Hey there! It’s been a while since I’ve shared an update about my life on this blog. I used to post weekly updates, but I’ve decided to switch things up a bit. Posting every week was becoming too much work, and I’d rather spend my free time learning German, traveling around Europe, and making more memories. So, I’ve decided to start posting monthly updates instead!
To kick off this new monthly series, I thought I’d give you a glimpse into my life in November. It’s been a busy month filled with travel, new experiences, and plenty of learning.
At the beginning of the month, I decided to focus on my health and wellness to prepare myself for the upcoming travels. I knew that I would be on the move a lot in the coming weeks, and I wanted to make sure that my body was ready for the challenge.
To kick things off, I started my marathon training plan. In addition to running, I also treated myself to a relaxing spa evening at Vabali. It’s a beautiful wellness center in the heart of the city, and it was the perfect place to unwind and recharge. I enjoyed a sauna, a steam bath, and a dip in the pool. It was the perfect way to relax and let go of any stress or tension that had been building up in my body.
After my slow start to November, I was ready for some fun and adventure. I hopped on a train and headed over to Cologne to join some friends for a wild Karnival weekend. If you’ve never experienced Karnival in Germany, it’s basically a massive street party filled with costumes, music, and plenty of drinking.
This year, we decided to go all out with our costumes and dress up as different styles of Barbie. I went for a ski party theme, while my friends dressed up as Malibu Barbie, Country Barbie, and everything in between. It was so much fun seeing everyone’s costumes and watching the crowds react to our group.
We spent the weekend dancing in the streets, exploring the city, and sampling the local food and drink. It was a great way to let loose and have some fun with friends.
As the weekend drew to a close, we all agreed that we couldn’t wait for next year’s Karnival. We’ve already started brainstorming ideas for our costumes, and I have a feeling it’s going to be even wilder than this year.
After my exciting Karnival party I decided to indulge my inner child and bought a Tamagotchi. For those who aren’t familiar, a Tamagotchi is a digital pet that you have to take care of, feeding it, playing with it, and generally keeping it happy and healthy. I quickly became obsessed with my new virtual pet and found myself checking on it throughout the day, making sure it was fed and happy. But I wasn’t alone in my Tamagotchi obsession. A few of my friends also bought Tamagotchis, and we became a little community of Tamagotchi parents. We even threw a party to celebrate our Tamagotchis’ first birthdays. It was silly, but it was a fun way to bond with my friends and take a break from the stresses of daily life.
The next big thing that I did in November was take a trip to Portugal with my two friends, Hita and Jackson. We were eager to explore this beautiful country and immerse ourselves in its rich culture and history.
We flew into Lisbon and rented a car, ready to hit the open road. On our way up to Porto we stopped in Sintra, a beautiful town located in the hills outside of Lisbon. We explored the town’s stunning palaces and gardens, including the iconic Pena Palace, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The views from the palace were simply breathtaking, and we spent hours taking in the stunning scenery.
Our first stop was Porto, a vibrant and historic city that was made famous by Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown. We explored the city’s narrow streets and picturesque alleys, taking in the sights and sounds of this bustling city. We also made sure to indulge in the local food and wine, which were absolutely delicious.
After our time in Porto, we drove back down to Lisbon, stopping along the way in some stunning locations. We visited Aveiro, a charming coastal town known for its canals and colorful boats. We also stopped at Bussaco Palace, a historic hotel that was once a royal hunting lodge. The hotel’s gardens were simply stunning, with colorful flowers and trees that provided a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
We also visited Coimbra, a charming university town that is known for its historic architecture and vibrant student life. We explored the town’s narrow streets and steep alleys, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant and lively city.
Our road trip through Portugal was an amazing and beautiful experience. We made so many lovely memories and shared a lot of laughs along the way. And of course, we also had our inside joke about lilies, which still isn’t really a joke, more a way of life.
In November, I had the opportunity to go on a weekend trip to Barcelona. Not only did I get to see the beautiful city, but I also got to reunite with a friend I met at the Hungarian music festival Sziget.
From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the energy and beauty of Barcelona. We wasted no time and hit the ground running, exploring the city and all it had to offer. Our first stop was La Sagrada Familia, the iconic unfinished basilica designed by the legendary architect Antoni Gaudi. The sheer size and intricate details of the church left me in awe and reminded me of the creative genius of Gaudi. Next, we headed to Parc Guell, another masterpiece of Gaudi, where we walked around the park and admired the stunning views of the city. The vibrant colors, unusual shapes, and mosaics added a whimsical touch to the already enchanting park.
Of course, we couldn’t leave Barcelona without indulging in some of its delicious cuisine. We made sure to try the famous paella, a savory rice dish that’s a staple in Spanish cuisine. We enjoyed it while overlooking the oceanfront, which made for a memorable experience. In the evenings, we caught up with friends over beer and watched rugby games. It was a great opportunity to relax, socialize, and immerse ourselves in the local culture. The atmosphere was lively and festive, and we felt like we were part of the community.
At the end of November, I had the pleasure of returning to Portugal to explore the stunning Algarve Coast with a friend. We spent our days hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying all that the region had to offer.
One of the highlights of our trip was hiking the 7 Hanging Valleys Trail, a picturesque route that took us along the rugged coastline and provided breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The trail was challenging at times, but the views made it all worthwhile.
We also explored the charming town of Lagos, known for its picturesque historic center and stunning beaches. We took a stroll through the town’s narrow streets and visited its many cafes, shops, and museums.
We made Sagres our home base for the duration of our trip, and it was the perfect choice. Located on the westernmost point of the Algarve, Sagres is a surfer’s paradise with world-class waves and incredible views. We spent our mornings watching the surfers ride the waves and our evenings enjoying the stunning sunsets over the ocean.
Another highlight of our trip was visiting the most southwestern point of Europe and witnessing the beauty of the sunset from this vantage point. It was a magical experience that reminded us of the natural wonders that this world has to offer.
On Thanksgiving Day, we celebrated the holiday with a twist. We enjoyed a sushi meal in a laundry mat with live music. It was an unexpected but delightful experience that made us appreciate the diversity and creativity of the local culture.
November was a month I will never forget. From the colorful autumn leaves to the stunning coastlines, every moment felt like a dream. I had the chance to explore new destinations, reconnect with old friends, and experience different cultures. Whether it was hiking along the rugged coastline of Portugal, admiring the architectural wonders of Barcelona, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, every experience felt like a treasure. As the month drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for all the opportunities I had and the memories I made. November will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the beauty and wonder of this world.
