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2-Week Mexico Itinerary: Yucatán Road Trip (Tested & budget)

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This 2-week Mexico itinerary is based on a real trip through the Yucatán Peninsula and Quintana Roo. Every stop, hotel, activity, and transport option was tested on the ground during a road trip with four friends. If you’re looking for a realistic, balanced Mexico road trip, combining beaches, cenotes, colonial cities, and Mayan ruins : this itinerary is for you. (This post may contain affiliate links : which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.) Quick overview Duration : 14 nights / 15 days Start & end : Cancún Regions : Quintana Roo & Yucatán Travel style : Backpacking + road trip Group size : 4 people Transport : Bus, rental car, ferry Also doable by bus : Yes (ADO) Map of the itinerary Route : Cancún → Playa del Carmen → Tulum → Sian Ka’an → Bacalar → Mérida → Chichén Itzá → Valladolid → Holbox → Cancún Day-by-day itinerary (tested & real) Cancún : Arrival & recovery (2 nights) Cancún is the perfect gateway to Mexico. After a long flight from Paris, we took the ADO bus from Cancún Airport to downtown, which is cheap, fast, and reliable. Where to stay in Cancún Hotel Hacienda Cancún (👉 Book your stay here)  Budget-friendly, walking distance from the ADO bus terminal, ideal for arrival and departure days. What to do in Cancún Free public beaches (white sand & turquoise water) Zona Hotelera (brief visit) Dinner at Parque de las Palapas (cheap, local, lively) Playa del Carmen : Short road trip stop Playa del Carmen works well as a lunch stop or overnight break between Cancún and Tulum. Lively, touristy, but convenient. Personal recommendation (from another trip) : Kinta Kan Beach Hotel Boutique Playa del Carmen + dinner at Osteria De Roma. (one of the best italian meal of my life, 100% recommanded) 👉 Book your hotel in Playa del Carmen here Tulum : Ruins, cenotes & beaches (3 nights) Tulum is one of the highlights of any Yucatán itinerary : Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean, cenotes, and beach clubs. Where to stay in Tulum Oryx Tulum Hostel (👉 Book your stay here) : Private room for 4, small pool, jungle vibe, excellent value. What to do in Tulum Tulum Ruins Beach day (Xpu-Ha by colectivo) Cenotes (Chan Aktun Ha : stunning but expensive) Drinks at Batey Mojito Bar Nightlife around Mercado Centauro Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve (day trip) A wild and untouched part of Mexico, Sian Ka’an is a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve best visited from Tulum. General admission to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is roughly MXN50 to MXN100 (US$3 to $5) but I highly recommand to take a guided tour for explanations et secrets of the biosphere.  Jungle walk Muyil archaeological site Observation tower 👉 Book Your Sian Ka’an guided tour here Bacalar : Lagoon of Seven Colors (3 nights) Bacalar was one of the biggest surprises of this trip. Calm, authentic, and absolutely stunning, it’s the kind of place where time slows down and every shade of blue feels unreal. Where to stay in Bacalar Ade Hotel Bacalar (👉 Book Your Stay Here)A small and charming hotel with a pool, excellent value for money, and easy access to a public lagoon entrance (a big plus in Bacalar where many docks are private.) What to do in Bacalar Swim in the Lagoon of Seven Colors Spend a day at Los Rápidos, where natural currents carry you through crystal-clear water Enjoy sunset walks along the lagoon Sailing & catamaran tour on the lagoon (absolute highlight) One of the most memorable experiences of this entire Mexico trip was a catamaran day tour on the Bacalar lagoon. The tour included: Swimming in Pirate’s Channel Stops near a protected bird reserve Multiple swim breaks in the most vibrant parts of the lagoon 👉 Book your catamaran / sailing tour with Day Tour in Bacalar If you want more details, I wrote a full dedicated guide about this experience here : The Best Catamaran Day Tour in Bacalar, Mexico. This sailing day was without a doubt one of the most magical moments of the trip and a must-do if you include Bacalar in your Yucatán itinerary. Mérida : Colonial city & culture (2 nights) Mérida is a vibrant colonial city and a great base to explore inland Yucatán. Where to stay in Mérida Casa NE (👉Book Your Stay Here) Central, affordable, perfect for a short stay. What to do in Mérida Historic center walk Mercado 60 (food court) Mezcal bars Live music at La Negrita Chichén Itzá & Valladolid : Culture stop (1 night) Chichén Itzá One of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a must-see in Mexico. Go early to avoid crowds. Book your Chichén Itzá guided tour to enjoy so as not to miss anything! Valladolid A charming colonial town, perfect for an overnight stop. Swim at Cenote Zací ($7) Walk around the main square Holbox Island : Slow travel & beaches (3 nights) Holbox is car-free, relaxed, and the perfect place to end this itinerary. Where to stay in Holbox Golden Paradise Hostel (👉 Book Your Stay Here) Good value, central, ideal for groups. What to do in Holbox Beach time Sunset drinks Walk to Punta Coco Total relaxation Rental car vs bus in Mexico Rental car (what we did with BSP Auto / Budget) Total cost: approx. €300 for 10 days (4 people) Easy driving overall Best option for flexibility Bus option (ADO) Comfortable, air-conditioned Reliable for long distances Slightly less flexible ✨Tip from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨ After traveling through the Yucatán Peninsula with friends and testing this itinerary on the ground, here are a few real-life tips that can make a big difference when planning a 2-week trip to Mexico. 1. Traveling as a group makes everything easier (and cheaper) If you’re considering renting a car, traveling as a group is a game changer. Splitting accommodation, car rental, and fuel costs makes the road trip

