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Kayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!
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  • Kayla Heybourn

Kayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!

Our adventure of a lifetime begins! 5 thrilling months of tripping our way through UK and Europe. Follow along as we explore century old cities and enjoy sunsets over the Greek Islands. We can’t wait to share this journey with you! Read more
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    🇵🇹 Porto, Portugal
    Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    A day trip to Aveiro

    5 hours ago in Portugal ⋅ ☁️ 9 °C

    Today we took a little break from Porto and did a day trip out to Aveiro. I’d seen so many TikToks calling it the “Venice of Portugal,” so of course we had to go see what all the fuss was about. Even though it was much colder today than it has been lately, we were still excited to check out another small town.

    The morning started with us catching a tram from our accommodation to the main train station in Porto, then boarding a bigger train for the one hour ride to Aveiro. Once we arrived, we didn’t have any plan at all we just headed off in the direction that felt right.

    Aveiro itself is really pretty. The town is full of soft, pastel coloured buildings with tiled facades, open streets, and these gentle little canals cutting through the centre. It feels relaxed and colourful, and you can immediately see why people compare it to Venice, even if it’s a much smaller, quieter version.

    It didn’t take long before we came across our first canal. Just as we reached the bridge, a gondola style boat drifted underneath us, perfectly timed like it was waiting for us to arrive. We crossed the bridge and walked along the water for a while before ending up at a small shopping centre. We wandered through a few shops and then kept going until we reached the main canal area.

    The streets there were beautiful with bright boats, cute little shops, and the main canal lined with people taking photos and hopping on rides. We walked around for a bit, enjoying the scenery, until we realised it was lunchtime. We found a cool, vibey cafe/restaurant and decided to stop there. I got (of course) another acai bowl, and Jayde ordered a pizza.

    After lunch we explored a little more, but eventually decided it was time to head back. Lucky for us, when we arrived at the station there was a train to Porto that had been delayed perfect timing again!!!!! So we hopped on. Otherwise, we would’ve been stuck waiting another hour.

    Back in Porto, we did one last wander through the shops and finally found a postcard to add to the collection. Then we walked the hour back home and got in just after 5pm. We chilled for a bit before making dinner a delicious spaghetti bolognese.

    Our night wrapped up the usual way showers, a cup of tea and climbing into bed to watch a movie. Tonight’s pick was Night at the Museum.

    But lying there watching it, I felt a strange mix of emotions knowing that the end of our trip is near. It’s that heavy, sad but excited, unsettled feeling where you’re grateful and sad all at once. Tomorrow we head back to the UK for two nights, and then we’re off to our final country of this whole adventure… which barely feels real. For months we’ve been hopping between new places, new foods, new trains, new cities living in this rhythm that became our “normal.” And now suddenly it’s almost over.

    We honestly can’t believe that five months of travelling have passed so quickly. It feels like yesterday we were packing our bags at home, nervous and excited and not really knowing what the next 150 days would look like. And now here we are, on our last night in Europe, reflecting on everything we’ve seen and done every early morning, every late night arrival, every language barrier, every perfect moment. It’s bittersweet in the truest sense our hearts feel so full with all of the amazing memories we have made but also a little heavy knowing this chapter is nearly closed but also excited to see our families and friends again. Tomorrow begins the final stretch of this wild journey, and we’re trying to soak up every last second.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Another golden day in Porto!

    November 27 in Portugal ⋅ 🌙 9 °C

    We woke up to yet another absolutely stunning day in Porto. Honestly, the weather over the last five months has spoiled us with maybe three or four days of light drizzle total, and that’s it! With sunshine pouring in again, we had a slow, easy morning before finally heading out the door.

    Our first destination was the beach, about a 45 minute walk away. The morning sun made the whole stroll feel dreamy, and before long the narrow city streets opened up to a wide stretch of gorgeous coastline. People were out everywhere walking dogs, jogging, grabbing morning coffees and we joined the flow, wandering along the water’s edge.

    Eventually we reached the big lighthouse pier, so we walked out along it, pausing often to watch the many fishermen patiently working their lines. At the end of the pier we simply stood for a while, just watching the ocean and soaking in the view. It was such a small, perfect moment.

    We turned back and continued our walk along the riverside, soaking in what had become a truly beautiful morning. Hunger finally caught up with us, so we stopped for lunch. I had another acai bowl (still not over them), and Jayde grabbed a burger. Simple, perfect fuel.

    Not long after, a vintage tram rattled past so of course we hopped on. Riding through Porto in an old tram felt like stepping back in time and it was a different fun perspective to view the city. It dropped us off at the bustling waterfront, where restaurants spilled out onto the promenade and every table seemed to be filled with people enjoying the sun.

    As we wandered along, a busker caught our attention he was literally playing three instruments at once while singing…… Absolute talent. We arrived just in time for his last song, but another group of musicians was already setting up behind him. So we grabbed a table at the restaurant right in front, ordered sangria, and settled in for an impromptu live performance.

    And honestly? It turned into the perfect afternoon. Warm sun, icy sangria, the river shimmering in front of us, and an incredible band providing the soundtrack. One of those slow, golden travel moments that we will definitely remember.

    When their set finished, we began the hour long walk home. By the time we stepped through the door at 4 p.m., we both collapsed onto the couch. Jayde had a haircut booked at 5, so he headed across the road while I happily continued my horizontal recovery.

    He was back by 6, and we started cooking dinner which was a delicious Thai noodle salad fresh, bright, and exactly what we needed. After dinner we showered, crawled into bed, and picked up where we left off with Pirates of the Caribbean.

    A perfect end to another perfect day in Porto.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler
    1

    Our first day exploring Porto!

    November 26 in Portugal ⋅ ☀️ 15 °C

    Our first full day in Porto couldn’t have started any better. We woke up to a crystal clear sky and sunshine pouring in… but wow, it was freezing. After breakfast and bundling ourselves up, we headed out the door, completely unaware that the day ahead would rack up more than 24,000 steps.

    Our accommodation sits just a little outside the city centre, not too far, but far enough to enjoy a proper stroll. And honestly, it was a lovely walk in. The streets were charming and we ducked in and out of little shops just because they looked too cute to pass by. We grabbed a photo at the Porto sign, wandered through a nearby market, and then decided it was time to head toward the river.

    We crossed the Dom Luis Bridge, Porto’s iconic double deck iron masterpiece. We walked along the top level with the trams, and the view was unreal, endless rooftops, the glittering river, everything. But it was high. Like… really high. Even my toes were tingling. And Dad, honestly, if you’d been there, we’d probably still be on the Porto side comforting you while you refused to take a single step onto that bridge.

    Once we made it across, we wandered over to a park with the most beautiful views of the river and the city. We sat there for a while, soaking in the sun and the scenery, before grabbing some lunch to bring back. I got an acai bowl and Jayde grabbed a couple of hotdogs from a local vendor and they turned out to be surprisingly delicious.

    After lunch, we made our way up to the monastery, which rewarded us with even more panoramic views. Porto really doesn’t hold back with the scenery. Then we headed down the hill and strolled along the river promenade. The day had warmed up by then, so the whole walk felt relaxed and easy, with people everywhere enjoying the sunshine. When we’d finished on that side of the river, we crossed the bridge again and walked the promenade on the Porto side too.

    By the time the afternoon hit around 3 p.m., we looked at each other and realised we still had an hour’s walk home. But it turned out to be a lovely stroll, legs tired but spirits still high from the day.

