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I enjoy walking tours. Long-time readers are aware that I consistently suggest participating in them as a primary activity when visiting a city. The type of tour you choose isn’t important—be it food, history, art—just engage in something. They’re an amazing way to discover a destination, orient yourself, and converse with a local about their life in the city. (Additionally, you can request recommendations for restaurants, attractions, or city navigation from your local guide! It’s a win-win situation!)

I have been on walking tours since my initial backpacking trip in 2006, during which I took part in a hostel’s complimentary walking tour in Prague. I was captivated, and over the years, I’ve experienced hundreds of tours organized by numerous companies. There are a plethora of walking tour companies, but one of my absolute favorites is Context Travel.

Founded in 2003, I have been utilizing and endorsing their services since 2010 when I initially discovered one of their tours in Rome. I toured the Vatican with an art historian, where I not only explored the Vatican itself but also the narratives behind the artworks. Since that moment, I have participated in countless tours with them.

What consistently distinguishes Context from others is their choice to employ experts (those with MA or PhD degrees) in their respective fields as guides instead of merely trained regular individuals. This ensures you receive insights from someone genuinely knowledgeable. You benefit from their ability to share intricate details that only specialists would be privy to.

During a recent visit to Paris, I experienced Context’s WWII History Tour. I have considerable knowledge about Paris, having visited for 15 years, lived there briefly, taken over 50 tours, and read extensively about the city—as if I were preparing for a degree in Paris history.

However, my main interest in the city revolves around the 1920s (as I adore the Jazz Age!) and medieval history. My grasp of World War II Paris is limited, so I was eager to join this tour to understand a significant era in recent Parisian history.

The tour begins in St. Germain, traverses the Luxembourg Gardens to the Latin Quarter, and continues to Marias, concluding at the Hôtel de Ville. It details the onset of the Nazi occupation, the realities of daily life during this period, the resistance efforts, the plight of the Jewish community, and ultimately, liberation. (The duration is approximately three hours.)

As previously mentioned, the uniqueness of Context Travel lies in their expert guides, and my guide, Gil, was no different. He had been residing in France for nearly twenty years, holds degrees in politics and literature, and had been guiding for over a decade. (Note: Several experts conduct this tour.) He had a wealth of esoteric knowledge and brought along an iPad filled with images and primary source materials.

We commenced in St. Germain, discussing how the Germans swiftly entered Paris and how, initially, life largely continued as they established control. Local Parisians somewhat maintained their routines (with certain restrictions). Given France’s rapid capitulation, there was no fighting in Paris, so the city remained undamaged.

As we strolled, we paused at various buildings linked to the war (the current Mandarin Oriental hotel once housed the Gestapo… eerily fascinating), and explored how the resistance eventually organized within the city. The tour progressed through time, with Gil addressing collaborators, the eventual expulsion of Jewish residents, and how significant victories by the French army in Africa resulted in crackdowns within the city. Ultimately, we arrived at the Hôtel de Ville, witnessing the powerful conclusion as Parisians and Resistance members liberated the city from Nazi domination in August 1944. The visuals of individuals and firsthand documents he shared really illuminated the life and resistance efforts in WWII Paris. I left feeling as though I had gained substantial knowledge.

And that’s why I appreciate Context Travel. You genuinely receive intricate details and facts along with an in-depth exploration. While there are numerous walking tour companies out there—and I recommend a diverse range—Context has consistently excelled in the caliber of their tour leaders. You’re not simply getting a guide reciting a script; you’re engaging with someone who possesses extensive subject matter expertise. One of my favorite experiences was walking down NYC’s iconic 42nd street alongside an award-winning architect. From architects to historians to artists to chefs, the guides here are seasoned experts, which is quite rare.

Context is ideal for travelers seeking an genuine and thorough exploration of a subject or locale. Whether participating in a Louvre tour or a neighborhood walking tour like this, you’ll receive a

**Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card: An In-Depth Review**

If you frequently fly with Delta and want to improve your travel experience without paying the high fee associated with the Reserve card, the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card could be the perfect option for you. With an annual fee of $350, this card provides numerous benefits that can greatly enhance your Delta travel experience and assist you in attaining Medallion status more effectively.

### Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card Summary

The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card offers a range of advantages aimed at making your journey more rewarding. Below are some essential features:

– **Welcome Bonus:** Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles after making $4,000 in eligible purchases during the first 6 months. Offer expires on 10/29/2025.
– **Earning Rates:**
– 3X Miles on Delta purchases and hotel reservations.
– 2X Miles at restaurants globally and supermarkets in the U.S.
– 1X Miles on all other expenditures.
– **Companion Certificate:** Get a Companion Certificate for a Delta Main round-trip flight annually upon renewing your card. Taxes and fees apply.
– **Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQD):** Accumulate $2,500 MQD with MQD Headstart every year and 1 MQD for every $20 spent on the card.
– **Travel Credits:**
– $120 statement credit for application fees for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
– Up to $120 Resy and Rideshare credits each year.
– **Additional Advantages:**
– 15% discount on award travel redemptions for Delta flights.
– First checked bag at no cost.

### How to Utilize Delta SkyMiles

Delta’s variable pricing indicates that the miles needed for a flight fluctuate with the cash price. While you can redeem miles at a value of 1 cent per mile, it’s usually more beneficial to use them for award flights. The 15% discount on award redemptions increases the worth of your miles. Being flexible with travel dates and keeping an eye on award sales can lead to superior deals.

### Is the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Worth It?

For those who often fly Delta and are aiming for Medallion status, this card delivers significant value. The companion certificate, TSA PreCheck credit, and improved earning rates can comfortably balance out the annual fee. Nonetheless, if lounge access is important to you, consider the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card.

### Advantages and Disadvantages

**Advantages:**
– Annual companion certificate.
– MQD accumulation through spending.
– Enhanced earn rates on Delta and hotel transactions.
– TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit.
– Complimentary checked bag for you and your companions.
– 15% discount on award flights.

**Disadvantages:**
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– No access to Sky Club lounges.
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In summary, the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is a superb choice for regular Delta flyers looking to enrich their travel experience and earn Medallion status more effectively. For those who want lounge access, the Reserve card may be a more suitable option.

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**Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card: An In-Depth Examination**

If you often travel, you’re aware of the difficulties associated with flying: accumulating luggage fees, navigating boarding, and gradually earning miles. The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card aims to ease these concerns by providing various benefits that improve your travel journey. For individuals who fly with Delta occasionally throughout the year, this card can be a beneficial addition to your financial portfolio.

### Main Features and Advantages

The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card serves as an introductory card featuring a $0 annual fee for the first year, followed by $150. It includes:

– **Sign-Up Bonus**: Receive 80,000 Bonus Miles after spending $3,000 on qualifying purchases in the initial 6 months. Offer valid until 10/29/2025.
– **Miles Accumulation**: Earn 2x miles on Delta purchases, U.S. grocery stores, and restaurants globally; 1x miles on all other purchases.
– **Complimentary Checked Bag**: Save as much as $70 on a round-trip per passenger.
– **Delta Flight Credit**: A $200 credit following $10,000 in spending within a calendar year.
– **Discounted Award Travel**: Enjoy a 15% reduction on Delta flights.
– **Miles Redemption**: Use miles for flight savings.
– **Priority Boarding**: Access Zone 5 boarding on Delta services.
– **In-Flight Discounts**: Get 20% back on qualified purchases.

### Using Delta Points

Delta’s variable pricing indicates that the points needed for a flight can fluctuate with ticket prices. Although using points as cash might not always offer the greatest value, the 15% discount on awards can render flights more cost-effective. Flexibility regarding travel dates and keeping an eye on award promotions may yield superior offers.

### Is It Worth Considering?

For travelers flying Delta two to three times annually without elite privileges, the advantages of the card, particularly the complimentary checked bag, can neutralize the annual fee. Priority boarding and discounts on awards add more value, making it a solid choice for occasional Delta flyers.

In summary, the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card presents significant benefits relative to its cost, making it an appealing option for those who travel with Delta frequently, yet are not prepared for a premium card.

Spain is frequently praised for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and famous cuisine. While places like Barcelona, Madrid, and Ibiza are popular for valid reasons, the real spirit of Spain can often be discovered in its less-traveled regions. Northern Spain, characterized by its verdant mountains, rugged shorelines, and historic villages, provides a distinct viewpoint. Although it doesn’t draw as many visitors as the bustling southern spots, it is just as breathtaking.

For those in search of a more peaceful aspect of Spain, think about heading north after your flight to Madrid. Spend a few days in the lively capital, then board a train north for a week or longer to uncover ancient Roman roads, lesser-known deserts, and towns where age-old customs persist.

