Where time stands still and the sea never sleeps.

Just an hour west of Tromsø, lies Sommarøy, an Arctic island escape Norway. A scatter of islands linked by slender bridges, white-sand coves, and Arctic-blue water that glows under the midnight sun. Life here moves in rhythm with the tides, unhurried, salt-streaked, and free.

Why visit Sommarøy? Because this is what an Arctic island escape in Norway feels like bright white sand, turquoise water, and endless light. A place where you can breathe deeply, slow down, and watch time dissolve into sea and sky.

The Feel

Sommarøy is small. It’s the kind of place where you can hear the wind shift, where locals leave their doors unlocked, and where the line between day and night blurs in summer light. The island once proposed to become the world’s first “time-free zone”  not as a stunt, but as a reflection of how life already feels here. When you’re surrounded by endless light, the clock loses meaning.

What to Do

Hike Ørnfløya:  a gentle climb with vast views across turquoise shallows and tiny islets. Bring a thermos and sit at the top watching fishing boats drift below.
Walk across the bridges: connecting Sommarøy, Hillesøya, and smaller skerries, every turn feels like a new painting.
Swim or don’t swim: the water looks tropical but stays Arctic-cold. Most people wade in, take a breath, and laugh.
Sauna & sea plunge: the Sommarøy Arctic Hotel has a glass-front sauna right on the water. Jump straight into the sea, then back to warmth.
Stay up late: or don’t sleep at all. The midnight sun turns the sea silver and the horizon gold.

Valletta feels too perfect for summer until you see it in winter. When the tourists are gone and the light softens, the whole city slows to the rhythm of the sea.

You walk down narrow limestone streets that glow gold in the sun. The air smells like espresso and salt. From the fortress walls, you can see fishing boats drifting through Grand Harbour, and for a moment everything goes quiet.

Why Winter Works Here?

In January, while most of Europe hides under clouds, Valletta in winter sits around 17 to 20 degrees. You can wander for hours without sweating or fighting for shade.

Locals greet you like they actually have time, and cafés fill with real Maltese life again. Hotels drop their prices, flights are calmer, and you can get a table with a view without planning weeks ahead.

What to See Without Crowds

Upper Barrakka Gardens – The most peaceful view in the city, with space to sit and breathe.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral – See Caravaggio’s masterpiece without a crowd behind you.

Valletta Waterfront – Still glowing at sunset, the sound now comes from the waves.

Mdina (day trip) – The Silent City truly lives up to its name in winter.

Three Cities ferry – Cross the harbor for a few euros and explore Birgu’s quiet backstreets.

Winter Valletta Is For

Golden-hour walks, cozy restaurants carved into stone, and pretending you live here for a week.
It’s for travelers who chase sunlight, not parties, and love discovering a place that still breathes between seasons.

Wanderlab Tip

Go between November and March. Pack a light jacket, sunglasses, and zero expectations.
Malta in winter isn’t about what to do. It’s about having the Mediterranean to yourself.

Crete in winter doesn’t make sense until you go. The beaches are too cold for swims, the tavernas close earlier, and the streets feel like a film set after the crowds pack up and leave. But that’s the beauty: the island finally exhales.

I walked through Knossos almost alone, no queues, no buses unloading day-trippers. Just me, the stones, and the sound of crows circling above. Later that night in Chania, a café owner slid a glass of raki across the table “to keep warm.” It was 16°C. Not freezing, but the warmth in that glass said everything about Crete in winter: quieter, cheaper, more real.

Crete in Winter: Things to Do, Weather & Why It’s Worth Visiting

First, the weather is kind. It hovers around 15°C, which means you can wander for hours without melting into the pavement like in August.

Second, prices. That boutique hotel with the view of Chania’s Venetian harbor? Half the price. Rental car? Practically begging you to take it.

And most importantly: the absence of everyone else. You get ruins, harbors, and hikes that would normally be jammed in summer will be all to yourself.

