solo experiences

Denmark the land of the Vikings. The Little Mermaid Statue (a tribute to Hans Christian Andersen)

Denmark the Land of the Vikings

DENMARK - THE LAND OF THE VIKINGS

DENMARK - THE LAND OF THE VIKINGS 

The Kingdom of Denmark is a Nordic country in northern Europe, and its capital is Copenhagen. It is the smallest and least expensive (but still expensive) of all Scandinavian countries, with a population of almost 6 million people. Its head is a Monarch (Queen Margrethe II), and it has the oldest Monarchy in Europe. Even though there is a monarchy, the Prime Minister is the head of the government. Denmark is not only famous for the popular and iconic Christmas Danish butter cookies but also famous for LEGO bricks. It also holds the title of the second happiest country worldwide and is the land of the Vikings, as the locals proudly refer to it. Please continue reading to find out what it is like to travel to Denmark, the land of the Vikings.

Denmark the land of the Vikings. St. Alban's Church - Kastellet
St. Alban's Church - Kastellet

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Tallinn International airport welcome sign. Estonia is the world leader in e-services

Estonia is the World leader in E-services

ESTONIA IS THE WORLD LEADER IN E-SERVICES

ESTONIA IS THE WORLD LEADER IN E-SERVICES

The Republic of Estonia is a small, developed Baltic country in Northern Europe, and its capital is Tallinn. Estonia is closest to Finland and was previously part of the Soviet Union. The country is famous for its many castles, museums, lush forests, strong family values, e-technology, and its medieval, historic capital, Tallinn. Estonia has over 1,500 islands, 1,000 lakes, and 7,000 rivers. It is a developed, high-income, clean, and safe country. It is closer to being a rich country than a poor one and cheaper than many other European countries. However, what is most prominent is Estonia is the world leader in e-services, plus other digital advancements. Keep reading to see what else Estonia offers.

Aleksander Nevski Katedraali. Estonia is the world leader in e-services
Aleksander Nevski Katedraali

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Skopje (Kale) Fortress (in Old Town on the Eponymous hill. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa

North Macedonia the Birthplace of Mother Teresa

NORTH MACEDONIA - THE BIRTHPLACE OF MOTHER TERESA

NORTH MACEDONIA - THE BIRTHPLACE OF MOTHER TERESA 

I will begin by declaring my Love for Macedonia!!! I love you Makedonya!! The Republic of North Macedonia is in South-eastern Europe. It borders Greece, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Kosovo, and its capital is Skopje. North Macedonia (pronounced MAKEDONYA by the locals) is a small but beautiful Balkan country. It is the perfect destination for anyone on a tight budget. The country is religiously tolerant because all religious bodies (Macedonian Christian Orthodox, Muslim, and Christian) coexist peacefully and harmoniously. North Macedonia was once part of the Ottoman Empire from 1493 to 1913. Moreover, it is the only country to have gained independence from Yugoslavia in 1991 without shedding blood. Additionally, North Macedonia has many historical sites, beautiful lakes and is home to some of the oldest ruins in the world. Oh… And most importantly, the locals see themselves only as Macedonians and not as North Macedonians. Please continue reading to learn more about North Macedonia – the birthplace of Mother Teresa.

Mother Teresa Memorial House. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Mother Teresa Memorial House. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Mother Teresa Memorial House
Sant Konstantin Elena Orthodox Church. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Sant Konstantin Elena Orthodox Church

Minimum 15% savings available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the “Late Escape Deals” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Bookings must be made before 9:59 am CET on 7 January 2025 for stays with check-in from 1 October 2024 and check-out on or before 7 January 2025. Discount applies to the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This offer is provided by the participating property and is subject to availability.

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WHY ISN’T NORTH MACEDONIA A TOURIST HUB?!

North Macedonia is an underrated country. I think it should be one of the top tourist destinations in Europe. It is a hidden gem. Yes, the locals boast they receive many tourists during the summer, but in the over 70 countries visited, I have not previously met anyone who has been to Macedonia nor recommended it. 