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4 Days in Corfu : Chill Itinerary & Hidden Gems

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Corfu is one of those islands that makes you slow down : a perfect mix of turquoise bays, mountain roads, and Greek charm that feels local and easy to love. I didn’t plan much before going, and that’s probably what made this trip so good. Between beach hopping, sunset drinks, and exploring the old town, I ended up finding some incredible places : from cliffside bars to hidden beaches you can only reach by boat. It’s worth noting though: for a backpacker destination, Corfu is on the pricier side : especially when it comes to accommodation and eating out. The good news is that flights from most European cities are frequent and surprisingly affordable, making it an easy island escape without breaking the bank. If you’re dreaming of a chill Mediterranean break, here’s my full 4-day itinerary with all my favorite spots in Corfu 🇬🇷 (This post may contain affiliate links : which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.) My 4-Day Chill Itinerary in Corfu Day 1 : Arrival & Paleokastritsa Vibes Transport : Flight France → Corfu (6am → 10am local), bus to Green Terminal in Corfu town (€2), bus to Paleokastritsa (€2.5) Book your flight here with Kiwi Accommodation : Apollon Hotel, double room €70/night, sea view ! Book your Stay in this hotel here Activities: Drop off luggage and swim at the main beach Lunch at Yialos : Greek salad, fried calamari, tzatziki (~€50 for 2) Back to the hotel for terrace relaxation Dinner at Nikos : lamb shank, octopus, glass of wine (~€50) Day 2 : Monastery & Village Stroll Breakfast: Takeaway coffee at Zefiros Traditional Hotel (~€8 for 2) Activities: Visit the Paleokastritsa Monastery (free) Walk around the village, grab a gyros at Andreas (~€6) Drink at La Grotta (~€12) Dolphin Beach : take the small path from the Belvedere Restaurant to avoid crowds Dinner: Back at Nikos, moussaka and whole sea bream (~$50) Day 3 : Chill & Beaches Breakfast: Again at Zefiros (~€8) Beaches: Ampelaki, Agios Petros, Paleokastritsa Relax: Read a book, enjoy slow travel vibes  Sunset: Agios Petros Beach Dinner: Andreas, octopus & beef salad with tomato sauce and pasta (~€40)   Day 4 : Boat Day & Corfu Old Town Boat rental: Michalas Boats, €80 for 3h, no license required! Click here to book a tour Navigation zone: between Ampelaki Beach and Stelari Beach, crystal-clear water, secret caves Afternoon: Corfu Old Town, luggage storage €10, explore streets and buy souvenirs Dinner: Mythos and Grill, maxi gyros €7 Sunset: From the old town My 4-Day Budget in Corfu Transports : Flights (€170) from Nantes to Corfou, Buses (€18) = €188 Lodging : Hotel (€213) for 3 nights with see view included! Food & Drinks : Restaurants (€145), Gyros (€34), Drinks (€54) = €233 Activities : Boat Tour with Michalas Boat Rental (€80), Beach days & exploring (free) = €80 Extras : Souvenirs (€30), Water & Groceries (€20) = €50 Total trip coast for 2 people : €765 My Favorite Beaches in Corfu (West Coast) Paradise Beach : Only by boat, pure blue water and peace Agios Petros Beach : Calm, clear, and best sunset views Dolphin Beach: Wild, local, and tucked away from crowds La Grotta Bar: Swim, dance, and cliff jump between cocktails Getting Around If you stay in Paleokastritsa, you can totally skip the car : buses connect all the main spots. The Green Buses app exists (in theory), but it doesn’t really work. Thankfully, timetables are posted pretty much everywhere, and it’s €5 for a round trip, compared to €10 for parking at the beach. Easy choice. As for the little boats between beaches, they’re harder to find off-season but still around if you know where to look : La Grotta Bar, the main beach, and the port are your best bets. In summer, it’s a whole vibe with boats coming and going all day; in shoulder season, it just feels quieter (and honestly, kind of perfect). ✨Tip from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨ Corfu isn’t about rushing : it’s about savoring slow mornings, turquoise water, and sunsets that make you wish for one more day.Corfu is perfect if you’re after chill vibes, nature, and a touch of local charm; though it’s not exactly the classic backpacker bargain. Some areas are pricier, others more low-key… guess I’ll have to go back to find them all ! Go slow. Don’t try to see everything : Corfu’s beauty is in the pace. Mornings are best. Calm water, soft light, fewer people. Boat days = best days. Freedom, laughter, and hidden beaches. Local buses work. Budget-friendly and authentic. Bring your GoPro or drone! The island is insanely photogenic : underwater or from above, every shot looks like a dream. (I use this drone and this gopro) Stay flexible. Island life runs on Greek time. BISOUS Click here to discover videos on Tiktok & Instagram

