There are places in Europe that seem to hold time in their stone walls, and on my Viking Rhône River Cruise (you can read about it HERE), the Palace of the Popes in Avignon was one such place — colossal, quiet, and impossibly grand.
If you haven't had a chance to see the IG Reel of our time and the most amazing experience with a tour guide ever at this location click HERE! Our guide was an opera singer and the spontaneous performance in the Grand Hall still gives me chills... Click HERE to see!
We toured the Palace of the Popes in Avignon on our second day of our Rhône River cruise and it was truly an incredible place to see: a fortress and palace that once housed the epicenter of Western Christianity for nearly 70 years.
Our walking tour for Avignon started after breakfast and we learned so much about the history of Avignong before we spent time at the Palace of the Popes.
Even now, walking up to the Palais des Papes — the largest Gothic palace of the Middle Ages — feels like stepping into a story. Construction began in 1335, and in less than two decades this monumental complex rose on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Rhône. It’s actually two palaces joined into one: the Old Palace begun by Pope Benedict XII and the more lavish New Palace built by his successor, Pope Clement VI.
As you pass through its massive gates, the sheer scale becomes real. The palace covers about 15,000 square meters — as big as four Gothic cathedrals — and its fortified walls, battlements, and ten towers speak of its dual role: a residence for spiritual leaders and a fortress capable of defending them.
Inside, spaces once echoing with the footsteps of popes and cardinals now draw thousands of visitors each year. We arrived approximately around 10 and it was already very busy, but by the time that we left about an hour later it was very crowded. I definitely recommend looking into purchasing tickets ahead of time if you are not with a group tour.
It was truly amazing all that we could see and the way that we were able to wander throughout the Palace. You can wander ceremonial halls, chapels rich with frescoes, cloisters, and the papal private apartments — many adorned with vivid paintings by the Italian artist Matteo Giovannetti. These mural cycles depict religious scenes and daily life in ways that make history feel immediate and personal.
As a History professor, what struck me most was imagining the palace in its prime during the Avignon Papacy — a time when, beginning with Pope Clement V in 1309, the seat of the Catholic Church shifted from tumultuous Rome to the calmer, sun-soaked banks of the Rhône. Avignon became the spiritual heart of Western Christianity, bustling with clerics, scholars, and artisans.
Today, the Palais des Papes stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of France’s most visited monuments, a reminder that history isn’t only to be read about, but experienced.
Don't forget to check out the Instagram Reel all about our special time at this beautiful place. Click HERE!
Whether you’re enchanted by medieval architecture or simply want to feel the pulse of history while cruising the Rhône, this extraordinary palace is a stop that stays with you long after the stones fade into memory. I definitely recommend a trip to the Palais des Papes- it is an amazing piece of History to see! If you want to go here are a few facts to help you before you go:
Location: Pl. du Palais, 84000 Avignon, France
UNESCO: Read about it on the UNESCO site HERE!
Today: "The Palais today is a historical and architectural landmark and primarily a tourist attraction, drawing around 650,000 visitors per annum, putting it regularly in the top ten most visited attractions in France." Hours vary seasonally—check the official listing before your visit.
Disability Friendly?: Unfortunately no. Due to the number of stairs that are throughout various sections it is impossible for those in wheelchairs or those who struggle with stairs to access all of the site. There is a "comfort route" that you can find out more about on the Palais des Papes website - find the link to learn more about the comfort route HERE!
Thank you for stopping by and reading today! I hope that you enjoyed this brief overview of our time at the Palace of the Pooes! I can't wait to share more about our adventures on this cruise! If you are interested in reading more about our Rhone River Cruise with Viking, you can click on the links below:
Viking River Cruise (2025):
Arles: // The Arles Ampitheater (Les Arenes D' Arles) //A Day in Arles France //
Avignon: // Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes) //
Viking Cruise Specific Posts: // Embarkation Day on the Viking Delling //
// Viking Rhone River Cruise: Answers to Your Most FAQ's // 9 Must Have Experiences on the Viking Delling //
Viking Rhone River Specific IG Reels: // The Incredible Crew of the Viking Delling (IG Reel) //
The much-loved Bridgerton series has given Regency-era elegance new life. With its opulent
charm and delicate beauty, the Regencycore style offers a way to add sophistication and
grace to your house. It’s all about mixing old-world glamour with modern functionality,
creating a place that’s both elegant and liveable. Interior specialists at Hammonds highlight
that thoughtful design choices from layout to finishes can help recreate the warmth and
refinement associated with Regency-inspired interiors. From soft pastels to luxurious textiles,
here’s how to transform your home into a haven that embraces the grandeur of the Regency
period.