    Back at our place, we rested for a little while before Jayde jumped up and cooked us dinner. And it was so good!! This man has a million talents, and he keeps managing to surprise me each day and cooking is definitely up there!

    After dinner we showered, crawled into bed, and called it a night, ready to do it all again tomorrow.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Our last stop in Europe…… Porto

    November 25 in Portugal ⋅ ☀️ 15 °C

    Today was a full travel day, but thankfully it started off nice and slow. Our train wasn’t until 11:20, so we enjoyed a relaxed morning in Lisbon, breakfast, a bit of packing, and then out the door with our bags in tow.

    We had three trains to catch in total, and the first station was about a 15 minute walk away. It actually felt good to stretch our legs before settling into travel mode. The first two trains were quick and easy, just a couple of stops each and smooth transfers and before long we arrived at the main station for our final, longer journey to Porto!

    Originally we had our sights set on the 12:00 pm train, but since we couldn’t secure seat reservations on the app, we had planned to sort them out in person. Unfortunately, once we got there, every seat on that train had already sold out. The next available departure wasn’t until 2:00 pm, so we booked seats for that and settled in for an unexpected two hour break.

    Luckily, there was a cafe nearby, so we parked ourselves there with a coffee and enjoyed a peaceful moment. Honestly, it ended up being a pretty relaxing way to pass the time…. sometimes the travel hiccups work in your favour.

    At 2:00 we headed back to the station, hopped on our train, and off we went. 2.5 hours later we rolled into Porto. One more short train ride took us to our accommodation, and the moment we walked inside we were so happy!! We’ve booked the cutest little apartment for the next four days, and it already feels perfect.

    After dropping our bags, we wandered down the road to find a supermarket and grabbed supplies for the week our last supermarket shop in Europe! We picked up dinner and breakfast things and then made our way back home.

    From there it was a simple evening, heat up dinner, throw a load of washing on, have showers, and collapse into bed.

    Exploring Porto starts tomorrow and we can’t wait.

    And sorry… no photos today, just trains, supermarkets, and admin things.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Our last day exploring Lisbon!

    November 24 in Portugal ⋅ 🌧 17 °C

    Our final day in Lisbon unfolded at an easy, unhurried pace, exactly what we needed. With no big plans on the agenda, we let the morning stretch out gently. A quick sort through of our bags, a relaxed breakfast, and a bit of getting ready later, we slipped on our rain jackets and stepped out into a soft, drizzly Lisbon morning. The sky may have been grey, but the city still felt warm and welcoming.

    With just a few final things left on our to-do list, pick up a postcard, restock our supplements, and wander the shops one more time we strolled down the street, dipping in and out of every souvenir store that caught our eye. Soon, the path opened into the Rossio Christmas Market, its stalls glowing cheerfully despite the weather. We browsed once more through the little shops, soaking up the festive atmosphere, and ended up making one last purchase, the sweetest grater plate that we can’t wait to use back home.

    From the market, we continued meandering through Lisbon’s beautiful streets, stopping in a few clothing stores and enjoying the slower rhythm of the day. Along the way, we found the perfect postcard, one more small memory to take home with us.

    By early afternoon the drizzle had grown into real hunger, and we both had the same craving a pho. A cozy Vietnamese restaurant appeared like fate, so we ducked inside. The steaming bowls that arrived were honestly some of the best pho we’ve ever had, made even better by the kindness of the staff and the quiet refuge from the rain.

    After lunch, the rain picked up, encouraging us to start making our way back toward our accommodation. There was still one thing left on our list… supplements. What we thought would be a quick stop turned into nearly an hour of searching every pharmacy in the area, only to come up empty handed. By 4 p.m., damp and a little defeated, we headed back.

    The afternoon drifted into a restful early evening. We relaxed, made some dinner, and then, feeling recharged, decided to venture out one last time to see the city illuminated under its Christmas lights. The Rossio market looked even more magical at night, twinkling and lively. We wandered through slowly, taking it all in, and popped into one last store and finally found the supplements we’d been hunting for all day. A small victory!

    Back at our accommodation, we packed up for tomorrow’s journey to Porto which is our final stop in Europe before heading back to the UK. As we zipped up our bags, it felt like the perfect end to our Lisbon chapter slow, cozy, a little rainy, and full of small, lovely moments.

    Next stop: Porto.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Day trip to Caiscais!!

    November 23 in Portugal ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C

    Today was one of those perfectly unexpected adventure days. We decided to take a day trip from Lisbon to Cascais, starting our morning as we usually do before heading out the door and hopping onto our first of three trains. After two short rides and one final 40 minute coastal train, we arrived in Cascais. The sky was slightly overcast, but the air felt warm enough for exploring, so it didn’t bother us at all.

    We began wandering through the old town, weaving between little shops and soaking in the charm of the narrow streets. Cascais instantly felt special, calm, colourful, and full of that seaside vibe that makes you feel relaxed the minute you arrive. Once we made it to the water, we strolled along the promenade, admiring the beach and the waves rolling in. Christmas market stalls were set up along the way, so we browsed through all of them, taking our time and enjoying the slow pace of the morning.

    Cascais itself is a beautiful coastal town that is a peaceful seaside escape known for its bright beaches, rocky viewpoints, and elegant old buildings. It’s one of those places that feels effortlessly scenic, and every turn seems to lead to another postcard perfect moment.

    We continued exploring and found some gorgeous viewing spots overlooking the coastline, stopping to take photos and enjoy the view. As we wandered, we heard music coming from a nearby park, so of course we headed in that direction to check it out. Inside, we found a full Christmas market twinkling lights, festive stalls, decorations everywhere… and ice skating! It felt like stepping straight into a little holiday festival we didn’t even know was happening.

    To top it off, there were real camels there. Actual camels in Cascais. Definitely not something we were expecting to see on a simple day trip.

    The thing we were most excited for was the ice skating, so after getting our tickets and our skates, we headed straight for the rink. Jayde took to the ice like he’d been skating for years, confidently gliding around, while I stayed close to the wall, discovering very quickly that ice skating is not one of my hidden talents. Even so, it was a lot of fun, and we laughed our way around the rink together.

    After skating, we kept exploring the market a bit longer before heading out to grab lunch. We found a cute restaurant nearby where I had an acai bowl and Jayde got a burger. Both were delicious and exactly what we needed. With full stomachs, we wandered back toward the beach, and then Jayde, being much braver than me decided to get into the water. He can now proudly say he’s swum in the Atlantic!

    By around 4 p.m. we decided it was time to head back, so we caught the next train to Lisbon and walked through the door at about 5 p.m. The rest of the evening was quiet and easy just relaxing for a bit before dinner, showers, and bed.

    Tomorrow is our last day of exploring Lisbon, and after today, we’re excited for whatever comes next.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Another beautiful day in Lisbon

    November 22 in Portugal ⋅ ☀️ 15 °C

    We woke up to another absolute stunner of a day in Lisbon, the kind of bright, golden morning that instantly puts you in the best mood. After our usual slow morning routine, we stepped out the door excited to dive into our second day in this beautiful city.