Ski Resorts in Austria / Without the Skiing (Yes, in Summer)

When you think of Austrian ski resorts, you probably picture snowy slopes, après-ski bars, and cozy chalets. But here’s the twist: many of Austria’s world-famous ski resorts are even more magical without the snow. In summer, they transform into green alpine playgrounds filled with hiking, biking, lakes, and mountain culture, minus the crowds and high prices.

Best Ski Resorts to Visit in Summer

1. Zell am See-Kaprun

Why go: Glacial views and crystal-clear Lake Zell.

Summer highlights: Swimming, paddleboarding, hiking the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier trails, cycling around the lake.

Local vibe: Cafés and restaurants stay open, but the pace is slower, friendlier.

2. St. Anton am Arlberg

Why go: Famous ski capital, but also a summer hiking hub.

Summer highlights: Mountain biking, alpine meadows, cable car rides with panoramic views.

Hidden gem: Weekly village festivals with Tyrolean music and food.

3. Kitzbühel

Why go: Glamorous in winter, but surprisingly laid-back in summer.

Summer highlights: Golfing, flower-filled hiking trails, and alpine lakes.

Don’t miss: The Hahnenkamm gondola ride,  iconic ski slopes turned summer lookout points.

4. Innsbruck

Why go: A mix of city culture and alpine charm.

Summer highlights: Walk from historic Old Town to Nordkette cable car in minutes. Perfect for urban explorers who want both café culture and mountain views.

After our Northern Italy road trip, I wrote a general guide on driving in Italy — but the Amalfi Coast deserves its own chapter. Here, traffic, parking, and road culture follow their own rules. If you’re planning to drive along these legendary cliffside roads, here are the essential Amalfi Coast driving tips from our experience.

Choose the Right Car – The Smaller, the Better

Amalfi’s roads are narrow, winding, and parking is limited. A big car is a big mistake. When renting, remember the golden rule: the smaller, the better. A compact car will save you headaches in traffic and when squeezing into tiny parking spots.
We would have loved a classic Fiat 500 or Mini Cooper, but with luggage in tow we settled for a BMW 116 and a Peugeot 208. Both were compact enough to be practical — and still fun to drive.

Always Have Navigation

Don’t skip the GPS. One of our friends insisted on “just reading a map” to save money, but honestly — with endless switchbacks, that would have been a nightmare. Plus, the views are so distracting that nobody in the car will want to keep their eyes on directions. Trust us, get the navigation.

Timing is Everything

In summer, driving the Amalfi Coast can be pure torture. Narrow roads + tourist buses = endless jams. If you can, avoid July and August. The sweet spot is mid-September to May. You’ll skip the gridlock but still get sunshine. If swimming is a priority, aim for early fall or late spring.

Expect Narrow and One-Lane Roads

These are not highways — most Amalfi roads are one lane each way, with sharp turns and steep cliffs. At times you’ll find sections so narrow that only one vehicle can pass at a time, controlled by lights or police. Other times, you’ll round a corner and suddenly face a line of cars waiting because two buses can’t squeeze past each other. Always drive at a speed that lets you stop suddenly. Surprises are part of the Amalfi experience.

Experience Required

These roads are not for new or nervous drivers. They’re narrow, full of blind curves, and often have a sheer drop on one side. Even seasoned drivers get sweaty palms when a coach bus comes barreling around the corner. If you’re prone to panic, let someone else take the wheel. And if you’re the type who drives aggressively, ignores speed limits, or gets angry easily — do yourself (and everyone else) a favor and don’t drive here.

Don’t Skip Insurance

Many Amalfi rental cars already carry scars: scratches, dents, broken mirrors. Get the extra insurance. You’ll thank yourself later.

Local Driving Culture

One of the most refreshing things? Locals are surprisingly patient and helpful with tourists struggling on the road. Sure, you’ll sometimes hear horns (especially in Naples), but on the Amalfi Coast, most drivers will give you space and even help guide you through tight spots.

