So you’re wondering how to pack light, eh?
I get it. Because I’ve been there, staring at my overpacked bag and wondering how the hell I’m ever going to lug that around my whole trip and not end up with some kind of permanent injury.
But I’ve learned from my mistakes, and today I’m here to show you how you can, too.
Over the past few years of travel – solo travel and not-so-solo travel – I’ve perfected the art of packing light and I’m now ready to share my top tips with you.
I’ll make sure that you can spend more of your precious vacation time enjoying yourself and less time worrying about how heavy your bag is.
Before we go any further, you might want to download this light packing guide in PDF form. Enter your information in the form below and you’ll get it sent straight to your inbox, so you can consult it at any time.
There’s a few reasons why you need to know how to pack light.
Here are the most important ones:
Good.
Now that you know why packing light is so important, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty stuff. How do I keep myself from overpacking?
Before I teach you how to avoid overpacking, why don’t we take a look at this?
I think we can all agree that one of the most basic rules of packing light is to bring only the essentials. This inevitably begs the question: What is essential and what is not?
The truth is, this depends on the type of trip you’re taking, your destination and a lot of other factors.
One of my favourite light packing tips is this: If you’re trying to pack light, you need to know that there are some things you should never pack:
If you’re still asking yourself ‘Okay, but how do I pack light?‘, worry no more.
Here are some simple tips to make packing like a minimalist easier than ever before.
When your bag is smaller than what you’re used to, you’ll be forced to pack less clutter. After all, you have less space to store everything in.
Start by figuring out which bag you’re going to use and then lay out everything you need to fit inside.
Everything that cannot fit in the bag – so, basically anything that is not essential – stays home.
Usually, you already know more or less what you’ll be doing on your trip before you leave home because you did some research. This makes it very easy to coordinate your baggage and outfits based on that outline.
Related: Planning a solo trip: solo travel 101
If you’re going to the beaches in Bali, you won’t need a bulky winter jacket. And if you’re planning a road trip through Belgian cities, chances are your bikini won’t come in useful.
You don’t need to pack your entire wardrobe for a one-week trip.
You know which items I’m talking about. ‘I’d better take my trainers, just in case I feel like going to the gym.‘
If you know you’re not a gym person, you don’t need to take your trainers.
This is just one example, but there are plenty of things you don’t need abroad.
Go through every item you laid out in front of you and ask yourself if you’ll use it wherever you’re going. If you won’t, don’t take it. There’s always a solution to whatever problem the ‘just-in-case’ items solve.
If you’re travelling by plane, you need to make sure you can still lift your cabin baggage to the overhead storage, so as to not make a fool of yourself.
One way to make your bags lighter is to wear your bulkiest clothes on travel days. Thick sweaters, heavy shoes and jackets are often the culprits.
You can take these items off once you get past security at the airport, so you won’t have to sweat through your entire long-haul flight either.
Besides the fact that many airlines won’t allow any containers that contain more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) of liquids in your cabin baggage, these containers are – unsurprisingly – heavier than their travel-sized counterparts.
Unless you’re planning a six-month round-the-world trip, you won’t need a large bottle of shampoo. And even then, it’s better to take travel-sized bottles and buy new ones at convenience stores abroad.
If possible, take travel-sized bottles of shampoo, shower gel and other liquids. Many toiletries also have a solid alternative, so do some research to find out what best fits your needs.
It may go against your common sense, but the best way to avoid wrinkling clothes is to roll them up. This way, you will have no worries about looking good on holiday and you won’t have to spend your precious time off looking for an iron.
Bonus: you’ll save space in your suitcase, which in turn leads to – you guessed it – lighter baggage.
I can practically hear you thinking it: ‘You’re really talking about clothes again?‘
Well, yes.
Clothes are usually the things that take up the most space in your baggage. And that’s exactly why it’s important to be aware of which clothes you’re bringing.
Let me tell you: You don’t need four pairs of shoes for a two-week holiday.
What you could do is wear one pair of shoes on your travel days and take one extra pair in your suitcase. This way, you have two pairs of shoes that you can mix and match with your other clothes, to make sure that you always look good and feel confident in your looks.
It’s not a secret that some destinations require you to pack more than others.
For example, summer destinations will not have you lugging around thick jackets and awkwardly sized hiking boots.
With that in mind, you need to pay attention to your destination when you’re planning a trip because it will have a big impact on the size and weight of your baggage.
