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Travel as a Lifestyle: Your Guide to the Road Less Travelled

Since 1997, our passports have been filled with stamps and our hearts with stories. This blog – my personal collection of Travel Notes and Tips – is a chronicle of that journey. But it’s about so much more than just sightseeing and hiking. It’s a deep dive into the soul of a place: the rich tapestry of culture and heritage, the captivating habits of local people, and the flavours of their lifestyle, especially the food, drinks and traditions that define them.

We believe the world’s true magic often lies away from the well-trodden tourist trails. Some of our most cherished discoveries have come from a conversation with a local, pointing us to a hidden cove, a family-run vineyard, or a village festival untouched by time. These are the gems you won’t find in a general guidebook.

And what do we find in these off-the-beaten-path places? A more authentic way of travelling. We’ve stumbled upon charming guesthouses with heart, comfortable camping sites under starlit skies, and a profound sense of freedom. It’s a lifestyle defined by no rush, no stress, and the simple joy of setting our own priorities.

Our Journey & How We Travel

Our adventures began with epic road trips from our former home in Latvia. Over time, we’ve evolved our style, now often flying to a region and immersing ourselves in the local rhythm by using rented cars or public transport.

Our compass often points towards national parks and mountain trails, nature preserves, and the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites that leave us humbled. We frequently opt for self-catering apartments, not just for independence, but for the sheer pleasure of sourcing fresh produce from local markets and grocery shops – a cultural experience in itself.

We are firm believers that an individually planned trip is the ultimate key to adventure. It allows you to craft your own narrative, choosing your destinations and lingering as long as you like. Through this blog, I hope to provide the inspiration and practical tips – from the highlands of Scotland to the souks of Morocco – to help you plan your own unforgettable getaway.

Our Approach to Planning & Destinations

A little about our travel map. Since 1997, we’ve been fortunate to explore over fifty countries and two states in the USA. As full-time professionals, we’ve mastered the art of the shorter, more frequent trip, typically taking two or three getaways each year.

The grand adventures, however, hold a special place in our hearts. We’ve embarked on several extended journeys, from a three-week road trip through France to a near three-month exploration of Japan and Southeast Asia – experiences that truly allowed us to live and breathe a culture.

Our general rule is to seek out new horizons rather than return to old ones, though some countries have captured our hearts so completely we’ve had to make an exception. Italy, France, Switzerland, Morocco, and Thailand are on that esteemed list. We’ve found that even within a single country, each region can feel like a whole new world, offering unexpected and thrilling discoveries.

A Final Note

This blog offers a curated glimpse into our travels, representing just a fraction of the places we’ve explored. My passion for sharing travel insights extends beyond these pages. I’m an active Google Maps contributor, with over 200 reviews and a gallery of 600+ photos that have amassed a staggering eight million views. Our growing community of over 1,000 followers on Instagram joins us on our journeys, and we’re now bringing destinations to life with new video content on YouTube. To ensure every guide is both timeless and timely, I’ve meticulously refreshed the vast majority of these articles in 2024 and 2025, with a steady stream of new content to come.

We truly hope you enjoy reading these stories and find something that ignites your own wanderlust. For more, please dive into the travel articles, subscribe to my YouTube channel, and follow my photographic journey on Instagram.

Travel and enjoy the simple pleasures of life!

Welcome to Western Europe & Scandinavia: A Traveller’s Treasure Map

So, you’re dreaming of European adventures? You’ve come to the right place! This corner of my blog is your ultimate guide to the incredible diversity of Western Europe and the breathtaking beauty of Scandinavia. From the sun-drenched rivieras to the dramatic fjords, this is a region that promises unforgettable journeys.

Ready to explore? I’ve penned travel tales and insider tips from the following countries:

• Belgium
• France
• Germany
• Great Britain
• Iceland
• Norway
• Switzerland

For the sun-soaked coasts of the Mediterranean or the fascinating cultures further east, don’t forget to check out my separate sections on Southern and Eastern Europe.

A Region of Epic Scale & Stunning Contrasts

Ever wondered how big this part of the world really is? Western Europe is a compact yet mighty collection of nations, home to around 252 million people across a landmass of 1.7 million square kilometres.

To put that in perspective, its total area is larger than Mongolia and almost the exact size of the US state of Alaska! In terms of population, it’s a vibrant hub slightly smaller than Indonesia.

The powerhouses of Germany, France, and Spain dominate the map, accounting for over three-quarters of the territory and more than 80% of the people. France wears the crown for the largest territory, while Germany boasts the highest population.

But here’s where it gets fascinating if you venture north to Scandinavia. While Sweden and Norway have territories larger than Germany, they are lands of wild, open space. Imagine this – Germany has a population density of 240 people per square kilometre, while Norway has just 14. This is your destination for epic road trips where you can truly find yourself surrounded by nothing but nature.