Soft Hues for Elegant Spaces
Shades like blush pink and muted mint green evoke a sense of tranquillity and class. For a
modern take, consider painting your walls in a gentle dove grey or pale peach, then add
bolder touches with velvet cushions or ornate mirrors. These soft hues provide the perfect
backdrop for a calm, welcoming area, allowing your furniture and accessories to truly stand
out.
Classic Furniture with a Modern Twist
Opt for furniture pieces with classic Regency elegance, such as a tufted sofa or a delicate
chaise longue. Look for pieces that combine traditional shapes with contemporary
functionality – like custom-fitted furniture. They bring a contemporary edge to Regencycore,
offering both luxury and practicality. Built-in shelving or bespoke cabinetry can mimic the
ornate detailing of Regency pieces while maximising space.
Patterned Wallpapers That Pop
Patterned wallpaper, such as floral and damask designs, creates richness and depth. To
incorporate this into your home, choose a feature wall to incorporate this bold style - it’ll
instantly add character to any room. If you’re unsure about committing to an entire wall, a
more subtle wallpaper in the dining or bedroom area can still make an impact. Balance the
bold patterns with simpler furniture and accessories to avoid it being overwhelming.
Lighting and Chandeliers
Lighting was integral to Regency interiors, with crystal chandeliers and delicate candle
sconces casting a soft glow throughout the room. To capture this, consider adding a
statement chandelier in the centre of the room. Smaller, vintage-inspired lamps can
complement the effect, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Opt for softer, diffused
lighting to bring out the opulence of the space. Dimmer switches allow you to adjust the
mood depending on the time of day or occasion.
Luxurious Textiles and Finishing Touches
Velvet and brocade are perfect for curtains and cushions. Heavy, floor-length drapes in rich
fabrics add a sense of grandeur, while smaller touches, like ornate vases or gilded picture
frames, complete the look. These finishes add depth and texture, making your home feel
both lavish and inviting.
A Timeless, Lasting Appeal
By embracing Regencycore, you’re curating a space that tells a story of elegance and
history. Whether you’re captivated by the opulence of Bridgerton or simply drawn to the
timeless sophistication of the era, this style feels grand and personal. The beauty of
Regencycore is in its ability to fuse the past with the present, where classic furniture meets
modern functionality, and rich textiles add an element of warmth and luxury. With these
touches, your home will feel like a place where stories are waiting to be written.
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You wake up to the same alarm, follow the same route to work, and answer the same
messages before your first cup of tea cools. Over time, routine brings comfort, yet it can also
narrow your world. A well-chosen escape shifts your perspective and steadies your
breathing. The Middle East offers you that contrast in a manageable way. You can wander
through desert silence one day and share mezze with locals the next, all within a few hours’
reach.
What you need from your break
You start by looking honestly at how you feel. If long meetings leave you mentally drained,
you might crave stillness rather than stimulation. If you sit at a desk all week, your body may
want movement and fresh air. Write down what tires you most and what restores you. If city
noise frays your nerves, a few nights in a desert camp in Oman slows your pace and
reduces digital distractions. You gain space to think because the environment removes the
triggers that usually demand your attention.
Relaxation or adventure?
You often assume you must choose one or the other, yet the Middle East allows you to blend
both. Decide which feeling you want to take home. If you long for calm, book a spa hotel in
Abu Dhabi and structure your days around unhurried walks and early evenings. If you want a
sense of achievement, plan a guided hike in Wadi Rum, where you move steadily across
open landscapes and sleep under clear skies
Choosing the perfect destination
Each country in the region shapes your experience differently. Jordan suits you if you value
history within a compact itinerary. The United Arab Emirates offers modern comfort
alongside tradition, which helps if you want familiarity with a twist.
When you browse options for Dubai holidays, you see how easily you can combine beach
time with visits to galleries and desert reserves. Dubai works well if you prefer
straightforward transport, English-speaking services and a wide choice of accommodation.
Match the destination to your tolerance for change and your appetite for structure.
Activities to suit your interests
Your interests shape how deeply you connect with a place. If food excites you, join a cookery
class in Beirut, where you prepare dishes with local ingredients and learn family recipes. If
architecture captures your attention, explore the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
and notice how light moves across marble courtyards throughout the day. This kind of
focused activity slows you down because you observe details rather than rushing between
landmarks. Choose experiences that mirror your hobbies at home, and you deepen your
enjoyment without feeling out of place.
