Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam where you can waltz the streets of the night market or get served a tasty bowl of pho to the tune of cars echoing all around you.
With so much to do in the country’s capital, it’s important to spend a minimum of 3 days in this colorful city.
I’ve rounded up what I think are the very best things to do in Hanoi.
Where to stay in Hanoi
You’ll want to base yourself in the Old Quarter, where you’ll be in close proximity to most main attractions and delicious restaurants.
Hanoi’s Old Quarter has the most buzzing streets in the city.
Here you will find an eclectic mix of unique architecture, loads of traffic, and sizzling street food.
This is the best area to stay if it’s your first time visiting Hanoi.
2. Take a Free Walking Tour
Every capital city I visit always begins with a free walking tour. Typically organized by locals or experienced guides, this is the BEST way to get familiar with a city (especially on your first day).
Find info on free walking tours in Hanoi here. Or simply show up in the lobby of Buffalo Hanoi Hostel at 10 am where free walking tours depart daily.
3. Eat Pho
Pho originated in Hanoi, so you’ll want to eat lots of it while you’re here!
Here’s where you can find fantastic pho in Hanoi:
Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su
Bep Viet Restaurant
Phở Thìn
4. Stroll Along Hoan Kiem Lake
In the heart of Hanoi, you’ll find the Hoan Kiem Lake. Surrounded by the lake are luscious parks and walking paths that make for a perfect morning walk.
5. Temple of Literature
Built in 1070, this temple is dedicated to Confucious and his disciples. The temple features a lake and gorgeous courtyards throughout the property. Vietnam’s first university, The Imperial Academy, was established within the temple in 1076.
To enter the temple, prepare to wear modest clothing.
6. Ngoc Son Temple
Located along the Hoan Kiem Lake is the Ngoc Son Temple. Constructed to honor a military commander of the Tran Dynasty, it’s also used to worship the God of Prosperity in ancient Chinese culture and philosophy.
Reminder: Women should bring a shawl to cover your chest & shoulders.
7. Go to the Train Street
Hanoi’s train street is one of the most iconic tourist experiences to have in Hanoi.
Buildings are built less than a meter from the train that passes through and it’s quite the rush when it goes by!
8. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
If you’re a lover of history you’ll definitely want to check out the resting place of the preserved body of President Ho Chi Minh.
It can be quite tricky how to navigate getting inside. The hours are a bit odd, it closes often, and there is typically a long line. Just do a quick check the night before and remember – wear respectful clothing or you’ll be denied entry.
Out of respect, there are no photos allowed of the preserved body.
9. Visit the Old Quarter Night Market
To see a city really come to life in Asia, all you have to do is visit a bustling night market.
It’s a guaranteed one-stop shop to buy some souvenirs, try some street food, and embrace the country’s true culture.
10. Try Street Food
On the streets of Hanoi is where you’ll find some of the cheapest and tastiest food in the city.
If you’re nervous about getting sick, I usually look for places that have a line – like this guy at the Old Quarter night market. He was swamped and could barely catch up with orders.
Most of the people in line seemed like they come here often, which was a good sign to me.
11. Try ALL the Special Coffees
Attention all coffee lovers – Vietnam is the PLACE for you.
I’m talking – Vietnamese iced coffee, egg coffee, and coconut blended coffee. Prepare for your caffeine cravings to be met in the most delicious ways.
One of the coolest cafes in Hanoi to try specialty coffee is Note Cafe.
12. Visit the Women’s Museum
Vietnam is filled with museums dedicated to history and war, but rarely do you see a museum in a country dedicated to just women.
I loved the fact it’s also one of the top museums in Hanoi.
I enjoyed learning about all different kinds of women in Vietnam – present and past. Here, you will learn about Vietnamese women who live and work in the cities or rural areas and all the hardships they can endure each day.
13. St Joseph’s Cathedral
Even after two devastating wars, St Joseph’s Cathedral still stands tall in the center of Hanoi, serving the local Roman Catholic community. It’s hard to miss as the gothic-style architecture is quite striking and unique to its surroundings.
14. Party on Beer Street
Beer Street is Hanoi’s most happenin’ party street in the city. Mostly consisting of tourists and expats, while touristy it IS so much fun.
Wondering where the local’s party in Hanoi? While I’m sure there are ‘actual’ bars where locals go, most of the time they gather with their friends at stalls on the side of the street that have mixed meat and loads of beer.
