Spain – A Sweet Paradise

International Journeys to Take in September

Posted on April 16, 2025December 16, 2025 by Nicole Benedetta

Paris, France

A major reason to visit Paris in September would be Fashion Week! While the event itself is invitation-only, there are other related things to do such as visiting the fashion museums or enjoy fashion-themed events at places such as the Eiffel Tower, Tuileries Garden, and Louvre Museum. Besides fashion, the European Heritage Days is hosted in Paris. This is an annual event in which historic sites and monuments open doors to the public, usually free of charge, including Palace of Versailles and Arc de Triomphe.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney Opera House. — Photo by Bernard Spragg

Sydney is an excellent location to travel to in September, since it is the beginning of spring in the Southern Hemisphere. This brings lovely weather, yet smaller crowds as opposed to the popular summer months. Spring events are held at this time as well, including the Floriade in Canberra, with a large display of tulips and the Royal Adelaide Show, a 9 day long carnival celebrating and connecting communities by showcasing excellence in agriculture and horticulture.

Edinburgh, Scotland

This destination is appealing at this time of year due to milder weather and lower prices. It is a great time to explore the Edinburgh Castle, and the Royal Mile, where you can find unique shops/architecture as well as the Scotch Whiskey Experience. It is also a convenient time to stroll through the Princes Street Gardens, Arthur’s Seat, or Dean Village.

Barcelona, Spain

In September, the weather is enjoyable for parks and beaches. and the crowds are dying down in Barcelona. However, it still has plenty of cultural events for visitors to attend, such as the National Day of Catalonia and the Barcelona International Jazz Festival. Other choices could be taking a train to Montserrat, sitting on a mountain, offering scenic views, or attending a wine tasting in Penedes.

Aruba

Lower prices and crowds is an advantage of visiting Aruba in September. The weather is still perfect for visiting Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. The island’s heritage can also be celebrated at Fiesta di Cunucu at this time of year. Attractions such as Arikok National Park, Guadirikiri Cave, and Natural Pool are enticing too. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also available for those who are adventurous!

Visiting somewhere international in September? I’d love to hear where!

Thanks for the read.

-xo, Nicole (:

5 Places Around the Globe to Visit in April

Posted on March 27, 2023 by Nicole Benedetta

Lisbon, Portugal

Though this region is susceptible to rain 7 days out of this month, the temperature rises to an average of 65 degrees. Moreover, you may get to experience the celebration of Semana Santa Holy Week, aka the week before Easter. During this time, fairs, festivals, and religious parades take place. Or, if you’re willing to travel an hour south to Obidos, you will come across the International Chocolate Festival. You could also partake in a Secret Food Tour, being guided to some of the best local eateries and book a ticket to the Belem Tower or the Castle of S. Jorge.

Corfu, Greece

April can be considered one of the best months to visit Corfu, Greece, due to the enjoyable weather and smaller crowds. Not to forget about the beautiful beaches and the distinguished rock formations that you can view while renting a boat, stopping at ancient monasteries, swimming at Love Canal, and sipping a cocktail at a beach bar.

Queensland, Australia

Millaa Millaa Falls, Atherton Tablelands, Queensland. — Millaa Millaa Falls – Photo by Steven Penton

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, Australia is usually around 72 degrees during this month, with little rain. A road trip from there to Sydney might be something to look into, or just a day trip to the Gold Coast. If you would rather stay in one area though, an interactive art gallery, such as QAGOMA, hopping on a segway tour, getting on rides at Warner Bros Movie World, taking a kayak tour, or relaxing on Margate Beach may be of interest.

Madrid, Spain

Mild and sunny weather takes over Madrid, Spain, in April, perfect for appreciating the terrace bars and open parks. The Festimad Music Festival will be taking place at this time of year, if you listen to alternative rock. In terms of sporting events, there is live football matches, the Mutua Madrid Open Tennis Tournament, and the Rock ‘n’ Roll Madrid Marathon!

Bali, Indonesia

Photo by Kimberly McNeilus on Pexels.com

Being the beginning of dry season, April is great for traveling to Bali, Indonesia. It is an excellent month for swimming or surfing in the warm ocean. Though this is the beginning of peak season, the nightclubs become lively and you are not going to want to miss the Ubud Food Festival! The Bali Zoo, partying and staying overnight on Kuta Beach, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, and Uluwata Temple are a few favorite tourist locations too.

Which place would be your #1 choice out of the 5? Let me know in the comments below.

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

8 Excellent Hotel Choices in Barcelona

Posted on January 24, 2023 by Nicole Benedetta

If you’re planning on going to Barcelona, Spain in the near future, listen up! Below, I’ve chosen 8 hotels in the area that I, myself, would love to stay at. So I bet you will to.

Hotel El Palace Barcelona

Hotel El Palace is located in the middle of the city, near Las Ramblas, the major shopping district. Even though it is a bit older, having been constructed in 1919, the classic decor is charming. Along with booking a room there, you will be provided with slippers and a bathrobe. And also your own mini bar! Amenities include a spa with a sauna, a gym, outdoor pool, a business center, and even a limousine and chauffer available upon request!

W Barcelona

Situated on Barceloneta Beach is the W Barcelona, providing visitors with stunning views of both the ocean and the skyline. Amenities here consist of an infinity pool, spa, and rooftop bar. In the rooms, you will find a rainforest shower and a Nespresso machine.

Motel One Barcelona-Cuitadella

This is definitely not a regular motel. Motel One Barcelona-Cuitadella offers a rooftop terrace overlooking Cuitadella Park, the beach, and the city! It also provides continental breakfast and a lounge bar that is open 24/7.

Hotel Casa Bonay

If you’d rather stay in a cute boutique hotel, check out Casa Bonay! Each room is soundproof and equipped with a tea/coffeemaker, a minibar, and mosaic designs throughout. You will also find a cafe and winery onsite, along with sunbeds on the rooftop!

Mercer Hotel Barcelona

Mercer Hotel was formed in an ancient building, displaying exposed brick walls in the rooms and stylish decor. The hotel features a rooftop swimming pool with a bar and an interior courtyard. Just a short walk away, you will discover restaurants, the metro station, and Barcelona Cathedral.

Hotel Paxton

The accommodations at Hotel Paxton include, but are not limited to, a fitness center, a seasonal outdoor pool, a terrace, and a continental breakfast. Nearby are beaches such as Mar Bella and Bogatell, if you’re willing to walk about 12 minutes to get there.

Monument Hotel

At this property, you will have access to a 3-star Michelin restaurant, a spa, and a rooftop pool. In your soundproof, exquisitely-decorated room, you’ll get a Bluetooth sound system, a bathrobe, and typically, a balcony with views of Barcelona.

Hotel Royal Passeig de Gracia

Right in the midst of the city is this 4-star hotel, containing an interior garden, fitness center, business center, and bar. It features luxurious, spacious rooms with modern technology and an electric kettle. Approximately a 5 minute walk away is Plaza Catalunya, known for its fountains and statues.

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Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (: