The Glampacker's Guide

Bulgaria and Serbia Zdrasti, Blagodarya, Kade e toaletnata? (Usually in Cyrillic). These phrases will help you get by in Bulgaria. I have provided some Serbian phrases in a link at the end. So here is my advice on South-East Europe, it’s up-and-coming and has many a hidden gem. Sofia – the Bulgarian capital – although I did not get much time to spend there, it is at the top of my bucket list of destinations to return to. The nightlife, culture, food, etc. is brilliant.  On my most recent trip around Europe, I thought: “Why not go a bit off the beaten track?” – and decided to discover Serbia. Serbia is a beautiful country although it is less developed than its neighbours. On departing the night train from Budapest to Belgrade, sleeping with one eye open is recommended, and the cramped couchette enabled us to make some dubious friends. The train from Belgrade to Sofia proved to be a little more challenging, and not for the faint-hearted. The beautiful countryside and frien...

Rome Ciao, Grazie, Dov’è il bagno? – if you don’t speak Italian, these will keep you going. Rome – in my opinion, and many others, is the most beautiful city in the world. On weekend trips, taking a holdall instead of a backpack is more convenient. Like backpacking though, it’s all about taking minimal amounts but co-ordinating and being savvy at packing. Here is some advice on Rome.  Rome is a thriving city, and I would not recommend to go in summer as it can be unbearably hot and crowded. Instead, I would advise to go in spring or autumn as it is still warm but you can actually explore without melting. In regards to nightlife, Rome has some good bars, but it’s quite low down on my list for clubs. In contrast to this though, there are ample breathtakingly beautiful spots (and some good selfie opportunities too – my partner knows this all too well). Hop-on-hop-off buses are also really good here (and in any other city) as you can learn a lot more about the city and see...

BERLIN Hallo, Danke schoen, Wo ist die Toilette? – these are some of the basic phrases needed when going to Berlin. Welcome to the Glampacker's guide! For me, travelling is one of the most important things that you can do. And as cliched as it sounds – it really opens your eyes to different customs, cultures and yes, complete chaos too. As much as I would love to call myself a ‘backpacker’ when travelling, I do like to take the slightly more luxurious route. I use the term ‘luxurious’ loosely however, as I still carry a backpack and slum it occasionally.  Anyway back to Berlin, my favourite city so far. I have been here a couple of times and I plan to go back ASAP. So some advice... in terms of accommodation for Berlin – there are two options for you to take if you want to maintain the Glampacker lifestyle. Airbnb is one. Take note if you want to stay further outside the city centre in Freidrichshain for example, as I have heard it is banned in certain areas. Alternatively...