PRAGUE

Prague, with its romantic cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, and centuries-old charm, is truly a city that feels like stepping into a fairytale. It’s packed with history, yet buzzing with modern energy, where cozy cafés and cool cocktail bars sit next to castles and cathedrals.

During my visit in March, I only had two full days to explore, and let me tell you, it wasn’t nearly enough! I highly recommend at least three to four nights to truly soak in everything this stunning city has to offer.

4 NIGHTS

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BEST TIME TO VISIT – MID-APRIL TO MAY AND SEPTEMBER TO MID-OCTOBER IS SHOULDER SEASON. BRING A WARM JACKET.

GETTING AROUND – UBER, TRAINS, OR WALKING

CURRENCY – EUROS, MOST PLACES TAKE CREDIT CARDS

WHERE TO STAY

Luxury

• The Mozart Prague – A luxury option with historic elegance and river views, just steps from the Charles Bridge.

Modern & Stylish

• Boho Hotel Prague – Chic, minimalist, and walkable to Old Town. My favorite boutique hotel in the city.

• The Julius Prague – Stylish and modern with apartment-style suites and a great location near Wenceslas Square.

Trendy & Artsy

• NYX Hotel Prague by Leonardo Hotels – Funky, artsy, and centrally located with a young, social vibe.

Budget-Friendly

• Mosaic House Design Hotel – A great budget-friendly pick with eco-friendly touches, a cool café, and a lively atmosphere.

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WHERE TO EAT

Eska – A modern Czech restaurant in the trendy Karlin district. The food is creative, beautifully plated, and the sourdough is reason enough to visit.
Kantýna – Think upscale Czech pub meets butcher shop. It’s casual, communal, and serves some of the best meats and beer in town.
Café Savoy – Elegant Viennese-style café with fresh pastries, chandeliers, and amazing brunch.
U Modré Kachničky (The Blue Duckling) – Romantic and traditional, perfect for a cozy Czech dinner.
Mlejnice – A rustic hidden gem near Old Town Square with hearty Czech classics at great prices.
Manifesto Market – An open-air food hall with a rotating lineup of international street food and great cocktails.

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WHAT TO DO AND SEE:

Charles Bridge
One of the most iconic sights in Prague. Go early in the morning for fewer crowds and dreamy views over the Vltava River.

Prague Castle
More of a complex than a single castle, this sprawling site includes palaces, courtyards, and chapels. Don’t miss St. Vitus Cathedral, it’s absolutely stunning.

Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock
The heart of Prague. Make time to watch the hourly clock show, then grab a drink at one of the nearby cafés for prime people-watching.

Mala Strana Neighborhood
Charming and less touristy, with quiet streets, hidden gardens, and pastel townhouses. One of my favorite areas to wander.

Lennon Wall
A colorful symbol of peace, rebellion, and art. Bring a Sharpie if you want to leave your mark.

Petřín Hill
For panoramic city views, take the funicular or hike up. There's a mini Eiffel Tower at the top (yes, really), plus peaceful gardens and wooded trails.

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Final Thoughts

Prague is one of those cities that sneaks up on you—it’s romantic, walkable, and full of beautiful contradictions. Whether you’re into history, food, architecture, or just wandering without a plan, it’s the perfect long-weekend destination in Europe.

Need help planning your trip to Prague (or pairing it with Vienna, Budapest, or another European city)? I’d love to help!

📩 Let’s start planning

c/o The Masters

A Day at The Masters: Southern Tradition Meets Bucket-List Travel

If there’s one sporting event that effortlessly blends tradition, beauty, and exclusivity, it’s The Masters. Held every April at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club, it’s a dream experience not just for golf lovers—but for anyone who appreciates a refined, once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere.

As a travel advisor, I curate high-end, unforgettable experiences around the world, but attending The Masters is truly something special. And after experiencing it firsthand, I can say: it lives up to the hype.

The Magic of The Masters

From the moment you step through the gates, time slows down. The towering Georgia pines, the chorus of polite Southern applause, the impossibly green fairways, it’s like walking into a perfectly manicured dream. And yes, the azaleas really are that vibrant.

Phones aren’t allowed, which may sound inconvenient—but it turns out to be one of the most refreshing parts of the day. You’re unplugged and totally present. It’s a rare feeling, and one I didn’t realize I needed.