Watch the Signals

Bus drivers are the true masters of these roads. When space is tight, follow their hand signals — they’ll literally guide you through.
Other signals to know:

• Horn blasts: Buses honk when approaching blind curves to warn oncoming cars.

• Flashing headlights: A warning from other drivers — pay attention, something’s ahead.

Parking Like a Pro

Parking is one of the toughest parts of driving Amalfi. Spaces are few, garages are rare, and street parking is tight. Be ready for serious parallel parking practice. Always fold in your mirrors and don’t leave valuables in the car.

Fill Up Before You Go

Gas is more expensive along the coast than on the highways. Top up before heading into Amalfi to save money and avoid stress.

Afraid of Heights? Drive South to North

If sheer drops make you dizzy, start from Salerno and head north toward Positano and Sorrento. That way, you’ll be on the inner side of the road, closer to the cliffs than the edge — while your passengers enjoy the sea views without you sweating bullets.

Wanderlab Insight: Driving the Amalfi Coast isn’t easy — but it’s unforgettable. If you come prepared with the right car, insurance, and patience, it’s one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever take.

After our road trip from Turin to Rome, we quickly realized that driving in Italy comes with a few surprises. Here’s everything we wish we knew before renting a car — so you can be prepared and avoid our mistakes.

Renting a Car in Italy

We picked up our rental car in Turin after landing. We had already paid online, but at the desk, they asked to block €2,000 on a credit card as a deposit.

Here’s the problem:
The driver, cardholder, and person who made the reservation must be the same person. One of us had the card, another made the reservation — and the rental company wouldn’t accept it.

Changing the name on the reservation involved calling customer service, which we couldn’t reach on our phones. Eventually, the agent helped us make the call — and 45 minutes later, the name was updated.

Tip: When booking your car, make sure the driver has a credit card with a high enough limit.

Parking in Italian Cities

If you’re planning a road trip in Italy, budget for parking.

• Blue-lined spots in cities are for paid public parking.

• They’re free from 8 PM to 8 AM, but during the day, they cost around €1.50 per hour.

• Use nearby ticket machines, enter the estimated time, and place the printed ticket visibly on your dashboard.

We stayed longer than expected a few times and got a €25 fine. You can pay fines at banks or post offices.

Daily parking garages cost €20–30/day. In Florence, since we didn’t use the car, we parked it in a garage for the entire stay.

Toll Roads in Italy

Italy’s highways are mostly toll roads. Be sure to:

• Avoid electronic toll lanes (Telepass) unless you have a device.

• Choose the lanes that give a paper ticket upon entry.

• Pay at the exit toll booth — sometimes to a person, often to a machine.

Once, we didn’t have enough coins, and the machine didn’t accept our card. We pressed the help button, got a receipt, and paid later at the address provided.

Always carry enough coins in case there’s no attendant.

Fuel Stations

Not every gas station has an attendant. Often, you’ll have to:

• Pay at the machine

• Fill the tank yourself

Machines don’t always accept foreign credit cards, so it’s smart to keep some cash handy just in case.

Traffic Fines: The Hidden Cost

This was the biggest surprise. Even after we returned home, fines kept arriving — some were even charged to our credit card months later.

We received speeding and ZTL (limited traffic zone) fines in the mail, long after the trip ended. Honestly, it felt like a never-ending nightmare.

Don’t ignore fines or cancel your card — this could affect future travel within Europe.

Final Advice

Driving through Italy is an incredible experience, but it comes with rules and red tape.
Here’s a quick checklist:

• Match the driver, credit card, and reservation name

• Carry coins and cash for tolls and fuel

• Know where you can and can’t park

• Follow speed limits and traffic laws strictly

• Expect parking and toll costs to add up

With the right prep, a road trip in Italy can be a dream. Just be ready for a few bumps along the way — and don’t forget to enjoy the ride!

Trip Planning & Booking

• Skyscanner – Flights, hotels, and car rentals with AI-powered recommendations and fare alerts.

• Hopper – Predicts best times to book with price-freezing features for flexibility.

 Itinerary & Route Planning

• TripIt – Organizes your flights, hotel bookings, and activities into one neat timeline.