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View from Mirador in SJDS, Nicaragua

Climbing to New Heights : The Mirador del Cristo de la Misericordia in San Juan del Sur

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If you’re backpacking through Nicaragua, the Mirador del Cristo de la Misericordia is a must-see. This iconic statue of Christ towers above the town, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific coast and surrounding hills. The Statue : History and Size Standing at 26 meters (85 feet), the Cristo de la Misericordia was inaugurated in 2009 and has quickly become a symbol of San Juan del Sur. Its impressive presence is visible from almost anywhere in town, perfect for landmarks or a striking photo. Why You Should Go ? Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual traveler, the Mirador del Cristo de la Misericordia offers a memorable mix of culture, history, and nature. Don’t miss this gem when visiting San Juan del Sur. The Hike : Challenging but Worth It The climb to the viewpoint is steep and can be challenging, winding through lush trails that make the journey feel like an adventure. For backpackers on a budget, you can explore the base and surrounding trails for free, but getting closer to the statue and the official lookout costs just $2 for foreigners. Personally, I skipped the fee and did the loop, but the view was so stunning that I’ll definitely be returning to experience it fully. ✨Tip from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨ If you’re not up for the climb, taxis can drop you off right at the top, saving you some sweat. Keep in mind that the beach on the other side of the statue is private, so access is restricted.  If you want to explore more beaches along the coast, I recommend using collectivos or booking shuttles directly through hostels : it’s budget-friendly and super convenient for backpackers. BISOU