I was quite ecstatic to discover that Macedonia had a one-year (January to December 2022) short-term visa (Type C) waiver for all non-visa-free entry countries. However, to take advantage of it, you must have a USA, Canadian, or United Kingdom visa. Of course, I happily took advantage of this opportunity to visit and fell in love with Macedonia. Furthermore, I enjoyed and loved Macedonia so much that I modified my travel plans to revisit it a second time the following month.

It’s a pity I did not visit years ago had I known it is this peaceful, safe and beautiful, but the fact that I need a visa, and its inaccessibility is the main reason I did not. It is a bit of a drawback and a deterrent for many. Even worst, is its online unavailability and the lack of Macedonian embassies/consulates in most countries. Therefore, to apply for a visa, one must apply in the country with a Macedonian embassy closest to theirs. All this can be tedious and expensive.

From my research, the application requirements for a Macedonian visa are more rigid than an American or Canadian visa. It has its advantages and disadvantages. Yes, it will keep the undesirables out, but it is also an obstacle to those who want to visit for tourism.

North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Significant statues everywhere in Skopje
A view of the city from (Kale) Fortress (in Old Town on the Eponymous hill. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
A view of the city from (Kale) Fortress (in Old Town on the Eponymous hill
Porta Macedonia Arch. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Porta Macedonia Arch
Hotel built in the shape of a boat in the Vardar River
Hotel built in the shape of a boat in the Vardar River
Filip 11 (father of Alexander the Great Macedonian) Skopje. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Filip 11 (father of Alexander the Great Macedonian)

MY ENTRY INTO & EXIT FROM NORTH MACEDONIA RECOUNT

My first visit to North Macedonia was via the bus service from Albania. This is because there are no flights between Albania and North Macedonia. In fact, there were other passengers travelling to Macedonia’s airport to exit the country because of limited flights from Albania. Using a bus is the longer way to enter, but very scenic. 

The journey is a little over 8 hours. Moreover, entry is not automatic as you must visit border control (border police) similarly to if you are at the airport. Every transport carrying passengers must stop at the border and stand at the Immigration window for passport/visa checks, processing, and stamping before they allow you into the country. The duration of time at the border depends on the number of passengers to be processed. All passengers had to identify their luggage and open it for a quick search.

The male officer’s only question he asked was the length of my stay. He then stamped my passport, and I re-joined the line with the other passengers until the completion of the process. Then we were on our way to Skopje, the capital. The entire process took no more than 30 minutes.

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On exiting the country, I used the Skopje International airport (aka Skopje Alexander the Great Airport), which is 23 kilometres from the city. The airport is the largest of the two in North Macedonia and is open 24 hours. It is medium size, modern, and very user-friendly. 

The TSA officer I dealt with that day was rather hyper. As soon as I handed him my passport, he kept repeating, “visa, visa, do you need a visa?” I simply replied, “No”. What was he going to do, prevent me from leaving? Ha-ha. Apparently, he didn’t get the visa waiver memo like the border officers. He then passed the passport to the other officer, who said something to him. After this, he stamped it and returned it to me. I then proceeded to my gate.

the Vardar River and the Skopje Art Bridge. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
the Vardar River and the Skopje Art Bridge
North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Another cross in the city centre

When I re-entered the following month, I used the Skopje International airport. It appeared it was the first time the female immigration officer saw a Caribbean passport because she stared at the passport cover for a long time and flipped through it. She then passed it to her colleague, who said something to her, then in English, with her Macedonian accent, she asked me most militantly, “what are you doing here?” I know she meant, what is the purpose of my visit, as most officers usually ask. My response was, “vacation”, she asked the length of stay, and I replied, then stamped the passport and returned it.

To this day, I still laugh at it and try to sound like her. It’s all part of the travel thrills, but as I previously wrote, I am never worried or anxious at any country’s border. After doing the research, I am always well prepared and have all the needed documents.

North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa Cont...

