# Wind and Whim > Slow, Full-Time Travel ## Posts - [44 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Kuala Lumpur](https://windandwhim.com/44-photos-to-inspire-you-to-visit-kuala-lumpur/): Steve and I spent four weeks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s vibrant capital, in August 2024. We couldn’t have chosen a better introduction to Southeast Asia. Here, skyscrapers rub shoulders with temples, markets, and colonial architecture, creating a melting pot of cultures and experiences that’s equal parts chaotic and charming. Here are 44 photos I hope will inspire you to visit Kuala Lumpur. Towers Kuala Lumpur’s skyline stars three icons: the Petronas Twin Towers, once the world’s tallest buildings and still the tallest twins buildings; KL Tower, a 421-meter or 1,381 foot communications tower with panoramic views and a glass sky... - [Six Weeks in Belgrade, Serbia](https://windandwhim.com/six-weeks-in-belgrade-serbia/): Steve and I spent six weeks in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, in June and July of 2025. Why would anyone spend six weeks in Belgrade, you ask? We had several reasons: 1. We needed to leave the Schengen Area for at least 90 days. With more countries joining it and shrinking our list of options, Serbia stood out as one of the places we could go in Europe that we hadn’t already been to. 2. After ten weeks in Germany, including two with our daughters, it was time to give our wallet a much-needed breather. You can read about... - [Is Belgrade a Good Choice for a Balkan City Break?](https://windandwhim.com/is-belgrade-a-good-choice-for-a-balkan-city-break/): Thinking about visiting the Balkans? Maybe you need a break from the Schengen Zone or just want a budget-friendly city escape. If Belgrade, Serbia is on your radar but you’re not quite sold, you’re in the right place. In the spring of 2025, Steve and I spent six weeks in Belgrade (long story), giving us plenty of time to get to know the city. Here is what we found so you can decide if Belgrade deserves a spot on your itinerary. The Pros of Belgrade The city is walkable Old Town (Stari Grad) is very walkable, with several pedestrian-only streets.... - [Medical Care in Belgrade: Affordable, Easy, and Pleasant](https://windandwhim.com/medical-care-in-belgrade-affordable-easy-and-pleasant/): Are you a nomad or long-term traveler who occasionally needs routine medical care on the road? If you find yourself near Serbia, Belgrade might be just the place to get your bodywork done. In June 2025, Steve and I found ourselves in need of a little medical TLC in Belgrade, Serbia. First up: I had a stubborn cough that refused to pack its bags and leave. On top of that, we were both due for our semi-annual bloodwork and dental cleanings—and as a bonus round, our beloved (but very tired) custom shoe inserts needed replacing. Belgrade delivered excellent care without... - [Looking Back: Beginnings on the Road (and Sea)](https://windandwhim.com/looking-back-beginnings-on-the-road-and-sea/): While cleaning up my files, I ran across memories from the beginning of our full-time travels. I thought it would be fun to see where we were seven years ago. From April through July 2018, we spent two weeks on a cruise ship and three months in three cities in Western Europe. In this look back, I highlight what was great, what wasn’t, and what surprised us. I also threw in a few updates. I hope you enjoy this trip down memory lane as much as I enjoyed revisiting it. Cruise from Florida to Barcelona Does two weeks on a... - [What You Need to Know Before Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle](https://windandwhim.com/what-you-need-to-know-before-visiting-neuschwanstein-castle/): One of the best parts of traveling is finally seeing those places you’ve only read about or seen in dreamy Instagram posts. So when Steve and I, our two daughters, and two longtime friends visited Munich in May 2025, Neuschwanstein Castle – Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle – shot straight to the top of all our must-see lists. We booked our tour tickets in advance, which I highly recommend. The day we picked turned out to be cool, cloudy, and drizzly. But even with the gloom, Neuschwanstein still managed to charm us. The castle is about 109 km (68 miles) southeast... - [May 2025 Update: Erding and Munich, Germany and Belgrade, Serbia](https://windandwhim.com/may-2025-update-erding-and-munich-germany-and-belgrade-serbia/): Hi friends! It’s Linda, back with another monthly update. I hope your May was bursting with sunshine and flowers. Our May definitely brought the sunshine, even if the temperatures were still cool, but the real highlight was spending two weeks with our daughters, Stephanie and Laura. We kicked things off in Erding, Germany, then moved on to Munich. As if that weren’t enough joy, we got to hang out with our long-time friends, Terry and Greg, in Munich. Travel, family, and friends, it doesn’t get much better. What We Did In Erding with Our Girls Erding is a small Bavarian... - [April 2025 Update: Berlin and Dresden, Germany](https://windandwhim.com/april-2025-update-berlin-and-dresden-germany/): Hello again and happy May! I hope wherever you are, spring has decided to show up. For us? Not so much. We started April in Berlin, where we were lucky to see daytime temps in the 60s (F). Then we moved on to Dresden, where the weather remained cool with a little rain thrown in. I guess I shouldn’t complain. I do prefer it to sweating through Southeast Asia. Read on to find out what we got up to in April. Wrapping Up Berlin As I mentioned last month, we spent four weeks in Berlin, mainly to renew our passports.... - [How to Save Thousands of Dollars While Traveling](https://windandwhim.com/how-to-save-thousands-of-dollars-while-traveling/): Want to travel in style without blowing your budget? What if I told you that you could save thousands of dollars (or yen, euro, or pesos) while exploring new places? It sounds like one of those sketchy internet ads, right? But it’s not. It’s legit. Steve and I saved an estimated $10,000 over four months while traveling in the U.S. and England, and we did it by pet sitting through TrustedHousesitters. What is TrustedHousesitters? TrustedHousesitters is the biggest and most well-known house-sitting platform, with over 230,000 members. Most of the sits are in the U.S. and the U.K., but you’ll... - [March 2025 Update: Ho Chi Minh City and Berlin](https://windandwhim.com/march-2025-update-ho-chi-minh-city-and-berlin/): Hello again! I hope you’re enjoying spring-like weather wherever you are. Steve and I are in Berlin, Germany, where spring seems to be on vacation. We wrapped up our time in Vietnam mid-month, leaving behind the sweltering heat of Ho Chi Minh City, only to land straight into thermal underwear season. We’ll be in Germany until mid-May, so hopefully, we’ll see some of the spring weather we’re craving before we leave. Here’s an update on what we’ve been up to in March. Goodbye, Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) was our fifth and final stop in Vietnam and our least... - [Dalat, Vietnam: Funk, Flowers, and Fabulous Weather](https://windandwhim.com/dalat-vietnam-funk-flowers-and-fabulous-weather/): Are you thinking of visiting Vietnam? It’s an incredible destination with countless attractions. Like many travelers, you might have your sights set on Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, or Hoi An. Steve and I explored all of those, but we also spent two weeks in Dalat in February 2025, and it quickly became one of my favorite places in Vietnam. What Makes Dalat Unique? The first thing that makes Dalat unique is the climate. Since it is 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) above sea level, Dalat offers a refreshing escape from the sweltering heat of Vietnam’s major cities. Check... - [How to Find the Best Halong Bay Cruise for You](https://windandwhim.com/how-to-find-the-best-halong-bay-cruise-for-you/): If you’re planning a trip to North Vietnam, chances are Halong Bay is high on your list. And for good reason. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking destinations. The bay is home to 1,600 islands and islets, each rising dramatically from the emerald waters. Many hide caves waiting to be explored, adding to the bay’s sense of mystery and adventure. There are basically three options for your Halong Bay cruise: one day, one night, or two nights. Each option offers a chance to soak in the bay’s otherworldly beauty, but which one is right for... - [February 2025 Update: Hoi An, Dalat, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam](https://windandwhim.com/february-2025-newsletter-hoi-an-dalat-and-ho-chi-minh-city-vietnam/): February may be the shortest month, but Steve and I managed to pack quite a bit into it. We’ve been making the most of our final stops in Southeast Asia. This month, we: Wrapped up our time in Hoi An Hoi An is known for its colorful old town and rich history. Strangely enough, the highlight of our time in Hoi An was a two-day trip to Ba Na Hills SunWorld. We first visited on a tour in January, loved it, and decided to go back for an overnight trip on our own. Ba Na Hills is the home of... - [Love Kitsch? You’ll Love Ba Na Hills SunWorld](https://windandwhim.com/love-kitsch-youll-love-ba-na-hills-sunworld/): If an attraction is kooky, offbeat, or kitschy, Steve and I are all in—so it’s no surprise we fell in love with Ba Na Hills SunWorld in Da Nang, Vietnam. Ba Na Hills, as it’s commonly called, is a theme park with a heavy French flair. It’s also home to the iconic Golden Bridge, the one that looks like two giant hands are holding it up. We originally joined a group tour with one goal: to see the Golden Bridge. But once we got a glimpse of everything else the park had to offer, we knew one day wasn’t enough.... - [Is Ba Na Hills SunWorld Right for You?](https://windandwhim.com/is-ba-na-hills-sunworld-right-for-you/): Ba Na Hills SunWorld is a mountaintop amusement park in Vietnam, famous for its breathtaking Golden Bridge held by giant stone hands. With a mix of French-inspired architecture, lush gardens, and thrilling attractions, it offers a unique blend of culture and adventure. Visitors can ride the world’s longest non-stop cable car, explore a fairytale-like village, and enjoy panoramic views of Da Nang. Are you planning a trip to Da Nang or Hoi An and wondering whether Ba Na Hills SunWorld (commonly referred to as Ba Na Hills) is worth a visit? If you check online reviews, you’ll see some negative... - [January 2025 Newsletter - Siem Reap, Da Nang, and Hoi An](https://windandwhim.com/january-2025-newsletter-siem-reap-da-nang-and-hoi-an/): Hello and Happy 2025! Steve and I had the unique experience of ringing in the new year twice, once on January 1st in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and again at the end of the month in Hoi An for the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. Our month was filled with adventures across three Vietnamese cities, plus a fun-filled overnight escape to a theme park. Read on to see where the journey took us! Wrapping Up Our Time in Siem Reap We had nine days left in Siem Reap at the start of 2025. Unfortunately, I spent most of them feeling unwell. What... - [8 Reasons Siem Reap is Better Than Chiang Mai](https://windandwhim.com/8-reasons-siem-reap-is-better-than-chiang-mai/): Are you torn between visiting Chiang Mai or Siem Reap? These two cities have many similarities, but a few differences that made one stand out for me. Steve and I visited Chiang Mai, Thailand, in the fall of 2024, and Siem Reap, Cambodia, in the winter of 2024–2025. We spent four weeks in Chiang Mai and three weeks in Siem Reap, staying near the city center in both places. I had been excited to see Chiang Mai because it’s a favorite among travelers. While we enjoyed some unique experiences—like spending two days at an elephant sanctuary, exploring the lush Tweechol... - [Wind and Whim’s 2024 Full-Time Travel Costs](https://windandwhim.com/wind-and-whims-2024-full-time-travel-costs/): It’s a new year, which means it’s time for our annual spending breakdown! In 2024, we explored 16 cities and towns across 7 countries on 3 continents. This year marked a milestone—it was our first adventure in Southeast Asia, where we spent over four months. Our travel style sits comfortably between backpacker and luxury—think of it as a solid three-star experience. If you’re planning full-time or long-term travel, rest assured, it can be done for much less. Don’t miss the Ways to Travel for Less section below for some great tips! Read on to discover how we allocated our funds, what... - [December 2024 Newsletter - Bangkok and Siem Reap](https://windandwhim.com/december-2024-newsletter-bangkok-and-siem-reap/): Hello, and Happy New Year! I hope you had a memorable holiday season and are excited for 2025. Steve and I spent the first three weeks of December in Bangkok, Thailand. Even though Buddhism is the prevailing religion, the city was teeming with Christmas décor. Just a few days before Christmas, we moved on to Siem Reap, Cambodia. While we missed spending Christmas with our daughters, we’re looking forward to seeing them this spring. What We’ve Been Doing Finishing Our Time in Bangkok Having already visited many of Bangkok’s top attractions in November (you can catch up on that in... - [What You Need to Know About Elephant Sanctuaries in Thailand](https://windandwhim.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-elephant-sanctuaries-in-thailand/): If you’re traveling to Thailand, visiting an elephant sanctuary may be on your to-do list. Spending time with these majestic creatures can be an unforgettable experience. As a thoughtful and responsible traveler, you’ll want to choose a sanctuary that aligns with your values. But what exactly does that involve? What should you look for in an elephant sanctuary? In the fall of 2024, Steve and I spent a month in Chiang Mai, Thailand. We wandered through the old city, saw a lively ladyboy show, explored more wats (Buddhist monasteries and temples) than we thought possible, and spent two days at... - [November 2024 Newsletter - Chiang Mai and Bangkok](https://windandwhim.com/november-2024-newsletter/): Hello! November is over, and those who celebrate are gearing up for the holiday season. For those of you in the U.S., I hope you had an enjoyable Thanksgiving. Steve and I spent the month in Thailand, first in Chiang Mai, then in Bangkok. We will be in Bangkok until December 20th, then head to Siem Reap, Cambodia. For those of you frustrated by the early push for Christmas, know that this is not unique to the U.S. We’ve seen Christmas décor in Thailand from the beginning of November, which is weird since over 90% of Thailand’s citizens are Buddhist.... - [The Best, Worst, and Weirdest Things About Hanoi](https://windandwhim.com/the-best-worst-and-weirdest-things-about-hanoi/): During the fall of 2024, Steve and I spent four weeks in Hanoi. Vietnam is the first communist country we have visited and only one of five communist countries in the world (the other four being China, Cuba, Laos, and North Korea). It was our second country in S.E. Asia, and besides the wildly chaotic traffic, we weren’t sure what to expect. Hanoi turned out to be so much more engaging than we expected, and we hope to discover more of its delights in the future. Read on to find out what we loved, what surprised us, what we didn’t... - [My Unsplash Gallery](https://windandwhim.com/my-unsplash-gallery/): Unsplash is a free photo-sharing website where I share my best photos and get some great shots to use in blog posts when I don’t have the right one. You can see my Unsplash photos here. Happy traveling,Linda Before You Go - [Colorful Kuala Lumpur Street Art 2024](https://windandwhim.com/colorful-kuala-lumpur-street-art-2024/): Kuala Lumpur is full of delightful sights, but the street art quickly became one of my favorites. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did. The street art is divided into three sections, starting with murals and sculptures. Two of the best areas to see street art are Jalan Rembia and the surrounding streets in the Bukit Bintang neighborhood and Chinatown. In Chinatown, make sure you don’t miss Kwai Chai Hong, a small alley brimming with charming artwork. You’ll find it by crossing a little bridge guarded by a ceramic lady in a pink dress. The name translates... - [Should You Visit Kuala Lumpur? An Honest Review](https://windandwhim.com/kuala-lumpur-a-great-place-to-start-your-s-e-asia-journey/): Hi there, and happy fall. Perhaps you are enjoying cooler weather and looking forward to the beauty of autumn leaves. Steve and I are not. In August, we left the wonderful weather of the Canary Islands for our first visit to Southeast Asia. It is hot and humid, as we knew it would be. Even so, we were excited to see another part of the world. Our first stop in Southeast Asia was Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur was a great introduction to S.E. Asia. It’s modern, easy to get around even though there is a lot of traffic, and... - [Street Art in the Canary Islands 2024](https://windandwhim.com/street-art-in-the-canary-islands/): Do you love street art? Me too. When Steve and I headed to the Canary Islands in May 2024, street art was the furthest thing from my mind. Even so, I was delighted to find it in countless places during our twelve weeks there.  