In-depth look : Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is one of the most visited countries in Europe. And you can totally see why.

In summer it's full of zest, the people are friendly, the weather is incredible, and that scenery and history? You cannot fault it. And as for zest? HELLO tappas?!!

                                                                             

There are two places I love, and would highly recommend you put on your to do list, and I'm not talking about visiting the FCB stadium - even if they are my favourite Football team, I'm talking about the two greats of Barcelona. The Sagrada Familia, the biggest catholic church in Europe, possibly the world, and also the longest to be built, and of course Park Guell, the most incredible, and beautiful park there ever was.

Sagrada Familia -

Gaudi, a very famous architect started construction on this masterpiece in 1882. His work continued until he died, and was taken over by several others whom all had their own ideas as to what the church should look like. It wasn't until 2010 that it was finally opened to the public.
Still under construction, this church is a labour of love, and will continue to grow for decades to come, I'm sure.

                                                                                    

Park Guell - 

Again, another Gaudi masterpiece, this time one he seen finished!

This public park was built in the 1900s and finally opened in 1914. Since then it's been housing countless gardens, structural gems, and hidden treasures, along with the most amazing view of beautiful Barcelona I have had the pleasure of seeing. A must see.

                                                                            

I do need to give a mention to the wonderful Gothic Quarter, my favoruite part of the amazing city that is Barcelona. Great food, amazing architecture and history. I'd suggest getting a local guide and learning a thing or two about this city, it's people and its culture.

Happy travels my friends.
Cheers,
Cj. xx

How to travel - My travel toiletry essentials

The wash bag is an essential part of the travel experience. You have the products you love, are use to and make you feel at home, but most importantly, the products make you CLEAN! Being clean on the road is as important as your passport!!

Here is my must have wash bag essentials. Some might be surprising and perhaps I have a few products missing! What are your wash bag musts?

(From left)

1 – Pantene pro-v colour therapy shampoo 200ml

2 – Pantene pro-v colour therapy conditioner 200ml

3 – TRESemme extra hold hair spray 75g

4 – Johnson’s baby powder 50g

5 – Palmolive naturals rich moisture shower milk 100ml

6 – Nivea pure invisible anti-perspirant  50ml

7- Colgate ‘soft’ zigzag tooth brush

8 – Colgate total original toothpaste 45g

9 – Happy Jackson London wash bag (available online www.happyjackson.co.uk)

I’ll also throw in a razor, a shower cap, a shower puff, sunscreen and moisturiser!

Can’t forget those make-up wipes either!

So what are yours? Comment down below and share this post!

Cheers,

Cj, xxx

The Eastern Trail, all the way to Amsterdam.

Hi guys!
I'm back with a brand new post! So sorry for the hiatus - i've just finished my bachelors degree! Very exciting times, but of course, the last few months seen me doing a lot of hard work.This post is going to be on 5 destinations and will talk about how this particular trip will help you understand Europe's amazing, and what used to be, volatile history.

Budapest - Hungary

Heroes Square

One of the most incredible and beautiful cities i have had the privilege of visiting, here i learned about the true horrors of WW2 along with the horror of communism. The House of Terror is a museum dedicated to both these tragic events in eastern european history. It is blunt, it is devastating, and it is heartbreaking. This is truly where the horror that was Eastern Europe, not too long ago. I highly recommend you start your historic journey here.
Don't forget to stop at my favourite place in Budapest - Heroes Square. Marvel, and take it all in. Pay your respects.

Of course, Budapest is now more known for its infamous Szechenyi Thermal Bath.

These baths are relaxing, natural and amazing for the skin.

While you're there, wander over Chain Bridge and check out the Parliament house (Gives Londons' Parliament a run for their money). There is also a little market so you can pick up some famous spices, such as paprika, a national treasure!

Other top attractions include Buda Castle and of course St Stephens Basilica.

Vienna - Austria

Not only known for the Sound of Music! This is actually the Birth place of Hitler, the most hated man in Eastern Europe. I know, i cut to the chase real fast. Do your self a favour and do a historic tour and learn of the horror that incurred on poor old Vienna.

On a happier note, try some of Mozarts Balls, and while you're at it, why not see a replica of his symphony at the Vienna State Opera house.

Check out St Stephens Cathedral and take in its mighty force.

Prague - Czech Republic

Old Town Square

Prague is one of those cities that hasn't really been changed by time. It's kept it's worldly charms and hasn't been overly modernised.
Start your journey by walking over Charles Bridge in the Old Town Square. Charles Bridge is famous for it's amazing carved out statues and simply the stature of the thing. It's incredible.
Old Square houses some of, you guessed it, the oldest buildings in the city.
Wander over to the Church of Our Lady in the city centre before heading over to the Jewish Museum, where your insight into eastern european war history continues.

Berlin - Germany

Holocaust Memorial

Berlin, where wars began and came to an end. This city almost has too much to deal with and take in. But it also houses some of the most beautiful, and thoughtful memorials and museums of some of the harshest times in Eastern European history.
I suggest taking a guided history tour of berlin. Where you can learn the inns and outs of the people, and the wars which took place. You will learn about Hitler, his men and his horrible actions.
If you want to do it yourself, I suggest starting at the Brandenburg Gate. An 18th century masterpiece, and while this has nothing to do with ww2, you need to appreciate what Germany was before it is what it is linked to now. As travellers we tend to only know what things are known for, Berlin, and Germany, is much more than the birthplace of wars.
Heading over to the Berlin wall, Take it in, then walk down to check point charlie, i then suggest heading over to the Holocaust memorial.  A deeply emotional, and breathtaking site. Here you can pay your respects and think about the horrors which took place.
Don't forget to try the beer and a pretzel. You gotta eat.

Amsterdam - Netherlands

Amsterdam Canals

To end your whirlwind journey through eastern Europe, the logical place to end is Amsterdam, and a visit to Anne Franks house. The girl whose life was taken away from her, she and her family hid from Nazis for as long as possible in the attic of her home in Amsterdam. And, to this day, you can see it exactly how it was, and get an in-dpeth look into what life was truly like for the victims of these hate crimes. It is sad, i cried, and bought her book (Anne Franks Diary) and i cried again.
While your historic journey has come to an end, don't forget to have some good, old fashioned fun.
I suggest getting a bike and riding around this 2 wheeled city. Pop into the Bulldog Coffee Shop to relax, and don't forget to see a famous show.
The next day, why not see the Van Gogh art gallery? or try some weird vending machine foods!

Although this journey is hard to stomach and i know a lot of people wouldn't truly be interested in these harsh realities, it is important to learn about the worlds mistakes and experiences so we can appreciate life, and learn from these actions.

Enjoy your trip! If you want accommodation or transport recommendations, do not hesitate to email me, or comment below.

Cheers,
And i'll see you next time!
Cj, xxx

(All information is my own from research or experience, photo credits are my own and subject to copy right laws.)