The Parliament of Macedonia and statue of Nikola Karev – former president. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
The Parliament of Macedonia and statue of Nikola Karev – former president
Remembrance of the first Parliament. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Remembrance of the first Parliament

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage, with spinner wheels

Samsonite suitcase

My last exit from North Macedonia was once again via a bus. The male border officer I encountered was quite pleasant and hilarious. He seemed to appreciate the view of me in a hat with the country’s name written on it because he looked at it and smiled but asked no questions. I then asked him what happen if I wish to return next year when the visa-free entry ends. He said, “go to your embassy and apply for a visa”, I said there is no Macedonian embassy in my country, and he laughed and said, “then find a Macedonia man” that was so funny we both laughed. He then stamped my passport and was on my way.

The Archaeological Museum of Macedonia. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
The Archaeological Museum of Macedonia
The Museum of Macedonian Struggle. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
CoraDexplorer in front The Museum of Macedonian Struggle

TRANSPORT OPTIONS TO/FROM THE CITY & AIRPORT

Whether you are leaving the airport for the city or returning to the airport, it takes an average of 30/35 (minutes) (by bus) and taxi (17 minutes). The transportation options are a shuttle bus (departs every two hours) or a taxi. Note there is no ride-sharing platform such as Uber, Lyft, etc. The taxis are more than affordable and much cheaper than other taxis in the region for the same distance.

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ABOUT THE CITY OF SKOPJE (pronounced SKOP-E-yeh)

Skopje is the largest city in North Macedonia. It is a unique and beautiful city. Picture a soup bowl. Skopje is the bottom of the bowl, and the sides are gorgeous hills, the rim snow-covered. That is my best description of the city’s appearance. Many persons may not be aware that Nobel prize winner and missionary Mother Teresa, founder of the Order of the Missionaries of Charity, was born in this city (to parents of Albanian heritage) and not Calcutta, India.

Skopje is the city of statues. Her memorial site is also in the city, and is a definite must-see. I have never seen so many quirky statues in any one city before. Almost everywhere you turn, there is a statue. It seems there are more statues than people, ha-ha… joking, but one cannot help but notice this. Most prominent is the 28 meters’ tall statue of Filip 11, father of Alexander the Great Macedonian – the noble warrior (king of ancient Macedonia) at the main square. They say it costs about 10 million euros.

An earthquake destroyed the city over 40 years ago. However, the government has since been on a mission to redevelop the city and give it a face-lift (Skopje 2014) by repopulating it with statues. Skopje is an inexpensive city. It is another city that any budget traveller will be excited to visit. There is much to see and do in Skopje and the surrounding areas. The cable car rides to the cross at Mount Vodno, and a visit to Matka Canyon and the lake are definite must-dos.

Fountain of the Mothers Macedonia
Fountain of the Mothers Macedonia

From the prominent Stone (Dusan) Bridge, you can enjoy the view of the Vardar River (the longest river in Macedonia) as it crosses. Further along this river is the Art Bridge, a pedestrian bridge lined with many gorgeous statues. Across this, you can see many historical and government buildings like the Archaeological Museum of Macedonia and the Museum of Macedonian Struggle. You can enjoy the ambience of the main square from any of these bridges. This area looks like an outdoor museum, perfect for a wedding photo shoot. Truly breath-taking.  

Skopje has a special something about it. It’s a feeling I cannot describe, but from day one, when I entered the city and saw that cross on the highest hill, I felt it. The cross is visible from almost every point of the city. At night it looks like a marker or a star pointing the way home to Skopje. It is an exceptional sight and feeling. This specifically, gives the capital an extra oomph!

the Millennium Cross on entering the city at nights. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
the beautiful sight of the Millennium Cross on entering the city at night

Other Useful Information You Should Know about North Macedonia

  • The languages spoken – are Macedonian (the official language) Albanian, English, German, and French.

  • Official currency – North Macedonian Denar;