    Our first stop was the famous Lisbon Flea Market, known locally as Feira da Ladra. This centuries old market is a treasure hunter’s paradise, stretching across the Alfama streets with endless stalls selling everything from vintage trinkets and old vinyls to colourful ceramics, second hand clothes, handmade crafts, tiles, and the most wonderfully random items. We spent about an hour wandering through the maze of stands, soaking up the lively energy and admiring all the unique finds. It was such a fun and vibrant way to start the morning. From there, we made our way to the National Pantheon. However it was quite underwhelming so we moved on quickly…

    After leaving the Pantheon, we set off through the beautiful neighbourhood streets nearby. Alfama’s charm is never ending with its narrow cobbled lanes, balconies draped in laundry, and warm sunlight hitting the colourful buildings. Eventually we reached our first viewpoint of the day and were met with a gorgeous scene a huge cruise ship docked below and the winding streets leading down toward the water. The view was too tempting to ignore, so we decided to head down and explore the waterfront.

    The walk along the water was lovely. We browsed through a few shops, took in the scenery, and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere that seems to radiate off the riverfront. Lisbon has this amazing mix of calm and buzz at the same time, and it’s especially noticeable by the water.

    After our relaxed waterfront stroll, it was time for a much bigger uphill journey the climb to Lisbon’s famous castle, Castelo de Sao Jorge. Set high above the city, this ancient fortress is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. We bought our tickets (a little wary at first, because paying for castle entry is always hit or miss), but this one quickly proved to be worth every cent. Inside, you’re free to roam the old stone walls, climb the towers, and take in truly breathtaking views over the rooftops, river, and sprawling city. What made it even more magical were the peacocks roaming all over the grounds, casually spreading their feathers and adding a fairytale like touch to the whole place. We spent a while admiring them before making our way back down the hill for lunch.

    By 1 p.m. we were starving, so we headed to Honest Greens….. luckily Lisbon has one! It was the perfect lunch spot for a refreshing, healthy meal and a well earned break after all the climbing. Lisbon’s hills are no joke!!

    Recharged and ready to explore again, we made our way to the famous Elevador de Santa Justa. This iron lift is one of the city’s most recognizable structures. Normally you have to pay to go up to the viewpoint, but thanks to a TikTok hack, we found a back road that took us right to the top for free. It worked perfectly, and the views over the city from up there were incredible.

    From the viewpoint we spotted a busy, lively square below, so naturally we went to check it out. As we walked down, the streets were full of performers and buskers, music echoing between the buildings, and a great vibe all around. Soon we reached the impressive Praca do Comercio, one of Europe’s largest squares. It looked like they were setting up for a concert or show, with a big stage and sound testing happening while we walked around. We also found the big Lisbon sign and of course had to take a photo in front of it. It was like the Hunger Games trying to get a photo!

    Just off the square we wandered into a Christmas market the first one of our trip, which made it even more exciting after repeatedly missing them by only a day or so in other countries. We explored the stalls selling cute gifts, festive treats, and handmade decorations. Eventually we caved and bought a pina colada served in a real pineapple, and honestly it might have been the best pina colada ever. Fresh pineapple, blended on the spot, perfectly sweet and cold, such a fun little treat.

    By the time we finished at the market it was around 4 p.m., so we slowly made our way back toward our accommodation, popping into a few more shops along the way. Once we made it home, we cooked dinner, relaxed, and happily collapsed into bed after such a full, incredible day.

    Tomorrow we’re off on a day trip to a little beachy town and we’re so excited to see what’s next!    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Our first day exploring Lisbon!

    November 21 in Portugal ⋅ 🌙 9 °C

    After crossing into Portugal yesterday and magically gaining an extra hour, our bodies woke us up way earlier than we planned but honestly, the excitement of being in Lisbon made it easy to get moving. We powered through our usual breakfast-and-get-ready routine and headed out the door buzzing for our first real day of exploring.

    To kick things off, we had to catch three trains to get to Belem. Three! After barely touching public transport this whole trip, it felt like a ful on adventure. Hopping on and off, switching platforms, following signs…. by the time we arrived, we felt like Lisbon locals. And then suddenly… there we were in Belem, with sunshine, river views, and the whole day ahead of us.

    We strolled along the sparkling waterfront and through a gorgeous park before reaching the Monument to the Discoveries. It’s huge and dramatic and kind of makes you feel tiny in the coolest way. After a few photos and a moment taking it all in, we continued along the river until we reached the Belem Tower. The tower is a beautiful fortress that once guarded the entrance to Lisbon’s Harbour and it looks almost like a fairytale castle rising out of the water. Even though it was wrapped in scaffolding the area was full of life with buskers playing music, people lounging by the water and everyone just soaking in the good vibes.

    From there we wandered back toward the enormous monastery, which looked absolutely stunning in the sun. Even from the outside it’s so grand and detailed it almost doesn’t feel real. We kept wandering through the beautiful neighbourhood until by total luck we stumbled across the famous little cafe selling the legendary custard tarts. Obviously we had to try them. One bite and… wow. Sweet, flaky, creamy perfection. We could’ve easily eaten ten.

    We poked around some adorable shops afterward, including one entirely devoted to tinned fish which was both random and surprisingly charming before heading to the LX Factory. What a fun place! Colourful murals everywhere, quirky little shops, handmade goodies, cool cafes….. it felt like the artsy heart of Lisbon. We could’ve spent hours exploring, but hunger won in the end.

    So off we went to Time Out Market for lunch. The energy inside was incredible, crowds, smells, sizzling pans, endless food options. We each picked something that caught our eye, and everything tasted amazing. It’s the kind of place where you instantly wish you had a second stomach.

    By then it was somehow already 3 p.m., so we decided to walk back to our accommodation. It should’ve been a quick 30 minute stroll, but obviously we got distracted with cute shops, a street market, random interesting things along the way. So it turned into an hour long wander, which honestly just added to the fun.

    When we finally made it back, we collapsed for a bit to give our legs a break before making dinner and climbing into bed. We were tired in the best possible way. If today was anything to go by, tomorrow is going to be even bigger, and we can’t wait.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Our 22nd Country!!!!! - Portugal!

    November 20 in Portugal ⋅ ☀️ 15 °C

    Today was another milestone on our trip… we made it to our 22nd country…. Portugal! Luckily, it wasn’t one of those brutal travel days that start at 4am. Instead, we were up at a very civilised 8am. We grabbed some breakfast, got dressed, and headed out the door feeling surprisingly fresh for a day on the move.

    A quick ride on the Madrid underground took us straight to the bus station. Since there are no direct train lines from Spain into Portugal, the bus was our only real option and honestly, it turned out to be a pretty good one. We boarded a double-decker bus, found our seats, and settled in for the eight hour journey.

    To our relief, the bus wasn’t full at all, which meant we could stretch out and get comfortable. There was just one stop along the way, and the hours rolled by easier than expected. Before we knew it, the scenery had shifted and we were pulling into beautiful Lisbon.

    From the bus station, the metro made things super simple it dropped us just a five minute walk from our accommodation. We checked into our lovely little apartment room, dumped our bags, and immediately headed out to the local supermarket to grab something quick for dinner plus supplies for the next four days.

    Even after just a short wander, the city already feels so charming and full of character. We can’t wait to explore Lisbon properly and see what this vibrant place has in store for us!    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Our last day in Madrid!

    November 19 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 11 °C

    Our last day in Madrid started with another beautiful morning. We had breakfast, got ready, and headed out with no real plan except to enjoy whatever the city had left to show us. After a few full days of sightseeing, it felt like we’d already seen most of Madrid, so this day was all about wandering and soaking it all in.

    We strolled through the streets again, stopping whenever something caught our eye. One of our first stops was a vintage store filled with amazing pieces so many cool jackets, shirts, and old school gems. After that, we came across a quirky little postcard and souvenir shop. The whole place was so fun and colourful, with some of the coolest postcards we’d seen anywhere. Of course, we’d already bought ours the day before, so we just looked around and enjoyed the vibe.