• Wanderlog – Create daily road trip itineraries, map your route, split expenses, and collaborate with friends.

• WanderPlan AI – Personalized travel plans using your preferences and time frame.

Navigation & Maps

• Google Maps – Real-time traffic, offline maps, EV charging filter, and AI trip layers.

• Waze – Community-based driving app with police alerts, hazard warnings, and route suggestions.

• Roadtrippers – Discover scenic stops, attractions, and quirky detours across the US and Canada.

• OsmAnd – Full offline navigation with voice directions and custom route layers.

EV Charging Apps (for Electric Car Travelers)

• PlugShare – Find charging stations worldwide with real-user reviews and availability.

• ChargeMap – Especially popular in Europe. Filter by connector type, payment, and real-time availability.

• A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) – Tailors long-distance EV routes based on car model, battery level, and weather.

• Electrify America / Ionity – Country-specific fast-charging networks (US / EU) with station status and pricing.

• Tesla App – Essential if you’re driving a Tesla, offering route planning and Supercharger integration.

 Budget & Currency Tools

• Wise – Real-time currency conversion with fee-free international transfers.

• Revolut – Multi-currency wallet with spending insights, travel insurance, and airport lounge access.

Fuel & Charging Prices

• GasBuddy – Find the cheapest gas stations (US & Canada) and save with rewards.

• ChargePoint – Includes both real-time charger availability and pricing at major stations (US-heavy).

• Tollsmart – Calculate toll costs in advance, whether gas or electric vehicle.

Language & Communication

• Google Translate – Instantly translate menus, signs, and conversations with camera and voice tools.

• Duolingo – Learn key local phrases before and during your trip with gamified lessons.

• Pocket – Save travel blogs, tips, or offline content to read later.

Connectivity & Safety

• WiFi Map – Locate free WiFi hotspots with user ratings and password sharing.

• Prey Anti-Theft – Protect your devices with location tracking and remote control in case of theft.

• VPN by Nord or Surfshark – Secure your browsing on public WiFi networks.

Nature & Outdoor Add-ons

• AllTrails – Hiking, walking, and cycling trail maps with difficulty ratings and reviews.

• Komoot – Great for cycling tours, e-bike trails, and off-the-grid hikes.

• iOverlander – For campers and van lifers, shows camp spots, dump stations, and water refill

Our trip to the Azores remains unforgettable. Just when I was feeling over Europe, a friend’s insistence landed us on what’s often called “Europe’s Hawaii.” And despite that high praise, the Azores never let me down. Each island is uniquely magical, offering something different. Words can’t capture the beauty, but I’ll try to share a few of the experiences you must consider. We didn’t manage to summit Pico Volcano—though I wish we had—but we certainly luxuriated in hot springs and more. The best part? No matter your interests, the Azores have something just for you.

Want to Swim with Whales? Book a Whale-Watching Tour!

The Azores host not just whale sharks—the world’s largest fish—but also a third of all whale species globally. Whale-watching tours are wildly popular. You’ll likely spot whales around Pico and São Jorge, where they pass through narrow sea channels. For whale sharks, head to Santa Maria—the top choice. Imagine a gigantic whale gracefully gliding beside your boat. If you’re brave enough, you’ll never forget it.

Insider tip: April to October offers the best visibility and highest chances of sightings.

Prefer Diving? Explore Rich Marine Life and Sunken Ships

Thanks to its mild climate, the Azorean water stays between 16–20°C, perfect for diving. From June to October, visibility can reach 30 meters—ideal conditions.

One highlight: a famous wreck from World War II—the Dori, which took part in Normandy landings and sank near Ponta Delgada port in 1964. At just 20 meters deep, it’s surprisingly accessible, and a must for serious divers like me—though I’m gutted I didn’t get a chance yet.