Here are three notable locations in Northern Spain: Las Médulas, the Bardenas Reales, and Santillana del Mar. Each presents a unique combination of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, all within reach of Madrid.

1. **Las Médulas**

Almost two millennia ago, Roman engineers altered this terrain in their pursuit of gold. Utilizing a technique called ruina montium, they directed water through tunnels to collapse hillsides, revealing gold reserves. The outcome is a remarkable landscape of sharp red cliffs, hollows, and ravines, softened by chestnut forests and walking paths. Today, Las Médulas is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, exemplifying human creativity and nature’s lasting influence. Strolling through the ravines and Roman galleries, one can envision the effort and foresight needed to transform this rugged landscape.

Highlights and Trails:
– **Senda de las Valiñas (4km loop):** A gentle path through chestnut groves and Roman tunnels, ideal for a leisurely morning walk.
– **Mirador de Orellán:** A brief ascent leads to a viewpoint with breathtaking sights, particularly at sunset.
– **Galería de Orellán:** Investigate this restored mining tunnel to get a sense of the ancient extraction activities.
– **Senda Perimetral (14km loop):** A more extended hike surrounding the archaeological site, providing tranquility and picturesque views.
– **Castro de Chano:** An adjacent pre-Roman hillfort, which adds further significance to the region’s history.
– **Mirador de Reirigo:** A serene lookout with expansive views across woodlands and hills.

Practical Details:
– **Where to Stay:** Ponferrada, located just half an hour away, offers a variety of lodging options.
– **Best Season:** Autumn for golden foliage and crisp air; spring for mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
– **Tip:** Carry water and snacks, particularly for longer hikes. Maps or GPS applications are useful for navigation.

2. **Bardenas Reales**

To the south of Pamplona, the terrain transitions to arid plains and a semi-desert filled with ochre mesas and ravines. The Bardenas Reales, a 42,000-hectare natural park in Navarre, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a region of active military use. Nevertheless, shepherds continue to graze flocks here, and wildlife flourishes. The park’s remoteness often allows visitors to enjoy the trails in solitude.

Sights and Routes:
– **Castildetierra:** The park’s emblematic slender rock spire is particularly stunning at dawn.
– **La Blanca Baja Loop (34km):** A drive or bike ride through the park’s central area, featuring overlooks of scarps and mesas.
– **Piskerra and El Rallón Hike:** A moderate trek with challenging paths and impressive vistas.
– **Balcón de Pilatos:** An elevated point ideal for observing griffon vultures in flight.
– **Cabezo de las Cortinillas:** A quieter geological feature displaying shifting rock hues.
– **Río Aragón Corridor:** A verdant stretch along the river, perfect for birdwatching.

Practical Details:
– **Where to Stay:** Tudela, the closest town, provides cozy accommodations and regional cuisine.
– **Best Season:** Spring or early autumn for comfortable temperatures; wildflowers bloom after rainfall.
– **Tip:** Ensure you have enough water, sunscreen, and snacks, as there are no amenities inside the park.

3. **Santillana del Mar**

Santillana del Mar, located in Cantabria, is a charming village with cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and delightful squares. It acts as a gateway to the Altamira Cave, famed for its Paleolithic artwork. Strolling through its narrow alleys feels like stepping back in time, and an overnight stay offers a peaceful experience once day visitors depart.

Things to See and Do:
– **Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana:** A Romanesque treasure featuring serene cloisters and intricate carvings.
– **Altamira Cave Replica:** An impressive reproduction of the original cave, closed to protect the art.
– **Museo de Altamira:** A museum that elaborates on the prehistoric culture of the area.
– **Pl

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Ruin bars have emerged as a hallmark of Budapest’s nightlife, attracting both residents and travelers eager to savor their distinctive allure. Evolving in the early 2000s, these establishments are located in the historic Jewish district, District VII, repurposing the abandoned spaces that emerged following World War II. Szimpla Kert, the forerunner of ruin bars, debuted in 2002 and initiated the trend for this diverse scene. These bars are noted for their unconventional environments, often found in derelict buildings adorned with eclectic furnishings and whimsical decor, crafting an ambiance that feels both artistic and underground.

In spite of their increasing fame, ruin bars have preserved their unique identity. They remain concealed treasures, with modest exteriors that conceal the vibrant social scenes within. Each bar provides a distinct experience, ranging from the spacious and animated Szimpla Kert to the cozier and more relaxed Grandio, which also functions as a hostel. Dürer Kert caters to those in search of live music and games, while the Instant-Fogas Complex offers a club-like vibe with multiple dance floors and bars.