    From there, we wandered through a few cute neighbourhoods before deciding to head back to Retiro Park for lunch. We grabbed some foccaccias from a nearby cafe that were absolutely loaded and lookedso good. We made our way into the park. We found a sunny spot, sat down, and enjoyed our little picnic while taking in the energy around us.

    After lunch, we couldn’t resist renting a paddle boat on the lake. It was only 6 euros for 45 minutes, which felt like such a bargain. The whole thing was adorable paddling around, listening to buskers along the shore, trying not to bump into anyone, and just enjoying the sunshine and the calm of the water. It was simple but honestly one of the highlights of the day.

    Once our time was up, we returned the boat and left the park, slowly making our way back as the afternoon settled in. We stopped to pick up some snacks for our long bus ride the next day and then headed back to sort out our bags.

    By 6 p.m. we were in the kitchen making dinner, then we showered, climbed into bed, and finished the night off with a movie, the perfect quiet ending to our time in Madrid. Oh and not to mention… whilst I was in the shower I asked Jayde if he wouldn’t mind cutting me up an apple. You wouldn’t believe what I came back to…. It turns out Jayde has a secreting talent of turning Apples into Swans….. so enjoy the photo of my beautiful Swan my beautiful boyfriend made me 🥺❤️

    A relaxed and easy last day, exactly what we needed. We head to our second to last Country tomorrow which is just crazy!!! Where has the time gone!!    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Another Amazing day Exploring Madrid

    November 18 in Spain ⋅ ☀️ 14 °C

    Yesterday in Madrid genuinely felt like the kind of day you want to bottle up and keep forever. We woke up to the most perfect weather you could imagine sunny, warm, and not a single cloud anywhere. It instantly put us in the best mood. After breakfast and getting ourselves sorted, we headed out with no plan at all, just letting the day unfold however it wanted to.

    We ended up drifting toward Retiro Park, and honestly, it was glowing. Everyone seemed to be out enjoying the sunshine with people jogging, reading under trees, couples having slow conversations on benches. Music kept appearing from every corner thanks to all the buskers scattered around. It was so nice just pausing every now and then to listen to whatever tune happened to find us.

    Eventually, we made it to the big pond, shimmering in the sun with little rowboats drifting around like something out of a postcard. We stayed there for a while, just watching people row in crooked lines and laugh about it. Then we found a spot next to the water and sat down. It felt so peaceful just sitting in the sun, people watching, and not having anywhere else we needed to be.

    After a bit, we left the park and wandered into a nearby neighbourhood where the streets suddenly felt a bit fancier. Beautiful old buildings, high-m end shops like Gucci, Tiffany & Co., Cartier… the whole area had that polished, quiet charm. We did a bit of window shopping before our stomachs told us it was time for lunch. And of course, we ended up right back at Honest Greens. No regrets as it was delicious as always, and we’re already sad about not having it once we leave Spain.

    After lunch, we drifted back into the busy Sol area, which felt like walking straight into the heartbeat of the city. So many people, so many shops, and those massive old buildings towering above everything. We explored for a while until we got the idea to find a rooftop bar and enjoy a drink with a view.

    The first rooftop was… not it. Scaffolding ruined the whole vibe, and they weren’t even serving cocktails. So we left and tried another place and it was such an upgrade. There was a little fee to go up, but once we stepped onto the rooftop and saw the view, we knew it was worth it. The whole city stretched out around us in warm afternoon light.

    We grabbed a table by the balustrade and ordered cocktails. They arrived looking like works of art and tasted incredible. After the first round, Jayde went exploring and found these loungers tucked away on the other side. They were perfect soft, comfy, and fully in the evening sun. So we moved over, stretched out, and spent the next couple of hours just lying there, sipping our drinks, relaxing, and watching the sun slowly slide down behind Madrid. Time kind of stopped for a while.

    By around 6pm, the drinks were definitely starting to hit us, so we headed back. Jayde grabbed something quick from the supermarket, and once we got home, we showered, got into bed, and ended up just talking about how perfect the whole day had been.

    One more day left in Madrid. If it’s anything like yesterday, we’re ending Spain on a high.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Meandering around Madrid

    November 17 in Spain ⋅ 🌙 9 °C

    Our first full day in Madrid began under an overcast, chilly sky, but not enough to hold us back. With the whole city waiting for us, our only plan was to wander, take in the atmosphere, and visit a few iconic spots along the way.

    Our first stop was the famous Bear and the Strawberry Tree statue, Madrid’s emblem. The bronze bear stretching up to nibble from the madrono tree represents the city’s historical connection to its surrounding forests. As expected, there were heaps of people crowding around trying to get their perfect photo, so we quickly snapped one and kept moving.

    From there we made our way to Plaza Mayor, a huge historic square surrounded by elegant red brick buildings and arched walkways. It was incredibly lively, filled with tourists and one of Madrid’s unexpected quirks.. people dressed in massive character costumes!!! Everywhere you look there’s a giant Stitch or Buzz Lightyear ready to pose for photos (if Ryan was here, I’m sure he would have been fan girling…..) We wandered around the square and ducked into a few shops before heading on.

    Next up was the famous Mercado de San Miguel. This glass walled food market is packed with stalls offering tapas, seafood, pastries, cheeses, and more. Everything smelled and looked incredible, and even though we’d just had breakfast, it was almost impossible not to be tempted. The place was absolutely packed, so after browsing through and admiring all the food, we decided to carry on.

    We stopped into a vintage store next, where we found some very cool old Quiksilver pieces, then made our way to the Royal Palace of Madrid. With its enormous white facade, the palace dominates the square. It was beautifully detailed and just incredible to look at. The area was once again filled with those oversized characters we seem to be seeing everywhere. We walked around and then headed to the lookout nearby, which offered a stunning sweeping view over the city.

    From there we wandered through the beautiful park next to the palace before taking a quick look inside the cathedral. At this point though, we both agreed we are well and truly over cathedrals now. They’re stunning, of course, but we’ve seen enough to last us a while!

    By early afternoon we were getting hungry, so went back to the Taco place selling tacos for only 1 euro each, which is honestly such a steal. After lunch we didn’t have any solid plans, so we just continued wandering. A gelato stop became essential, and after enjoying that, we crossed to the other side of town yet again for another attempt at finding Lululemon tights…. still no luck.

    Unfortunately my hip has really started to deteriorate so by 4 PM we decided to call it a day and head back to our accommodation. We made hamburgers again for dinner, climbed into bed, watched a movie, and now we’re settling in for some sleep before another big day tomorrow.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Bye bye Barcelona, Hello Madrid

    November 16 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C

    Today started earlier than I would’ve liked. We had the alarm set for 8am so we could make our way from Barcelona to Madrid, but when it actually went off… absolutely not. Poor Jayde tried waking me up with a sweet cuddle, and I completely fobbed him off. Zero recognition for his kindness, I just was just not ready to be awake yet.

    Once I finally peeled myself out of bed, we made some breakfast, finished packing the last of our things, and checked out. Getting to the train station was nice and simple just an easy underground ride and a quick walk.

    When we arrived, though, we were genuinely shocked by how different the process was compared to every other train we’ve taken. Usually we just show up, find the platform, and hop on with no fuss, no checks. But this time? Full security screening for our bags, then a massive queue to be checked again before boarding. It felt more like an airport than a train station.