Craving Adventure? Climb a Volcano or Hike a Crater

Pico Island is the archipelago’s second-largest and home to Portugal’s tallest peak—Mount Pico, standing at 2,351 meters. We joined an overnight guided hike. No specialized gear—just bottles of water and determination. We trekked for three hours but didn’t quite reach the summit before turning back. Still, people from all around the world come and conquer it. Whether you climb or just admire from afar—it’s breathtaking.

Need Healing? Relax in Hot Springs and Waterfalls

On São Miguel Island, the village of Furnas captivates with its volcanic springs and natural beauty. We soaked in steaming crater pools, applied therapeutic mud, and savored hearty stew cooked in underground geothermic heat—then emerged feeling brand new. Explore nearby Japanese cedar forests, bubbling rivers, and a stunning lake—Lagoa do Fogo—that’s a feast for the eyes.

Dream of Surfing? Ride Some Giant Waves

If surfing has ever intrigued you, the Azores offer epic conditions. All nine islands offer surf breaks, but Santa Maria and São Miguel are renowned for their “point breaks,” while São Jorge offers “reef breaks”—some of the longest waves in the region. We didn’t surf, but loved watching the pros ride them.

The Adventure Doesn’t Stop Here

The islands offer even more: kayaking, rafting, horseback riding, canyoning, paragliding, trekking, scuba diving, and more. Not a thrill-seeker? Don’t worry. The Azores delight even the most casual visitors with their charm, food, views, and culture!

Final Thoughts

The Azores feel like a different world—each island a unique answer to any kind of wanderlust. Whether you’re seeking nature, adrenaline, culture, or tranquility—you’ll find your reason to fall in love with this archipelago.

Useful Local Apps for Exploring the Azores

• WindGURU – Ideal for checking wind speeds and weather for hikes and outdoor plansTo Azores Islands

• SpotAzores – Live webcams across islands help you track weather and visibilityTo Azores IslandsAzores Getaways

• Maps.me – Reliable offline maps; great for hiking trails with poor receptionTo Azores IslandsJangwa בלוג טיולים

• Google Maps – Excellent for navigation and identifying viewpoints; use satellite mode to scout parkingRedditJangwa בלוג טיולים

• AllTrails, Wikiloc – Trail apps praised by hikers for route info and offline use (use alongside official portals)

We wanted a destination where we could travel easily, make use of our Schengen visa, and not spend too much money. After some research, the answer was loud and clear: Slovenia!

So… What Is There to Do in Slovenia?

We started our trip in the capital city, Ljubljana. The first thing we noticed was the fresh air — seriously, it’s hard to miss. We’ve never seen a city this green before. In fact, Ljubljana was named the Green Capital of Europe in 2016.

The population is only around 300,000, so it feels small and cozy. You might even see the same people more than once just walking around town. The city is also full of Erasmus students, which gives it a fun and lively vibe.

At night, the area around the canal stays busy. But the real nightlife seems to center around a place called Metelkova — more on that later.

Top Things to See in Ljubljana

Prešeren Square

The city’s main square — a great place to start your walk.

Triple Bridge

Three bridges connected in one, with unique architecture.

Dragon Bridge

Four statues of dragons, the city’s symbol, make this bridge look seriously cool.

Congress Square (Kongresni trg)

Another major square with open space and beautiful buildings.

Tivoli Park

A huge, green park — perfect for laying on the grass and relaxing.

Ljubljana Castle

A historic castle that hosts events in its courtyard. Take the funicular to get there easily.

Museum of Modern Art

For lovers of modern artistic expressions.

Museum of Contemporary Art

Yes, it’s different — and ideal for contemporary art fans.

National Gallery of Slovenia

A must-see for those who want to understand Slovenian art and history.

Cooperative Bank Building

One of the most Instagrammable spots in the city.

The Unmissable Metelkova

We can’t sum up Metelkova in just one sentence. This place has a long, fascinating history. During the Austro-Hungarian Empire, it was used as a military prison. Later, under Yugoslav control, it became a military zone filled with barracks.

In 1991, after Slovenia gained independence, the army left the area. The city council wanted to tear down the barracks and build a shopping center. But a group of local youth resisted. Artists also moved into the abandoned buildings and tried to stop the demolition.

