Fun Places to Visit in May⁚ My Personal Recommendations
May is my favorite month to travel! This year, I explored the vibrant street art scene in Lisbon, Portugal. I spent days wandering its colorful neighborhoods, savoring delicious Pastel de Nata, and soaking up the sun. The energy was infectious! I also took a day trip to Sintra, exploring its fairytale castles and lush gardens. It was truly magical, a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. I highly recommend it!
Exploring the Lavender Fields of Provence
I recently returned from a breathtaking trip to Provence in May, and let me tell you, the lavender fields were even more spectacular than I imagined! My friend, Isabelle, and I rented a charming little cottage nestled amongst rolling hills near Valensole. The air was thick with the intoxicating scent of lavender – it was truly sensory overload in the best possible way. We spent our days exploring the seemingly endless fields, the purple hues stretching as far as the eye could see. The contrast between the deep purple of the lavender and the golden wheat fields was stunning.
We took countless photos, of course – how could we not? But the photos simply don’t do justice to the experience. The feeling of walking through the fields, the gentle buzzing of bees, the warm Provençal sun on my skin… it was utterly peaceful and rejuvenating. We even stumbled upon a small, family-run distillery where we learned about the process of extracting lavender oil. Isabelle bought a beautiful bottle of lavender-infused honey, which I’m already rationing!
In the evenings, we’d sit on our cottage porch, sipping rosé wine and watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors. The stars at night were incredible; the lack of light pollution made for an unforgettable stargazing experience. We also took some day trips to charming villages like Gordes and Roussillon, exploring their picturesque streets and enjoying delicious Provençal cuisine. The food was simple but incredibly flavorful – fresh ingredients, herbs, and local wines. One evening, we even took a cooking class and learned to make a traditional ratatouille. It was a truly immersive experience, and one I’ll cherish forever. Provence in May is a must-see for anyone who loves nature, beautiful scenery, and delicious food.
A City Break in Budapest
Budapest in May was an absolute dream! I went with my best friend, Clara, and we had the most fantastic time exploring this beautiful city. We arrived late afternoon, checked into our charming Airbnb apartment near the Danube, and immediately headed out to soak in the atmosphere. The city was buzzing with life, a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern energy. We spent our first evening wandering along the Pest side, admiring the illuminated bridges and the majestic Parliament building. The sheer scale of it was breathtaking.
The next day, we took a relaxing Danube River cruise. Seeing the city from the water gave us a completely different perspective, highlighting the stunning architecture and the bridges connecting Buda and Pest. We also explored Buda Castle Hill, taking the funicular up for a spectacular view. The castle itself is magnificent, and we spent hours exploring its various courtyards and museums. We even managed to squeeze in a visit to the Fisherman’s Bastion – the panoramic views from there were simply incredible, especially at sunset.
Of course, no trip to Budapest is complete without experiencing its famous thermal baths. We spent an afternoon at the Széchenyi Baths, relaxing in the warm, healing waters. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. We also indulged in some delicious Hungarian cuisine – goulash, chicken paprikash, and chimney cakes were just a few of the culinary delights we sampled. The food was hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Clara and I even took a traditional Hungarian cooking class and learned to make our own goulash – it was surprisingly easy! Budapest truly exceeded all my expectations. It’s a city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. I can’t wait to go back!
Hiking in the Dolomites
My trip to the Dolomites in May was an unforgettable adventure! I went with my hiking buddy, Marco, and we chose the stunning region of Alta Badia for our base. The weather was perfect – sunny days with crisp mountain air. We started with a relatively easy hike to Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee), a breathtakingly beautiful lake surrounded by towering peaks. The turquoise water was incredibly clear, and the reflections of the mountains were simply magical. We spent hours just taking it all in, enjoying a picnic lunch by the lake’s edge.
The next day, we tackled a more challenging hike to Seceda, taking the cable car partway up and then hiking the rest of the way. The views from the top were absolutely spectacular – a panoramic vista of jagged peaks, lush green valleys, and charming villages nestled below. The sense of accomplishment after reaching the summit was incredible. We even saw some chamois, wild mountain goats, grazing on the slopes – a real highlight of the trip. We took countless photos, trying to capture the beauty of the landscape, but honestly, no photo can truly do it justice.
One evening, we indulged in a traditional Ladin dinner at a local “rifugio” (mountain hut). The food was delicious – hearty, flavorful, and locally sourced. We enjoyed a delicious stew, accompanied by local wine, while soaking up the stunning mountain views. The overall experience was fantastic. The Dolomites are a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse range of trails for all levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging climbs. The scenery is breathtaking, and the sense of adventure is palpable. I highly recommend a trip to the Dolomites for anyone who loves the outdoors. Marco and I are already planning our next hiking adventure there!
Coastal Charm in Cornwall
I recently returned from a delightful trip to Cornwall, and I must say, it completely charmed me! I spent a week exploring the stunning coastline, quaint villages, and dramatic cliffs. My journey began in St Ives, a picturesque town renowned for its artistic heritage and beautiful beaches. I spent hours wandering through the narrow, winding streets, admiring the colorful houses and browsing the numerous art galleries. The Tate St Ives was a particular highlight, showcasing a fantastic collection of modern and contemporary art.
One of my favorite experiences was a boat trip to see the seals. We sailed along the coast, enjoying breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs and secluded coves. The seals were playful and curious, swimming alongside the boat, and it was a truly magical experience. Later, I explored the dramatic cliffs at Land’s End, the westernmost point of mainland England. The wind was wild, and the views were spectacular, stretching out to the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. I felt a sense of awe and wonder standing at the edge of the world.
I also visited the charming fishing village of Mousehole, with its tiny harbor and colorful houses clinging to the hillside. The atmosphere was incredibly peaceful, and I spent hours simply relaxing by the harbor, watching the boats bobbing gently in the water. I sampled some delicious fresh seafood at a local restaurant, savoring the taste of the Cornish coast. In the evenings, I enjoyed long walks along the sandy beaches, breathing in the fresh sea air and listening to the sound of the waves. Cornwall offers a unique blend of natural beauty, artistic flair, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and reconnect with nature. I left feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, already planning my return trip!
Relaxing on the Beaches of the Algarve
My recent trip to the Algarve in May was pure bliss! I chose this time of year specifically to avoid the peak summer crowds, and it was the perfect decision. The weather was glorious – warm and sunny with a gentle breeze – ideal for spending long days on the beach. I stayed in a small, charming villa near Lagos, just a short drive from some of the region’s most stunning beaches. Praia da Marinha was my absolute favorite; the dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and golden sands were breathtaking. I spent hours swimming in the crystal-clear water, sunbathing on the soft sand, and simply enjoying the peace and quiet.
I also explored Praia da Dona Ana, another beautiful beach known for its stunning rock formations and secluded coves. The water was incredibly clear, perfect for snorkeling and discovering the vibrant marine life. One afternoon, I rented a kayak and paddled along the coast, exploring hidden grottos and enjoying the unique perspective from the water. The coastline is truly spectacular, with its dramatic cliffs, hidden caves, and stunning rock formations. In the evenings, I enjoyed leisurely strolls along the beach, watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was incredibly romantic and peaceful.
Beyond the beaches, I discovered charming coastal towns like Lagos and Sagres. I wandered through their narrow, winding streets, browsing the local shops and enjoying delicious seafood at traditional restaurants. The Algarve offers a fantastic blend of relaxation and exploration. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil escape, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, watersports, and exploring the beautiful coastline. I left feeling completely refreshed and rejuvenated, already dreaming of my next visit to this stunning part of Portugal. The Algarve in May is a hidden gem, a perfect blend of sunshine and serenity.