Here are some of my favorites from the three islands we visited: Tenerife, La Palma, and Gran Canaria. The addresses where I stood while taking the photos are referenced so you can easily find them and enjoy them in person. The Island of Tenerife Puerto de la Cruz La Ranilla Neighborhood of Puerto de la Cruz... - [July 2024 Recap: La Palma and Gran Canaria, Canary Islands](https://windandwhim.com/july-2024-recap-la-palma-and-gran-canaria-canary-islands/): In July, we said goodbye to the Island of Tenerife and flew to the Island of La Palma. We enjoyed our five weeks in Tenerife but were also looking forward to seeing what La Palma was like. After three weeks in La Palma, we headed to Patalavaca on the southern coast of the Island of Gran Canaria. July was a pleasant combination of discovering two new islands, hours spent lying by pools, and a bit of planning. First Stop: La Palma Jardin We stayed at La Palma Jardin, a luxurious, secluded compound that lived up to the jardin name. The... - [The Best Travel Apps and Websites](https://windandwhim.com/the-best-travel-apps-and-websites-for-2024-2/): Updated 3/16/2025 Do you love traveling but hate travel planning? Me too. You need to find transportation and lodging, figure out how to use your cell phone in foreign countries, plan for emergencies, decide what to pack, make plans for pet care, and more. Fortunately, there are many apps and websites that make travel easier. Many of them also help you get more bang for your buck. I will share our favorite travel apps and websites in this post. All money is in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated. Accommodations 1. Airbnb Airbnb has its critics, but nothing else comes close... - [How to Find the Best Airbnb Rentals 2025](https://windandwhim.com/how-to-find-the-best-airbnb-rentals-2024/): If you’re new to Airbnb, you may find you’ve picked a less-than-desirable place. Perhaps you were seduced by the pretty pictures, enticed by a low price, or naively thought any reasonable pick would be great. We’ve been guilty of all three, and after some bad choices, we have learned (and continue to learn) how to find the best Airbnb rentals. Below are nine tips you can use to find the best Airbnb rentals and the situations that led to us adopting these tips. There is also a bonus tip for after you arrive at your Airbnb. All money is in... - [June 2024 Recap: Tenerife, Canary Islands](https://windandwhim.com/june-2024-recap-tenerife-canary-islands/): Wind and Whim contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks! Hello! I hope you’re enjoying your summer. After three months in England, Steve and I were ready for some serious sunshine. We found it on the Island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands. We spent five weeks there, two in Puerto de la Cruz and three in Los Cristianos. We enjoyed both stays and will be spending all of July and most of August on other islands in the Canaries. Read on to learn... - [March 2024: Cambridge, Bury St. Edmunds, and London, U.K.](https://windandwhim.com/march-2024-cambridge-bury-st-edmunds-and-london-u-k/): March 2024 found us in the U.K., specifically Cambridge, Bury St. Edmunds, and London. Here are the highlights from that month. Cambridge Our three-day trip to Cambridge got off to a rainy start. But we still enjoyed the art at the Fitzwilliam Museum. The rain cleared long enough to walk the cemetery grounds of Little St. Mary’s Church. We checked out the inside too. A stroll through town led us to a few cool shops. The grounds of the Cambridge University Botanic Garden were still in winter mode, but the greenhouses were full of flowers. Bury St. Edmunds Steve and... - [The Fascinating and Sordid History of Crossbones Graveyard](https://windandwhim.com/the-fascinating-and-sordid-history-of-crossbones-graveyard/): Regular readers of our blog know that Steve and I like to explore cemeteries. While in London in the spring of 2024, we toured the well-known Highgate Cemetery. However, the lesser-known Crossbones Graveyard and Garden of Remembrance was more compelling and memorable. In this post, you will learn about the history of Crossbones and perhaps be inspired to visit it, too. What is Crossbones Graveyard and Garden of Remembrance? Crossbones was an unconsecrated burial ground for prostitutes, paupers, criminals, and other outcasts from post-medieval times until its closure in 1853. Today, it’s a place to remember those that society failed.... - [Your Ultimate Guide to The O2](https://windandwhim.com/your-ultimate-guide-to-the-o2/): Are you planning on visiting London? You’ll love it. London is chock full of amazing things to see and do, but if you’re looking for something different, look no further than The O2 Entertainment District. A Little Background Steve and I spent two months in London in the spring of 2024. We spent part of this time pet sitting, which you can read about here. The rest of the time was spent enjoying the fantastic things this city offers. One of the many things that impressed us was The O2 Entertainment District (often referred to as The O2). It is... - [Everything You Need to Know About Pet Sitting While Traveling](https://windandwhim.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-pet-sitting-while-traveling/): Are you a long-term or full-time traveler looking for a way to lower your travel costs? Are you a pet lover? If so, pet sitting while traveling may be just what you’re looking for. Steve and I joined TrustedHousesitters in the spring of 2023 and began pet sitting in early 2024. We have found the TrustedHousesitters’ website easy to use and have had some good experiences with our sits. Read on to learn what pet sitting involves, its pros and cons, and how our sits worked out. All money is in U.S. dollars. Why We Started Pet Sitting As retired... - [Everything You Need to Know About Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia](https://windandwhim.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-hot-air-ballooning-in-cappadocia/): I’m sure you’ve seen photos of hot air balloons flying over the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia. Maybe you are hoping to do this, perhaps you’re a bit afraid, or you might wonder if it’s worth the cost. Wind and Whim to the rescue. Here is everything you need to know about hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. A Little Background When Steve and I spent six nights in Cappadocia in September 2022, taking a hot air balloon ride was at the top of our list of things to do. Well, it was at the top of my list. Steve was apprehensive... - [Slow Travel: Better for You, Better for the Environment](https://windandwhim.com/slow-travel-better-for-you-better-for-the-environment/): Hi there. Have you ever taken a vacation that plum wore you out? Maybe you took a multi-day tour that didn’t provide enough downtime. Perhaps you got tired of packing and unpacking as you moved from city to city. Or it could be that you saw so many sights in a short time that they have all gotten jumbled up in your memory. If you relate to any of these, slow travel might be right for you. Steve and I have been traveling slowly since 2018 and highly recommend it. In this post, I will explain what slow travel is,... - [Wind and Whim Update: January and February 2024](https://windandwhim.com/wind-and-whim-update-january-and-february-2024/): Greetings from London, where Steve and I have spent the last seven weeks waiting for nice weather. I hope wherever you are, spring is already working its magic. We ended 2023 by spending Christmas with our daughters, Steph and Laura (aka the girls), and Steph’s roommate, Jeff, in Jacksonville, Florida. It was the first time we’ve been together at Christmas since 2019. In January and February, we spent time in Jacksonville and Orlando, Florida; Savannah, Georgia; Asheville, North Carolina; and Tonawanda, New York (a suburb of Buffalo). Here are the highlights of our travels for January and February 2024. Florida... - [What You Need to Know About Traveling in the Schengen Area](https://windandwhim.