1 USD = 61.75 NMD

1 Euro = 61.52 NMD

1 Pound = 70.57 NMD

  • Macedonia’s history dates back to biblical times and is home to the early churches. Mention of it was made over 20 times in seven books in the Holy Bible. They report that parts of the wooden cross from Jesus’ crucifixion were there.
  • You drive with your (dipped) headlights day and night in North Macedonia. It is mandatory. Also, be prepared to pay motorway tolls, depending on where you are going. North Macedonia has a lot of these motorway toll booths.
  • North Macedonia celebrates Christmas day on January 7th and the old/new year on January 13th/14th.
  • Anyone visiting Macedonia North Macedonia must register at the nearest police station within the first 24 hours of arrival. If your stay is at a paid dwelling, registration is automatic because they will copy your passport and register you. However, if you stay with friends or family in private accommodation, they should present you at the police station. Failure to do so can result in a heavy fine of 600 – 1000 Euros and detainment or an appearance before a court.
  • North Macedonia has the second largest millennium cross worldwide (because they are strong in Christianity). It is found in Mount Vodno, measures 66 meters, and is visible from almost every area in the city.
  • A massive earthquake destroyed 80% of the city of Skopje 40 years ago.
  • North Macedonia was the first country worldwide to connect wireless broadband across the entire country in 2006. The project was called Macedonia Connect.
  • Over 85% of the landmass of North Macedonia is mountainous.
  • North Macedonia is not presently a member of the European Union nor part of the Schengen zone, so you will likely need a visa to visit if your country is not on the visa-free entry list.
  • When a Macedonian man marries a woman (if his surname ends with an “I”, and the woman adopts his surname, the “I” changes to an “A”). For example, if his surname is Stojanovski, hers will be Stojanovska.
  • In 2019, because of political reasons, Macedonia changed its name to the Republic of North Macedonia. However, most of the population rejects this and still refers to the country as Macedonia.
  • North Macedonia has the most religious institutions in the entire world. It has 1953 churches and 580 mosques in such a small country. Amazing!
  • Ohrid Lake (the pearl of Macedonia) is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in the world (estimated to be over 4 million years old). Ohrid is also the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in North Macedonia.
  • North Macedonia is the only European country with a Ruby and mineral mine. It is also the only country worldwide where you can find Thallium minerals.
  • Christmas tradition is alive and well in Macedonia. The local Orthodox Christians have a Christmas Eve tradition of baking bread with a coin (maznik with coin) inside (wrapped in foil). At the table, they distribute the bread to all household members. Whoever gets the piece with it will receive good luck, health, and wealth throughout the year. The coin should be kept safe for the next year and not spent with other money.
  • Mother Teresa of Calcutta was born in the capital city of Skopje in 1910.
  • North Macedonia cultivates the most potent opium in the world.
  • Macedonia invented the Cyrillic alphabet.
  • North Macedonia has over 25 mountain glacial lakes. The most famous is Pelister Eyes. Soon North Macedonia will be creating a new National park in this area.
  • It is the 7th most mountainous country in the world. Because mountains cover 85% of the area.
  • North Macedonia has no seas (because it’s a landlocked country), only lakes; Lake Ohrid, Lake Prespa, and Lake Dojran are the three major natural lakes. Had I known better, I would have thought they were seas because of their sizes.
  • There was a name change from Macedonia to North Macedonia because of political reasons in Greece.

Macedonian Square. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Macedonian Square (with the statue of Alexander the Great Macedonian warrior on the horse)

North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa Cont...

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THE PEOPLE OF NORTH MACEDONIA AND SECURITY

North Macedonians are very pleasant, kind, and very helpful people. They might not be the ones to smile first nor approach you and strike up a conversation but are really pleasant once you break the ice. It is rather strange though, that a large percentage of the people who live there are Albanians, but they are not as outwardly friendly as those in Albania, the most hospitable country in Europe.

From my observation, Macedonians focus their energy on what they have to do, and get about doing it. Lazy is not a word you will use there, as I have seen in a couple of other countries I previously visited. I can testify to meeting some really genuinely pleasant, down-to-earth, and sweet people in Macedonia. Shouting out, especially Marijan and all the others like the local Kenny Rogers. Many other have touched my heart and caused me to fall in love with Skopje and the Macedonian people.

CoraDexplorer and Bulgarian ladies in Macedonia
CoraDexplorer and Macedonian locals (the local Kenny Rogers lookalike)

Yes, I saw many beggars in the city, and many were children. It is sad but not unexpected in poor countries. Macedonia is among the ten poorest European countries, so it is not an uncommon sight, not even in wealthy countries. Not because poverty exists means that crime is an issue there. There were no purse snatchers, bandits, or gun violence in the city. No such things exist in Skopje. I honestly cannot remember seeing many police officers in the city except for a male and female officer near the Alexander the Great statue. They looked like they were on observation duties than expecting or preventing crimes.

