are a great way to soak in the views and savour colourful sunsets. And that’s why, when I imagine Portugal, especially its ceaseless shoreline dotted with quintessential fishing towns that offer lip-smacking seafood, I can easily see us living...   view more

If you are willing to briefly wander away from Lisbon’s famous yellow trams and impressive architectural gems and jump on a train – think of it as a micro-adventure – you can visit one of the most charming coastal towns, where you’ll be warmly greeted by dazzling sea views and pristine sandy shores. Nestled between the lush Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and picturesque Estoril, Cascais is a fantastic place to visit as a day trip from Lisbon or, even better, to extend your stay in Portugal...   view more

Scotland has a myriad of enchanting towns and villages, but there are only eight cities in the country, with Stirling – often nicknamed the ‘Gateway to the Highlands’ – being the smallest and the youngest one. While it may be petite in size, it’s the best-preserved medieval city in Scotland, where the country’s Wars of Independence were fought and won. The historic city is nestled in the heart of Scotland’s rolling hills and offers unobscured views of the surrounding...   view more

When you stop to observe the streets of Edinburgh’s New Town, you’ll notice how the buildings aligned along both sides of the road parade rows of wrought iron balconies, balustrades and pilasters, fanlights, chimneys and attic windows. It is one of the most spectacular neighbourhoods in the city. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site and a true marvel of urban planning. New Town often gets forgotten about in favour of the Old Town, but I love it just as much for its great character and...   view more

Nestled on the banks of the River Lagan, Belfast, the thriving capital of Northern Ireland, is a place that should be on every traveller’s wish list. The city is famed as the birthplace of the legendary RMS Titanic and for having been the filming location for the acclaimed TV and movie production Game of Thrones. With an abundance of cosy pubs and a wealth of art and cultural experiences to discover, Belfast has all the ingredients for an unforgettable trip, even if you only have a day to...   view more

The infinite drizzle and a lack of colour make for a very gloomy atmosphere during the seemingly never-ending winter months on Ireland’s West Coast. And as much as I love the smell, the sound and the feel of the rain, and as much as I have learned to love it, I was more than happy to leave the dark and grim skies of Sligo behind. Setting off to France with red dawn blossoming over a distant horizon, the prettiest we have seen in a long time, we were openly dreaming of slow mornings, country...   view more

With a population of more than 1.5 million and a surface area of about 310.4 km², Munich is the capital of Bavaria and Germany’s third-largest city, right after Berlin and Hamburg. Anyone who plans to visit – there’s more to Munich than pretzels, tight leather pants and beer. Munich is where old meets new and where the city meets the countryside; a combination that provides a perfect playground for art lovers, photographers, and history-savvy explorers,...   view more

Portugal’s famous surf town, Nazaré, is known for its enormous waves breaking off its broad beaches. While some visit Nazaré to watch surfers test their limits on waves that race towards North Beach, others are not keen on water sports and will find several other things to do. You can stroll the beachfront promenade, wander around the town’s cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed homes and explore the Fort of São Miguel...   view more

Visiting Marrakech is an unforgettable experience that blends culture, history, and stunning landscapes. My recent trip to this vibrant Moroccan city was filled with many memorable moments. Over a course of five days, I explored the heart of the Medina, embarked on several day trips, and immersed myself in the local culture. Marrakesh is one of the largest cities in Morocco, home to 1 million people, and offers an incredible number of sights, places, and...   view more

When you think of Edinburgh, iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, the Scott Monument, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse are likely to come to mind. And rightfully so—these architectural marvels are timeless symbols of the city’s history. While the top attractions are undeniably bucket list experiences for many visitors, they often come with a downside: swarms of tourists fighting for the perfect photo op, long queues, and the challenge of finding a quiet moment can leave even the most...   view more

It is the largest city in Scotland, famed for its Victorian and art nouveau architecture. These buildings are a rich legacy of Glasgow’s prosperity from the 18th to the 20th century due to trade and shipbuilding. The wonderful port city is located on the River Clyde and is a vibrant cultural hub famous for its food, architecture, and historical heritage, meaning you’ll have plenty to see and do...   view more

Located in northern Portugal, a few miles from the river’s mouth on the Atlantic Ocean, Porto is a wonderful destination for a European city break. It’s a hilly city with winding warrens of old lanes and charming riverside quarters where terracotta-tiled houses rise up from the waters of the Douro. Porto’s enviable position offers stunning viewpoints from which you can admire its iconic bridges and historic neighbourhoods, as well as the Douro River meandering through the...   view more

If street art is your thing, Belfast is your city. In addition to vibrant murals that reflect a changing narrative for the city, you can also find an impressive collection of murals depicting the city’s political divisions. Over the years, these emotionally charged paintings, which illustrate the city’s tumultuous history, have become popular tourist attractions. As fascinating as they might be, visitors must remember that most of these murals are linked to Belfast’s sectarian divide. They...   view more

Poised under the jagged slopes of Monte Baldo lies the little town of Malcesine. Its historic centre is packed shoulder to shoulder with pastel coloured houses adorned with shutters and terracotta roofs. Old-world piazzas perch right at the very edge of the lake, offering panoramic views of shimmering waters. Stairways are lined with potted plants blooming with flowers, and artisan shops blend seamlessly with modern-day cars and...   view more

With its quays lined with restaurants and stunning viewpoints, Gaia is a must-visit for a trip to Porto. Vila Nova de Gaia boasts panoramic views of the Douro River, white sand beaches, and ancient monasteries, and is where the Port wine cellars were built in the 1700s. But a wine tour is not the only reason to visit this area. When wandering the quiet streets, you can discover many incredible...   view more

There is something magical about walking into a bookstore. Being welcomed by shelves stacked full of books, all waiting to be picked up and read, is a joyful experience. There’s the smell of books. There’s the sight of rows upon rows filled with stories that can spark a great deal of curiosity and a sense of wonder. There’s the feel of the pages inviting you to discover new authors, genres, and ideas, and the general ambience that oozes comfort and...   view more

A week before we left for France, a photo popped up on our social media feed with an impossibly beautiful street full of little shops and half-timbered houses that we swore we were going to track down. Not to retrace other travellers’ footsteps, not in the slightest, but to bask in the stillness only a small city can provide. Don’t let the main photo fool you; our journey to France and Bayonne was far from perfect, but it was...   view more

Galway is the oldest and largest city on Ireland’s famous Wild Atlantic Way, with a soul that comes to life in its pubs and quaint squares. Once a small fishing village, Galway grew in strength in the 13th century to become a prosperous walled town ruled by 14 merchant families, known as the Tribes of Galway. Today, the city is one of the most enchanting in Ireland. While the city is steeped in history, it also buzzes with an innovative vibe, thanks in part to the students who make up a fifth...   view more

The French Riviera is an incredible travel destination where sparkling blue waters meet dramatic cliff lines, dotted with charming villages. It’s also a fantastic place to use as a base to discover and explore nearby towns or the entire coastline. You could even tick another country off your bucket list and embark on a day trip to Monaco from Nice, like we did a few years ago! Monaco is well known as one of the most glamorous places along the chic French Riviera, which has its own governing...   view more

There’s nothing like a great coastline to get me excited about photography. Whether it’s the seagrasses graciously swaying in the sea breeze, secret caves lying beneath the steep clifftops or the ocean that’s groaning and gasping through the storms, coastal adventures are a great way to soak in the views and savour colourful sunsets. And that’s why, when I imagine Portugal, especially its ceaseless shoreline dotted with quintessential fishing towns that offer lip-smacking seafood, I can...   view more