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-traveling-in-the-schengen-area/): Hi there, fellow traveler. Are you thinking of visiting Europe for an extended period of time? If so, do you understand the Schengen Area rules? Don’t be like Steve and me when we first started traveling (more about that below). We weren’t familiar with the Schengen Area and came very close to having a giant monkey wrench thrown smack dab into the middle of our plans. In this post, I will explain what you need to know about traveling in the Schengen Area as it applies to North American citizens. Please note that I am not an expert. You are... - [Wind and Whim’s 2023 Full-Time Travel Costs](https://windandwhim.com/wind-and-whims-2023-full-time-travel-costs/): It’s time to review what Steve and I spent on travel in 2023. We had a busy year that included two trips back to the U.S., a two-week trip to Athens with Stephanie and Laura, and a 15-day transatlantic cruise. We visited 32 cities and towns and spent time on three continents. All our moving around came at a cost, and we were significantly over budget. Keep reading to see how we spent our money, which locations were a bargain, which were budget busters, and how much over budget we were. It may be necessary to use the reader mode... - [Memorable Moments From a Year of Full-Time Travel (2023)](https://windandwhim.com/memorable-moments-from-a-year-of-full-time-travel-2023/): It’s always fun to look back over our travels for the past year. As Steve and I wrap up our sixth year of full-time travel, we continue to be awed by this amazing world. Our year was busy with visits to 32 cities and towns, so there was ample opportunity to collect memorable moments. We were in Florida twice, first in March to attend a wedding in Key West and then in December to spend Christmas with our daughters, Stephanie and Laura. There was sad news in December when Steve’s oldest brother, Arthur, passed away after a long illness. We... - [Sinaia, Romania: A Great Addition to Your Bucharest Trip](https://windandwhim.com/sinaia-romania-a-great-addition-to-your-bucharest-trip/): If you’re fortunate enough to visit Bucharest, Romania, you will have much to explore and enjoy. Among the many things to see in Bucharest, you can tour the Palace of Parliament, one of the largest buildings in the world, peruse the stunningly beautiful Carturesti Carusel bookstore, and get pampered at Therme Bucuresti, an over-the-top relaxation center. After you’ve seen what this amazing city has to offer, you may want to explore more of Romania. Sinaia, Romania is a great choice. This town in the Bucegi Mountains is just 86 miles (140 km) north of Bucharest. It is most famous for... - [Wind and Whim’s Monthly Update: November 2023](https://windandwhim.com/wind-and-whims-monthly-update-november-2023/): Hi there! Can you believe 2023 is almost over? I hope you are enjoying this festive time of year and looking forward to memorable holiday celebrations. Steve and I are anticipating Christmas with our daughters in Jacksonville, Florida. November was a most unusual month for us. We spent the first three weeks in Kotor, Montenegro, and the last week in Rome. Our time in Kotor was pretty laid back, in large part due to the weather. However, our week in Rome kicked our butts as we were determined to see as much of the city as possible in one week.... - [Kotor, Montenegro Photo Gallery 2023](https://windandwhim.com/kotor-montenegro-photo-gallery/): Here are our favorite photos from our November 2023 trip to Kotor, Montenegro. There are also two photos from the nearby town of Tivat. Most of the photos were taken in Kotor’s Old Town, my favorite old town to date. As you can see, there were few people as it was off-season, and the weather was often bad during our stay. On top of that, I many photos were taken in the early morning, my favorite time for capturing my location. The Bay of Kotor The Bay of Kotor is one of the most breathtaking spots on the Adriatic It’s... - [Wind and Whim’s Monthly Update: October 2023](https://windandwhim.com/wind-and-whims-monthly-update-october-2023/): Hi there, and happy November. Steve and I spent most of October in Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, and then moved on to Kotor, Montenegro, at the end of the month. We had a low-key month in Podgorica, but Kotor should be busier since there is more to do. Even though we weren’t as active in October as usual, that’s okay. We will be busy from late November through January. Here is our monthly update with the highlights, the low points, and a summary of what we did in October. Highlights A Side Trip Back to Albania We took a... - [What You Need to Know When Visiting Tirana, Albania](https://windandwhim.com/what-you-need-to-know-when-visiting-tirana-albania/): What’s it like to visit Tirana, the capital of Albania? Except for the lack of street addresses and lackadaisical bus schedules, it was similar to visiting any other city. Before traveling to Tirana, I knew nothing about the city or the country. In September 2023, Steve and I stayed there for four weeks. You can read about that in “Wind and Whim’s Monthly Update: September 2023.” Here are the practical things you need to know when visiting Tirana. There is a lot of information, but you can use the table of contents to find the information you need quickly. All... - [A Venetian Surprise in Shkoder, Albania](https://windandwhim.com/a-venetian-surprise-in-shkoder-albania/): One of the many things I love when traveling is discovering something incongruous, like when Steve and I ran across the wonderful Beatles Museum in the Hungarian city of Eger. You can read about that in our post about Eger and Egerszalok. In early October 2023, we discovered another unexpected gem while visiting the Albanian city of Shkoder. It was the Venice Art Mask Factory. A Little Background We spent most of September in Tirana, the capital of Albania. That was followed by four weeks in Montenegro’s capital of Podgorica. On the bus ride from Tirana to Podgorica, we passed... - [Wind and Whim’s Monthly Update: September 2023](https://windandwhim.com/wind-and-whims-monthly-update-september-2023/): Hi! I hope you had a great September. Ours was quiet, which is sometimes a good thing. And now, here we are in October, and it’s time for another monthly update. Steve and I spent most of September in Tirana, Albania. Since we had just come from Skopje, North Macedonia, Albania’s neighbor to the east, we couldn’t help comparing these two capital cities. The streets of Skopje were uncrowded; Tirana’s streets were full of people. The city center of Skopje is loaded with classical-style white buildings due to the Skopje 2014 project; Tirana is full of unique buildings. In Skopje,... - [What Is Skopje Really Like? An Honest Review](https://windandwhim.com/what-is-skopje-really-like-an-honest-review/): If you asked 1,000 people which European city they would most like to visit, I’d be surprised if even one would put Skopje, North Macedonia, at the top of their list. It’s not because Skopje isn’t worth visiting, but it is not well known and can’t compare to the draw of many European cities. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider visiting it. Read on to find out what Skopje is really like, at least from my perspective. A Little Background Steve and I spent most of August 2023 in Skopje. It was the 88th city we’ve visited. We chose... - [Tirana, Albania Photo Gallery 2023](https://windandwhim.com/tirana-albania-photo-gallery/): These are photos from our September 2023 trip to the cities of Tirana and Durres in Albania. You can read about out stay in Tirana and our short side trip to Durres in “Wind and Whim’s Monthly Update: September 2023.” To see the images in a slideshow with captions, press any image. Happy traveling,Linda Before You Go - [Wind and Whim’s Monthly Update: August 2023](https://windandwhim.com/wind-and-whims-monthly-update-august-2023/): Hi there! Can you believe it’s September already? The summer has been flying by for us, but we’re having fun. I hope you are, too. Steve and I started August with two nights in Brasov, Romania, and spent the remainder in Skopje, North Macedonia. Check out this monthly update to see our August highlights and low points, what we did, and where we are going.  All money is in U.S. dollars. Highlights Staying at Hotel Belvedere, Brasov We made a short trip to Brasov to revisit Bran Castle (aka Dracula’s Castle) before leaving Romania. That part of the trip didn’t... - [Skopje, North Macedonia Photo Gallery 2023](https://windandwhim.com/skopje-gallery/): Steve and I spent most of August 2023 in Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. This city is unlike any we have visited. It’s quirky, it’s over-the-top, it’s never boring. We enjoyed seeing hundreds of statues and loved the museums. I hope you enjoy a look at some of the highlights of Skopje. You can read more about Skopje in “What Is Skopje Really Like? An Honest Review” and “What You Need to Know When Visiting Skopje, North Macedonia.” To see a slideshow of the images with captions, press any image. Happy traveling,Linda Before You Go - [What You Need to Know When Visiting Skopje, North Macedonia](https://windandwhim.com/79-things-to-know-when-visiting-skopje-north-macedonia/): If you’re looking for somewhere unique and inexpensive to visit in Europe, consider Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. This Balkan city is uncrowded and easy to get around. Its city center is a sight to see, with larger-than-life monuments, random statues, ornate bridges, and elegant buildings, thanks to the Skopje 2014 project (more on that below). Steve and I ended up in Skopje in August 2023 for two reasons. One, we needed to find a place to visit outside the Schengen Area due to its visa restrictions. Two, I had read about the Skopje 2014 project and was intrigued.... - [The Truth About Staying in Airbnbs](https://windandwhim.com/the-truth-about-staying-in-airbnbs/): A sure sign of success is when your competitors gear their ads toward disparaging you. In the summer of 2022, the vacation rental company VRBO released a series of ads stressing that with VRBO, you and your family get the whole house to yourself. The campaign was called “Only Your People.” Here is one of the ads: I find it odd that VRBO would spend money on this slam against Airbnb (although it is never mentioned by name). Anyone who has used Airbnb knows they offer many rentals where you get the whole place to yourself, and they offer top-end... - [Wind and Whim’s Monthly Update: July 2023](https://windandwhim.com/wind-and-whims-monthly-update-july-2023/): Hi there! It’s time for another monthly update. I hope you are surviving the summer heat. Steve and I spent most of July in Bucharest, Romania, where it was hot but, thankfully, not too humid. Even so, we didn’t do as much as planned since we were lazy about getting out before the days got too hot. We enjoyed four visits to Therme Bucuresti, though. It was a great way to cool off and get some pampering. More on that below. During the last five days of the month, we were in Sinaia, Romania, a two-hour train ride north of... - [Why You’ll Fall in Love with Opatija, Croatia](https://windandwhim.com/why-youll-fall-in-love-with-opatija-croatia/): If you love captivating natural beauty, amazing architecture, and gorgeous gardens, check out Opatija, Croatia. Steve and I visited Opatija at the end of May, before the height of the tourist season. It was busy enough to be interesting without being crowded. The weather was warm and mostly sunny. This seaside town of less than 12,000 residents on the Adriatic Sea is the perfect place for a restorative break. As is fitting for the area, most people were strolling or relaxing by the water. Read on to learn why you will fall in love with Opatija. All money is in... - [Wind & Whim’s Monthly Update: June 2023](https://windandwhim.com/wind-whims-monthly-update-june-2023/): Hi there. I hope your summer is off to a great start. Ours sure is. After laying low in May, we had a busy June. We spent most of it based in Pula, Croatia. While there, we took a six-night side trip to three other Croatian locations. After Pula, we spent a few days in Venice, then headed off the Bucharest for five weeks. June was full of captivating sights and a few minor mistakes. Read this monthly update to learn about our adventures in Croatia and Venice and why Linda needs a refresher course in reading. Highlights Four Weeks... - [Overtourism in the Places We Love](https://windandwhim.com/overtourism-in-the-places-travelers-love/): Do you dream of riding a gondola on Venice’s Grand Canal, visiting the Game of Thrones filming locations in Dubrovnik, or getting a little wild in Amsterdam? If so, you aren’t alone. These places ignite our wanderlust. They have something else in common; they, and many others, are overtouristed. So how do we reconcile our desire to experience the places we dream of with being a responsible tourist? There are no easy answers, but some thought and knowledge can go a long way in helping to mitigate the problems overtourism causes. What Is Overtourism? Overtourism occurs when a tourist destination... - [9 Reasons Why Traveling with Adult Children Rocks](https://windandwhim.com/9-reasons-why-traveling-with-adult-children-rocks/): Adult children. I believe that is an oxymoron. But what else can you call them? They are your children, your kids, your babies, all grown up and running their own lives. You may live with them, see them regularly, or not very often. Whatever your situation, I ask you: now that they’ve evolved into self-sufficient beings, should you travel with them? Absolutely! Below are nine reasons why traveling with adult children rocks. A Little Background Steve and I have two daughters, Stephanie (Steph), 31, and Laura, 27 (aka the girls). They both live in Florida. Steve and I live everywhere.... - [Back to the U.S. (For One Month)](https://windandwhim.com/back-to-the-u-s-for-one-month/): More than three years. Almost 38 months. 1,146 days. That’s how long it was between our last visit to the U.S. and our recent one in March of 2023. As the months and years rolled by, Steve and I were less and less interested in returning home. Aside from our daughters being there, we had little motivation to return. Then we were invited to the wedding of a young lady we’ve known since she was born. And the wedding was in Key West, a place we had never visited. So we decided to go back to the U.S. (Jacksonville, Florida,... - [What You Need to Know About Drinking in Morocco](https://windandwhim.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-drinking-in-morocco/): Are you thinking of visiting Morocco and wondering if you will have to forego a refreshing beer or relaxing glass of wine? You might be surprised to learn that alcohol is available in Morocco, although not as readily as in non-Muslim countries. Steve and I spent two and a half months in Morocco in the winter of 2022-2023. During that time, I was able to find beer and wine. It wasn’t always easy, and it wasn’t always cheap. Here’s the lowdown on drinking in Morocco. All money is in U.S. dollars. Is Drinking Legal in Morocco? Yes. Drinking is legal... - [Marrakesh: Colorful, Crowded, and Just a Little Crazy](https://windandwhim.com/marrakesh-colorful-crowded-and-just-a-little-crazy/): When Steve and I were planning our three-month Morocco trip, we decided against a long stay in Marrakesh. Much of what we read spoke of how overwhelming it can be. But we didn’t want to miss it, so we decided to spend four nights in this legendary city. The articles we read were right; Marrakesh is intense. Here are our experiences while visiting Marrakesh in January 2023, along with some helpful hints. All money is in U.S. dollars. Terms Medina – the old part of a city. It is usually walled. Marrakesh’s medina is over 1,000 years old, and the... - [Wind and Whim’s 2022 Full-Time Travel Costs](https://windandwhim.com/wind-and-whims-2022-full-time-travel-costs/): It’s that time of year again! I get to put my accountant hat on and share our full-time travel costs with you. I started sharing our travel costs in 2019 when I wrote about what it cost for our first eight months of full-time travel in 2018. I did this because I wanted to show how affordable full-time travel can be. We have now completed 2022, and this is the fifth annual cost post I have written. You can see the previous years’ posts here: 2018201920202021 It may be necessary to use the reader mode or turn your screen to... - [The Surprising Truth About Full-Time Travel](https://windandwhim.com/the-surprising-truth-about-full-time-travel/): Updated February 4, 2025 Come on, admit it. I bet you’ve dreamt about chucking it all and traveling full-time. Your dreams were probably packed with jaw-dropping adventures, golden beaches, and smiles that stretch for miles. Sounds perfect, doesn’t it? But here’s the thing: reality doesn’t always match the fantasy. After nearly seven years of full-time travel, Steve and I have learned a thing or two, and we’re here to let you in on the surprising truth about living life on the road. That’s right. We’ll tell you what happens in between those postcard-perfect moments and the sun-soaked days of relaxation.... - [30 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Tangier, Morocco](https://windandwhim.com/tangier-morocco-photo-gallery-2022-2023/): Here are our favorite photos from our trip to Tangier from December 2022 to January 2023. Tangier was our introduction to Morocco and Africa, and we loved it. Our favorite parts were the stretch of beach along the Straight of Gibraltar, the beautiful architecture, the view from our apartment, and the prevalence of cats. Check out our other Morocco posts: “Marrakesh: Colorful, Crowded, and Just a Little Crazy” and “What You Need to Know About Drinking in Morocco.” Happy traveling,Linda Before You Go - [Memorable Moments From a Year of Full-Time Travel (2022)](https://windandwhim.com/memorable-moments-from-a-year-of-full-time-travel-2022/): Happy New Year! Is it just me, or did 2022 go by faster than a Parisian pickpocket can grab your wallet? I hope last year has left you with wonderful memories and new friends. Steve and I have been fortunate on both fronts. Sometimes when we are having a low-key day or two (or seven), I feel guilty that we aren’t doing enough or seeing enough. Then I look over our photos and decide we’re doing okay. These are the memorable moments from our 5th year of full-time travel. Budapest The year got off to a slow start. We were... - [Visiting Istanbul: The Good, The Bad, and The Startling](https://windandwhim.com/visiting-istanbul-the-good-the-bad-and-the-startling/): As the first step in writing this post, I thumbed through my photos of Istanbul. Steve and I sure saw a lot of beautiful things there. Despite that, it is our least favorite city. So what made us dislike Istanbul so much? It all comes down to the extremes; beautiful neighborhoods surrounded by ghettos, decent public transportation but hard-to-find information, and a modern Airbnb in a building that caught fire. In this post, I will share the good, the bad, and the