This is a true local bar experience! I was lucky enough to be invited by my local friend who asked me, “do you want to go to my friend’s bar?”
Additional Things to Do in Hanoi
While the list above is what I consider to be the most essential things to do in Hanoi, here are a few more things I enjoyed that you may want to add to your itinerary.
15. Yoga & Lunch at Om Hanoi
Back home I regularly practice yoga, so I was itching to book a class in Hanoi. I discovered Om Hanoi, which is a local yoga studio that can be taught in Vietnamese and English. I was so impressed with the class!
Afterward, I grabbed lunch at their cafe below the yoga studio. I knew the food would be delicious when I walked in and the place was packed for lunch. The food was incredible!
16. Book a Day Trip From Hanoi to Halong Bay
Many people choose to book overnight cruises to Halong Bay. However, I was told by a few travelers that they didn’t think it was worth it. So, I opted for this day trip tour and felt a whole day in Halong Bay was sufficient.
However, if you have a lot of time and spending a couple of nights on Halong Bay is on your bucket list, check out these tours below:
17. Go to a Cocktail Bar
Hanoi has so many beautiful cafes and cocktail bars. If you’re a lover of craft cocktails, consider the splurge!
Here are some great cocktail bars to check out in Hanoi:
Polite & Co
The Dios
Ne Cocktail Bar
The Dios Cocktail Bar in Hanoi
Hanoi is filled with many unique experiences and hidden gems. I hope this list guides you to discover the best things to do in Hanoi tailored to what you like to do.
Published on May 18, 2023 | Last updated May 22, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam where you can waltz the streets of the night market or get served a tasty bowl of pho to the tune of cars echoing all around you. With so much to do in the country’s capital, it’s important to spend a minimum of 3 days in this…
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street.
Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley.
When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for in our mother-daughter weekend vacation.
If you’re looking for a getaway from the city, the Beacon Main Street is a perfect balance offering that small-town feel, yet offering lots to do.
Lucky for me, I have friends who live in Beacon, so they gave me a list of personal recommendations of the best things to do on Beacon’s Main Street and the surrounding area.
I’ll be honest, you come to Beacon’s Main Street for two things – to shop and eat! But hey there’s nothing wrong with that, right?
Where to Stay in Beacon NY
There’s no shortage of amazing accommodations in Beacon NY. I personally stayed at this Airbnb and it was perfect for us.
After you’ve arrived at your hotel, get ready for dinner at Melzingah Tap House. Ideally, try to make dinner reservations in advance. If not, still shoot your shot and try to snag a table or spot at the bar top.
After dinner, head to Wonderbar and have a cocktail.
After cocktails, go to Beacon Bread Company for their Friday night-only Karaoke. This local cafe converts from its usual daytime bakery to a crazy dive-style bar on Friday evenings. This was my favorite night out in Beacon… so don’t miss it!
Day 2 – Saturday
After sleeping in (but not too long) from your crazy night of karaoke, head to Yankee Clipper for a classic diner breakfast. Afterward, head to the DIA art museum to marvel at the stunning modern art.
It’s highly recommended to book tickets in advance as they can often be sold out! If you book for certain timeslots, you can also get a free guided tour. We booked the 12 pm Saturday slot and were really happy with our tour guide experience.
Once you’re finished at the DIA, head to the eastern side of Main Street. Start at Roundhouse to take in the spectacular views of the falls. The Roundhouse is also a great spot to have a light lunch or snack before taking on the rest of the day.
After the scenic stop, meander in and out of the shops and galleries on Main Street.
Blackbird Attic, Raven Rose, and Tibet Tree of Life were a few of my favorite shops on the eastern end.
For dinner, head to the legendary Max’s on Main for classic comfort food.
To end your Saturday night on Beacon’s Main Street, either stay at Max’s on Main for live music – or check out Towne Crier Cafe to see if they have any live shows going on (they usually do on weekends!)
We opted for a Tom Petty tribute show at Towne Crier and really enjoyed it.
Try one of their cakes during the show. We loved their dessert so much, we came back the next day for round 2!
Day 3 – Sunday
Take some time for your last day in Beacon to explore the areas that you couldn’t quite fit in on Friday or Saturday.
If you didn’t get a chance to explore the western side of Main Street, don’t miss it.