Setting a budget
Money shapes your options, yet it does not limit the quality of your break when you plan
carefully. Start by fixing a total figure and dividing it into transport, accommodation, food and
activities. You then see where you can adjust without stress.
If you travel outside peak seasons in Dubai or Muscat, hotels often lower their rates, and you
face shorter queues at attractions. You might spend the savings on a guided desert
excursion or a private airport transfer to reduce friction at the start and end of your trip.
When you align your spending with what truly restores you, you return not only refreshed but
also satisfied that you used your resources wisely.
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Peak season travel tests your patience and your budget, yet it also delivers the weather and shared
buzz that make trips memorable. When you understand how demand shapes prices, queues and
transport pressure, you can make choices that work in your favour.
Smart planning helps you keep control of costs and stay calm when plans shift. With the right
approach, you travel with confidence rather than reacting to crowds, and you return home feeling
rested instead of relieved.
Book early and stay flexible
Prices rise fastest when airlines and hotels sense urgency, so early research gives you leverage.
When you track fares months ahead, you spot realistic price ranges and snap up cheap holidays
Flexibility matters just as much: free date changes and flight credits protect you if plans change.
Build a shortlist of acceptable dates and nearby airports, then book once prices dip into your
comfort zone.
Set calendar reminders to recheck fares after booking, as many airlines allow rebooking at a lower
price if the fare drops.
Choose destinations strategically
Crowds concentrate in famous hotspots, while nearby regions often deliver similar experiences
without the crush.
Instead of central Paris, you might base yourself in smaller cities with fast rail links and day-trip in, or
swap the Algarve for lesser-known Atlantic beaches. You gain quieter streets, better restaurant
access and more personal interactions.
Look at shoulder destinations that share climate and culture, such as Slovenia as an alternative to
northern Italy, or Lisbon instead of Barcelona, and compare transport times to make sure the swap
still suits your plans.
Travel at off-peak times of day
Airports and roads follow predictable rhythms, with early mornings and late evenings easing
pressure. When you fly before breakfast or after dinner, you often face shorter security lines and
fewer delays because aircraft start the day on schedule.
Apply the same logic to driving and trains by avoiding Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings.
Choose departure windows that align with your energy levels so fatigue doesn’t undo the benefits.
Plan ahead for popular attractions
Landmarks sell out quickly during busy periods, and queues waste precious holiday hours. Advance
tickets and fast passes give you certainty and let you structure days around quieter moments.
Museums like the Louvre release tickets in batches, so setting alerts helps you catch availability.
Book guided visits when they include early access, as you see more with fewer people and gain
context that turns a checklist stop into a highlight.
Pack smart and prepare for delays
Crowds increase the chance of lost luggage, missed connections and tired decisions, so preparation
keeps stress low. Pack carry-on only when possible, and keep essentials, chargers and documents
accessible.
Download boarding passes and accommodation details in case networks strain under demand.
Expect delays and build buffer time into transfers so a small disruption doesn’t derail the day.
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Vintage style never truly fades. Across fashion, jewelry, interiors, and design, vintage pieces
continue to shape modern tastes and inspire new generations.
Rather than feeling dated, vintage items often look intentional and expressive, offering depth
that mass-produced trends struggle to replicate. From heirloom accessories to statement
furniture and even classic vintage engagement ring pieces, the appeal lies in a blend of
craftsmanship, sustainability, and personal meaning that transcends decades.
Timeless Design and Craftsmanship
One of the top reasons vintage items remain relevant is due to their high quality. Many older
pieces were made with techniques and materials that prioritized longevity over speed or
cost. Intricate stitching, hand-finished metals, and thoughtful proportions give vintage items a
Design-wise, these pieces often follow classic lines and balanced forms, which ensures a
timeless appeal. Additionally, when something is built and designed well, it resists trends
and continues to feel refined no matter the era.
Sustainability and Conscious Consumption
Vintage accessories also align naturally with more eco-conscious purchasing. That’s
because choosing pre-owned items keeps materials in use and reduces the demand for
resource-intensive manufacturing.
In a world increasingly aware of fast fashion’s environmental impact, purchasing retro
garments and accessories offers an alternative that feels both responsible and stylish.
Buying secondhand is no longer about compromise; it is a deliberate choice that combines
aesthetics with values. Reuse, repair, and reinvention are now part of mainstream style
conversations, and vintage sits comfortably at the center of that shift.