startling things about visiting Istanbul. All money is in U.S. dollars A Little Background During the summer and... - [12 of the Most Interesting Things to Do in Prague](https://windandwhim.com/12-of-the-most-interesting-things-to-do-in-prague/): Are you planning on visiting Prague, the city of 100 spires? If so, this post is for you. Even if you are not planning to visit this beautiful Czech city, it may inspire you to add it to your bucket list. There are two things every visitor to Prague does. One is to brave the crowds on the Charles Bridge while admiring the statues that line both sides. The other is to spend some time checking out Prague Castle with its Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral and the preserved homes on Golden Lane. So what should you do after you’ve seen... - [Turkey is for Cat Lovers - With 25 Charming Cat Photos](https://windandwhim.com/turkey-is-for-cat-lovers-with-25-charming-cat-photos/): For three months in the summer and fall of 2022, Steve and I visited eight cities in Turkey. To my delight, each town was full of cats roaming the streets. These are not bedraggled strays. These cats are well-fed and look healthy. They are cared for and loved by the residents because, as we discovered, Turkey is for cat lovers. A Little Background When Steve and I arrived in the town of Cesme, the first stop on our Turkey trip, we were surprised to see hundreds of cats and dogs roaming the streets and lying everywhere. It was common to... - [Istanbul, Turkey Photo Gallery 2022](https://windandwhim.com/istanbul-turkey-photo-gallery/): Steve and I spent a whirlwind four weeks in Istanbul in the fall of 2022, dividing our time between the European and Asian sides. This allowed us to experience the city in two different ways. We enjoyed the incredible museums, were overwhelmed by the crowds, and had a fire in our apartment building. We also enjoyed sharing the city with the ubiquitous and well-loved cats. You can read about Turkey’s cat culture in “Turkey is for Cat Lovers” and about our experiences in “Visiting Istanbul: The Good, The Bad, and The Startling.” To see the images in a slideshow with... - [18 Things to Know Before Visiting Cappadocia](https://windandwhim.com/18-things-to-know-before-visiting-cappadocia/): Thanks to Instagram, we all know about the enchanting Cappadocian landscape and the epic balloon rides. Like many places that are presented as ideal, there is more to the area than you see on the Internet. To help you plan your trip to this magical region, here are 18 things to know before visiting Cappadocia. All costs are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise noted. Our Experience Steve and I spent six nights in Cappadocia in September 2022. We enjoyed our time there and had a great balloon experience because we researched the area and planned ahead. We stayed in Goreme... - [6 Cities, 6 Vibes on the Turkish Riviera](https://windandwhim.com/6-cities-6-vibes-on-the-turkish-riviera/): When you think of visiting Turkey, you probably think of Istanbul or Cappadocia. But did you know that there are many seaside cities and towns that also make for great trips? Steve and I spent six weeks in the summer of 2022 in six cities, one on the Aegean coast and five on the Mediterranean coast. We loved a few, liked a few, and disliked one, but each had something different to offer. In this post, I will share our experiences in these six cities on the Turkish Riviera so you can decide which are best for your next trip.... - [Walking The Dales Way: 81 Miles of Beauty and Charm](https://windandwhim.com/walking-the-dales-way-81-miles-of-beauty-and-charm/): Do you love a challenge? Steve and I do, so when we first learned about the Dales Way, we were excited. It seemed like the perfect adventure for us. We planned our walk for June 2020, but the pandemic put our trip on hold for two years. In July 2022, Steve and I finally got to walk the Dales Way. We spent ten days in northern England and walked on eight of them. We will never forget the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and the challenge of doing our first long-distance walk. Read more to discover what the Dales Way... - [Why I Wish Every American Could Travel the World](https://windandwhim.com/why-i-wish-every-american-could-travel-the-world/): “A great way to learn about your country is to leave it.” — Henry Rollins Starting a post with a quote feels a little cheesy, but this quote by musician, writer, and actor Henry Rollins just fits too well. If you were born and raised in the United States as I was, you likely grew up thinking you lived in the greatest country in the world. Maybe you do. And maybe you don’t. Since this is a subjective opinion, there is no right or wrong answer.  When I reflect on my life, I realize how fortunate I have been. I... - [Cute, Weird, and Funny Signs From Around the World](https://windandwhim.com/cute-weird-and-funny-signs-from-around-the-world/): Updated 3/31/25 As Steve and I explore the world, we keep our eyes open for things that tickle our fancy or confound us. Sometimes these are cute, confusing, or funny signs. Here are some of our favorites. Some signs are just too cute, like this “puppy parking” sign near a grocery store in Barcelona. Or this one, also in Barcelona, that I think we can all relate to. Or this sign on a candy store’s door in Aruba. Yes, Ryan, being able to buy candy whenever you want is certainly one of the perks of adulting. Beer, available 24/7? Count... - [What You Need to Know When Visiting Budapest, Hungary](https://windandwhim.com/75-things-to-know-when-visiting-budapest/): Are you thinking of visiting Budapest? Go for it. This Hungarian city in Central Europe is chock full of beauty and history. Steve and I arrived in Budapest in March 2020 for a four-week stay. Because of the pandemic, we ended up staying for more than two years. During this time, we have explored every corner of the city and are happy to be able to share what you need to know when visiting Budapest. I have highlighted the main tips and shared a few top tips. Be sure to read to the end for a bonus tip. You can... - [Prague, Czech Republic Photo Gallery 2022](https://windandwhim.com/prague-photo-gallery-2022/): Steve and I spent ten wonderful days in Prague in May 2022. Here are my favorite photos from that trip. Also, check out our post, “12 of the Most Interesting Things to Do in Prague.” Press on any image to see all of them in a slideshow. Happy traveling,Linda Before You Go - [The Best Things To Do in Szeged, Hungary](https://windandwhim.com/the-best-things-to-do-in-szeged-hungary/): Updated 5/30/25 Steve and I took a five-night trip to Szeged, Hungary, in March. One of the reasons was to visit the thermal baths at Sunshine Aquapolis Szeged, which are connected to the Hunguest Hotel Forrás. We also wanted to see the Art Nouveau buildings that grace the city after it was rebuilt following a devastating flood in 1879. Read on to learn more about the city and the best things to do in Szeged. Szeged Facts Szeged’s Unique History Szeged has been inhabited since ancient times and was first mentioned in a royal charter from 1183. As you would expect,... - [Unique Architectural Ornaments in Budapest](https://windandwhim.com/unique-architectural-ornaments-in-budapest/): If you are lucky enough to visit Budapest, you will be treated to many architectural delights. And if you look at the buildings closely, you can discover unexpected and unique architectural ornaments. Steve and I spent the two years of the pandemic in Budapest, so I have had a lot of time to explore the city. In this post, I share some of my favorite architectural ornaments. Reliefs The building at Régi posta utca 15 has four mythological reliefs. This one shows Leda, the Queen of Sparta, being seduced by Zeus in the form of a swan. On the same... - [Wind and Whim’s 2021 Full-Time Travel Costs: Hungary](https://windandwhim.com/wind-and-whims-2021-full-time-travel-costs-hungary/): Are you wondering how much it costs to travel the world full-time? Then you are in luck. It’s that time of year when I summarize and share our full-time travel costs for the previous year. Because of the pandemic, we spent all of 2021 in Hungary. Even though our 2021 full-time travel costs are not representative of our usual travel costs, I decided to share them in the interest of continuity, just as I did for 2020. It may be necessary to use the reader mode or turn your screen to landscape to view all the data. A Little Background... - [December 2021 Recap: Christmas in Budapest](https://windandwhim.com/december-2021-recap-christmas-in-budapest/): Goodbye 2021, hello 2022!  I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and are ready to start the new year. Like me, I’m sure you are hoping that 2022 will bring an end to the pandemic and a return to normal.  Despite an increase in Covid cases, our December was remarkable. That is because our daughters, Stephanie and Laura, visited us in Budapest for two weeks. We hadn’t seen them in almost two years! Off to a Stressful Start We all knew that traveling during the pandemic would be more stressful than usual. During the weeks leading up to the... - [November 2021 Recap: Lying Low in Budapest](https://windandwhim.com/november-2021-recap-lying-low-in-budapest/): Hi there! I hope this finds you well as we enter the last month of 2021. If you are a regular reader, you know that Steve and I enjoyed a summer full of activity, including visiting many baths and taking several side trips from our current home base in Budapest. Then November arrived. Not only did November bring colder weather, but it also brought an uptick in Covid cases and the Omicron variant. So instead of exploring, we spent most of the month planning for our daughters’ December visit, celebrating Thanksgiving, and dealing with the unglamorous side of full-time travel.... - [Budapest’s Marvelous Margaret Island](https://windandwhim.com/budapests-marvelous-margaret-island/): When Steve and I arrived in Budapest, our driver suggested we visit Margaret Island. The way she described it did not make us want to head right over there. This view was reinforced the first time Steve and I visited the island.  We had been walking for close to an hour when we reached the southern entrance of the island. For several minutes we walked along a crowded sidewalk, thinking, “Is this it?” We were tired, so we turned around and went home. It turns out that you need to walk for four or five minutes before you are really... - [October 2021 Recap: More to Explore in Budapest](https://windandwhim.com/october-2021-more-to-explore-in-budapest/): Can you believe it’s November already? This year is flying by. I can’t decide if that is a good thing or a bad thing. Steve and I stayed busy in October, but this month all our activities were close to home. The most exciting thing that happened this month is that we began making arrangements for our daughters, Stephanie and Laura, to visit us in December. We are hoping the pandemic doesn’t mess up our plans. The number of new cases is still low in Hungary but continues to increase. We are keeping a close eye on it. We’ve noticed... - [The Pros and Cons of Skiing in Bansko, Bulgaria](https://windandwhim.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-skiing-in-bansko-bulgaria/): Dear reader, I’m glad you found this post! Please keep in mind that it is five years old, so things may have changed or improved since then. Are you planning a ski vacation this winter? Are you trying to get the most for your money? If so, you may be considering the Bulgarian ski resort of Bansko. Steve and I chose Bansko for our January 2020 ski trip because of the low cost of accommodations and skiing and the fact that we wouldn’t need a car. In this post, I will tell you what we loved about skiing in Bansko... - [September 2021 Recap: Castles, Caves, Baths and the Beatles](https://windandwhim.com/september-2021-recap-castles-caves-baths-and-the-beatles/): Pandemic Update One and a half years into this pandemic, and it’s still wreaking havoc with lives. Like everyone else, Steve and I can’t wait for our lives to return to normal. Still, we respect how dangerous Covid is and how it is overwhelming healthcare systems, so we will continue to be cautious as long as necessary. Early in the month, Steve and I talked about how the number of Covid cases was low in Hungary, and maybe it was time to venture into nearby countries. We considered a trip to Vienna, Austria but discovered that their Covid numbers were... - [Eger and Egerszalók: A Great Hungarian Getaway](https://windandwhim.com/eger-and-egerszalok-a-great-hungarian-getaway/): If you are looking for a fun getaway in Hungary, consider Eger. It is the largest town in the Eger wine region and only 84 miles (135 km) from Budapest. It can easily be reached by car or train. A visit to Eger will reward you with beautiful views, Baroque architecture, and a valley dedicated to wine. You can also visit one of the five Beatles museums in the world! Steve and I couldn’t wait to visit Eger. In addition to seeing new Hungarian sights, we were looking forward to spending a few nights in the Oval Suite at the Erla... - [August 2021 Recap: Budapest Baths and Hungarian Town Attractions](https://windandwhim.com/august-2021-recap-budapest-baths-and-hungarian-town-attractions/): Can you believe August is over? I don’t know about you, but for me, time is flying. Steve and I have done more this month than in any of the previous sixteen months we’ve been in Hungary. We spent many hours luxuriating in the Budapest baths. We also revisited the zoo and explored three nearby towns. These are the highlights. Pandemic Update New Covid cases in Hungary have remained low all summer. Right now, there are less than 200 new cases per day. But that doesn’t mean we are out of the woods. The Hungarian government is prepared to take... - [July 2021 Recap: Living Life Again](https://windandwhim.com/july-2021-recap-living-life-again/): It’s been a long haul for all of us, and it isn’t over yet, but at least life has begun to return to normal. After almost eight months of lockdowns and slowdowns, we are living life again. I hope you are also returning to your pre-pandemic life. Here is what we’ve been doing this month. We Keep Getting More Legal Steve and I got vaccinated in June, and began July waiting for our immunity cards to arrive. We weren’t surprised when the immunity card restrictions were lifted before we received our cards.  Nonetheless, we now have them in case we... - [Aquaworld Budapest: Tons of Fun in Hungary](https://windandwhim.com/3-carefree-days-at-aquaworld-budapest/): Are you visiting Budapest? If so, you are probably aware of the thermal baths the city is famous for, but for something a little different, give Aquaworld Budapest a try. At Aquaworld, you can relax and be pampered in the spa, soak in warm thermal pools, or be a kid at the indoor water parks. Steve and I were enduring a prolonged heatwave in Budapest in the summer of 2021 when we discovered Aquaworld. We enjoyed it so much that we ended up visiting five more times. Read on to see what Aquaworld is all about and if you should... - [Medical Care on the Road](https://windandwhim.com/medical-care-on-the-road/): One of the biggest concerns people contemplating long-term travel have is handling medical care on the road. I am not going to sugarcoat it: it can be a challenge. And if the pandemic has taught us anything, it is that no matter how well-laid your plans are, something will come along to mess them up. After more than three years on the road, Steve and I have had several medical-related experiences. All were positive except one. In this post, I will share those experiences with you so you can get a feel for the types of medical issues that may... - [June 2021 Recap: Things Are Looking Up in Hungary](https://windandwhim.com/june-2021-recap-things-are-looking-up-in-hungary/): Hello, I hope all is well with you. Steve and I are still in Budapest and plan to be here for another year. It’s been another low-key month, but things are definitely looking up here. Hopefully, they are where you are too. Our big news is that we finally got our Covid vaccines!  Pandemic Update Here in Hungary, things appear to be going in the right direction. The number of Covid cases dropped below 100 per day by the end of June (according to Worldometer). At month-end, the government announced that once the number of vaccinated people reaches 5.5 million... - [Budapest’s Quirky and Colorful Lehel Market](https://windandwhim.com/budapests-quirky-and-colorful-lehel-market/): Budapest is full of incredible things to see and do. One that makes every list of things to do in the city is the Great Market Hall (Vasarcsarnok), also called the Central Market Hall. It is worth a trip to view the majestic building with its Zsolnay tile roof. However, for something different, I suggest you visit the Lehel Market (Lehel Csarnok). Full disclosure: I am not a fan of markets. I don’t enjoy food shopping, so I want to get in and out, not stroll from stall to stall, making multiple purchases. Also, most markets are open fewer hours... - [10 Must-See Holocaust Memorials in Budapest](https://windandwhim.com/10-must-see-holocaust-memorials-in-budapest/): If you find the history of the Holocaust as poignant and powerful as I do, you may wish to visit some of the Holocaust memorials in Budapest. This post highlights ten sites in Budapest that keep the memory of that terrible time alive and honor those who lost their lives as well as those who risked their lives to save the innocent. While the Nazis persecuted many groups, the largest impact was on Jews. Throughout the post, I will reference the impact on the Jews of Hungary. This is not meant to ignore or diminish the effects on other groups. The... - [May 2021 Recap: Still Sidelined in Budapest](https://windandwhim.com/may-2021-recap-still-sidelined-in-budapest/): Well, here we are, fourteen months into the pandemic. I hope you and your loved ones are staying healthy and sane. It can be a challenge at times, but things are looking up. Steve and I are still in Budapest, waiting to be vaccinated and be able to travel again. Here is a look at what May 2021 was like for Steve and me. State of the Pandemic Top on everyone’s mind: pandemic numbers and restrictions. Soon after we arrived in Budapest in mid-March 2020, the entire country went on lockdown. It was so quiet. Fear of the unknown kept... - [20 Quick and Cool Things to Do in Budapest](https://windandwhim.com/20-quick-and-cool-things-to-see-and-do-in-budapest/): Updated 11/12/2024 If a trip to Budapest is in your future, lucky you! It is a vibrant and beautiful city with so much to see and do. If you aren’t planning a visit, maybe seeing all the city offers will push it to the top of your bucket list. Steve and I arrived in Budapest in March of 2020, at the start of the pandemic. We lived there for twenty-eight months and fell in love with the city. What Should Everyone See in Budapest? Of course, you will want to see the neo-Gothic confection that is the Hungarian Parliament Building,... - [Too Many Languages](https://windandwhim.com/too-many-languages/): Many years ago, I was picking out pastries in a bakery in Paris with my older daughter Stephanie. When the clerk pointed to a pastry, I confidently replied, “por favor.” My daughter quietly said, “Mom, that’s Spanish.” Looking back, I wondered if this error was a harbinger of things to come. Too Many Countries, Too Many Languages Steve and I spent eight months in Europe in 2018. During that time, we visited seven countries, and each one had a different language. Even if we wanted to, there was no way we could learn the languages of all these countries in... - [Oops! Did We Do That? Our Biggest Travel Mistakes](https://windandwhim.com/oops-did-we-do-that-our-biggest-travel-mistakes/): As Steve and I prepared to travel full-time, we knew that we would make mistakes. Fortunately, we have been able to keep them to a minimum, partly due to luck, partly due to the graciousness of others, and partly because we spent more than half a year under lockdown. Here are the biggest travel mistakes and near-misses we had during our first three years of full-time travel. All money is in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated. The Schengen What? We weren’t prepared for our first near-miss to happen before we even left the U.S. We only had three months to... - [The Amazing Amaru Bioparque](https://windandwhim.com/the-amazing-amaru-bioparque/): If you enjoy hiking and love animals, Cuenca, Ecuador, has the perfect place for you. It’s the Amaru Bioparque. You can spend hours there, working your way up and down the side of a mountain as you visit hundreds of species of animals. Steve and I were delighted with Amaru Bioparque when we visited Cuenca in 2019. We spent a total of eight hours there over two days. We have many fond memories of our ten months in Latin America, and this was among our favorites. You can read about them in Our Top 10 Latin American Travel Experiences. What is... - [Laundry on the Road](https://windandwhim.com/laundry-on-the-road/): What’s the biggest challenge of nomad life? The language barrier? Missing family and friends back home? Boring footwear? Yes, yes, and yes. But perhaps the biggest challenge is laundry. As a full-time traveler, I have dealt with possessed washers, a myriad of drying setups, and excess laundry soap issues. I have learned that clothes dryers are not common outside of the U.S. You can read about clothes drying differences in this article by Real Simple. But I have not learned how to determine the correct amount of detergent for each machine, so I run the load through a second time... - [12 Things You’ll Love Doing In Cuenca, Ecuador](https://windandwhim.com/12-things-you-love-doing-in-cuenca-ecuador/): In June 2019, we were planning our next stop after Quito, Ecuador, when a new name came up. Cuenca. We had never heard of it. We decided to give it a try because some of the places we have enjoyed the most are the ones we had never heard of. We are glad we did. After spending four weeks in Quito, Cuenca was a relaxing change. It is far less crowded, with about 330,000 people compared to 1.6 million in Quito. It has a lot of traffic, but not nearly as much as Quito, and the pollution is not as... ## Pages - [Destinations](https://windandwhim.com/destinations/): Africa Morocco Asia Cambodia Malaysia Thailand Turkey Vietnam Europe A-M Albania Bulgaria Croatia Czech Republic France Germany Hungary Montenegro Europe N-Z North Macedonia Portugal Romania Serbia Spain United Kingdom South America Argentina Colombia Ecuador - [Europe N-Z](https://windandwhim.com/europe-n-z/) - [Europe A-M](https://windandwhim.com/europe-a-m/) - [The Balkans](https://windandwhim.com/the-balkans/) - [Serbia](https://windandwhim.com/serbia/) - [Germany](https://windandwhim.com/germany/) - [Photos and Fun Stuff](https://windandwhim.com/random-things/) - [Home](https://windandwhim.com/): Hello and welcome to Wind and Whim! We’re Steve and Linda, two retirees who’ve been slowly traveling the world full-time since 2018. We created Wind and Whim to show how possible and rewarding full-time travel can be. So grab your favorite drink, get comfortable, and let’s explore the world together! Currently in: Jacksonville, Florida Our next adventure: Lima, Peru Hello fellow traveler, I’m taking a break from posting over the holidays while quietly plotting some exciting changes to the site for 2026. In January, I’ll be back with our 2025 travel costs, as I do every year because consistency is... - [Resources](https://windandwhim.com/resources/): Plan the perfect trip with our go-to resources, the same trusted tools we use for our own adventures. Accommodations, Flights, Cars, and More Booking.com Booking.com is best known for hotels, but it also offers apartments, flights, rental cars, taxis, and attraction tickets and tours. Go to Booking.com Expedia.com Like Booking.com, Expedia.com offers hotels and apartments, flights, rental cars, and attractions. It also has vacation packages and cruises. Go to Expedia.com Agoda Agoda is another great option for booking hotels, apartments, flights, and rental cars. It also offers attraction tickets, tours, train and bus tickets, airport transfers, SIMs, and eSIMs. Go... - [About Us](https://windandwhim.com/about-us/): Hi! We’re Steve and Linda We’re the duo behind Wind and Whim, and let’s just say—we didn’t exactly ease into travel. We dove in headfirst, no floaties. A couple of trips a year? Not nearly enough. So in 2018, we pulled the ultimate plot twist: retired early, sold (almost) everything we owned, and set off to travel the world full-time. You can read all about that life-altering leap below. We started Wind and Whim to share our adventures, prove that full-time travel is more doable than you think, and nudge (or shove) you toward chasing your own dreams. But we’re not... - [Cambodia](https://windandwhim.com/cambodia/) - [Thailand](https://windandwhim.com/thailand/) - [Vietnam](https://windandwhim.com/vietnam/) - [Buy Me a Coffee](https://windandwhim.com/buy-me-a-coffee/): Buy Me a Coffee is a way for readers to show their appreciation for the free information provided here. - [Malaysia](https://windandwhim.com/malaysia/) - [Blog](https://windandwhim.com/blog/) - [Czech Republic](https://windandwhim.com/czech-republic/) - [Africa](https://windandwhim.com/africa/) - [Argentina](https://windandwhim.com/argentina/) - [United Kingdom](https://windandwhim.com/united-kingdom/) - [Spain](https://windandwhim.com/spain/) - [South America](https://windandwhim.com/south-america/) - [Romania](https://windandwhim.com/romania/) - [Portugal](https://windandwhim.com/portugal/) - [Hungary](https://windandwhim.com/hungary/) - [France](https://windandwhim.com/france/) - [Europe](https://windandwhim.com/europe/) - [Ecuador](https://windandwhim.com/ecuador/) - [Croatia](https://windandwhim.com/croatia/) - [Bulgaria](https://windandwhim.com/bulgaria/) - [Asia](https://windandwhim.com/asia/) - [Albania](https://windandwhim.com/albania/) - [Morocco](https://windandwhim.com/morocco/) - [Colombia](https://windandwhim.com/colombia/) - [Montenegro](https://windandwhim.com/montenegro/) - [Nomad Life](https://windandwhim.com/nomad-life/): Annual Costs The Full-Time Travel Life Roaming Reflections Photos and Fun Stuff Recaps - [The Full-Time Travel Life](https://windandwhim.com/the-full-time-travel-life/) - [North Macedonia](https://windandwhim.com/north-macedonia/) - [Recaps](https://windandwhim.com/recaps/) - [Turkey](https://windandwhim.com/turkey/) - [Privacy Policy](https://windandwhim.com/privacy-policy-2/): Who we are Our website address is: https://windandwhim.com. 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