Grab some breakfast at Peaceful Provisions or Beacon Bread Company. If you go to Beacon Bread, be sure to take a photo at the mural located in the parking lot on the side of the building,
Afterward, make your way to Hudson Beach Glass to check out some beautiful pieces. I bought a necklace that I’m obsessed with.
Stop by Blank Square Coffee House for some coffee or hot chocolate.
For lunch, go to Homespun Foods. Their broccoli cheddar soup is life-changing, I swear!
End your final moments in Beacon at Town Crier Cafe for some afternoon dessert, especially if you didn’t get around to it on Saturday.
14 Best Things to do on Beacon’s Main Street
If you’re looking to build your own itinerary, here is a list of the best things to do in Beacon NY.
1. Dinner at Melzingah Tap House
The best dinner I had in Beacon was most definitely at Melzingah Tap house. Their unique spins on comfort food are so dang delicious.
Do yourself a favor and order the brussels sprouts and chicken & dumplings.
2. Cocktails at WonderBar
Sipping a Cocktail inside the gorgeously decorated WonderBar is a must-have Beacon experience.
3. Friday Night Karaoke at Beacon Bread
Did someone say.. Karaoke at a cafe? That’s right, Beacon Bread company opens 1 night a week and turns into a fabulous karaoke bar. Filled with mostly locals and a few tourists, this was no doubt the spot to hit on a Friday night on Beacon’s main street.
4. Breakfast at Yankee Clipper
I can still taste those fluffy buttermilk pancakes! Yankee Clipper does it right with that classic menu that reminds you of your small-town breakfast joint.
5. Tour the DIA Art Museum
You surely can’t visit Beacon without taking a walk through the DIA Art Museum. Get your tickets in advance here.
The museum is closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
On Saturdays and Sundays at 12pm & 1:30pm, free guided tours are offered. I took a tour and learned so much more than I would have if I walked through on my own.
6. See the Beacon Falls near Roundhouse
Stop by the Roundhouse for a bite or simply just go outside in their courtyard for the views of the Beacon falls.
7. See ALL the Shops & Galleries
One of the coolest parts of Beacon’s Main Street is the unique boutiques and art galleries. Believe me, I had to have some serious self-control to not buy anything and everything.
A few of my favorite shops are Blackbird Attic, Raven Rose, and Tibet Tree of Life.
8. Have a Treat at Glazed Over Donuts
People come from all over the east coast just to have a donut at Glazed Over. From classic-style donuts to custom toppings, Glazed Over is a donut lovers’ paradise.
9. Max’s on Main
Craving that classic pub food or just looking for a beer?
Max’s on Main is such a staple of Beacon’s main street. After a few nights of fancy dinners on our trip, we were craving something simple and delicious. Nobody cooks up a burger and Bloody Mary quite as well as Max’s on Main.
Max’s also typically has live music on weekend nights.
10. Live Music at Towne Crier
End your epic weekend night by going to a live show at Towne Crier.
Don’t forget to order one of their delicious homemade desserts and cocktails while you sit and watch the show.
11. Hudson Beach Glass
One of my favorite souvenirs from my trip to Beacon is a green glass-blown necklace. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, it’s worth stopping by to marvel at all the beautiful glass treasures.
12. Blank Square Coffee
If you’re a coffee shop enthusiast like myself, you will certainly want to stop by Blank Square and grab a cup of joe or their specialty hot cocoa.
13. Lunch at Homespun
To this day I am STILL thinking about the mouth-watering soup I had at Homespun.
Located right in the middle of Beacon’s main street, it’s a great place to stop for lunch. Expect there to be a bit of a wait, especially on weekends!
14. Take a photo at the Beacon Main Street Mural
Of course, you can’t leave Beacon without snapping a photo of the Beacon mural. The mural is located just on the side of Beacon Bread Co. in the parking lot.
I hope you leave with a full belly, a couple of souvenirs, and wonderful memories!
This post was all about the best things to do on Beacon Main Street.
Published on May 18, 2023 | Last updated May 22, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam where you can waltz the streets of the night market or get served a tasty bowl of pho to the tune of cars echoing all around you. With so much to do in the country’s capital, it’s important to spend a minimum of 3 days in this…
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability.
Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the North of Colombia.
How to Get to Finca Carpe Diem
Getting to this hostel can be a little tricky, but once you know how to navigate the North of Colombia, you can learn to get anywhere.