There are some aspects of your clothing you have to consider when you’re trying to pack light.
Before you head off to the airport, go over this checklist for each article of clothing and make sure that it checks at least 3 items:
Not only will a packing list help you pack what you need, but it also takes the stress off packing, knowing that you’re not forgetting any essentials.
There are plenty of packing lists for specific destinations on the internet. Just go to your favourite search engine and type ‘[Your destination] packing list’.
If you think you might need a packing list for your first solo trip, I’ve got you covered. Just enter your information in the form below and it will be in your inbox before you can say ‘Dude, where’s the packing list you promised me?’.
Every expert traveller has a different way to organise their baggage. Some people swear by packing cubes or compression bags, others use rubber bands or plastic bags.
Through some trial-and-error, you can find your method of organisation. Whichever method you prefer, stick to it and make it your own.
You can save a lot of space in your suitcase by rolling up your underwear around your socks and stuffing them into your shoes.
There shouldn’t be one pair of shoes in your bag that does not have socks and/or underwear inside.
Once you run out of shoes to fill, start stuffing underwear and socks in trouser pockets or rolling them inside your shirts.
If you’re not a seasoned traveller, chances are that some of your stuff could use an upgrade – especially if you’re trying to pack light.
Check these things to see if you can find a more lightweight version:
Admittedly, the lightweight version of these items of clothing will probably be more expensive. But the lifetime value you get out of them will also be much larger.
These days, we can carry entire libraries’ worth of books into lightweight e-readers, or even into our phones.
You’re probably taking your smartphone with you either way, so why not use it as a music player, camera, podcast library, newspaper, weather predictor, contact directory and credit card as well?
Related: The 20 best free apps for solo travellers
There. Now that you’ve read my light packing guide, you know exactly what to do to pack like a minimalist.
Do you have any more light packing tips or tricks? Did I miss anything? Be sure to let me know in a comment down below!
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To preface this entire article, I’ll just say this: there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question ‘Should I visit Dublin or Edinburgh?’. Every traveller is different and wants different things when travelling, so I can’t choose between Edinburgh and Dublin for you. What I can do, however, is list some pros and cons for both and help you come to your own conclusion.
It’s always tough to figure out where you’re travelling to next and to create your travel itinerary, but I am here to help.
Skip ahead to specific sections using the links below:
For starters, check out my dedicated guides to solo travel in Edinburgh and Dublin.
Now, let’s actually compare the two cities in terms of solo travel friendliness.
Dublin was the very first city I ever travelled to by myself, so I have a special relationship with it.
Now, the thing is, I’m not sure if I like solo travel in Dublin because it was my first solo experience or if it’s actually a great city to visit, but I would definitely recommend it.
As for Edinburgh, it’s quickly become one of my favourite cities in the UK — and you should know, I REALLY loved Brighton and London.
There are plenty of things to do, the atmosphere is great and you’ll feel like you went back in time.
The winner: Edinburgh. I feel like the sheer atmosphere in the city is enough to trump Dublin as the best city to travel to by yourself, even though I have more special memories in the Irish capital.
Edinburgh and Dublin are similar in size, and they both have plenty of things to do for travellers. Here’s a quick overview of the most important tourist attractions in both cities.
Dublin:
Edinburgh:
The winner: Dublin. I feel like you could spend more time in Dublin without getting bored, even though Edinburgh is a close second in this category.
In general, architecture in Dublin is nothing impressive. The city’s skyline is rather flat compared to bigger cities in Europe, like London and Rome. That being said, there are some very impressive buildings in Dublin, like Dublin Castle, The Custom House and the Guinness Storehouse.
By contrast, Edinburgh architecture is more reminiscent of its history. By the very ground the city was built on, there are more differences in height than in Dublin. This results in higher, more impressive buildings, although these buildings tend to be less diverse than in the Irish capital.
The winner: Depends. If you’re into history, Edinburgh wins. But if you’re into modern architecture, I’d say that Dublin takes the cake in this category.
Some traditional food you have to try in Dublin:
And then, traditional food in Edinburgh:
The winner: Personal preference. This really comes down to what kind of food you prefer to eat, but I’m personally more inclined to choose Edinburgh.
Nightlife in Dublin is fantastic. The legal drinking age is 18 and many bars, pubs and clubs are sprawled around the city, with a dense concentration in the Temple Bar district.
The bad news, however, is that many clubs in Dublin have a cover charge, often ranging between €15 and €20.
