It’s hard not to fall in love with Honfleur as you wander through its picturesque streets. The town exudes medieval charm with its historic houses, narrow alleys, and ancient harbor. As you stroll along the Vieux Bassin, you’ll see the reflection of old warehouses in the water
Maartje's enthusiasm and curiosity knows no bounds. She loves museums, nature, food, walking, architecture, history, animals. Writing and photography is a big passion and she has been writing about cooking, minimalism, food, hotspots and travel for many years. Above all, she has a special place in her heart for castles, royal jewels and ancient Egypt. Maartje gave up her job as a lawyer to bring more balance to her life: less work and more life. Besides to The Orange Backpack, she works as a legal entrepreneur.
Spending the night in Honfleur is the perfect way to fully immerse yourself in this medieval town. Known as one of the top destinations in Normandy, Honfleur is also an ideal base for exploring other Norman attractions. You can stay in charming small hotels and cozy B&Bs
Imagine this: you’re standing at the edge of mainland Normandy, gazing out over a vast, sandy expanse. The sea has receded, revealing the path to Île Tatihou, inviting the adventurous mudflat hiker. As you make your way across the exposed seabed, you pass by oyster farms and
In the Loire Valley, you’ll discover an endless array of romantic castles nestled amidst charming villages and vast vineyards and orchards. This region is home to some of the most beautiful French châteaux! Particularly in and around the Touraine region, castle enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise.
As one of the most visited and highly praised castles in France, Château de Chenonceau is not only my favorite but also a beloved destination for many visitors to the Loire Valley. Being an avid fan of castles, I find immense joy exploring the Loire region, home
Located on the stunning shores of the largest lake in the Balkans and nestled at the foot of the Albanian Alps, Shkodër is one of the most beautifully situated cities in Albania. While Shkodër may not be known as the most sight-filled city in Albania, it certainly
Curious about the best places to stay during your trip to Shkodër? Whether you’re looking for the luxury of a hotel or the cozy feel of a hostel, Shkodër offers a variety of accommodations. During our research for our visit to Vlorë, we found some real gems
Berat and Gjirokastër are both UNESCO World Heritage sites, known as two of the most captivating cities in Albania. Their distinct Ottoman architecture turns each city into a living historical museum, featuring charming whitewashed houses with slate roofs. These cities are often compared to each other or
Are you ready to discover one of Europe’s best-kept secrets? Albania is a treasure trove of culture, pristine beaches, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From the stunning Albanian Riviera to the enigmatic ruins of ancient cities, and from the majestic Albanian Alps to age-old castles, Albania has been
Welcome to Sarandë, a gem nestled on the stunning Albanian Riviera, famed for its breathtaking beaches. This tourist favorite features a vibrant center bustling with restaurants, bars, and numerous tourist facilities, all surrounded by gorgeous sandy beaches and offering views of the Greek island of Corfu. In