Soaking up Rays at Budapest’s Szechyeni Bath House

Our couchsurfing host messaged “I’m on the pest side of the river”. That was how we found out Budapest is actually Buda on one side of the Danube, and Pest on the other. Most attractions are on the Pest side, including the steamy Budapest Bath House Szechenyi Baths. The Danube After a night of barhopping with

Tips on Backpacking Madrid

While in Spain, it’s very worthwhile to spend time in the capital, Madrid. For me, Spain was on the high end of my budget. I flew from Ireland to Spain and on to Greece before I headed north in my Eastern Europe backpacking trip. Spain was a luxurious extra that I could barely afford. Travel

That Time I Called my Couchsurfing Host from Jail…

Barcelona pickpockets are notorious... here is my embarrassing story of being their target. Nothing makes you feel less traveled then getting scammed! “Hi this is Rachel, The American girl that’s staying with you.” CS host: “Oh great, you made it to Barcelona, where can I meet you?” “Just, like the police station. No big deal

Taken: Tourists in Paris

This is a story about two tourists in Paris. Everyone had seen “Taken” except me and I was warned repeatedly “don’t get in a taxi with a stranger in Paris.” Got it. (Disclaimer: when you warn me not do something, like go to Albania, I’m going to do it). So after missing the train to

9 Tips for Safe Couchsurfing

I am an avid fan of Couchsurfing.org.  By searching profiles, you can stay with strangers (for free!) all over the world. I have made long-lasting friends from crashing on their couches. I have seen small towns and huge cities from a local’s view. I rarely have a bad experience with Couchsurfing (CS), but I’m going