Just because Edinburgh is a city steeped in history, doesn’t mean that there’s nothing else to experience there. There are many nightlife areas in Edinburgh to keep you drinking, singing and dancing until the early hours, including the Royal Mile, Grassmarket and the West End.
The winner: It’s a tie. Again, it really depends on what you’re after.
It must be said: both cities have incredibly friendly locals.
When I was in Dublin, I found that the Irish were more than willing to help out a solo traveller who was struggling to figure something out. Hostel and restaurant staff was also very friendly and helpful.
In Edinburgh, the locals’ willingness to help was very similar. It doesn’t feel weird to walk up to someone in Edinburgh and ask them a question, even if you’ve never met them before.
The winner: Dublin. When I was in Dublin, I never felt like I was strange for being there, which I have felt in other cities.
The whole Dublin vs. Edinburgh debate on pricing is really easy: Edinburgh is cheaper.
Since the average salary in Dublin is higher than in Edinburgh, it stands to reason that many aspects of life are more expensive there.
And that counts for things like housing and electricity, but also for things that affect travellers, like public transport and restaurants.
The winner: Edinburgh.
If you go back through this comparison, you’ll see that Dublin and Edinburgh both got the same number of points.
So, I guess it all comes down to what you’re looking for in your destination.
Do you want a vibrant city with friendly locals, energetic nightlife and plenty of things to do? Go to Dublin.
Are you looking for a weekend away at a city where history and present come together, where accommodation is more affordable and where breathtaking nature is just a stone’s throw away? Head to Edinburgh.
In the end, I can’t decide between Dublin and Edinburgh for you, but I can help you figure it out yourself.
Have you ever been to Edinburgh or Dublin? Did I miss anything or do you disagree with anything? Let me know in the comments.
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Belgium is a country that is often skipped or used as a stop between other major European cities, such as Paris and Amsterdam. I’m here to convince you that cities in Belgium are worth visiting, too.
Belgium has so much to offer, so it would be a shame to ignore its existence when building a European travel itinerary. We have it all: food that makes your mouth water, beers that have been brewed since the Middle Ages, ancient castles and cobbled streets in medieval cities.
Still wondering why this country is worth exploring? Let me go over some of my favourite cities in Belgium and convince you too.
Skip ahead with these links:
How could I start an article about the best Belgian cities and not mention the big B?
Brussels is Belgium’s capital, and if there’s one Belgian city travellers flock to by the thousands, it’s this one.
And there are some good reasons to add Brussels to your Belgian itinerary. Stunning Art Nouveau architecture, impressive museums and a groovy jazz scene are just a few of the things that might convince you.
Among locals, Ghent is mostly known as one of the major student cities in Belgium. But it’s actually much more than that.
Ghent is vibrant, quirky and welcoming to foreigners. It’s budget-friendly, eco-friendly and child-friendly. Ghent spans the bridge between historical and contemporary, and it does that better than any other city I’ve been to.
And no, I’m not overselling the city. I love Ghent with all my heart, and I would recommend it to everyone who hasn’t been to Belgium yet. (And even to people who have visited Belgium in the past!)
Read more: Ghent City Guide, As Told By A Local
As Belgium’s second-biggest city, Antwerp is still too often overlooked by travellers. And that’s a pity.
Antwerp is, beyond a shadow of a doubt, the Belgian capital of cool. The city is filled to the brim with trendy clubs, unique restaurants, authentic vinyl record shops, interesting museums, and more.
As if that wasn’t enough, strolling through Antwerp is also a treat for architecture lovers. The central station is one of the world’s most revered railway stations and the gems of Art Nouveau, Jugendstil and Neo-Classicism can be found all over the city centre.
Oh, and did I mention that Antwerp is the diamond capital of the world?
Read more: Best Restaurants in Antwerp: The Ultimate Foodie Guide
Another city that is often overlooked by people from outside of Belgium, and even by people who were born here.
Admittedly, there won’t be as many things to do in Charleroi as in other Belgian cities, such as Bruges and Ghent, but what the city lacks in activities, it more than makes up for in character and history.
If you want to venture even further off the beaten path, go for a walk along the city’s canal and discover Charleroi’s history through its (often abandoned) industrial buildings.
Although it is considered one of Belgium’s major cities, you might have never even heard of it if you’re not from around here.
So, when you’re wondering which cities to visit in Belgium, you probably weren’t considering Liège. But you should be.