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Majorelle Garden

Exploring Jardin Majorelle : The Blue Oasis of Marrakech

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If there’s one place you absolutely cannot miss in Marrakech, it’s the Jardin Majorelle.This peaceful garden, painted in its famous deep Majorelle blue, feels like stepping into a dream : exotic plants, fountains, palms, and shadows playing against vibrant walls. But let me tell you one crucial thing: you must book your tickets in advance. If you try to go without a reservation, especially on the same day, you simply won’t get in. The line outside is long, and walk-ins are often turned away. So don’t risk it : book online, and thank yourself later! Book your Jardin Majorelle tickets in advance here.  A Little Bit of History : From Jacques Majorelle to Yves Saint Laurent The story of the garden begins with Jacques Majorelle, a French painter who fell in love with Morocco in the 1920s. He built a villa and designed the garden as a living piece of art, a place where botany meets color and light. Majorelle created the now-iconic “Bleu Majorelle”, a unique ultramarine hue that dominates the villa and surrounding walls. It’s bold, intense, and instantly recognizable : you can even find it in local souvenirs and ceramics today. After Majorelle’s death, the property fell into disrepair until Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé discovered it in the 1980s. They restored it with care and passion, turning it into one of the most beautiful and beloved spots in Marrakech. The Yves Saint Laurent Museum Right next to the garden, you’ll find the Musée Yves Saint Laurent Marrakech, dedicated to the legendary fashion designer who made Morocco one of his creative sanctuaries. The museum showcases his most iconic pieces, sketches, and inspirations, many of which were influenced by the Moroccan light and colors. I didn’t have the chance to visit it last time, which only means I’ll have to come back! Practical Information: Tickets, Prices & Discounts Entrance fees (as of 2025): Jardin Majorelle only: around 150 MAD (≈ €13) Yves Saint Laurent Museum only: around 150 MAD Combined ticket (Garden + Museum): around 250 MAD Discounts available: Students and Moroccan residents can get reduced rates (with ID). Children under 12 usually enter for free. What Makes It So Special ? Beyond its colors, the Jardin Majorelle is a sanctuary of calm in the middle of the chaos of Marrakech. You’ll find over 300 species of plants, small ponds, bamboo groves, and shaded corners perfect for escaping the heat. Everywhere you look, the contrast of the blue walls and lush greenery feels almost unreal : like walking through a painting. Bring your camera, but also take time to just sit and breathe : it’s one of those places that feed the soul. ✨ Tip from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨ Book your ticket online, go early in the morning, and take your time strolling through before the crowds arrive. Afterwards, treat yourself to a mint tea or fresh juice at the Majorelle Café just outside and if you’re into fashion or design, don’t skip the YSL Museum next door. And wear something light (& white ?) because the blue walls reflect beautifully in photos! BISOUS

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Discovering Park Güell : A Hidden Gem in the Heights of Barcelona

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Back in August 2020, in the middle of the pandemic, I had the rare privilege of exploring Park Güell almost entirely alone. Walking through Gaudí’s famous mosaic terraces and winding paths felt like having the park all to myself which is why my photos are so magically empty of tourists! If you want to book your Park Güell ticket in advance, you can do so here : Reserve your ticket in advance. This article contains some affiliate links. Using them doesn’t cost you anything extra, but it helps support my blog and allows me to keep sharing travel tips and guides. Where Is Park Güell ? Situated in the heights of Barcelona, the park offers breathtaking views over the city. Be ready for a bit of a climb, the paths wind uphill, but every step is worth it for the architecture, colors, and panoramas. Who Was Gaudí ? Antoni Gaudí is one of the most iconic architects in the world, known for his unique modernist style inspired by nature, geometry, and color. His imagination turned Barcelona into a living museum and Park Güell is one of his most famous masterpieces. Originally designed as a luxury residential project, the park became a whimsical public space filled with colorful mosaics, curving stairways, and stone structures that blend seamlessly with nature. The Iconic Salamander and Gaudí’s Details One of the park’s most famous residents is the mosaic salamander. You’ll find it at the main staircase, gleaming in vibrant ceramic tiles. It’s one of the most photographed symbols of Barcelona and perfectly represents Gaudí’s playful, nature-inspired creativity. Every corner of Park Güell hides details like that : from the serpentine bench on the terrace, covered in broken-tile mosaics, to columns shaped like tree trunks in the Hypostyle Hall. Gaudí designed everything with meaning, merging art and nature in a way that feels timeless. Tips for a Smooth Visit To make the most of your visit, I recommend: Comfortable shoes : the terrain can be uneven and steep. A water bottle : it’s important to stay hydrated while exploring. Fully charged devices : your phone or camera battery will be your best friend for capturing every mosaic, sculpture, and view. Why I Loved Visiting in August 2020 Visiting during the pandemic meant the park was extremely quiet, which made it easier to enjoy and photograph the iconic spots without crowds. If you can, try visiting early in the morning or during off-peak times to get a similar experience. ✨ Shiny Expatrie Frenchie Tip ✨ For the best experience, go early in the morning. You’ll avoid the crowds, escape the summer heat, and leave yourself free to enjoy the beach in the afternoon : the perfect balance of city exploration and relaxation! BISOUS