My Favorite Way to Spend the Day

While every day at The Masters is special, Friday or Saturday is my favorite. The competition is heating up, the energy from the crowd is building, and the weather tends to be just right.

I love to settle in at Amen Corner or up on the hill at Hole 3, both spots offer fantastic views and a peaceful, almost sacred vibe. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just soaking it in for the first time, these are the places where the spirit of the tournament really comes alive.

The Food You Can’t Miss

Sure, it’s a luxury event, but the concessions are famously simple and affordable. My go-to combo? An egg salad sandwich followed by the legendary peach ice cream sandwich. Sweet, creamy, and totally worth the sticky fingers.

Pro Shop Pro Tips

The Masters merchandise is elite, but shopping at Augusta requires strategy:

• Phones aren’t allowed, so bring a written list of what you want (and anyone you're shopping for).

• Go early in the week if you can as there’s more variety and sizes in stock.

• You can ship your purchases home from the course, which I highly recommend if you're going all in (which, let's be honest—you probably will).

• If you leave the pro-shop spending less than $1000, you’re doing great!

Want to Experience It for Yourself?

Getting tickets to The Masters isn’t easy, but that’s where I come in. I work with trusted partners to help secure badges, VIP hospitality, and accommodations in and around Augusta. Whether you're flying in for a day or building a full Southern itinerary around it, I can help make it seamless.

Want to stay in Savannah, relax at The Montage Palmetto Bluff, or head to Charleston for some yummy eats? Let's design a trip worthy of the green jacket.

Ready to plan your day at The Masters?
Want to check this off your bucket list in 2026? I’d love to help.

Back in January, I had the absolute pleasure of experiencing the ultra-chic Palm Heights in the Cayman Islands! This boutique, all-suite beachfront hotel is pure paradise and offers the perfect mix of luxury, relaxation, and stunning aesthetics.

Everywhere you turn, there’s a picture-perfect moment waiting to be captured. From the stylish, retro-inspired decor to the dreamy ocean views, Palm Heights truly exudes effortless elegance.

Situated on the iconic Seven Mile Beach, reaching this luxury retreat is a breeze. Simply fly into Grand Cayman’s Owen Roberts International Airport, and within a quick 10-minute drive, you’ll find yourself in paradise. I always recommend renting a car to explore the incredible local dining scene—trust me, the food here is absolutely worth it!

Palm Heights is an all-suite hotel, making every room feel like a private retreat. I stayed in the One-bedroom Oceanfacing Penthouse, and WOW—it was spacious, beautifully designed, and had the most incredible sunset views from the balcony. The mid-century modern decor mixed with warm Caribbean touches created the perfect vibe.

One of the standout highlights of Palm Heights? The incredible dining scene. This hotel offers a variety of exceptional culinary experiences, from the freshest seafood at Tillie’s to expertly crafted cocktails at The Coconut Club. Every dish was a celebration of local ingredients and bold flavors, making each meal unforgettable. Adding to the charm, the service has a unique European beach club feel, with staff from all over Europe. I especially loved getting to know everyone—shoutout to George for making our experience even more memorable!

Another standout feature? The wellness and spa experiences. Whether it was morning yoga with ocean views or a deep-tissue massage at The Garden Club spa, every moment felt rejuvenating.

For That Blonde Travels clients, my VIP amenities include:

• Complimentary daily breakfast for 2

• Resort credit to use towards dining or spa treatments

• Upgrade on arrival (based on availability)

• Early check-in/late check-out (based on availability)

If you’re looking for a high-end, effortlessly cool escape in the Caribbean, Palm Heights is IT. I’d love to book this dreamy getaway for you! Email me at lauren@thatblondetravels.com or fill out my contact form to get started!

This hotel is truly a standout among Caribbean luxury resorts—perfect for honeymooners, couples, and even solo travelers looking for a stylish retreat!

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At Blonde Travels, I’m all about curating unforgettable travel experiences, and there’s no destination that does this better than South Africa’s Western Cape. Known for its dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable wildlife, the Western Cape has something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re in search of world-class wine, dramatic coastlines, or thrilling safaris, we’ve got you covered.

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Cape Town: A City Like No Other
South Africa’s “Mother City” is nothing short of spectacular. Cape Town is a blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Imagine exploring the stunning beaches of the Atlantic, followed by a hike up iconic Table Mountain or Lion's Head. And when it comes to food and wine, Cape Town is unmatched, with extraordinary dining experiences that rival those in Europe—all at a fraction of the cost. From the top of the mountain to the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, there’s always something new to discover. Not to mention, the nearby Winelands in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek offer some of the world’s best wine and views.