Liège (or Luik in Dutch) is one of the cultural hotspots of Belgium. There’s a great opera building, a critically acclaimed philharmonic orchestra and countless events highlighting photography, poetry, music and other art forms.
This city is the place to be to discover how different cultures have influenced major Belgian cities in an authentic setting, without thousands of tourists around you.
Just because Durbuy is the smallest city in the world doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit. On the contrary: if you explore Durbuy, you’ll find yourself wandering along an inviting labyrinth of winding cobbled streets that will transport you back in time a few hundred years.
As the city is located in the forest of Belgium’s French-speaking region, Wallonia, there are plenty of adventurous activities to try out in and around Durbuy.
Mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, caving, … If you can dream it, you can probably do it in Durbuy.
Even if you didn’t know this was a town in the Belgian Ardenne region, Spa is definitely a word you’re familiar with.
The world’s original spa resort could be found here. It was so popular that Spa became the generic term in English used to describe hydrotherapy.
But Spa is more than a glorified wellness town. Just outside the city centre, you can take a walk in nature reserves, you can go open-air karting and you can visit the oldest casino in Europe.
There’s so much to say about Leuven that I already know I’m going to struggle fitting it all in this small text, but I’ll try.
Leuven is one of Belgium’s main university cities. But it’s much more than that: Leuven has a medieval history, fascinating landmarks, a unique atmosphere and many places that are listed as UNESCO World Heritage.
Delve into the city’s student culture by having a beer at the Oude Markt, drinking coffee and eating biscuits at the university hall and visiting the historic university library and tower.
They don’t just go around calling any city the Venice of the North. It’s a nickname that has to be earned. And I’ll be damned if Bruges hasn’t earned it.
The city centre is mostly characterised by its picturesque canals and historically accurate building façades. Cobblestone bridges and streets complete the dreamy picture. The atmosphere you feel when walking around here is truly unmatched, even far beyond Belgium’s borders.
Don’t be discouraged by the small size of Bruges: most, if not all, of the people who visited the city before you will recommend it.
Looking for a specific Bruges travel guide? Check out the linked article over at Pink Luggage Abroad.
In Flanders Fields the poppies blow… And in Ypres you can learn all about that.
Ypres is arguably one of the most significant cities in Belgium in the context of the First World War, and much of the city’s tourism efforts still refer to that. For example, the Last Post is still sounded at the Menin Gate at 8 pm to remember the fallen soldiers of the British Empire and its allies.
Before you attend this daily act of homage, though, you can do several things in Ypres. Learn about the Great War at In Flanders Fields museum and the Yper museum, have a bite to eat at Les Halles, coffee at Mimi’s and take a walk along the ramparts.
Tongeren is truly one of Belgium’s best hidden gems for history buffs. As the oldest city in Belgium, founded by the Romans themselves in 15 B.C., it’s got plenty of interesting history for you to discover.
Head over to the city’s most prized museum, the Gallo-Roman museum, to learn about human life in Tongeren, from the prehistory to the Roman period.
Alternatively, head to nature reserve De Kevie just outside the city to really disconnect and take a walk without being bothered by anyone or anything.
After that, head to the Basilica of Our Lady to admire one of the largest collections of religious art in and around Belgium at Teseum.
Finish your day at one of Tongeren’s many restaurants, where you can sample local culinary delight.
Although it’s the capital city of Belgium’s southern and French-speaking region, Wallonia, Namur is yet to break through to the big audiences.
Founded as a trading settlement in Celtic times, Namur went through a period under Roman rule, until it gained recognition when the Merovingians built a citadel overlooking the city. If you didn’t know any better, you might think this was the castle on the hill Ed Sheeran was singing about.
Namur also has a number of heritage sites of military, architectural and religious significance. Some examples include the Citadel, the forts, the Belfry and the Cathedral of St.-Aubain.
Aalst is a city that’s world-famous in Belgium, but not so much outside of this small country.
Aalst is the city of onions (yes, that’s a good thing, at least if you ask the locals) and it’s also the city of the biggest — and most notorious — carnival celebration in Belgium.
When you’re here, you won’t see many other foreigners strolling through the city, unless you visit during Aalst Carnaval. Things tend to get a little crazier during this one weekend in February.
Don’t say I didn’t warn you!
At a train ride of just over one hour from Brussels and with a population of 77 thousand, Hasselt is like the younger brother of many Belgian cities.
Cultural and culinary hotspots are sprawled all along the city centre, and you can even learn about fashion and jenever (gin’s less famous predecessor) in dedicated museums.
