BELGIAN PRALINES

Some time ago, I had a chance to visit Belgium. I was curious to see the country where the central important structures of the European Union are located, but they did not impress me much. At least not as much as the country itself. Walking most central Belgian streets you feel as if you are back in history, as most buildings are very well preserved. Of course, without knowing Dutch, French or German is a little hard to communicate with the native people, especially outside Brussels, but it is manageable:).

When going to a new country, I always try to see what it is famous for and experience something. Belgium is known for beer (really good!), chocolate (super delicious pralines!), waffles (you can try..) and french fries with mayonnaise. As you may have guessed, I tried beer, chocolate and waffles. I do not remember waffles well, but I can tell that beer and chocolates are worth trying and bringing as souvenirs. I checked which chocolate companies are worth trying and I was super happy that I went to “Neuhaus”. They allow you to try a few pralines and decide which ones you would like to take. It is a bit pricy, but definitely worth trying! On another note, soon, heading to London! Any suggestions on what to see, where to eat and spend time would be highly appreciated :) Have a nice week!

 

* all pictures via me

Love,

Loretta

CIAO BELLA!

This past weekend I headed to explore a new country, more precisely, its capital Rome. I wanted to have a short get-away to be able to finish all I am busy with now. And it was a chance to visit some friends there. To be honest, I did not expect to like this country so much as I did, maybe because I felt that it is going to be something like Athens (will share this some time for sure), but today when someone asks me where to go, I definitely say - Rome. I understand now why people say that Rome is a real museum. Wherever you go, you will find yourself surrounded by spectacular buildings, history and amazing views of the city.. Not mentioning food and the best ice-cream I have ever had the gelato (http://www.giolitti.it/, definitely check this out when in Rome!).. But I will not say much, pictures can show better:

VATIKAN:

ROME:

ITALIAN BREAKFAST:

* pictures via me

Love,

Loretta

FINLAND: HELSINKI PART 1

Do you like wondering and exploring the world, cultures, people? I simply love doing that! My trip to Helsinki I would consider one of the best trips I have ever had. Helsinki fascinated me with contrasts much more than I could have imagined. I am not by any means an expert in architecture, but I felt like there is a blend of Western and Eastern architecture which gives the city a special vibe. It was impressive to see some neoclassical treasures, for example, the Helsinki Cathedral which reminds of the Russian Church, and after one hour to be surrounded by buildings having the Scandinavian touch. Of course, because of history and the border with Russia there are many people speaking Russian and you can even find Russian shops (see pictures below). As for shopping (of course, I have to mention that..) many brands seen in Helsinki can be found in the whole Scandinavia, although you can find a great variety of European brands, for example “Mango”. Stay tuned to find out what the purpose of my trip was!

{Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square, via nordicrepublic.com}

 

 {Streets reminding streets in Denmark}

 {Feeling the Russian influence on architecture}

{Russian souvenirs and books shop}

{Beautiful autumn in Helsinki}

Love,
Loretta