The Whale Coast: Nature's Playground
From Cape Town, it’s an easy drive to the stunning Whale Coast, where you’ll find quaint seaside towns like Hermanus and Gansbaai, famous for their seasonal whale sightings. If you’re an adventure-seeker, you can even try your hand at shark cage diving in Gansbaai. The entire area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, from nature walks to kayaking, and with its jaw-dropping coastal beauty, you’ll never want to leave.

For more about the Whale Coast and best whale-watching seasons, visit South African Tourism.

Kruger National Park: Your Safari Adventure Awaits
South Africa’s Kruger National Park is a must for any safari lover. Home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), Kruger offers an unparalleled wildlife experience. But for those looking for more exclusivity and privacy, we recommend staying in one of the private reserves like Sabi Sands or Timbavati. Here, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and a more intimate safari experience, while spotting incredible wildlife up close. If you're looking for something a little off the beaten path, we also recommend exploring the Greater Kruger area, where you can stay in luxurious lodges with access to pristine wildlife reserves.

Malaria-Free Safari Options

Not everyone wants to risk malaria on their safari, especially families with young children. That’s where malaria-free safari reserves come in. Places like Madikwe, Marataba, and Welgevonden offer all the Big Five without the worry of malaria. Just a few hours’ drive from Johannesburg, these reserves offer exceptional value for money and the same incredible safari experience you'd find in Kruger, but without the crowds.

KwaZulu-Natal & Eastern Cape: A Different Kind of Safari

For a safari that’s a bit off the beaten path, head to KwaZulu-Natal, home to the Phinda Private Game Reserve, which offers a fascinating mix of wetland and bushveld ecosystems. For an added bonus, explore the beautiful beaches of the region. Or, take a trip to the Eastern Cape where malaria-free reserves like Shamwari and Gondwana provide a perfect complement to the iconic Garden Route. If you're looking for something truly unique, venture into the Kalahari Desert in the Northern Cape, where you'll not only find amazing wildlife but also discover the ancient heritage of the San people.

Cultural and Culinary Delights in Cape Town and Johannesburg

South Africa isn’t just about its landscapes and wildlife—it’s also a cultural powerhouse. In Cape Town, you’ll find museums, galleries, and cultural tours that showcase the history and diversity of the country. A visit to Robben Island is a must for understanding Nelson Mandela's legacy. While you’re in Johannesburg, don’t miss the chance to explore the Apartheid Museum, or visit the vibrant township of Soweto. And, of course, the food scene in both cities is world-class, with Cape Town offering fresh, coastal cuisine and Johannesburg boasting an emerging food culture that rivals any major city.

Beyond South Africa: Combine with Botswana, Zimbabwe, or Mozambique

At Blonde Travels, I know how to take your trip to the next level. If you're in the mood for more safari adventures, I often recommend combining your South African experience with nearby destinations like Botswana’s Okavango Delta, or visit Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Or, for the perfect end to your trip, head north to Mozambique, where pristine beaches and luxury resorts await, offering the ultimate relaxation after an action-packed safari.

Travel Logistics: Easy Connections to South Africa

I can make traveling to South Africa easy! There are direct flights from major U.S. cities to both Johannesburg and Cape Town, and it’s a quick connection through Europe or the Middle East for most international travelers. Whether you’re starting your journey in Cape Town or Johannesburg, it’s simple to get there, and once you do, I’ll be there to guide you through the ultimate South African adventure.

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Ready to explore the beauty and diversity of South Africa?
Let Blonde Travels handle every detail, so you can experience it all—relaxed, adventurous, and unforgettable.

Contact me today to start planning your dream adventure to Namibia! Let’s make your travel dreams a reality.

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Namibia’s landscapes are truly one-of-a-kind, offering a captivating and distinctive beauty that sets it apart in southern Africa. Here, the desert thrives, home to extraordinary desert-adapted wildlife and a host of thrilling adventures in every region. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or an adrenaline junkie, it’s clear that few places in the world are as remarkable or unforgettable as Namibia.