Nostalgia and Emotional Connection
Vintage pieces often carry stories. Whether it is a jacket reminiscent of a past decade or a
ring inspired by early twentieth-century design, items with a history easily spark emotional
connections.
Whether they remind you of family, fond memories, or an era you admire, it’s this sense of
history that gives clothing and accessories an emotional weight. Rather than being
disposable, they feel meaningful, which makes people care for them and keep them longer.
Vintage Influence on Modern Trends
Modern designers regularly look to the past for inspiration, reworking silhouettes and
patterns into modern collections. Runways regularly show clear nods to the past, from art
deco geometry to mid-century minimalism.
If you want to learn more, museums and fashion archives document how historical design
continues to inform today’s creativity, such as the fashion collections explored by The
Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Individual Style and Uniqueness
Perhaps most importantly, vintage clothing allows people to truly express their individuality.
In a world of mass production and algorithm-driven trends, unique pieces help people
express personal identity.
Wearing something with a distinct history sets you apart and signals intention rather than
imitation. That sense of uniqueness is why vintage remains not just relevant, but endlessly
appealing.
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The digital nomad lifestyle has evolved beyond cafés and co-working spaces, with many
professionals now choosing life on the road in a campervan. Combining remote work
with travel freedom, this lifestyle offers flexibility, adventure and simplicity. This article
explores what digital nomad life in a campervan really looks like, including the benefits,
challenges and practical considerations for those contemplating this adventurous way of
working and living.
1. Why Choose Van Life as a Digital Nomad
Freedom, lower living costs and the ability to work from inspiring locations attract
remote professionals. Unlike traditional accommodation, campervans eliminate rent,
council tax, water bills and numerous household expenses, with many nomads reducing
their monthly outgoings by approximately 60 per cent. This financial flexibility allows
professionals to save more whilst earning less or reinvest capital into businesses and
experiences instead of property. The unmatched freedom to wake beside oceans one
morning and mountains the next creates a lifestyle that traditional living cannot
replicate. Remote workers escape monotonous commutes and office environments,
replacing them with ever-changing landscapes that reduce burnout and improve mental
wellbeing.
2. Staying Connected on the Road
Reliable mobile data, Wi-Fi solutions and power management are essential for
access for remote workers in 2025, allowing professionals to work from remote locations
previously considered impractical. Multiple SIM cards from different providers ensure
backup connectivity when one network fails, whilst mobile hotspots and signal boosters
extend coverage in rural areas. Solar panels mounted on van roofs provide renewable
energy for laptops, phones and other electronics, reducing reliance on campsite
hookups. Secondary leisure batteries separate from starter batteries prevent the
nightmare scenario of being stranded with a dead engine, allowing devices to charge
safely overnight.
3. Designing a Functional Mobile Workspace
Smart layouts help balance comfort, storage and efficient working space. Converting a
standard van into a functional home office needs careful planning to accommodate both
professional needs and living essentials. Dedicated work zones separate from sleeping
areas help maintain healthy boundaries between work and relaxation, reducing
productivity loss associated with working from bed. Compact desks or convertible tables
provide ergonomic workstations, whilst adequate storage keeps equipment organised
and accessible. High roofs or pop-tops allow standing height for meal preparation,
improving comfort during long working days. Insulation and climate control systems
maintain comfortable temperatures year-round, essential for concentration during
extreme weather.
4. Managing Finances and Living Costs
Budgeting for fuel, maintenance, campsites and insurance is important for sustainability.
Whilst van life reduces accommodation costs, new expenses emerge that require careful
financial planning. Fuel costs fluctuate based on travel frequency, with some nomads
staying longer in single locations to minimise consumption. Regular maintenance,
including oil changes and mechanical checks, prevents expensive breakdowns that
disrupt both work schedules and travel plans. Campsite fees vary considerably between
free wild camping, affordable overnight parking and premium sites offering facilities.
provides essential protection for both your home and office.
5. Balancing Work, Travel and Wellbeing
Setting routines and boundaries helps maintain productivity whilst enjoying the journey.
Without clear separation between work and leisure, digital nomads risk burnout despite
living in inspiring locations. Establishing consistent work schedules creates structure that
clients and employers rely upon, whilst protecting time for exploration. Social isolation
emerges as a significant challenge, with surveys indicating approximately 40 per cent of
nomads experience loneliness. Joining online communities and attending nomad
meetups combats isolation effectively.
Digital nomad life in a campervan is a shift in how professionals define success,
prioritising personal values over conventional career progression.