You will likely book a combo of buses, taxis, and motorbikes.
I personally came from Cartagena and took a bus to Santa Marta and arranged a car through the hostel that picked me up at the bus drop-off point.
The mini-bus I took from Cartagena to Santa Marta was Berlinastur . This service is an air-conditioned budget-friendly option for under $13 USD (or 60,000 COP).
Where to Book Finca Carpe Diem Hostel
Typically I prefer to book hostels on Hostelworld. Occasionally, if I have points for savings or I’m booking a private room, I use Booking.com
Both these booking platforms are simple to use, have upfront cancellation & refund terms, and offer a level of protection that other websites may not offer.
Finca Carpe Diem Ecolodge offers both shared and private dorms throughout the property.
Many travelers expect to party at hostels in Colombia, but at Finca Carpe Diem you come to relax.
Most of your days will be occupied by eating at the hostel restaurant, lounging by the pool, and booking some of their daily excursions.
WiFi did not work during most of my stay, so bring a book or a deck of cards – you’ll need it!
Daily Excursions Offered
Many activities and tours are offered from the hostel.
Waterfall tours, yoga, cacao farms, and bird watching are just a handful of the excursions offered at Finca Carpe Diem.
I booked the waterfall tour and would highly recommend it.
Hostel Restaurant
The hostel restaurant was very impressive. Their farm-to-table ethics blend the owner’s Belgian culture with Colombian specialties.
My only problem was not running out of things to order, but getting to try everything I wanted before I left! Overall the menu has lots of options and gladly accommodates vegetarians and vegans.
Rooms & Facilities
I booked an all-female dorm and it was equipped with everything you’d hope for at a good hostel. The rooms themselves are relatively bare bones but ideally, you’ll be spending most of your time out exploring the hostel rather than in your dorm.
Our dorm’s private bathroom was huge and very nice.
All beds had mosquito nets!
Location
Bear in mind that this is a remote ecolodge, so you will be at the hostel or in the surrounding nature of it the entire duration of your stay.
Also, it is not technically in Minca town. While the hostel is near Minca (about an hour drive) it is actually located in a more remote area – Paso Del Mango.
Social Life
As I mentioned before, this is not a party hostel and many people come here to relax.
Most of the visitors were couples on a romantic getaway. This was the only aspect I disliked about the hostel, yet it’s not really anything anyone can control.
Thankfully I came with a friend but I feel I would’ve had a poor experience if I came alone. I would not recommend this hostel to solo travelers hoping to make friends.
However, at the end of our stay, my friend and I did meet a group of female solo travelers and we mingled and played games. So, it is definitely possible to make some friends – especially at the pool.
Published on May 18, 2023 | Last updated May 22, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam where you can waltz the streets of the night market or get served a tasty bowl of pho to the tune of cars echoing all around you. With so much to do in the country’s capital, it’s important to spend a minimum of 3 days in this…
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
Looking for the best value Rosario Island Day trip from Cartagena? Here’s everything you need to know about booking your relaxing catamaran voyage.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
If you’re researching the best Rosario island day trip, I’m specifically viewing a tour I booked on GetYourGuide.
After researching the depths of the web and searching for any insight on the best day trips from Cartagena – I kept seeing this Rosario island boat tour come highly recommended.
I was very hesitant about booking this excursion because, well, it’s not exactly cheap (especially if you’re on a backpacker’s budget).
At nearly $80 USD in a country where prices are usually affordable, I was skeptical. However, I can confidently say I am SO happy I booked it and it was one of my favorite days in Cartagena.
Here’s everything you need to know about booking the tour Cartagena: Rosario Islands Catamaran with Lunch and Snorkel.
What You Should Know About the Rosario Island Day Trip
Perhaps a common misconception on this tour is that you actually get to explore the islands. This is not true! You simply spend the day from a boat admiring the islands from nearby in the water.
Granted I knew this ahead of time before booking the tour, but I can easily see how someone could be disappointed if they have different expectations.
Basic Tour Outline
While your boat itinerary could change, here’s a rough idea on what to expect:
8:00-8:30 am – Depart from Muelle de la Bodeguita pier.
10:30 – Swim at Isla Granda for 1h30
12:30 – Lunch is served on board.
1:30 – Stop near the island of Baru.