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Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert
Stretching along the entire western coast of Namibia, the Namib Desert is one of the world’s oldest and most iconic coastal deserts, with the Sossusvlei region standing out as its crown jewel. Home to some of the planet's most awe-inspiring sand dunes, such as Big Daddy, Big Mama, and Dune 45, Sossusvlei offers a range of unforgettable activities. Visitors can enjoy dune treks, quad biking, mountain biking, helicopter safaris, and hot air balloon rides, all amid the mesmerizing desert landscape.

Skeleton Coast
The Skeleton Coast, where the rugged Atlantic Ocean meets towering sand dunes, is a land of stark beauty and raw power. Its name, derived from the shipwrecks that have dotted the coastline, adds to the mystique of this remote region in northwestern Namibia. Accessible only by small chartered aircraft, the Skeleton Coast offers spectacular aerial views that showcase its dramatic coastline. On the ground, experiences range from beach picnics with Cape fur seals to desert game drives in search of wildlife. Heading inland to the Hoanib Valley, visitors can encounter desert-adapted wildlife, including lions and elephants. Swakopmund, the gateway to the Skeleton Coast, also provides numerous activities, from boat trips to see sea mammals to a variety of dune adventures.

Etosha and Damaraland
As you journey southeast from the Hoanib Valley, the wildlife becomes even more abundant. Damaraland, in particular, is home to one of Africa’s largest populations of endangered desert-adapted black rhinos. Tracking these majestic creatures on foot or by vehicle in Damaraland’s Palmwag Concession is a thrilling way to explore the region's remote beauty. Further south, Etosha National Park awaits, offering world-class game viewing that rivals the best safari destinations across southern Africa.

Travel Guide
One of Namibia's standout features is the opportunity for self-drive safaris, allowing travelers to explore the country at their own pace while enjoying the flexibility of independent travel. Though self-driving offers greater freedom, the country’s well-established network of lodges ensures visitors benefit from highly trained local guides along the way. For those short on time, fly-in safaris provide a quicker way to traverse Namibia’s vast landscapes, with breathtaking aerial views along the route. Traditional safaris in game vehicles with guides and drivers are also widely available.

Namibia is easily accessed through direct flights from Johannesburg to Windhoek, the capital, or to Walvis Bay, near Swakopmund. Direct flights between Windhoek and Cape Town are also increasing, and Lufthansa offers weekly flights from Frankfurt to Windhoek. Additionally, there are several direct flights between Windhoek and both Zimbabwe and Zambia, as well as land crossings into Botswana.

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Ready to Experience Namibia?
Whether you’re drawn to the vast desert dunes, the incredible wildlife, or the adrenaline-pumping adventures, Namibia promises an unforgettable journey. As your dedicated travel advisor at That Blonde Travels, I’m here to help you plan every detail of your trip and ensure your experience is as seamless as it is extraordinary.

Contact me today to start planning your dream adventure to Namibia! Let’s make your travel dreams a reality.

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Hi guys! I actually get this question a ton as Italy is one of my top selling destinations. I figured I would highlight some of my most requested itineraries below to help you get a jump start on figuring out where you want to go on your next trip to Italy. There are so many amazing places in Italy that it can be very hard to narrow down where you want to go but hopefully these will give you a good starting point. If you are ready to start planning your Italy vacation, please feel out my contact form and we can get started! Happy planning!

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ITALY ITINERARIES

Recommended 10-Night Northern Italy Itinerary:

Arrive Venice (2 nights)

Portovenere (1 night)

Florence (4 nights)

Rome (3 nights)

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Total nights: 10

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Recommended 12-Night Northern Italy Itinerary:

Arrive Venice (2 nights)

Lake Como (4 nights)

Portovenere (1 night)

Florence (3 nights)

Rome (2 nights)

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Total nights: 12

**If this one feels too rushed, I would recommend adding a night to Rome and one to Florence if you can.

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Recommended 12-Night Highlights of Italy:

Arrive Venice (2 nights)

Florence (3 nights)

Amalfi Coast (5 nights)

Rome (2 nights)

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Total nights: 12

**If this one feels too rushed, I would recommend adding a night to Rome and one to Florence if you can.

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So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Italian adventure! Contact me to get started today!

Disclaimer: This post contains Affiliate Links for products I’m currently using. By using these links you won’t pay any additional fees, but support me to keep this site running!