For a more refined outing, Mazel Tov presents a combination of classic Jewish dishes and evening entertainment, while Csendes Letterem Café & Bar creates a cozy environment for chatting and drinks. These venues exemplify the varied attractions of Budapest’s ruin bar culture, making them essential stops for anyone discovering the city.

Ruin bars encompass more than just drinking; they symbolize a cultural movement that underscores Budapest’s creative essence and determination. Whether you’re a local or an explorer, these bars provide an exceptional insight into the city’s dynamic social atmosphere and artistic vitality.

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I once believed that the term “home” was a negative one. Out there — on the journey — was where life unfolded, filled with thrilling escapades, intriguing individuals, and limitless opportunities. No monotonous commutes, half-hour lunch breaks, tedious meetings, or unending chores crammed into a hurried weekend.

Why would anyone desire to be at home, the space where routine seemed to drain your will to live? It perplexed me.

My initial trip abroad — a getaway to Costa Rica — made me fall head over heels for traveling. For all the reasons stated before, I came to realize why “vacations” were so glorified in professional culture. They possessed a freedom that sharply contrasted with the daily corporate hustle.

So, when I eventually resigned from my job, I embarked on a journey to savor everything the world had in store for as long as my finances would allow.

I mean, who could ever grow weary of the road?

Well, I did.

Ultimately, I became fatigued with being a permanent wanderer. I longed for a consistent group of friends, regular workouts, a pub that recognized me, a kitchen to cook in, and a familiar bed.

Suddenly, it dawned on me that “home” wasn’t a dirty term. It merely felt that way to a young, restless spirit for whom adulthood seemed light-years away.

I came to comprehend what someone just beginning their journey with romantic ideas about travel couldn’t: Fatigue can set in. During my first trip overseas, after 18 months, I hit my limit and chose to cut my travels short. Years later, in 2013, I determined that a nomadic lifestyle no longer suited me and opted to cease traveling full-time.

It was time to mature, I resolved. Time to settle and transition from nomad to… whatever lay ahead.

Yet the temptation of the road — and the bustle of working in travel — continually drew me back.

As time passed, I existed between two realms: one where I was traveling, yearning for home, and another where I was home, desiring to venture out once more.

There were times when I wished for a clone so I could inhabit both and fulfill my dual longings.

After all, you can’t — and shouldn’t — remain solely in one for eternity.

Because travel and home are complementary elements, yin and yang. Lacking one inhibits the appreciation of the other.

All travelers encounter a limit, that moment when they glance around and think, “I’m ready to settle down.” When and why this occurs are influenced by numerous factors, but I have yet to meet a traveler who hasn’t faced that situation. When I began traveling in my twenties, it took me several years to experience that. Now, a couple of decades later, it happens after just a month.

To cope with life, the mind forms mental shortcuts to aid information processing. This is why we typically drive the same route to work every day — it’s simply easier, and it’s why you feel like “you can do it in your sleep.” If your brain had to devise a new route to work daily, it would exhaust itself. These habits enable us to put much of life on autopilot, conserving energy for work, relationships, emotions, thoughts, etc.

However, when you travel, you’re relearning essential life skills daily. There are no mental shortcuts. It demands a significant amount of mental energy to navigate your way in the world anew each day, to repack your luggage, bid farewell to the person you met yesterday, and venture forth to attempt once again to traverse unknown territories, languages, and people as if you’ve never done so before.

It can wear you out.

Whereas a vacation serves as a temporary escape from reality, long-term travel constitutes something different. When you travel for an extended period (or are frequently on the go), there is no break. You’re perpetually attempting to figure things out while also consistently disrupting your routine. Your travel battery depletes.

Yet, just as the travel battery requires recharging, so does our “home” battery.

While some individuals can adhere to the same routine their entire lives, most of us cannot. We find it tedious. We seek a break. After spending a while in one location, we crave to disrupt the monotony of our everyday routine. Work, commutes, errands… day in, day out, like ants marching endlessly.

Thus, we venture out to travel again. We embark on an adventure, meet new faces, sample new cuisines, and have new experiences. Perhaps we learn, evolve, and broaden our identity. We may be away for a week or two, or perhaps we take a month off. Or we might begin working remotely and spend months away. But eventually, our battery depletes: we become exhausted, and then we return home once more.