If that’s not your thing, be sure to head to the largest authentic Japanese gardens in Europe, which are world-famous – at least in Belgium.
Kortrijk is the perfect day trip from any of the major cities in Belgium (Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent and Bruges). It only takes about an hour to get there from Brussels, and there are plenty of things to do, visit, see and eat.
One of the most impressive hidden gems in Kortrijk is Baggaertshof. Founded in 1638 by three sisters, Baggaertshof comprises an inner courtyard, twelve small houses and a gatehouse for poor widows and unmarried women. Today, this is a protected monument and it is often referred to as the ‘second beguinage of Kortrijk’.
For lunch or dinner, Kortrijk has a large variety of restaurants, bistros and eateries. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian burger, an organic dish or just a good old steak, this city has got you covered.
Located in Belgium’s southern, French-speaking region, Dinant is a city that is packed with history due to its strategic location on the Meuse river. Even today, fortresses, old buildings and a citadel act as reminders of the city’s often bloody history.
Speaking of the Meuse river, take a walk along its banks and you’ll be reminded of the colourful houses in Danish harbours, but slightly more European. (Does that even make sense?)
And, of course, it wouldn’t be a Belgian city if there wasn’t a museum dedicated to one of our national vices: beer. Visit Maison Leffe to find out more about the story behind one of Belgium’s most famous and widespread trappist beers.
Last, but definitely not least, Dinant is the perfect base to discover Belgium’s greenest, most adventurous region: the Ardennes.
Ah, Mechelen. Granted, I may be a bit biased in suggesting this city because I study here, but still. It’s less than half an hour away from Brussels, and it’s packed with things to do.
Start by climbing St. Rumbold’s Tower‘s 538 steps to get the best 360° bird’s eye view of the city. Next, try my personal favourite beer, Gouden Carolus Tripel, at Het Anker brewery. Don’t miss a visit to the Dossin Barracks, which were used as a waiting room for death for more than 25,000 Jews and gypsies during the Second World War.
Finish your visit to Mechelen at the Vismarkt – Fish Market, in English – to blend in with the locals and find Mechelen’s trendiest places to eat, drink and dance until the early hours.
Oostende is known colloquially as the queen of the Belgian seaside cities, and that’s not an accident. It’s definitely the liveliest city along the Belgian coast, and it’s located right in the centre.
The city centre has historic roots that go back to the middle ages, but today, it is modern and eccentric. There is a huge street art walk through the whole city, and more locations are added each year. There are plenty of other themed walks, so there is definitely something for everyone.
If you’re into art, you may also want to check out the renewed James Ensor House – the house where painter James Ensor worked and lived, preserved in its original state.
When it’s time to grab a bite, try Histoires d’O‘s home made shrimp croquettes, head to Moose for a fantastic Scandinavian-themed lunch or try one of Café Botteltje‘s sixteen tap beers.
When you go to De Haan, you’re really there to relax. Since there’s not that much to do here, you might as well disconnect, put your phones away and enjoy each other’s company.
Go for a walk on the beach, rent a bike and discover your surroundings with your loved ones. Head to Aan Tafel or B.A.Z. for dinner, and count on your own B&B for a fabulous breakfast the next day.
Nieuwpoort (or New Port, as it might be translated to English) is one of my favourite coastal cities in Belgium. And, the funny thing is, I can’t really seem to explain why.
It’s just a vibe I get when I visit this city. It’s urban, but quiet. History is all around you, but the city still feels modern. I guess it’s just something you have to experience to understand what I’m talking about.
Either way, when you’re here, check out the fish auction and Jan Fabre’s giant golden turtle (yes, really!) called Searching for Utopia, and go shopping at the main shopping street.
If, after reading this, you’re still wondering which cities in Belgium are worth a visit, I don’t know what to tell you.
If, however, I have been able to spark your interest in Belgian cities, be sure to let me know! Tweet at me, leave a comment down below or send me a message.
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As Belgium’s third biggest city and one of its most important student hubs, Ghent is a great city to get a feel for Belgian culture without the crowds of Brussels and Bruges. And even if you’ve never heard of Ghent, no worries. This article will tell you everything you need to know. This is the ultimate Ghent city guide, as told by a local.
I lived in Ghent (or Gent, as it’s spelled in Dutch) between 2015 and 2019 as a student at Ghent University, and I still frequently visit.