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SWITZERLAND ITINERARY: GENEVA, INTERLAKEN &JUNGFRAU, BERN & LUCERNE, Zurich & Engleberg

Recommended 9-Day Switzerland Itinerary:

Geneva (1 night)

Interlaken (2 nights)

Bern (2 nights)

Lucerne (1 night)

Zurich (2 nights)

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Total days: 9

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Switzerland is known as one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and it’s no wonder why. From breathtaking mountains to crystal clear lakes, there are endless activities and sights to see while exploring this stunning country. If you’re planning your first trip to Switzerland, here is a 9 day itinerary that will help you make the most of your visit!

Day 1: Geneva

Start off your 9 day Swiss adventure by exploring Geneva, the second largest city in Switzerland. Take the opportunity to wander through its quaint cobblestone streets and admire its stunning architecture. There are also plenty of museums and galleries to explore if culture is more your thing. For example, take a tour of The United Nations Palace or immerse yourself in history at the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum. There’s also plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking on Lake Geneva or taking a boat ride on some of its many canals. No matter what type of activity you’re interested in, there’s something for everyone in Geneva!

Day 2-3: Interlaken & Jungfrau Region

Next up on the itinerary is Interlaken, which is nestled between two glacial lakes - Thunersee and Brienzersee - making it an ideal spot for outdoor adventures such as paragliding, hiking or skiing during winter months. Be sure to take a cable car ride up to Jungfraujoch – Top Of Europe where you can experience breathtaking views from 11,333 feet above sea level. You can also explore some of the nearby glaciers including Aletsch Glacier and Eiger Glacier for an even more spectacular view! For dinner, try out Hotel Alpenruh’s restaurant which serves some amazing Swiss dishes with local ingredients. Afterwards, enjoy an evening walk around Lake Brienz before heading back to your accommodation.

Day 4-6: Bern & Lucerne

Following two days in Interlaken, it's time to move onto Bern – Switzerland’s capital city - where you can explore its well-preserved medieval Old Town with its picturesque cobbled streets and 15th century fountains. Don't miss out on visiting The Zytglogge – a clock tower built over 800 years ago which still rings out every hour!

After spending three days in Bern head over to Lucerne; its charming old town with its colorful buildings along Lake Lucerne will make for some incredible photo opportunities! Spend a morning exploring Lucerne's Old Town area where you'll find landmarks such as Chapel Bridge and Water Tower as well as boutique shops selling handmade Swiss items like watches or chocolates. One afternoon, take a boat ride around Lake Lucerne for some lovely views of Mt Pilatus and Mt Rigi in the distance before grabbing dinner at Restaurant Weinstube Höfli which serves delicious Swiss-German cuisine with Italian influences.

Day 7-9: Zurich & Engleberg

Before ending your holiday make sure you spend three days exploring Zurich - Switzerland's largest city - where you'll be spoiled for choice with things to do such as visiting museums or taking part in some fun outdoor activities! And don't forget about Engleberg - located just outside Zurich - this ski resort has some incredible slopes perfect for winter sports enthusiasts or those wanting to simply marvel at their beauty from afar. No matter what type of activity you choose here, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience! For dinner, try some traditional Swiss cuisine at Restaurant Kronenhalle.

With so much beauty waiting around every corner it's no surprise why people come back again and again when they visit Switzerland! Whether it's exploring Geneva's cobblestone streets or admiring views from atop Jungfraujoch – Top Of Europe there are endless memorable moments awaiting travelers who embark on this incredible 10 day journey through this stunning country!

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So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Swiss adventure! Contact me to get started today!

I just returned from a 8 day stay in Costa Rica. We split our time between four resorts. The first of which was Nayara Tented Camp in La Fortuna. This property is about 3.5 hours from San Jose or 3 hours from Liberia airports depending on traffic.

The tented camp is on the same property as the Springs (adults only) and the Gardens(family friendly). The tented camp is the newer property located at the top of the resort. Each tent has a hot spring feed floating pool on its balcony facing the volcano. The view is gorgeous!

La Fortuna is one of the main bases for excursions so when planning a trip to Costa Rica, I highly recommend a split stay between the beach and the La Fortuna area so that you are not spending 4 hours in the car every time you want to do one of the awesome excursions Costa Rica has to offer.

When I book your stay at this property, I can get you added amenities like included breakfast, $100 food and beverage credit, and a welcome amenity through my affiliations with the hotel. I can also book your restaurants and excursions for you as well.

Costa Rica is one of my favorite destinations. Contact me at lauren@thatblondetravels.com to book your stay today!