    Eventually, we made it through without any issues and settled into our seats. The ride itself was only about three hours, so it went by fairly quickly.

    Stepping off the train in Madrid was… chilly. We were surprised by how much colder it is here compared to Barcelona. Luckily, the underground took us directly to a stop literally outside our accommodation which could not have been more convenient!!

    Our place is kind of like a hostel, but we have our own private pod within the room. And honestly? It’s perfect. The pod is super spacious and comfy, and it even has a TV with Netflix. Absolute luxury for the price and is actually really cute and fun!

    Once we dropped our bags, we headed out for a little wander and grabbed groceries for the next few days. After hauling everything back and resting for a bit, we made dinner which surprise surprise turned out to be…… hamburgers. After dinner we headed back out again to check out Madrid’s nightlife.

    Our main mission…. trying the famous churro spot at Chocolateria San Gines, which claim to have the best churros in the world. And wow… they were even better than expected. Crispy, warm, just perfection.

    We strolled around for a while, soaking up the energy of the city, before eventually making our way back to our cozy pod. Now we’re curled up with a movie on, ready to rest up for a big day of exploring Madrid tomorrow.

    Can’t wait to see what this city has in store!!!!    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Last day in Barcelona

    November 15 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C

    Today was our last day in Barcelona, and the city greeted us with absolutely perfect weather. We woke up to warm sunshine pouring through the window, the kind of morning that instantly lifts your mood. I was excited to finally put on some summer clothes again, and once we were ready, we headed out feeling really energised for our final day of exploring.

    Our first stop was Barcelona Beach, and it honestly took our breath away. The sand looked soft and golden, the water sparkled in the light, and the whole area had such a fun, relaxed vibe with shops and cafes scattered along the walkway. We grabbed iced matchas on the way.. sadly not the best… but we took them down to the beach anyway and just enjoyed sitting in the sun, people watching and soaking it all in.

    There were loads of people trying to sell things, including the women offering massages who would start rubbing your shoulders before you’d even finished saying no. It was slightly chaotic but also pretty funny, and it added to the whole beach experience.

    After we’d chilled for a bit, we started walking along the promenade. The sun felt amazing, and there was such a good atmosphere with people biking, skating, jogging, or just strolling like us. We went into this really cool surf shop that had way better things than anything we’d see at home, and then continued wandering, stopping every so often to watch the surfers. Everything felt easy and carefree.

    When we got hungry, we went back to Honest Greens for lunch since we’d loved it before, and once again it didn’t disappoint. The food was fresh, tasty, and exactly what we needed to keep us going.

    After lunch, we headed to the flea market that runs every day, curious to see what it was like. But honestly, it was mostly overpriced random bits that just weren’t worth it. Still, it was interesting to look around. By then it was around 4 pm and our legs were definitely feeling the day, so we went back to the hostel for a little break.

    In the evening, we headed out again to see the Sagrada Familia lit up at night, which I’d really been looking forward to. And wow it was beautiful. The whole building glowed softly, and seeing it at night gave it a completely different feel. We stood there for ages, just admiring how impressive and detailed it is. It’s hard to wrap your head around how something so huge was built and how it’s still standing centuries later.

    After spending some time there, we walked back for the free hostel dinner, which turned out to be Italian night. They served three different pastas, and everything was surprisingly delicious, exactly what you want after a long day out.

    Once we were full and happy, we headed back to our room, had showers, got into bed, and relaxed, ready to rest up for our travel day to Madrid.

    Our first city in Spain was a hit!!! And we can’t wait to see what Madrid brings!    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Day 2 exploring Spain

    November 14 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C

    Today started off a little differently than we planned because I accidentally slept in just a small sleep in, but enough to push the morning back a bit. Once I finally got myself up and moving, we had breakfast, got ready, and headed out for another day of wandering through Barcelona. Even with the slow start, the moment we stepped outside, we could feel the energy of the city picking us up.

    Our first stop of the day was the Sagrada Familia, and nothing prepared us for how incredible it is in person. We had seen photos, obviously, but those don’t come close to capturing what it feels like to stand beneath it. As soon as we turned the corner and it came into view, it genuinely didn’t look real. The scale of it is enormous with towering spires reaching into the sky, each one covered in layers of stone details that you can’t fully comprehend until you’re right there, looking up with your mouth half open.

    The more we walked toward it, the more impossible it seemed that humans actually built it. Every surface is carved with scenes, figures, symbols, and textures. One side is almost like a giant stone garden full of leaves, vines, animals, and these incredibly expressive biblical figures. You could stare at it for an hour and still discover new little faces, shapes, and carvings tucked into corners. Then we walked around to the other side which is so completely different with sharp lines, stark figures and dramatic shadows. The entire mood shifts from softness to something powerful and intense. It’s unbelievable how one building can hold so many artistic styles and emotions at once.

    We didn’t go inside, but honestly, we didn’t feel like we missed anything. Just walking around the outside felt like an experience. We kept stopping every few steps because a different angle would suddenly reveal something we hadn’t noticed before. We took heaps of photos, but even then, none of them felt like they captured the full effect of seeing it with our own eyes. It’s easily one of the most extraordinary things we’ve seen.

    After reluctantly pulling ourselves away from the basilica, we started wandering through the streets toward Casa Batllo, We took our time, popping into shops and just enjoying the little details of Barcelona. Eventually, we made it to Casa Batllo, which looks like something straight out of a fairytale. The facade is like a colourful wave, covered in mosaic tiles that shimmer between blues, greens, and purples. The balconies have this almost marine look, while the windows curve in soft shapes that make the whole building feel alive. We stood across the street for a while just taking it in.

    We then tried our luck at Lululemon because I was determined to find those tights I’d been searching for the other day, but still no luck. At this point, it’s becoming a bit of a saga.

    By then it was definitely time for lunch, so we headed to Honest Greens, which immediately felt like the perfect lunch spot bright, fresh, and buzzing just enough to feel lively without being hectic. I ordered the Salmon Wellness Bowl, which was so fresh and full of flavour, and Jayde had the chimichurri steak. Both came with a delicious salad. We both got fresh juices, which we could refill as many times as we wanted. Everything tasted amazing. We both left saying we might actually come back again tomorrow.

    After lunch we continued our walk to Casa Mila. This building is another one of Gaudis masterpieces, but completely different from Casa Batllo. Instead of colourful tiles, the entire building is made of soft, flowing stone curves almost like waves frozen mid motion. It’s so sculptural that it doesn’t even seem like it should be a functional building, but it somehow is.

    From there, we made our way to a vintage pop up store, hoping to find a cool little treasure, but nothing really caught our eye. By this point, it was around 4 p.m., and our feet were very aware of how much walking we had already done. So we headed back to the hostel for a well earned rest.

    Later on, we went out for one last gentle walk around the neighbourhood before heading back for the free hostel dinner. After such a long day of exploring, the simple meal hit the spot perfectly.

    When we finally got back to our room and looked at our step count, we realised we had racked up another 23,000 steps, pretty impressive considering how the day began with me sleeping in!!! Oops..

    One more full day of exploring awaits us tomorrow, and if today is any indication, Barcelona still has so much more to surprise us with.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Day 1 of Exploring Barcelona!

    November 13 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C

    Our first morning in Barcelona started relatively early, helped along by the excitement of finally being here. We rolled out of bed, chucked on some clothes, and headed straight to the supermarket around the corner. A quick grab of a few breakfast essentials, and we were back at the hostel cooking up a simple meal before getting fully ready for the day.