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Happy Tuesday friends! I hope that you are having a wonderful week so far! With the excitement of the Olympics these last days I thought it would be fun to share a bit about some Olympic sites in Like Placid!
Today I am excited to share with y'all a little bit about the Olympic Jumping Complex in Lake Placid, New York! This winter has provided several opportunities to be over in Lake Placid and a couple of weeks ago I was out at the Olympic Jumping Complex exploring it. It was a beautiful day and the views from the top were simply incredible. If you are ever in the upstate New York, Lake Placid region, I definitely recommend that you head to the top of the Olympic Jumping Complex and check this place out!
To get to the top and see what it is like to be up at the top of the ski jump simply drive on over to the Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex. Once you park you can then take the gondola up to the base of the ski jump (this is a very short ride). Once there at the base you simply take the 26 story elevator to the top of the observation deck.
When you get off the gondola you will see the two different jumps and seriously- it is amazing how huge they are! I love watching different winter events so I have seen them a lot on TV, but being there and standing below them truly gives you a whole new appreciation for the courage that these jumpers have!
So as I mentioned you can ride the 26 story elevator up to get a view from the top. When you get off the elevator you will go through a mini museum/ski jumpers preparation room which has several videos and items for display documenting history that has been made at Lake Placid.
Stepping outside you can literally see a panoramic view of the Adirondack High Peaks on a clear day. I was in awe of the beauty that surrounded us. It was simply gorgeous.
The cost of the Olympic Jumping Complex is $11 for adults ($16 on event days) and $8 for kids and seniors ($10 on event days). If you purchase an Olympic Passport (for $35 for adults/kiddos and $30 for seniors) this activity would allow you admission to ride the elevator to the top for free.
You won't regret purchasing this activity and experiencing it. The views are absolutely priceless.
The Olympic Jumping Complex opens at 9:00am and closes around 4pm. With your ticket you can stay up at the top for as long as you would like so there is no time frame of how long you want to stay. (There was a limit on how many people can be up at the top at one time so you may have to wait a few minutes if there are large groups ahead of you.)
Have y'all ever visited the Olympic Jumping Complex in Lake Placid? Weren't the views just incredible from the top? It was seriously so inspiring to get a glimpse of how high these skiiers are as they do their jumps!
Thanks for reading friends! If you are planning a trip to Lake Placid and are interested in reading more about the area you can find other posts about this area of New York on the blog by clicking HERE! I hope that you have a wonderful day!
If you’re buying a new car for the first time, there are certainly several considerations to make to ensure you’re making the right decision. In this guide, we’ll take a look at what considerations you’ll need to make when buying a car for the very first time.
Key tips for first-time car buyers
There are plenty of tips that experienced car buyers would share when it comes to picking a car for the first time.
Establish a total budget
First and foremost, you should be budgeting for more than just the purchase price. It should ideally include the insurance costs, which will be higher at first for new drivers, tax, servicing, and fuel.
It’s worth using the 20/4/10 rule: put a 20% deposit down, take out a max of 4 years on financing, and 10% of your income at most should go toward car ownership and running costs.
Research and compare
It’s a good idea to use sites that compare car makes and models. There’s a lot to choose from, and so it’s worth researching and comparing the various options available. Whether you buy through a car dealership online or you buy privately, researching and making comparisons is important.
You want to ensure that the car you’re buying is not too expensive compared to other options on the market. Every car, though, will vary in cost, so it’s important to think about it carefully.
Prioritize insurance costs
Insurance costs are something you’ll need to consider carefully, especially when you’re buying as a first-time driver. It’s expected that you’ll be faced with higher prices initially, but these will come down over time.
Check insurance groups before settling on a car, especially as different cars will warrant more expensive insurance.
Get pre-approved financing
Pre-approved financing is important to acquire, so it’s good to have this in place before you shop for a new car. Knowing your credit score is helpful, and if it needs improving, be sure to improve it before you buy your next car.
Securing a loan from a bank or credit union before visiting a dealership is ideal to avoid high interest rates.
Test drive thoroughly
Testing the car at high speeds and checking for unusual noises are just some of the things to pay attention to when it comes to test-driving the car.
Don’t rush the process, especially when testing driving the car, because you want to make sure it drives well for you and you’re 100% happy with it before committing to it.
Don’t forget to check for vehicle history and documents
Finally, it’s worthwhile to check the service history of the car, making sure it’s complete and that the log book also matches the car.
Be sure to check what warranty is covered with the car, and make sure to get all the deal terms in writing.
Buying a new car is exciting, but you want to take it seriously to ensure you purchase the right vehicle.
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