This means that I can write a full Ghent city guide that shows you everything the guidebooks don’t mention and everything most tourists pass over.
There’s a good reason why The Guardian called Ghent a ‘sensory overload‘ that is just as beautiful as Bruges, without all the crowds.
Still not sure? Check out this video by Visit Gent to figure out what Ghent is all about and why so few travellers have explored it.
Without any further ado, here’s my Ghent city guide, as told by a local.
Skip ahead: Where to eat and drink in Ghent
Here are some interesting free things to do to add to your Ghent itinerary.
What is usually a quaint city square, home to the Belgian phenomenon of the Ghent Festivities, turns into a lively flea market every weekend.
On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Bij Sint-Jacobs is the place to be for art collectors and trinket hunters. This flea market is so ingrained in the city’s cultural identity that local vintage shops and antiques galleries moved to this neighbourhood.
Ghent wouldn’t be Ghent without its historic buildings and rich culture. It’s like Bruges, but better.
Anyway, one of the things you can’t miss in Ghent is the Old St. Elizabeth Beguinage. Known as the tolerant ‘holy corner’ of the city, this beguinage houses three official places of worship: a Roman Catholic church, a Protestant church and an Orthodox church.
The open beguinage has been added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage.
These two ancient quays, that have been in use since the 11th century, have truly become the heart of the city centre — at least, for students and other locals on a warm summer afternoon.
Beautiful historic buildings are mirrored in the river Lys, which will transport you back in time about 500 years.
Don’t be shy: go to a nearby supermarket, buy some drinks and plop down here to enjoy the scenery during your picnic.
For the full tourist experience, don’t miss a boat ride on the river for another perspective on this extraordinary area.
St. Peter’s Abbey is more than just a pretty building at the main square. Behind its façade, you’ll find a pleasant garden where you’ll feel like you’re walking through a vineyard in the south of France.
Truly one of the most interesting hidden gems in Ghent, the inner garden is a reconstruction based on historical examples, meaning this is actually what the garden looked like all this time ago.
If you want a place to enjoy a picnic with your loved ones in the blissful shadow of luscious trees, look no further.
Skip ahead: Ghent nightlife guide
It’s hard to pick just a few good restaurants and bars in a city like this, but for the sake of this Ghent city guide, I had to do it.
These are some of my favourites places to eat and drink in Ghent.
An authentic beer café in one of Ghent’s most vibrant neighbourhoods that offers visitors over 300 Belgian and foreign specialty beers, both on tap and bottled. Don’t be alarmed: the inside of this bar is much larger than it appears to be from outside.
Ask any local where you should go to try our world-famous beer, and most — if not all — of them will tell you to go here.
Madam Bakster is the place to be for healthy, guilt-free coffee and cake. Every dessert you can order here is vegan-friendly, lactose-free and refined sugar-free.
Other than coming in and drinking coffee, you can also take away healthy granola, energy bars, muffins, popcorn, and more.
Admittedly, Hot Club might sound a bit too promiscuous for your cultural city trip to Ghent. I promise, it’s not what it sounds like.
Hot Club is one of Ghent’s most authentic jazz bars. It’s small, tucked away behind a cobbled alley, and a great place to have a drink and enjoy live jazz performances.
This is truly one of the city’s most gezellig locations.
(Dutch-speaking readers: let me know if you can come up with a better translation for gezellig than ‘cosy’!)
Don’t let the basic concept of healthy, gluten-free and vegan food fool you: at Le Botaniste, you’ll get affordable, colourful dishes with rich flavours to your heart’s content.
Le Botaniste is a great place to have a quick, healthy lunch in the city centre, even for non-vegan people.
As a student who spent four years in this city, I couldn’t, in good conscience, write a Ghent city guide without mentioning this restaurant.
Eggs play first fiddle in almost all dishes served at Luv L’Oeuf. This restaurant is great for breakfast, brunch or lunch dates.
You definitely get what you pay for, and you might not even be able to finish your portion.
Keep in mind that this is a cash-free restaurant, so don’t forget to bring your credit card.
Feeling adventurous? Why not head to Aywa Beirut Streetfood and share some delicious, fresh Lebanese dishes with your friends?
Its central location and affordable cuisine make Aywa the perfect restaurant for travellers looking to cut down on their food budget.
The whole vibe inside the restaurant is very Mediterranean and the staff is really helpful, especially when you don’t really know what you’re getting into.