4 pm -Arrive back in Cartagena
This Rosario Island Day Trip Catamaran Tour is approximately 7.5 hours, so plan for it to take up most of your day.
Detailed Tour Itinerary
You’ll start your morning around 8-8:30 am boarding the catamaran that departs from the Muelle de la Bodeguita pier.
As you step on board, you will be greeted with fresh juice as a welcome treat.
There are plenty of seats for everyone to spread out in the shade or the toasty Colombian sun!
Shortly after the catamaran departs, you’ll receive a bag of delicious empanadas to snack on until lunch.
About 2 hours into your journey, you’ll arrive at your first stop – the waters of Isla Grande.
You’ll have lots of options on how to spend the hour and a half you’ll have in the turquoise Isla Grande waters. Whether you want to snorkel, grab an inflatable noodle, or sip on a margarita and lounge on the boat – the time is yours!
Next up will be a journey to the waters of Baru Island.
On your way, you’ll stop for a prepared lunch on board which will include loads of options like salad, pasta, and seafood or veggie rice. The lunch was actually so delicious, I was stuffed!
After spending another 2 hours enjoying the scenery of Baru, you’ll finally make your way back to Cartagena.
Published on May 18, 2023 | Last updated May 22, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam where you can waltz the streets of the night market or get served a tasty bowl of pho to the tune of cars echoing all around you. With so much to do in the country’s capital, it’s important to spend a minimum of 3 days in this…
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
Are you looking to stay at Life is Good Cartagena Hostel?
If you’re planning your trip to Colombia and reading up on the best hostels to stay in Cartagena, you’ll definitely want to consider Life is Good Cartagena Hostel as it is truly a top-quality accommodation for backpackers.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Colombia is a hostel haven and there are many good options, it’s hard to choose where to stay.
In this post, I’m sharing my 1-week stay at Life is Good Cartagena Hostel. Additionally, I will share with you the best hostels in Cartagena that are worth booking.
Life is Good Cartagena Hostel
Life is Good Cartagena Hostel is located in the vibrant Getsemani neighborhood.
While I may be biased, I think this is the best neighborhood to stay in because it hands down has the best restaurants in the area.
To be honest, Life is Good Cartagena Hostel is one of the more expensive hostels in Cartagena.
I chose to stay here because I wasn’t on a tight budget and wanted to kick off my 1-month Colombia trip with a clean and comfortable start. After only a few days, I extended my stay.
Where to book Life is Good Cartagena Hostel
My favorite website/app to book hostels on is hostelworld . Occasionally, if I have points for savings or I’m booking a private room, I use booking.com
I find these booking platforms are easy to use, have simple cancellation & refund policies, and offer a level of protection that other websites may not have.
Life is Good Cartagena Hostel is located in the Getsemani neighborhood.
There are many amazing restaurants and bars nearby the hostel. It’s also just a short 10-minute walk to Old Town and a 5-minute walk to the Muelle de los Pegasos pier.
This location is perfect because it’s not in the busiest part of the city, but within walking distance of everything you would want to do in Cartagena.
One of the few cons about this hostel is it doesn’t offer all-female dorms or 6-8 bed dorms. This hostel only offers a 4-bed mixed dorm, a 10-bed mixed dorm, and a few private suites.
I stayed in the 10-bed mixed dorm and was very happy with my experience. It is quite spacious and the beds are broken up by multiple nooks in the room, so it doesn’t feel like 10 beds.
Additionally, every bed has a curtain and its own light.
Amenities
Small details are what really make a hostel stand out from all the others.
Life is Good Cartagena focuses on the little luxuries that backpackers don’t have at normal hostels.
Breakfast here is so tasty! When entering the hostel cafe, you’ll be presented with options such as scrambled eggs, pancakes, daily specials, and fresh juice selections. With this big breakfast included, I feel like the “expensive” price of the hostel is worth it because an entire hot meal is included.
Don’t miss the enchanting rooftop equipped with a jacuzzi, loungers, and a great view of the city.
With all the amazing amenities, the lovely and informative receptionists were by far the best part of the hostel!
One of the most important features of this hostel is the air conditioning which you will certainly need in the hot Colombian heat.
Social Life
Life is Good Cartagena is not a party hostel.
Although, I did end up meeting many new friends on the rooftop – which is a great opportunity to meet other travelers who are also staying at the hostel.