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graffiti comuna 13 medellin

Comuna 13 Medellín : The Best Free Walking Tour You Can’t Miss!

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Once one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Medellín, Comuna 13 has become a powerful symbol of resilience, creativity, and community spirit. Today, its colorful streets, open-air escalators, and vibrant murals tell a story of transformation and it’s one you shouldn’t miss when visiting Colombia. My Experience with AIC Tour In June 2023, I joined a free walking tour with AIC Tour Medellín and it was honestly one of the highlights of my trip. Our guide was adorable, full of energy, and spoke slowly in Spanish so even with my beginner level, I could follow every story and detail. The tour is completely free, but tips are encouraged at the end to support the guides. We were a small group of six, which made the experience super friendly and easy to connect with both the guide and other travelers. Click here to book your tour! What You’ll See ? From the colorful street art to the famous electric escalators climbing the hillside, Comuna 13 is a living gallery. Each mural represents a piece of the neighborhood’s past from violence to hope, from fear to freedom. Along the way, local artists perform music and dance, adding life and rhythm to every corner. Why I Recommend It ? This isn’t just another city tour : it’s an inspiring journey into Medellín’s history and its people’s strength. The vibe is positive, creative, and full of color. Whether you’re into street art, local culture, or just curious about how a community can reinvent itself, you’ll love it. ✨ Shiny Expatrie Frenchie Tip ✨ Bring some cash ! you’ll need a few pesos for the bus ride from the metro to the entrance of Comuna 13, a tip for your guide, and maybe a little extra to grab a fresh juice or street snack while exploring. BISOUS

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Photo from catamaran in Bacalar

The Best Catamaran Day Tour in Bacalar, Mexico

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Dive into the stunning Seven Colors Lagoon of Bacalar and experience a perfect day of relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking views on an eco-friendly catamaran. This post contains affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you : thanks for supporting my travels ! Sail the “Lagoon of Seven Colors” Bacalar Lagoon is one of Mexico’s true hidden gems :  calm, colorful, and simply unforgettable. The best way to experience it? A catamaran day tour with Day Tour Bacalar. Sailing across the lagoon’s seven shades of blue felt magical : no engine noise, just wind, music, and sunshine. The crew was amazing: friendly, funny, and full of great local stories. We stopped at the famous Pirate Channel, swam in crystal-clear waters near the cenotes, and relaxed on deck with tropical snacks and drinks. The vibe was perfect : laid-back, social, and full of good energy. What to Bring ? Biodegradable sunscreen & hat Swimsuit & towel Waterproof bag for your phone or camera Why I Recommend It ? This eco-friendly catamaran tour is one of the best experiences in Bacalar. The balance between adventure and relaxation makes it perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers. If you’re visiting the Laguna de los Siete Colores, don’t miss this experience : book in advance, grab your sunglasses, and let the turquoise magic do the rest. 👉 Book your Catamaran Day Tour in Bacalar here  ✨ Shiny Expatrie Frenchie Tip ✨ I didn’t have a drone yet when I did this tour and honestly, I regret it! 😅 If you do have one, bring it because flying over Bacalar Lagoon is allowed, and the views from above are absolutely next level. And here’s a little secret: when you finish your catamaran tour, ask if you can go up to the mirador near the dock. From there, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the entire lagoon : all the blues, all the layers, it’s pure magic. 💙 What makes Bacalar even more special is that it’s still mostly untouched by mass tourism. The vibe is chill, authentic, and the lagoon stays pristine. And honestly, finding a tour this good for under $40 USD? That’s a no-brainer.  BISOUS ✨