I have no incidents to report regarding my safety, and neither did I hear anything untoward or crimes taking place during my visits. During my stay, I went about the city both day and night, I also used buses to other cities, and all was safe and crime-free. As I always remind everyone, nowhere in the world is 100% crime free, so I took precautions as a single woman travelling alone (see 28 safety tips for solo travellers).

Santa and CoraDexplorer Christmas in Skopje
Skopje - Christmas-ready. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Skopje - Christmas-ready
North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Santa and CoraDexplorer

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HOW EXPENSIVE ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS, MEALS, AND TRANSPORTATION?

Prices for everything in Macedonia are affordable. That includes meals, accommodation, and all transportation. 

In North Macedonia, the public transport system comprises buses, taxis, and trains (inter-city). However, taxis and buses are the best way to circumnavigate the city quickly and affordably. 

In Skopje, you can secure a beautiful, fully-furnished city center apartment in a great location (I highly recommend City Lux Apartments check it on Booking.com) for a price as low as 25 – 30 USD. Additionally, 10 USD -15 USD can buy your meals for the entire day (not junk food).

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NORTH MACEDONIAN FOODS YOU MUST TRY:

Traditional Macedonian cuisines are renowned for their meats, dairy, bread, tomatoes, and beans. They create most of their dishes from local produce they grow during summer. Macedonians love bread and will eat it with almost anything. Therefore, they serve flatbread with most meals.

Maznik (traditional Christmas bread). North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Maznik traditional Christmas bread
the coin in the Maznik with coin (traditional Christmas bread). North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
the coin in the Maznik with coin (traditional Christmas bread)
Maznik (traditional Christmas bread). North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Maznik (traditional Christmas bread)
  1. Sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls comprising rice, ground beef, and fermented cabbage).
  2. Tavce Gravce (baked beans – seasoned beans with red pepper and sausage or ribs baked and served with bread).
  3. Pastrmajlija (oval-shaped Macedonian pizza, sometimes topped with eggs and served with fermented peppers).
  4. Ajvar (a pepper spread made from eggplant, roasted peppers, and fried for hours).
  5. Zelnik (a phyllo pie stuffed with leaks or sometimes spinach, cabbage, or cheese).
  6. Kebapi (grilled minced meat sausages served with thin bread).
  7. Burek (a popular breakfast dish is a thin-layered pastry that contains cheese or meat and they serve with yogurt.
  8. Polneti Piperki (bell peppers stuffed with rice and meat and then baked).
  9. Shopska Salad (Macedonian chopped salad comprising chunks of cucumber, tomatoes, olive oil, and salt served with the finest cheese).
  10. Krofni (savoury Macedonian-style doughnuts with hazelnut filling and sprinkled with powdered sugar).
  11. Rakija (Macedonian favourite and proudest drink fruit-based alcohol, also known as Macedonian brandy. Many locals make it to their liking at home with their choice of fruits…They swear by its effectiveness in getting rid of colds, Covid-19, and bacteria. I can vouch for its effectiveness because it got rid of my chest cold and cough overnight).

Rakija. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Rakija
Krofni. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Krofni
Shopska salad. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Shopska salad
North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Macedonian Fish and rice
Fish and veggies - Macedonian style
Ajvar, Pindzur (traditional Macedonian food). North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Ajvar, Pindzur (traditional Macedonian food)

North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa Cont...

MUST HAVE ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR ALL TRAVELLERS

These are my essentials and gadgets I can never do without for a smooth and stress-free vacation. All are available on Amazon for direct links  to the products, information and suggested uses. 