This hostel focuses on comfort and hospitality rather than an intense social scene. However, I feel like it’s easy to make friends at any type of hostel if you set your mind to it!
Another common area the hostel offers is a cafe/study space which is in a room connected to the lobby.
I personally didn’t book any tours through the hostel, but I did sign up for a free walking tour they recommended (also a great way to meet other travelers).
Best Hostels in Cartagena
In my opinion, I do think Life is Good Cartagena Hostel is the best hostel in Cartagena.
It’s a great option for any type of traveler, but especially so if you are a digital nomad, new to hostels, or a mature backpacker.
If you’re coming to Cartagena just to party (which is totally ok!) then I would suggest staying elsewhere.
Not to worry if this hostel isn’t for you, there are plenty of other great hostels in Cartagena to stay at.
Overall, Life is Good Cartagena Hostel is a hostel that impressed me so much, I stayed twice. I would highly recommend this accommodation to budget travelers looking to explore Cartagena.
Published on May 18, 2023 | Last updated May 22, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam where you can waltz the streets of the night market or get served a tasty bowl of pho to the tune of cars echoing all around you. With so much to do in the country’s capital, it’s important to spend a minimum of 3 days in this…
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
This post is all about what not to do in Athens, Greece.
Athens is a city that’s on everyone’s bucket list.
With all the ruins, historical landmarks, tasty food, and jaw-dropping landscapes – it’s easy to see why everyone is flocking to see the wondrous Athens.
Planning a trip to one of the most known cities in the world is overwhelming, It can be so easy to make a few simple mistakes.
Here’s a complete list of what NOT to do in Athens. These are 17 common mistakes most travelers make in Athens, Greece.
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Before you read about all the things you should NOT do in Athens, here’s a free printable checklist of all the things you SHOULD do!
Whenever I hear someone say they didn’t enjoy their trip to Athens, my first question is always “Where did you stay?”
Just like most major cities around the world, staying in an Airbnb an hour away from the city center can certainly make or break a trip. In Athens especially, it’s easy to end up somewhere not ideal for tourists.
Stick to staying in the neighborhoods of Psiri, Monastiraki, or Plaka.
All the neighborhoods I mentioned above are touristy, but within walking distance of most attractions and good restaurants.
If you are wanting to stay in a neighborhood more authentic, but still near the tourist hotspots, check out Exarcheia.
This is where a lot of young professionals live. It’s also a big artistic community where you’ll see punk rock-themed bars and graffiti everywhere. There are loads of good restaurants and bars in this area.
3. Eating at Tourist Trap Restaurants
Most of the time, when waiters are standing outside a restaurant heckling people to come inside, the food is not good.
There are parts of Athens that are touristy and have good restaurants, and other parts that are touristy that have bad restaurants. Plaka is one of those neighborhoods that is beautiful and has lovely shops but is notorious for its bad food.
Of course, the best food in Athens can be found in the residential outskirts of Athens where you likely won’t be. However! As mentioned; Psiri, Monastiraki, and Exarcheia all have wonderful dining options and are near the city center.
A few of my favorite restaurants are Bandiera, Oineas, and Avli.
4. Thinking It’s Warm Year-Round
Believe it or not, Greece can get cold. When I volunteered at a hostel in Athens during the month of November, travelers would check in all the time shocked that it was freezing. In fact, at times it can even snow (though this is rare).
While Athens is warm most of the year, it’s going to be chilly from November – March.
5. Just There For the Ruins
Athens is packed with all kinds of ancient monuments worth seeing. The Parthenon, the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, the Panathenaic Stadium, the list goes on!
Oftentimes, travelers jam-pack their 2-3 day itinerary full of these tours and rarely leave room for the other parts of Athens that make it so great. This can lead a traveler to feel as if their trip is a history lesson rather than an enjoyable experience. It can totally be both!
Be sure to save time in your itinerary for eating at tavernas, the national gardens, or having a cocktail at Clumsies (one of the best cocktails in the world!)
Nobody likes a trip planned so tight, that it makes your brain hurt. So prioritize your list of monuments you’d love to see, but don’t overdo it.
6. Not Having Enough Cash
While cards will get you through most places in Athens, you’ll always want to have a few euros with you. There may be occasions where you need to tip a tour guide or pay for your meal in a cash-only taverna.