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Acatenango eruption

Hiking Acatenango in Guatemala : The Ultimate Overnight Adventure

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Climbing Acatenango was hands down one of the most intense and unforgettable experiences of my life as a backpacker in Central America. If you’re in Guatemala and love a good challenge with a magical reward, this is for you. The Acatenango overnight hike in Guatemala is one of the most popular treks in Central America : not just for the challenge, but for the chance to watch Fuego volcano erupt every few minutes. Some links in this article are affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you.) It helps me keep this blog alive and continue sharing adventures. Thanks for your support ! Quick Facts : Acatenango Volcano Hike Duration: 2 days / 1 night Elevation: 3,976 m (13,044 ft) Difficulty: Challenging (but doable!) Start point: Antigua, Guatemala Best season: November to April (dry season) Tour price: Around $40–50 all-inclusive Highlight: Watching Fuego Volcano erupt from your campsite   Why Hike Acatenango? From the summit, you get a front-row seat to one of the world’s most active volcanoes: Fuego, which literally erupts every 15–30 minutes. Picture this : you’re wrapped in a warm sleeping bag, sipping hot tea, when boom : lava explodes into the night sky. The earth shakes, the sky glows red, and all you can do is whisper “wow.” It’s raw, it’s powerful, and it’s something you’ll never forget. What’s Included in an Acatenango Overnight Tour? Unless you’re a hardcore trekker, I highly recommend doing the hike with a professional tour that includes: Thermal clothing (you’ll need it : it gets below zero!) All meals (dinner + breakfast) Tents, sleeping bags & mats A local Spanish/English-speaking guide Transport from Antigua I personally booked this well-reviewed tour with everything included, and I couldn’t recommend it enough ! Book the Acatenango Overnight Hike here ! What to Pack for the Acatenango Volcano Hike? (Even if Tour Provides Gear) Even though most tours provide warm clothes, I still brought: Layers (thermal base + fleece) Gloves & hat Headlamp Portable power bank Extra snacks Altitude sickness pills (if you’re sensitive) Best Hotels in Antigua Before Your Acatenango Hike You’ll need a good rest before (and after!) climbing 3,976 meters. Here are some top picks: Budget :Central Hostel Antigua (Capsule beds are like little private rooms.) Mid-range : Hotel Casa Rustica (Central location + volcano views) Charming stay : Good Hotel Antigua (Boutique eco-hotel with minimalist decor) Book early : spots fill up fast in high season! Tips for Hiking Acatenango Volcano Like a Pro Go slow. It’s steep, and the altitude hits harder than you think. Hydrate the day before (and during). Take breaks often. Everyone does. Summit is optional, but trust me : the sunrise above the clouds is worth every step. Don’t overpay. Never spend more than $60 all-inclusive for a guided tour.   How to Get to Acatenango The adventure starts in Antigua, Guatemala, about one hour from Guatemala City. Most tours include round-trip transportation from your hotel in Antigua to the Acatenango trailhead near La Soledad village. If you’re traveling independently, shared shuttles and private taxis also run daily from Antigua. Acatenango Overnight Itinerary (2-Day Hike Plan) 9:00 AM : Pick-up in Antigua & drive to base 11:00 AM : Start hike through the cloud forest 4:00PM : Reach basecamp (3,600 m) 5:00PM : Optional hike to Fuego ridge (extra fee) 7:00 PM : Dinner & volcano watching by campfire 3:00 AM : Sunrise summit push (optional) 8:00 AM : Descend & return to Antigua by midday ✨ A Tip from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨ Hiking Acatenango was a physical challenge but a spiritual reset. It’s a moment I’ll carry forever. If you’re in Guatemala and up for the adventure, do it : but do it the right way. There’s really no point stressing about it, I thought it would be unbearable, but I did it ! The only tough part was the sore muscles the next day haha. Hiking Acatenango isn’t just a climb : it’s a reminder of what travel is about: pushing limits, finding peace above the clouds, and watching the earth breathe fire. Book your Acatenango Overnight Tour here and watch Fuego Volcano light up the night sky. BISOUS