For MUST-READ BOOKS (#ad) Think and Grow Rich is an excellent book for those who  are looking to improve their life and personally grow and develop. (#ad) How to win friends and Influence people another self improvement and and social skills development read. (#ad) The Art of Travelling Alone For those who wish to learn how to save, plan, and travel alone on a budget. All offer an excellent read …perfect for long airport layovers and during your flight. CLICK HERE for the entire list of travel essentials and uses/descriptions

Lake Ohrid. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Lake Ohrid
Port at Lake Ohrid. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Port at Lake Ohrid

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MUST-VISIT SITES OF INTEREST IN SKOPJE/NORTH MACEDONIAN

  1. Canyon Matka, lake, and caves (a beautiful, and stunning gorge surrounded by high mountains, it is about 21 km from Skopje).
  1. Ohrid: Lake Ohrid, Church St. Clement of Ohrid and King (Tsar) Samuel Fortress (this area is unbelievably beautiful and has much to see and do; I can imagine it in the summer). It is about a 6-hour drive from Skopje.
  1. Skopje (Kale) Fortress (in Old Town on the Eponymous hill. It is a strategic and highest point in the city overlooking the Vardar River; it offers magnificent views of the city).
  1. Country hop tours (many whole-day bus tours to neighboring countries like Bulgaria or Serbia).
  1. Mount Vodno & the Millennium Cross (15 minutes outside the city, hike up or use the cable car to get to the top).
  2. Visit Mother Teresa Memorial House (they built it on the spot she was baptized).
  3. Macedonia Square (superb square with so many beautiful statues and buildings).
  1. Old Bazaar (beautiful and historic area with many restaurants, and bargain shopping. It is a definite highlight of the city.
beautiful Lake Ohrid. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
beautiful Lake Ohrid
Cable car ride to Mount Vodno & the Millennium Cross. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Cable car ride to Mount Vodno & the Millennium Cross
Galicica Hill at King (Tsar) Samuel Fortress (overlooking the city of Ohrid)
Galicica Hill at King (Tsar) Samuel Fortress (overlooking the city of Ohrid)
Canyon Matka and lake boat ride. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Canyon Matka and lake boat ride
Canyon Matka and lake. North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Canyon Matka and lake
North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
CoraDexplorer at Canyon Matka and lake

SUMMARY

North Macedonia is like Albania. Why? It is super cheap! Maybe 10% cheaper than Albania. The accommodations, transportation, meals, and shopping were all very affordable and the sites were gorgeous. To all my budget travellers, Skopje, North Macedonia is the place to visit on a tight budget and still enjoy. Because not only is it affordable, but as previously mentioned, it has so much to offer. North Macedonia – the birthplace of Mother Teresa, is a country with beautiful, helpful people, gorgeous sites, and very safe. What else can you ask for on a perfect trip? Nothing! Those who are not budget travellers can stay longer and truly enjoy the beauty of this country without feeling it too much in their pockets. Enjoy!

North Macedonia - the birthplace of Mother Teresa
Skopje (Kale) Fortress (in Old Town on the Eponymous hill

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The Skanderbeg Statue at Skanderbeg Square. Albania is the most hospitable country in Europe

Albania is the most hospitable country in Europe

ALBANIA IS THE MOST HOSPITABLE COUNTRY IN EUROPE

ALBANIA IS THE MOST HOSPITABLE COUNTRY IN EUROPE 

The Republic of Albania is in Southern Europe in the Balkans, and its capital is Tirana. The head of state is the President, and the head of government is the Prime Minister. Albania is famous for its bunkers and has about 173,000 – 750,000 throughout the country, built by the former communist dictator. The country has many castles, archaeological sites, and its unique Albanian Alps. Albania is one of the ten poorest countries in Europe, but from my observation, it doesn’t appear this way. However, what stood out for me most about Albania was the affordable cost of food, accommodation, and transport and mainly their hospitality. Furthermore, the Albanian hospitality was so overwhelming I declare Albania is the most hospitable country in Europe, especially since I have been to all European countries save six of the fifty-one. Continue reading to find out what else is special about Albania.

