Travel Guide: Europe!
Our awesome intern, Liza, went on the trip of a lifetime this summer! Continue reading to learn more about her journey through Europe...
Bergen, Norway
Our journey in Norway began with a cozy check-in at the Hotel by Scandic, the perfect stay for exploring the heart of Norway. After a day of wandering cobbled streets in my favorite boots, we dined waterfront at Olivia’s, where fresh seafood and flickering lights set the tone for the night. The next day we took a short train ride up a mountain to Floirrestauranten, perched high above the city, offering the most breathtaking panoramic views for dinner. As the evening chill set in, we stepped into the surreal world of the Magic Ice Bar, where every surface is carved from ice and we were given a huge jacket because of the frozen temperatures. One of my favorite spots was Brasserie Cherie, a French inspired cocktail lounge that was found on a narrow street. After that we tried some whale Tartar at a tapas restaurant. The real adventure began with a scenic train ride to the fjords, winding through breathtaking landscapes. We capped it all off with a boat tour through the Norwegian Fjords, gliding past towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Galway, Ireland
The first stop in Ireland began in Dublin’s iconic Temple Bar District, a buzzing hub of culture, music, and nightlife, where I danced all night long in my Frauleins. Wandering its cobbled lanes, each corner revealed something new, from street performers and colorful pubs to historic landmarks. It’s the kind of place where your boots have to be made for walking. The Genesis Beer Tour was an immersive experience that took us deep into Ireland’s brewing heritage. From hops to history, the tour ended with a perfectly poured pint and a newfound appreciation for Irish craftsmanship. Next, we hit the road west to Galway, a coastal gem of relaxed charm and cultural energy. The Cliffs of Moher was a beautiful sight to see towering nearly 700 feet above the Atlantic. Before moving forward, we stepped into the past at Bunratty Castle, a beautifully preserved 15th-century fortress that let us walk through history.
Stockholm, Sweden
Some cities just get style and Stockholm, Sweden is one of them. A seamless blend of modern design and old-world charm, this Scandinavian capital is made for exploring on foot, with the right boots, of course. From rooftop views to underground history, our Stockholm adventure was packed with flavor, culture, and unforgettable sights. We checked into the sleek Hotel At Six, where the hotel’s rooftop bar was our favorite spot where we sipped cocktails with a panoramic view of the city’s skyline, golden hour casting over Stockholm’s rooftops and waterways. Eager to try new things, Stockholm food tour took us through charming neighborhoods and hidden alleyways. From classic Swedish meatballs to fresh seafood and homemade chocolate, each stop told a story. I can now say I’ve tried bear and reindeer! We took a dive into history at the famous Vasa Museum, home to the nearly fully intact 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage. Standing beside this massive ship, preserved in stunning detail, was nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Munich, Germany
Boots and Beer! Munich is a city where tradition meets trend, where centuries-old beer halls sit next to designer shops, and where every step tells a story. From classic Bavarian charm to unexpected urban adventures, our boots hit the ground running in this effortlessly cool city. We checked in at the elegant Hotel Bayerischer Hof, a true Munich icon with timeless luxury. After settling in, it was only fitting that our first stop was the legendary Hofbräuhaus, the heartbeat of Bavarian culture. Long communal tables, oompah bands, and steins of beer larger than my head. Between sips and strolls, we wandered through manicured parks and stumbled upon one of the city’s most unexpected thrills: the Eisbachwelle. This permanent river wave in the middle of the English Garden is where ride the current year-round, even in the chill of autumn.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
In the city of bikes and boats, boots still lead the way
Amsterdam was a lively experience full of many different cultures and sights to see. We made the Pulitzer Hotel our home, it was my favorite hotel from the whole trip. For dinner one night, we went to several restaurants and just got an appetizer at each, which was a fun and cultural experience. The Jordaan district offered the quiet side of Amsterdam full of narrow lanes, ivy-covered buildings, local cafés, and artisan shops tucked into hidden courtyards. We wandered without maps, letting the city guide us, stopping for stroopwafels, and listening to the splash of boats gliding by.