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View from one of the mirador of Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio National Park : Costa Rica’s Tropical Treasure

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Costa Rica is emerging as one of the must-visit destinations for 2025. I’ve traveled there three times over the past two years, and in this article, I’ll explain why you absolutely cannot skip Manuel Antonio National Park. I’ve visited the park twice: once as a backpacker, and again more recently during a trip with my partner : two very different experiences that revealed just how special this place really is. Nestled along Costa Rica’s lush Pacific coastline, Manuel Antonio National Park may be the smallest national park in the country but it’s certainly one of the most spectacular. With its blend of rich rainforest, white-sand beaches, and incredible biodiversity, it’s a must-visit for wildlife lovers, beach seekers, and travelers looking to experience the country’s wild magic. This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work! Before You Go : Tickets MUST Be Reserved Online Entrance to Manuel Antonio is strictly regulated, and you can’t buy tickets at the gate. Here’s what you need to know : Buy your tickets online in advance : several days ahead in high season. You’ll need to enter passport numbers for each visitor. You must select a 30-minute entry time slot. Arrive on time : late entry may be refused. The park is closed on Tuesdays. Prices & Tip : Standard entrance ticket: $18. With the GetYourGuide link here, you can join a 2h30 guided tour with a certified naturalist for only $11 more ($29 total) a much better deal and perfect for spotting wildlife you’d otherwise miss. Bag Check at the Entrance (Important!) Park rangers inspect all bags before you enter. You can’t bring : Food, Plastic water bottles, Snacks of any kind (yes, they will take them) & Cigarettes. This is to protect the wildlife and trust me, some monkeys here are very skilled at stealing. Bring instead: A reusable water bottle, personally i used this one : lifestraw Sunscreen & eco-friendly insect repellent  Swimsuit + quick-dry towel Comfortable walking shoes (I have this one) What to Expect Inside the Park Easy Trails & Scenic Viewpoints The trails are well-maintained and suitable for all fitness levels, with several miradores (viewpoints) overlooking turquoise water and emerald jungle. Beaches That Feel Like Paradise Two of the most beautiful beaches in Central America are inside the park: Playa Manuel Antonio : calm water, white sand, perfect for pictures, swimming & chilling Playa Espadilla Sur : Wilder, wider, fewer people, perfect for walking & relaxing Wildlife Everywhere Manuel Antonio is one of the best places in Costa Rica to see : White-faced capuchin monkeys, Howler monkeys, Sloths, Iguanas, Coatis & colorful birds like toucans and scarlet macaws. Walk slowly, look up, and enjoy the soundtrack of the rainforest. Where to Stay Depending on the style of your trip, here are two excellent accommodation options to consider. If you want to be right next to the action, Millenium Manuel Antonio Park & Beach is just steps away from the national park entrance. The hotel is comfortable, welcoming, and incredibly convenient : ideal for travelers who want easy, direct access to Manuel Antonio’s trails and beaches. Check availability and current rates at Millenium Manuel Antonio Park & Beach. If you’re looking for a slower pace, head further down the coast to Uvita and stay at Tucan Hotel. The atmosphere there is relaxed and social, making it a perfect base for long-term or slow travelers. See rooms, traveler reviews and prices at Tucan Hotel Uvita.  From Uvita, you’ll be well-positioned to explore the surrounding area, including Dominical and the stunning Costa Ballena coastline. Getting There by Bus No car ? No problem. San José → Quepos : direct bus (several daily) Uvita → Manuel Antonio Park entrance : buses every hours Quepos → Manuel Antonio Park entrance : local shuttle every ~10 minutes Cheap, easy, reliable. Tips from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie Manuel Antonio is the perfect meeting point between accessible adventure and tropical beauty a place where time slows down, nature surrounds you, and every corner reveals something wild and wonderful. Book your tickets in advance, in the official WebSite or with a tour via GetYourGuide Go early (between 7:00 and 8:30 AM) → fewer crowds, more wildlife sightings. Hire a local guide: You’ll spot far more animals with the help of an experienced naturalist. No guide? No problem! Bring a pair of binoculars and casually hang out near the guided groups : you’ll still learn a ton just by listening in (but secretly). Don’t feed the animals: It’s harmful to them and strictly prohibited. A filter bottle is your best travel companion in Central America. (I use this one) Extra Tip : If you have a full week, consider basing yourself at Tucan Hotel in Uvita and exploring the coast at your own rhythm : Uvita → Dominical → Quepos → Manuel Antonio. If you’re planning your Costa Rica trip and need route ideas, accommodation suggestions, or help choosing where to base yourself along the Pacific coast, feel free to reach out or leave a comment below. Pura Vida! BISOUS