More Than Just Facts: The Pulse of the Region

Majestic Landscapes:

The mighty Alps are the continent’s spectacular spine, carving through eight countries. They are home to Europe’s rooftop, where you’ll find legendary peaks like Mont Blanc (France/Italy), Dufourspitze (Switzerland), and Grossglockner (Austria). Whether you’re an avid hiker or a scenic train enthusiast, the Alps will leave you awestruck.

Seamless Travel:

One of the greatest joys of travelling here is the ease of movement. Thanks to the Schengen Area (which includes 29 countries as of 2025), you can often wander from France to Germany to Switzerland without a single passport check. It’s a traveller’s dream! While not all countries use the Euro, the single currency across much of the region makes budgeting a breeze.

A Continent of History in the Making:

This is where modern Europe was shaped. The European Union began with the Treaty of Rome in 1957 and was formally established by the Maastricht Treaty in 1992. Though the UK left the EU in 2020, the spirit of cooperation makes this a fascinating region to explore.

Kings, Queens & Capitals:

Prepare to be captivated by history and glamour. France is the world’s most visited country, and its iconic capital, Paris, is Europe’s number one city destination. Not far behind is the charming canal-laced capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam. And for a touch of fairy-tale royalty, look to Scandinavia, where Denmark, Norway, and Sweden remain constitutional monarchies.

Your Adventure Starts Here

Inspired to start planning? Dive deeper into my personal travel stories, practical guides, and hidden gems by exploring the countries below. Your next great adventure is just a click away.

Browse my West-European travel articles by country:

• Belgium
• France
• Germany
• Great Britain
• Iceland
• Norway
• Switzerland

About Morocco: A Gateway to Adventure and Ancient Culture

Nestled in North Africa, the Kingdom of Morocco is a land of breathtaking contrasts. While geographically African, its soul is a captivating tapestry woven from Berber, Arabic, and European influences. I often say that travelling to Morocco isn’t just a trip to Africa. It’s a journey into a world where ancient medinas sit alongside art deco cafés, and the call to prayer echoes over French-inspired boulevards. For a European traveller, it feels fascinatingly familiar yet thrillingly exotic, all at once. And this is all elevated by legendary Moroccan hospitality – a warmth that ensures you might just feel more welcomed than you do back home.

Up until the global pause in March 2020, Morocco consistently ranked as a top holiday destination for Europeans, with millions of visitors from France, Spain, the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands flocking to its shores each year. The iconic cities of Marrakech, Fez, and Ouarzazate top the list, closely followed by the imperial capital of Rabat, the windswept charm of Essaouira, and the coastal resort of Agadir.

The deep historical links with Europe are undeniable. For centuries, the Moors, who came from this very land, shaped the culture, architecture, and knowledge of Spain, leaving a legacy that still defines much of Southern Europe today. It’s a shared history that makes every visit feel like uncovering a piece of a grand, interconnected story.

A Modern Kingdom with Ancient Roots

Morocco is a unitary parliamentary semi-constitutional monarchy, proudly led by King Mohammed VI. As a direct descendant of the Prophet Mohammed and the nation’s commander-in-chief, the King is a revered figure who embodies both the spiritual and secular leadership of the country.

With a population of over 36 million people, predominantly Sunni Muslim, Morocco is a nation of vibrant community. In size, its 466,000 square kilometres (excluding the Western Sahara) makes it slightly larger than Iraq and a touch smaller than Spain, while its population sits comfortably between that of Saudi Arabia and Canada.

Practical Insights for Your Journey

• Language: The most widely spoken language is Moroccan Arabic (Darija). While French is not an official language, it remains a lingua franca for business, government, and education. You’ll also hear Berber (Amazigh) languages and Hassaniya Arabic. Fear not, though – in major tourist centres, you’ll find many who communicate well in English.
• Currency: The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). While many guesthouses and shops in tourist areas will happily accept Euros, it’s always wise to have local currency for smaller purchases and souks. ATMs are widespread in cities and towns, though it’s advisable to use those affiliated with major banks in more remote locations to ensure card compatibility.
• Landscape: Morocco’s geography is as diverse as its culture. Its western border is defined by the wild Atlantic Ocean, while its northern coast kisses the calm Mediterranean Sea. Inland, the mighty Atlas Mountains carve through the country, offering some of North Africa’s most spectacular scenery. Here, you’ll find Mount Toubkal, the region’s highest peak at 4,167 metres, and surprisingly, even ski resorts where you can ski in the morning and be on a sun-drenched beach by the afternoon!

This is just a glimpse into the magic that awaits. From the labyrinthine souks and aromatic spice stalls to the vast, silent expanse of the Sahara desert, Morocco is a country that captures the heart and ignites the imagination.

Ready to explore further? Dive into my detailed travel articles to start planning your own unforgettable Moroccan adventure.