    Once we stepped out the door, the city already felt alive. Our first destination: the famous La Boqueria Market. As soon as we entered, we were hit with a wave of colours and smells, rows upon rows of stalls selling everything from fresh fish and seafood to vibrant fruits, hanging meats, juices, sweets, and things we didn’t even know existed. We wandered down each aisle, weaving between locals doing their morning shop and tourists trying samples. Eventually Jayde locked eyes with the oyster counter. He ordered a few, and to our surprise they even slipped us an extra one for free. According to Jayde, they were delicious.

    From the market, we made our way toward the Barcelona Cathedral taking our time as we ducked into little souvenir shops along the way.
    The cathedral itself was breathtaking a towering Gothic masterpiece with intricate stone carvings that climb skyward like lace frozen in rock. Its facade is a mix of spires and detailed arches, giving it a dramatic, mystical feel. We soaked in the atmosphere, snapped some photos, and spent a while people watching in the surrounding square.

    Afterwards, we wandered aimlessly through the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, popping in and out of shops until our stomachs reminded us it was lunchtime. I had heard about a spot with 1 euro tacos so of course we had to try it. It did not disappoint. We each grabbed a few, so cheap and unbelievably tasty. Total score.

    Refueled, we set off toward the Arc de Triomf.
    Barcelona’s Arc is striking a massive red brick archway with decorative stonework. Unlike other triumphal arches, it has a warm, almost earthy tone thanks to the reddish stone, and it serves as a grand, inviting gateway to the park behind it Parc de la Ciutadell.

    We wandered through the park, and almost immediately noticed the trees were alive with parakeets. Hundreds of them!!! On the ground, in the branches, squabbling, chirping, fluttering everywhere. Jayde, apparently a newly discovered bird whisperer, held out his arm…and one actually landed on him. Then I tried it, half joking and unbelievably, a parakeet swooped down and landed on my hand too. It was such a cool, unexpected moment.

    After that excitement, we strolled slowly back toward the old town, letting the streets lead us until we eventually reached the hostel. We relaxed for a bit, washed up, and then headed out again for an evening wander before dinner.

    The hostel’s free meal that night was paella and it was absolutely delicious, rich rice, veggies, and all the comforting flavours you want after a full day of exploring. Now we’re tucked into bed, ready to rest up.

    Another big Barcelona adventure awaits us tomorrow!    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Travel day to Spain!

    November 12 in Spain ⋅ ☀️ 20 °C

    Today was our travel day from Lyon to Barcelona and it actually turned out to be a really nice, relaxed one (well… mostly 😅).

    Our train wasn’t until 2:30 PM so we got to have a lovely slow morning. The hotel let us check out late at 12 PM which meant one thing — a glorious sleep in! Once we finally rolled out of bed, we had a quick breakfast, packed up, and checked out. Thankfully, the hotel let us leave our bags there for a few hours, which gave us time to get out and enjoy a bit more of Lyon before heading off.

    We wandered over to a nearby shopping mall, browsed a few stores, and grabbed some lunch (and, of course, some snacks for the train, essential!). It was a nice, easy way to kill time before our journey.

    After lunch, we headed back to the hotel, picked up our bags, and made our way to the train station. We found our platform, hopped on board, and settled in for the five hour ride to Barcelona. The trip itself was smooth and scenic with plenty of time to relax and watch the countryside roll by.

    When we finally arrived in Barcelona things got a bit chaotic. I’d given Jayde the wrong name of our hostel so when we showed up and they couldn’t find our reservation, I started to panic a little. After a few stressful minutes (and some frantic searching on my phone), we realized we were at the wrong hostel entirely!

    Luckily, it wasn’t too far just a quick metro ride away. Before long, we made it to the right place and all the stress melted away. The hostel turned out to be amazing, super friendly and cozy, and they even do free dinners every night!

    We arrived just in time to grab a plate, enjoy some food, and chat with a few other travelers. After that, it was straight to the showers and then straight to bed ready for a big day of exploring Barcelona tomorrow.

    What a day….. a little bit of chaos, a lot of travel, but we made it in the end.

    Sorry only one photo today….    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Huge day exploring Lyon!!

    November 11 in France ⋅ 🌙 10 °C

    Today was our very first day exploring the gorgeous city of Lyon and what a day it turned out to be! We woke up bright and early, had some breakfast, and hit the road ready to make the most of the day.

    Our first stop was the Notre Dame Basilica, perched high on the hill overlooking the city. The walk up was no joke…. countless steps and steep slopes that had us working up a sweat before the day had even really begun. But wow… the view from the top made every step worth it. Looking out over the rooftops of Lyon, the rivers glistening below, and the distant hills, it was breathtaking.

    We took a moment to catch our breath and just soak it all in before heading inside the basilica itself. The interior was absolutely stunning intricate mosaics, golden details, and that hushed, sacred atmosphere that makes you instinctively whisper. Afterwards, we wandered around the grounds a bit, still in awe of both the architecture and the view.

    From there, we made our way down to the Roman amphitheatre ruins nearby. We’ve seen a few ancient ruins on this trip, but this site was definitely one of the most well preserved. Sitting on the ancient stone steps, bathed in the warm sun, it was easy to imagine what life might have been like centuries ago when the amphitheatre was full of spectators.

    Then came the very steep walk back down into the Old Town where we spent some time wandering the cobbled streets, ducking in and out of little shops and admiring the charming buildings.

    For lunch I had found a food hall online that looked interesting, so we made our way there, only to discover it was actually a collection of high end restaurants under one roof a bit beyond our budget for a casual lunch! Instead, we grabbed something simple from a nearby supermarket and kept moving.

    Our next stop was the Parc de la Tête d’Or and honestly, it blew us away. This massive park has its own free zoo inside, yes, free! We couldn’t believe it when we turned a corner and saw giraffes and zebras just casually hanging out in the middle of the park. We also spotted flamingos, pelicans, and a bunch of other animals. The park itself was gorgeous, with tree lined paths, manicured gardens, and a big peaceful pond that glistened in the afternoon sun. We found a quiet spot, sat down, and just relaxed for a while, soaking in the late day warmth.

    As the afternoon wound down, we made our way back through the Old Town, picked up a postcard, and eventually headed towards the city for dinner. We had a bit of time before our reservation, so we popped into a cozy little bar for a drink before walking over to Carmelo our dinner spot for the evening.

    Carmelo is an Italian restaurant with an incredibly interesting interior. It’s a converted old cinema and everywhere you look there is something new. Think Granny’s old home with trinkets and keepsakes just scattered everywhere…. It was different but very cool!! I ordered the famous truffle pasta (and it absolutely lived up to the hype!), while Jayde went for the lamb, which was tender and full of flavor. We finished with a caramelised apple and pear crumble which immediately made me think of Dad — crumble is his favourite, and Dad, you would’ve loved this one!

    By the time we made it back to our accommodation, showered, and flopped into bed, my watch proudly announced we’d hit 32,000 steps. No wonder we were exhausted! But it was such a full and rewarding day a perfect mix of history, beauty, food, and sunshine.

    Tomorrow, we’re off to Spain and we can’t wait to see what adventures await us next! 🇪🇸    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Back to France we go!!

    November 10 in France ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C

    Yesterday was a big travel day for us as we made our way from Brussels to Lyon! Our train was at 10am so we got up early, had a quick breakfast at the hostel, and made a speedy trip to the supermarket to grab a few snacks for the journey. Once we were all packed up, we checked out of our hostel and walked just five minutes to the train station, super convenient!