7. Ordering the Wrong Food
Greek food is some of the best cuisine in the world. Be sure to do just a little research on what to order, and what to expect.
Here is a quick cheat sheet to help you:
Authentic greek salads don’t have lettuce. Typically, they consist of tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, green bell pepper, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
In Greece, gyros & souvlaki are the traditional meat dishes, not kebabs. Souvlaki is meat skewers with pork or chicken. Gyros consist of your choice of shaved meat wrapped in pita with toppings. Of course, you will find kebabs in Greece, but souvlaki and gyros are the traditional dishes.
Most restaurants serve ouzo and a small house dessert after every meal.
Fresh orange juice is a must You’ll find it at any coffee shop or bakery.
Saganaki Cheese is a delicious appetizer.
While there are many well-known Greek desserts, Loukoumades are famous in Athens. These Greek donuts are a scrumptious treat for any foodie.
8. Skipping the Nightlife
Athens has some truly amazing nightlife. Don’t skip out on it! Some even declare Athens as “the new Berlin”.
Whether you’re looking for techno clubs, bougie cocktails, or dive bars – Athens really has it all.
Here are a few of my favorite nightlife spots in Athens:
-Techno: S.I.X dogs (weekends or special events only), BLAST Athens, or anywhere in the Gazi neighborhood.
-Cocktails: Barrett, The Clumsies, Juan Rodriguez
-Dive Bars: Handlebar, Bad Tooth
9. Not Watching Your Stuff
Just like in any major city, travelers will need to keep an eye on their belongings. Before you leave for your trip, make sure to get anti-theft purses or day bags.
Also, be sure to have your valuables locked up, even when you leave your room or Airbnb.
Hotels and hostels that have 24-hour security will greatly reduce the risk of your belongings getting stolen.
10. Staying at an Airbnb
Airbnb (in my opinion) is NOT the move in Athens.
There are times and places when I prefer Airbnb over hotels & hostels, but Athens is not one of them.
Athens is so big, you can easily catch yourself in a neighborhood that is still in Athens but is nearly 2 hours outside the city center.
The hotels & hostels in Athens are generally better located and are going to give you the biggest bang for your buck.
During my first week in Athens, I couldn’t understand how I kept getting mealtime “freebies”.
In most authentic greek tavernas, you will always be served some type of bread, a small dessert, and ouzo with your meal.
Of course, there are variations of this tradition depending on where you dine. If you don’t receive any of these traditional dishes, you are probably dining at a tourist hot spot.
12. Eating too Early
Mealtimes tend to be later in the day in Greece.
Lunch is typically served 2-3 pm and dinner around 9 pm.
13. Not Taking Metered Taxis
Not only should this rule just apply in Athens. but in every big city!
For transportation, you can take the subway, taxis, or Uber.
If you’re taking a taxi, just double-check BEFORE you get in the vehicle that you can see a meter. Or haggle with the taxi driver on a flat rate beforehand.
14. Forgetting to Cover Up in Churches & Monasteries
Stunning and historic churches are all over Athens. It’s expected to cover up and dress a little modestly to enter.
15. Thinking Tap Water is Dangerous
While water on the greek islands is not safe to drink, in Athens it’s perfectly fine.
Although safe to drink, there’s always a chance that your body isn’t used to drinking water in other countries. Check out life straw water bottles so your water is always filtered.
16. Buying Weird Souvenirs
Don’t get me wrong, weird souvenirs are a special type of awesome sometimes. In Athens. you will notice many of the souvenir shops all sell the same items. Most of the time, these “greek souvenirs” are not even made in Greece.
Here are ideas for traditional souvenirs to buy in Athens that you will love:
-olive oil
-custom leather sandals
-greek honey
-gold jewelry
17. Not Knowing a Few Greek Words
Most Athenians speak English, but it’s still important you learn a few Greek terms just so you can be more aware of your experience and surroundings.
Kalimera – good morning
Kalispera – good evening
Kalinichta – goodnight
Yasou – hello or goodbye
Parakalo – please/you’re welcome/ (also used when answering the phone)
Efcharistó – thank you
Tikanis – how are you?
Nai – yes
Thelo – I want
What Not to do in Athens
Overall, this list should be taken with a grain of salt! There simply is no right or wrong way to travel when you’re on vacation. I hope this post provided you with some tips for traveling in Athens.
Published on May 18, 2023 | Last updated May 22, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
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