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Schengen, Luxembourg. Luxembourg the second richest country in the world

Luxembourg the Second Richest country in the world

LUXEMBOURG THE SECOND RICHEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD

LUXEMBOURG THE SECOND RICHEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD 

Luxembourg, also known as Grand Duchy, is a European country encompassed by France, Belgium, and Germany. Many years ago, I thought Luxembourg was a state in another country. However, as my travel knowledge grew, I realised it is a quiet, independent country and one of the world’s major financial and business centers and tax havens. Luxembourg is one of the smallest and the second-richest countries in the world. According to its GDP per capita, it is the second richest, if not the richest country in the world. It is also another one of the more expensive countries I have visited during my travels. However, compared to Switzerland, it is an average of 15% cheaper. Luxembourg is also the name of the country’s capital and is one of the safest, most peaceful, and cleanest countries/cities worldwide. Additionally, Luxembourg has some of the smoothest roads I have ever seen. Even in rural areas, they maintain the roads with proper signage and reflectors. Please continue reading to find out what’s it like to travel to Luxembourg the second richest country in the world.

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Amsterdam home to the Red Light District

Amsterdam home to the Red Light District

AMSTERDAM HOME TO THE RED LIGHT DISTRICT 

AMSTERDAM HOME TO THE RED LIGHT DISTRICT 

Welcome to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, specifically to its capital Amsterdam. Amsterdam is favoured for its open-minded policies and Red Light District (De Wallen). It is also the second most popular and visited city in the world. This article will share some tips and information from my visit to Amsterdam home to the Red Light District (as I like to refer to it) and, might I add, cannabis-filled air. None can compete or compare with Amsterdam. Please continue reading and share the article if you find it helpful.

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what you should know before visiting Switzerland

What you should know before visiting Switzerland

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE VISITING SWITZERLAND

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE VISITING SWITZERLAND

The federal republic of Switzerland is a small country in central Europe, and its capital is Bern (I am almost sure most people think it is Zurich). The city of Geneva is the headquarters of governmental and non-governmental organisations, and Zurich is the largest city and the economic, social, and cultural center of Switzerland. Switzerland has many mountains, small villages, alpine lakes, pristine farms, and grassland (this makes for happier cows and better quality dairy products). Also, what you should know before visiting Switzerland is that Switzerland is home to some of the best chocolates and cheeses. Consequently, it was one of the three reasons, besides visiting the alps, that I was excited to go.

what you should know before visiting Switzerland. downtown Zurich
downtown Zurich

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25 WAYS TO COPE ALONE DURING CORONAVIRUS LOCK-DOWN

25 WAYS TO COPE ALONE DURING CORONAVIRUS LOCKDOWN

25 WAYS TO COPE ALONE DURING CORONAVIRUS LOCKDOWN

We are all living the “new normal” stemming from the Novel coronavirus pandemic, and many people are finding themselves alone.  This is due to social distancing, self-isolation, quarantine and or mandatory “lock-down” by authorities in most countries, to help “flatten the curve” and decrease the transmission risks of the coronavirus (COVID-19).  We are all social beings and no matter the age group, we need to be interactive in some way with each other, however physical interactions are currently discouraged.  Below I will explain what is meant by each term concerning the coronavirus and share 25 ways to cope alone during coronavirus lockdown..

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FLYING ECONOMY WITH QATAR AIRWAYS – THE WORLD’S NO.1 AIRLINE


FLYING ECONOMY WITH QATAR AIRWAYS

FLYING ECONOMY CLASS WITH

QATAR AIRWAYS 

FLYING ECONOMY WITH QATAR AIRWAYS - THE WORLD’S NO.1 AIRLINE

My holiday “explorations” have finally ended (sadly so) and as promised, I am here to give a detailed review of flying economy class with Qatar Airways – the world’s no.1 airline and voted best airlines for another year in 2019.

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Independence Square – Valletta, Malta - where Europe meets the Caribbean

MALTA – WHERE EUROPE MEETS THE CARIBBEAN

MALTA - WHERE EUROPE MEETS THE CARIBBEAN

MALTA – WHERE

EUROPE MEETS

THE CARIBBEAN

MALTA – WHERE EUROPE MEETS THE CARIBBEAN

I LOVE MALTA!!! Did I say I love Malta?  Well, I absolutely do!  This a shameless plea to the officials in Malta, send me an indefinite pass, and maybe I come to stay forever.  Why do I love Malta so much?? Well for me, it is the best of both worlds, read on and see why I described it as, Malta – where Europe meets the Caribbean.

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