Add these to your Bucket List!

Freedom!

Nothing is sweeter than the freedom after the wonderful journey of the Leaving Cert! However, it seems with all this freedom, I seem to have absolutely no idea what to do! I spend my days off from work imagining all the wonderful things I could be doing... Yet, it seems I continue to spend my days watching movies and dancing around my house to music so loud the floor vibrates!

Transfixed by the slow slippery raindrops as they slide down my window, I'm instantly transported to the basking heat of foreign lands. Some places I've journeyed to and some I've yet to discover...


FLORENCE
Florence is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. The true heart of Italien art, the narrow streets and beautiful sights, are wonders to everyone who adventures through the city. A small city bursting with life, both fresh and historic. The essence of the historic city, lies in the deep roots established by the Romans and the endless stories surrounding the wealthy Medici family. The beauty of Florence is endless and the short time I spent there proved that.

PISA
A small quaint city, which is well known for the famous 'Leaning Tower of Pisa', Pisa lies only a few kilometres from the seaside. The main shopping street which leads to the tower is a constant buzz of life, both tourists and residents of the city. Although it seems the main attraction lies in the tower alone, and therefore the city lacks any other tourist spots.








ROME

When in Rome, do what the Romans do! The wealth of history and attractions in Rome are simply endless. A short visit is simply not enough to explore the beauty that Rome has to offer, however a lot can be done in 4 days if you're prepared to do a lot of walking! The Colosseum is a must see, along with The Vatican City (however, be prepared for some crazy tour guides!) The masterpieces that are spread across the entire city are simply stunning; Raphael, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci.... A return trip will be taken in the future!





PARIS

The city of love... Or so it is said! Although quite young when I ventured to Paris, it is an unforgettable city! I have always loved the musical language of the French people. (However, if you wish to practise your french, perhaps somewhere with less tourists would be advised) I spent much of my childhood travelling this beautiful country and while Paris is a destination on most people's bucket list, I have always preferred exploring the true depths of the country. It is only in the small areas that you truly experience the rich culture of the french. La vie est belle!



PRAGUE

At a young age I had the wonderful experience of travelling to Prague to visit my aunt and uncle who live there. My uncle 'the lego man' as we've always referred to him as, has a high position in the Lego company  which allowed us to take a V.I.P tour of the Lego factory. A thrill my brother and I will never forget. Aside from that we walked over the Charles Bridge, the well known bridge that goes over the River Vltava and viewed the famous 'Child of Prague'. A trip down the river in a boat and an exploration through the markets is a must-do when visiting Prague. It is a city I would really love to return to.



SWITZERLAND
The Winter Wonderland. Skiing down the slopes of the Alps was one of the best trips of my life without a doubt! Staying in Leysin a small resort one hour from Geneva, I spent a week skiing (and falling) down the snowy slopes. A quaint little town bursting with life despite the icy conditions. The town revolves around the ski resort which dominates the enterprise of the town. Staying in a hotel only a 5minutes walk from the Ski lifts it was the perfect spot. Spending the day skiing down the Alps is a true wonder. However, a warning, be prepared to spend money as Switzerland is not a cheap country!




SANTIAGO DE COMPESTELA

The final destination of the Camino de Santiago, this city in northern Spain is flowing with a constant buzz of pilgrims who arrive into the city after their journey along the Camino. I had the honour of venturing to this city last year after walking 130km of the Camino. Spotting the city from a few kilometres outside the city I remember my dad saying "I've never been so happy to see a church in my life". At this point we had walked for many days to reach our destination. Although a constant flow of tourists (pilgrims) move through the city, the Spanish culture is still strong. However, by the time these pilgrims from around the world have reached Santiago after 800km of walking, they have been integrated into the Spanish culture already!

LONDON
What a city. The wealth of museums and historical sites are simply endless in this city. However in my opinion the true gem are the various theatres that litter the city. A trip to a musical or ballet is a must when venturing to London. Of course don't forget to bring some cash for fine dinning and a wild shopping trip! However, advice to all, don't get lost on Bond Street, I'm pretty sure the only item of clothing you'll be able to afford is a pair of socks!

While I've travelled to many places I still have many more to explore. The above cities are only a taster of the many places I've been in my life so far. I owe this wonderful exploration to my parents who have given my brother and I the priceless gift of exploration.