Skip ahead: Most Insta-worthy locations in Ghent
While Ghent may seem like the small brother of nearby major cities like Antwerp and Brussels, its nightlife is in no way inferior, thanks to its vibrant student population.
And, hey, what’s a Ghent city guide without talking about nightlife?
Most major clubs in Ghent are concentrated in or around this street. If you want to dance the night away to funky beats or sing along to the newest pop jams until dawn, Overpoort is your best bet.
Keep in mind that, since this street has so many clubs, it can get crowded with partying students, especially on Thursday night.
Don’t forget to grab a post-dance snack at one of the many well-established restaurants around. I highly recommend going to Stefano’s Place and ordering a julientje. It might not look appealing at all, but it tastes amazing after — or during — a night out.
For students, the main alternative to the always busy Overpoort is Vlasmarkt. This square is home to many alternative dance pubs and cafés.
The most esteemed café here is Charlatan, a popular venue that often hosts live events. The three different rooms become the decor for standup comedy, live gigs and DJ sessions on a nearly nightly basis.
The Ghent Festivities (Gentse Feesten in Dutch) are a ten-day cultural summer festival throughout Ghent’s city centre. The festival includes free music on 10 squares, street performers, indoor and outdoor activities, and late-night parties.
Thanks to its tradition of over 170 years, the Ghent Festivities have become something to look forward to for people from Ghent (and, admittedly, from all over Belgium).
There is also a one-month winter version of the festival in December, which includes a Christmas market, an ice rink, a ferris wheel and many bars and food trucks.
To be completely honest, Polé Polé is a part of the Ghent Festivities I just described. However, I believe it’s worth a separate entry.
It’s like a party within a party. And, believe me, these people know how to throw a party.
Polé Polé brings the hottest latin and afro beats to the historic city centre of Ghent, with a dance floor suspended over the river Lys.
Skip ahead: Where to shop in Ghent
Nowadays, it’s safe to say that a whole lot of people enjoy sharing their holiday snapshots on social media. And hey, I’m not here to judge. In fact, I’m here to help you find the best Insta-worthy places in Ghent.
I did a similar thing a few months ago: Instagrammable locations in Lyon, France
Just so you know: the ‘How to get there’ part for these locations mainly uses public transport (trams and buses) and starts at Ghent’s main railway station: Gent-Sint-Pieters.
If you thought Bruges took you back to the Middle Ages, wait until you step foot in Patershol.
With spectacular views all around you, this bridge is the perfect spot for a romantic selfie with your significant other.
While graffiti is officially prohibited in Ghent, the authorities turn a blind eye for artists in this particular street. As the canvas changes every day, you’re sure to find some great Insta-worthy shots here.
If you were still looking for a backdrop for your #summerloving shots, look no further. Graslei & Korenlei have attracted locals and travellers alike for years.
This district, that mainly functions as students’ residential quarters by day, transforms to an idyllic site by night.
Skip ahead: Ghent city guide PDF
Let me preface this part by saying this: I’m not a big shopper.
That being said, I compiled this list of stores in Ghent based on recommendations from friends and some stores that I personally enjoy shopping at. (Yes, even with my limited experience!)
Start by watching this short video by Visit Gent about the shopping experience in Ghent.
Think Twice is a vintage / second-hand store with two locations in Ghent. It’s one of the leading sustainable fashion brands in Belgium.
Fun fact: the entire collection at Think Twice is renewed every 5 weeks and the organisation behind this brand also gives back to the community.
Originally founded in 2010 by a small group of creatives, & Other Stories quickly grew out to be the recognisable clothing and beauty brand it is today.
The collections are designed in local ateliers in Paris, Stockholm and Los Angeles.
Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your coffee table or a funny booklet for the bathroom, The Other Shop is where you’ll find it.
The Other Shop is a charming book and gift shop in Ghent’s city centre, specialising in cookbooks, photo books and other interior accessories.
Want to pimp your interior design or give somebody a thoughtful present? PIET Moodshop has got you covered.
Fun fact: the people behind this gift store also provide useful design advice by phone or email.
MOVIES is a clothing store for men and women in Ghent’s vibrant student district. Whatever piece of clothing you’re looking for, chances are you’ll find it here.
I promised you a downloadable PDF of my Ghent city guide, and I wasn’t lying.
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Travel budgeting should be a big part of travel planning. That’s no less true for solo travellers. This is your guide to solo travel budgeting in 2020.