    Our first train ride was a quick 10 minute hop before transferring to our main train that would take us all the way to Lyon, about four hours away. The ride was smooth and relaxing with snacks, music, and the French countryside whizzing by made the time fly.

    When we arrived in Lyon we were pleasantly surprised to find our hotel only a five minute walk from the station. The hotel itself was lovely and in a great location perfect for exploring the city over the next few days. After dropping our bags and freshening up, it was time for dinner.

    I’d found a traditional bouchon on TikTok that looked amazing (and very affordable!). For only €19, we got a full three course meal such a steal compared to Brussels! I started with a classic French onion soup followed by steak and finished with a creme brulee for dessert - Nan, this one was for you! Jayde had veal for his entree, steak for his main, and a rich chocolate mousse to end the meal. Every dish was delicious, hearty, comforting, and full of flavor.

    After dinner, we took a gentle evening stroll around Lyon’s Old Town soaking up the charm of the narrow cobblestone streets and the warm, golden lights glowing from the cafes and restaurants. It was such a lovely first evening in the city.

    Then it was back to the hotel for some much needed rest for a huge day of exploring ahead!    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Our last day in Belgium!

    November 9 in Belgium ⋅ ☁️ 8 °C

    Our final day in Brussels started slow and easy, we had breakfast, got ourselves ready, and then stepped out into the crisp morning air for one last wander through the city.

    Our first stop of the day was the famous daily flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle. It took us about twenty minutes to walk there, winding through quiet morning streets. When we arrived, the market spread out endlessly before us. Tables piled high with trinkets, furniture, old records, and plenty of “treasures” that were really just junk. We browsed for a while, enjoying the atmosphere more than the goods themselves.

    From the market, we wandered aimlessly through Brussels’ streets, soaking in the city’s mix of old and new. Somewhere along the way, we stumbled across one of the city’s famous comic murals a giant painted wall featuring beloved Belgian cartoon characters.

    By then, hunger was starting to kick in, so we decided to head back to Wolf, the food market we’d discovered yesterday. It’s reasonably priced, full of great options, and perfect when you both want something different. I went for the pulled beef, which was tender and rich, and Jayde got the spareribs which were smoky, sticky, and delicious.

    After lunch, we made our way toward the Parc du Cinquantenaire and its incredible arch. Built in the late 19th century to celebrate fifty years of Belgian independence, the Arc du Cinquantenaire is massive three grand arches crowned with a bronze chariot pulled by horses. It reminded me a lot of the arch we saw in Berlin, both in size and grandeur.

    We wandered through the gardens surrounding the arch, grabbed a hot chocolate from a nearby waffle van, and sat in the park for a while, just people watching and enjoying the calm. It was a perfect afternoon!

    Eventually, we started the thirty minute walk back to our accommodation, stopping to browse a few market stalls along the way. After a short rest, we headed back out for one last evening in Brussels.

    We grabbed a quick dinner and made our way to the Grand Place, where the square was glowing in the evening light. The bubble man was back, creating giant shimmering bubbles that floated through the air simple, but somehow magical. We lingered to watch a few buskers too one playing a saxophone, and another, a woman with an incredible voice that stopped everyone in their tracks.

    It was the perfect way to end our time in Brussels music, lights, and that city buzz.

    Now we’re tucked up in bed, ready for tomorrow’s travel day to Lyon. Back to France for a short two day stopover before the next adventure in Spain begins!    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    First day exploring Brussels

    November 8 in Belgium ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C

    Brussels greeted us with the most beautiful weather today, blue skies, no wind, and that perfect warmth that makes you want to be outside all day. The whole city seemed to glow in the sunshine, and it instantly set the tone for a day that turned out to be just lovely.

    Our first stop was the Grand Place, the heart of Brussels and easily one of the most stunning squares we’ve seen. Every building looked like something from a movie set intricate facades and gold details catching the light. We even got to witness what we think was not one, but two couples eloping! It was such a beautiful and unexpected start to the morning.

    From there we wandered through the charming streets that spill out from the Grand Place, lined with chocolate shops, cafes, and the irresistible smell of waffles. It didn’t take long before we found a famous waffle stand we’d been told to try. We both went for the strawberry topped waffles, and honestly, they were incredible! So light and fluffy, yet crisp on the outside, piled high with sweet strawberries. Every bite was delicious!

    With waffles checked off the list, we continued our exploring and made our way to Manneken Pis the tiny statue of a little boy peeing that’s somehow become one of Brussels’ biggest attractions. It’s honestly much smaller than you’d expect, but that’s part of its charm. There was a crowd of tourists gathered around, laughing and snapping photos, and it was funny to think how this little statue has become such a symbol of the city.

    Next, we climbed our way up to Mont des Arts, which completely took our breath away. The perfectly manicured gardens, fountains, and the sweeping views over the city gave off such a grand, elegant feel it even reminded me a little of Versailles. The sunlight glinted off the rooftops below, and for a few moments we just stood there, soaking it all in.

    Eventually, shopping temptation struck, so we ducked into a nearby Lululemon to see if I could finally find the tights I’ve been searching for but no luck this time. By then it was well past lunch, and hunger was calling. We headed to Wolf, a modern indoor food market that brings together cuisines from all over the world. The concept is so clever you just find a spot to sit, scan a QR code, and suddenly have access to all the food stalls. I ordered fresh rice paper rolls while Jayde went for pulled lamb, and both were absolutely delicious.

    After a quick rest back at our accommodation, we headed out again for dinner and then stopped by a bar we’d been seeing everywhere called Delirium (or Deli Rum as Jayde liked to call it….) It’s one of Brussels’ most famous pubs, known for its insane beer selection and lively atmosphere. We decided to go all in and ordered a beer metre, literally a long wooden rack filled with different beers to sample. It was such a fun experience, trying each one and comparing which we liked best.

    To end the night, we wandered back through the Grand Place one last time. Seeing it lit up against the night sky was pure magic the golden buildings glowing softly, bubbles floating through the air, and the whole square buzzing with energy. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day in Brussels, one we won’t be forgetting anytime soon!

    P.S - I’ve included a cute wee video of Jayde being the nice guy he is and getting the perfect photo for the girls sitting behind us.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Brussels - Our 20th Country!

    November 7 in Belgium ⋅ ☀️ 17 °C

    Today was another easy going travel day as we made our way from Amsterdam to Brussels. Our train wasn’t until 11:50, so we were able to enjoy a slow morning and make the most of the 10am checkout.

    After packing up and saying goodbye to our Amsterdam hostel, we grabbed a coffee from the bar downstairs and just sat for a while, soaking up the last bit of the city’s relaxed vibe. Once we were ready to move, we made a quick stop at the supermarket to grab some breakfast for the journey before heading to the train station.

    The first leg of our trip took us to a larger station, where we switched onto our main train bound for Brussels. The two hour ride was smooth and easy with no hiccups, no delays, just a comfortable trip through the Dutch and Belgian countryside.

    Once we arrived, we had one final short train to catch that brought us close to our accommodation. From there, it was only an eight minute walk before we arrived at our home for the next three nights right in the heart of the city! Honestly, it’s even better than we expected.

    After dropping off our bags, we headed straight out to explore a bit. We grabbed a bite to eat, wandered through some of the nearby shops, and got our first glimpse of Brussels beautiful streets. Later in the evening, we went out again to experience a bit of the nightlife, found a quick dinner spot, and then called it a night.