To pressure them, the city cut off water and electricity. Still, the resistance continued. In 1993, the protesters won. The area became a haven for art, freedom, and alternative culture.

Even today, it’s unclear whether Metelkova is 100% legal. None of the venues appear to be officially licensed or taxed — at least, that’s what we gathered from the mixed answers we received.

Regardless of legality, this place is bursting with freedom and creativity. You’ll find colorful street art, murals, and a wildly diverse crowd. During the day, it’s like an open-air gallery, perfect for photos and Instagram. At night, it turns into a buzzing nightlife zone.

Metelkova is a place where no one judges anyone. It’s a space where all kinds of people can mix together, chat, and have fun — no pressure, no problems. It truly feels like a parallel universe. 

If you want a unique place to stay, check out Hostel Celica, which used to be a prison. You can now sleep in its bunk beds — an unforgettable experience.

How Long to Stay in Ljubljana?

As you can see, there’s a lot to do in Ljubljana. But we’re not big fans of museums, so we mostly walked around the city. That means we covered a lot in a short time.

• If you want to visit museums too, 3 days is ideal.

• If you’re like us and prefer exploring outdoors, 1 full day is enough.

After exploring the city, we rented a car and did day trips to nearby spots during the day. At night, if we still had energy, we always found ourselves back in Metelkova.

Driving in Mexico might sound intimidating, but it’s actually easier than you think—at least in the Yucatán Peninsula. For us, renting a car is always worth it: we love the freedom to stop at hidden spots, skip tourist crowds, and follow our own curiosity.

Here are the most important things you should know before driving in Mexico, based on our own road trip experience.

Watch Out for Speed Bumps (Topes)

Mexico’s roads are full of speed bumps—some are so high they can easily damage your car if you don’t slow down. Keep an eye out for yellow “tope” signs on the roadside, and always reduce speed before crossing.

Why Do Cars Keep the Left Signal On?

In Mexico, if the car in front of you has its left blinker on, it usually means “safe to overtake.” But some slow drivers just leave it on all the time. Always double-check the road yourself before passing. If you’re driving slowly, you can also leave your left blinker on to let others know.

Toll Roads vs Free Roads

Some roads are free (“libre”) and others are toll roads (“cuota”). For example:

• Cancun → Merida direct = toll road

• Cancun → Tulum → Coba → Merida = free but longer route

Tip: Stick to toll roads if you want smoother, faster travel. Some travelers report scams on free roads (locals asking for “fees”), but legally, you only pay on official cuota roads.

Be Alert at Gas Stations

Gas stations are everywhere in Yucatán, but scams can happen. The most common trick: not resetting the pump to zero. Always check before filling, and don’t be shy to point at the pump.

Roads Can Be Rough (Bring a Spare)

Not all Mexican roads are smooth highways—expect dirt roads, potholes, and bumps. Flat tires are common, so:

• Make sure your rental car has a spare tire & tools

• Know the basics of changing a tire

We had to replace a tire ourselves and found a mechanic in just 10 minutes. Locals are used to it—it’s all part of the journey.

Avoid Driving at Night

Outside main highways, roads have no street lights. At night it’s pitch black, making it harder to see potholes, animals, or unexpected topes. In Yucatán, jungle roads run right next to the highway—don’t be surprised if a wild animal suddenly appears.

Be Ready for Emergencies

Car rental agencies will usually give you a 24/7 emergency number—but don’t rely on it fully. Sometimes the phone won’t connect, or you’ll be out of signal range. Be prepared:

• Carry extra water

• Know basic Spanish phrases

• Avoid driving at night if you’re unsure

Locals are incredibly helpful though—even with sign language or a few words of Spanish, you’ll usually get the help you need.

Wanderlab Insight: Driving in Mexico isn’t scary if you’re prepared. Expect the unexpected, stay flexible, and embrace the adventure—because the best parts of a Mexican road trip are the surprises you can’t plan for.