The fact that you’re reading this article indicates that you’re trying to do one of two things:
Now, first of all, I must congratulate you on your decision to actually click a link called ‘Budgeting for solo travel’.
Whether you’re in the first category of people or the second, there are a few things that this article will teach you.
Keep reading to find out what those things are.
Quick note: if you’re not convinced about the whole appeal of solo travel yet, allow me to reel you in.
(Click the links below to jump to the part you’re most interested in!)
Jump to the next part: Actually planning your solo trip
It’s no secret that your budget will be largely shaped by your travel destination.
Now, you need to keep this in mind when choosing where you’re going to go.
In general, you should consider the following regions and their prices:
(Thanks to Kristin from Be My Travel Muse for these stats!)
So, unless you’re from Australia or New Zealand (sorry!), you should have some very affordable destinations relatively nearby.
People from America can go to Central American countries like Guatemala, Honduras or El Salvador; people from Europe can visit Eastern European countries like Croatia and Slovenia; Asian people can head to South East Asian backpacker paradise in countries like Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia.
I’ve also compiled a list of solo travel destinations to visit in 2020. You’ll find some cheap countries on this list, too.
Are you going to Europe? Then you might want to take a look at the best solo travel destinations in Europe.
If you don’t have a specific destination in mind for your next solo trip, use tools like Adioso, flymeanywhere.com and Skyscanner‘s ‘Everywhere’ function. Be sure to sign up for price alert emails to find great deals!
Jump to the next part: How to budget for solo travel
Once you’ve figured out where you want to go, it’s time to start planning your solo trip.
As opposed to going on an organised group tour, you’ll have to do most of the planning yourself when you’re travelling solo.
You can decide many things that will have a big impact on your budget before you even set foot in your destination.
The biggest costs in solo travel — as in any other kind of travel — are the following:
This might be a good time to remind you that I’ve written separate articles for three of these categories — just click the links above to read them — and I’ve also written a free ebook on how to travel solo on a budget.
That being said, there’s no reason you should wait until your trip to start saving money.
You can pick out a decent hostel with cheap dorm rooms if you start looking a bit in advance.
You can check flight aggregator websites to find cheap flights if you book at the right time (3 to 4 months in advance for international travel, according to Airhelp).
And you could even do some research to find budget restaurants near your accommodation. Alternatively, you could book a hostel that has a kitchen available and look into nearby grocery stores or farmers’ markets to buy your groceries.
Many major cities also have some kind of city pass available, where you pay a flat fee for the pass and get free access to many different attractions and discounts in shops and restaurants. With some careful planning, this might also be an option worth looking into.
Example: the Edinburgh City Pass is great when you’re visiting Edinburgh.
Jump to the next part: Saving money as a solo traveller
Now comes the part where you actually have to make a budget for your solo trip.
A great way to start solo travel budgeting is to track your expenses for a few weeks. Use a budget planning app like Spendee to see where your money goes on a daily basis and go from there. (Here’s a list of my favourite free solo travel apps to use in 2020!) Ideally, you’d be able to track your expenses when you’re actually travelling solo, but doing it at home will also give you a decent indication.
This should give you a good idea of which categories you usually spend the most money on. Looking at your past expenses is a great way to identify unhealthy spending behaviour.
Next, use online tools like forums and blogs (hello!) to get an idea of how much you should budget for accommodation, transport, food and entertainment at your specific destination.
Look for things like ‘Destination X city trip budget breakdown’, ‘Destination X itinerary’ and ‘How much does it cost to travel to Destination X‘. But – obviously – insert your actual destination instead of typing Destination X.
A useful website to find average prices and budgets for solo travel is budgetyourtrip.com. Just enter the destination you’re interested in and you’ll get an overview of the average costs for accommodation, food, transport, and many other things.
So, you see, solo travel budgeting is not as tough as you might have thought.
Quick reminder: I wrote a whole ebook about saving money as a solo traveller. (It’s free!)
If you don’t feel like reading a whole book, let me give you the gist here.
You can save a lot of money by budgeting your solo trip when you’re in the planning stage. Besides the obvious tips, like ‘sleep in hostel dorm rooms’ and ‘don’t eat out for every meal’, here’s some more obscure ways to spend less money as a solo traveller.
Easier than you thought it would be, right?
The truth is, solo travel budgeting is something that everybody can do with just a little bit of preparation.
And that little bit of time that you invest in the planning stage will save you a substantial amount of money down the road.
Give yourself a pat on the back. You deserve it.
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