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Versailles Chateau

Visiting the Château de Versailles : A Royal Day Trip

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Just 45 minutes outside of Paris lies one of the most iconic palaces in the world : the Château de Versailles. Lavish, grand, and dripping with history, this UNESCO World Heritage site is more than just a quick stop : it’s a full-day experience that transports you straight into the heart of French royal history. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or just want to walk through the famous Hall of Mirrors, Versailles is an unmissable day trip from Paris. This article contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them (at no extra cost to you). I only recommend tours and experiences I personally trust and would use myself. What is the Château de Versailles ? Originally a humble hunting lodge, the Palace of Versailles was transformed by King Louis XIV into a symbol of absolute monarchy and French grandeur in the 17th century. For over a century, it served as the royal residence of France until the French Revolution. Today, it welcomes over 8 million visitors a year, offering a glimpse into royal life through: The Palace itself with over 2,300 rooms The Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces) The vast Gardens of Versailles, complete with fountains, sculptures & groves The peaceful Grand Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s Estate Should you book a tour ? Definitely yes. Versailles is massive and often crowded : having a guide (or at least booking an audioguide) makes a huge difference in your experience. I recommend booking in advance through GetYourGuide, they offer skip-the-line tickets, guided tours, and even full-day packages with transport from Paris. Whether you want a self-paced audio guide or a historian-led walking tour, you’ll find tons of flexible options with free cancellation. Tip : Download the official app before your visit for extra insights on-site. When to visit Versailles ? Best time: Spring (March–June) and Fall (Sept–Nov) for mild weather and fewer crowds Opening hours: Palace: 9 AM – 6:30 PM (closed Mondays) Musical Fountain Shows: Available on select days from April to October : worth it! Tip : Arrive early and visit the gardens first, especially during musical fountain days. Then head to the palace when crowds start to thin out around midday. What not to miss ? The Hall of Mirrors : The most famous room in the palace. Arrive early to enjoy it without huge crowds. The Royal Apartments : See how French kings and queens lived in luxury. The Gardens : Rent a bike or golf cart to explore! Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet : A charming escape from the grandeur, complete with a faux rustic village. The Grand & Petit Trianon : More peaceful, less crowded parts of the estate with stunning architecture. Tip : Don’t miss the Carriage Gallery, it’s free to visit and open on weekends and during the Christmas holidays! What to bring ? Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll walk a lot, I have the Salomon Speed Cross 3, I recommand 100%) Water bottle (refill stations available) Weather-appropriate clothing (lots of time outdoors) Camera or phone with storage : the views are incredible! How to get to Versailles from Paris ? RER C Train: Take the RER C from central Paris to Versailles Château – Rive Gauche (~45 mins). From there, it’s a 10/15 minute walk. Or, book a tour with transport included through GetYourGuide. ✨ A Tip from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨ The Château de Versailles is more than a tourist attraction : it’s an immersive journey through art, history, politics, and luxury. With a bit of planning (and the right ticket), you’ll experience one of France’s greatest national treasures with ease. Book your visit, skip the lines, and walk in the footsteps of royalty : ALL in a day. Click here to browse guided tours, tickets & packages on GetYourGuide BONUS : Admission is free for residents of the EU under 26 years old (student ID required), though the audioguide costs €4.And the palace is also free for everyone on the first Sundays from November to March, but make sure to reserve your ticket in advance on the official website. BISOU

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