    Tomorrow’s plan? A full day of exploring everything Brussels has to offer.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Our last day exploring Amsterdam

    November 6 in the Netherlands ⋅ ⛅ 10 °C

    After a couple of late nights enjoying the magic of Amsterdam, it finally caught up with us so this morning was definitely a slow start. We slept in longer than planned, but honestly, it felt so good to take it easy after such full days of exploring. Once we were finally up and ready, we stepped out the door without a strict plan, just seeing where the day would take us.

    At first, we felt a bit aimless, so we decided to hop on the free ferry that crosses over to the north side of the city. The ride itself was short but lovely and the novelty of a ferry ride that costs absolutely nothing! But once we arrived, we quickly realized there wasn’t much to do on that side, so after a quick wander, we headed back across.

    That’s when it hit me we hadn’t yet seen the famous Dutch windmills! So we made our way to the train station and hopped on a short ride to Zaandam home of the iconic windmills of Zaanse Schans. It turned out to be such a wonderful decision.

    The weather was perfect bright but calm and the whole area felt so peaceful. The little town sat right on the water, dotted with picturesque windmills that looked like they belonged on a postcard. We strolled along the paths, ducking into charming souvenir shops, sipping hot cocoa, and just taking our time. There was even a little petting area where we pet some goat, and of course, we couldn’t resist stepping into the cheese shop to try all the different samples. Everything about it felt warm, simple, and genuinely Dutch.

    After a few hours of exploring, chatting, and snacking, we decided it was time to head back. Back at the hostel, we took a quick rest before heading out once more in search of dinner.

    For our final evening in Amsterdam, we enjoyed a quick dinner and then wandered through the city one last time. The streets were softly lit, shop windows glowed invitingly, and we couldn’t resist picking up a few last souvenirs to remember our time here. We even stumbled across this guy just cooking a steak on a bridge in the middle of the Red Light District. We watched him cook and at the end he let everyone try a piece of the steak. It was delicious! But such a weird thing to witness. Our last night felt like the perfect way to end our time in Amsterdam!

    Now we’re tucked into bed, bags packed and ready for our next stop — Brussels tomorrow!

    Amsterdam, you’ve been amazing.    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Amsterdam Activites

    November 5 in the Netherlands ⋅ ☁️ 17 °C

    We kicked off the day at Tony’s Chocolonely Factory, which turned out to be such a fun and delicious experience. We got to design our very own chocolate bars from scratch first choosing our base, then picking the flavours, and finally creating our own wrappers. I went for white chocolate with bikkies and cinnamon, and Jayde chose dark chocolate with orange, lemon, and sea salt. Once our masterpieces were designed, we handed them over to the chocolatiers, who needed a couple of hours to craft and cool them. That gave us the perfect window to explore more of the city.

    To make the most of the morning, we jumped on a canal boat tour. The hour long ride glided us through Amsterdam’s charming network of waterways, lined with those iconic narrow houses leaning slightly this way and that. Every turn revealed something new, cute bridges draped in bikes, locals sipping coffee by the water, and golden leaves floating on the canal surface. The city just feels different when seen from the water. It was so lovely, calm, scenic, and such a perfect way to see Amsterdam.

    When we hopped off the boat, our chocolate still wasn’t ready, but it was time for our 12:30 pm slot at the Anne Frank House. The visit began with a 30 minute introduction, setting the scene for the story of Anne Frank and her family during World War II.

    Walking through the actual rooms where they hid for more than two years was deeply moving. For some reason, I’d always imagined them cooped up in a single tiny room with no toilet, no kitchen, nothing. But in reality, the “Secret Annex” consisted of three rooms, along with a small bathroom and kitchen area. Still, it was a cramped, tense existence, filled with fear and silence. Seeing Anne’s original diary, photos, and the preserved rooms was a haunting reminder of the horrors of war.

    After the tour, our timing was perfect our Tony’s chocolate bars were ready! We swung back by the factory to pick them up, and wow, they turned out amazing. The wrappers looked so professional, and the bars themselves tasted even better than we imagined. Definitely a sweet souvenir to remember Amsterdam by.

    Next on the list was the Heineken Experience, about a 30 minute walk away. The old brewery has been turned into this huge interactive attraction that takes you through the history of the brand, the brewing process, and everything that makes Heineken what it is today. There were loads of cool displays and activities and we even got to “be the beer” in a brewing simulation. At the end, I learned how to pour the perfect pint, which I absolutely failed at……. I don’t really drink beer anyway, so Jayde used my tokens for the extra drinks and ended up in very high spirits by the time we left.

    After all that, we walked back to the hostel, grabbed a quick dinner at the pub downstairs, and decided to call it a night. My hip’s been a bit sore the last few days, so I didn’t want to overdo it and after more than 18,000 steps, I think we’d earned an early night.

    One last full day in Amsterdam tomorrow!    Read more

  • Kayla HeybournKayla & Jayde’s OE 2025!Traveler

    Exploring Amsterdam

    November 4 in the Netherlands ⋅ ☁️ 12 °C

    Amsterdam had us hooked from the moment we stepped out this morning. Our first stop was Winkel Cafe famous for its colossal apple pie. We grabbed a coffee and one slice to share, and wow it was massive. Sweet, warm, and perfectly spiced, it instantly reminded me of Oma’s pie (though hers still wins, hands down). Still, it was a pretty great way to kick off the day.

    With sugar and caffeine fueling us, we wandered through Jordaan, a neighbourhood straight out of a storybook. Narrow streets, leaning canal houses, and the soft clatter of bikes made it impossible not to wander without a care. We popped into a few quirky shops and soaked up the sun finally peeking through the clouds everything looked brighter, happier, and somehow more alive.

    As we headed toward a nearby market, we stumbled across Friet Fable a tiny shop with a big reputation for its “viral” fries. Parmesan and truffle mayo on top? Absolutely worth stopping. Crispy, golden, and indulgent they were possibly the best fries either of us have ever eaten.

    Next up was the market, alive with energy, colours, and smells. Vintage shops and stalls spilled onto the streets, each one more tempting than the last. I even found OshKosh baby clothes a little nod to Mum and a cute reminder of the past. One of the main reasons we’d come to the market was so Jayde could try herring, one of the Netherlands’ traditional delicacies. It’s served raw, with chopped onions and pickles on top a combination that sounds far braver than it tastes. I decided to pass, but Jayde gave it a go and, to my surprise, actually enjoyed it.

    We wandered through another smaller market afterwards, still full from fries and apple pie, before deciding to head back. Somehow — and I still can’t quite tell if it was intentional……. Jayde managed to map our route straight through Amsterdam’s Red Light District. We hadn’t seen it yet, and walking through it completely by surprise was… something. We couldn’t stop laughing, equal parts awkward and bewildered by what we were seeing, trying our best not to look but also wanting to look a little. It was one of those travel moments that will definitely be retold later with even more laughter.

    Back at the Airbnb, we rested our feet for a bit before heading out for dinner. We had a reservation at a renowned Italian restaurant and the pasta… oh, the pasta. Creamy, rich, and perfect, it was honestly some of the best I’ve ever had, even better than in Italy we agreed.

    The evening got even better when we met a distant cousin I hadn’t met before, along with his fiancée, Ella. We spent hours talking and laughing, and it felt completely natural despite the time and distance. We had the best time and I am so grateful that we got to meet more family from Oma’s side. By the time we finally said goodbye and walked back through quiet, glowing streets, it felt like a day packed with small adventures, good food, and unexpected fun, everything you could hope for from a city like Amsterdam.    Read more

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