Country Guide: The Vatican City

Name: The Vatican City (in Italian: La Città del Vaticano)

Continent: Europe

Capital (and Largest) City: The Vatican City

Language: Italian

Currency: Euro

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Central European Time

Adaptor Types: Type C, Type F and Type L

Description: The Vatican City, or simply the Vatican, is the world's smallest country at only 0.49 square kilometres. It is located entirely within the city of Rome in the country of Italy, and is governed by the Roman Catholic church. Despite its small size, it contains the world's largest church, St Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro), as well as the Vatican Museums, which contain an array of treasures, including the Sistine Chapel (Cappella Sistina).

Why You Should Visit: It is a cool experience for any traveller to say that they've been to the smallest country in the world, and it's also a lot of fun to travel from Italy to a whole other country just by crossing a street! Aside from that, St. Peter's Square (Piazza San Pietro) is an amazing place to experience, and it's definitely worth queuing to enter the basilica, which is absolutely beautiful. One thing I would not recommend is the Vatican Museums - we're glad to have visited but found it very overcrowded and underwhelming. But overall, I'd say a little trip into the Vatican City is an integral part of any holiday in Rome.

Fun Fact: Residents of the Vatican City consume more wine per capita than any other country!

My Blogposts About the Vatican City

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- The Vatican City

- Rome: Day Four

Clockwise starting from top left: Inner courtyard of the Vatican Museums, Interior of St. Peter's Basilica, St. Peter's Square viewed from above, St. Peter's Square by night, Vatican Gardens viewed from above, Roof of St. Peter's Basilica

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: The Netherlands

Name: The Netherlands (in Dutch: Nederland)

Continent: Europe

Capital (and Largest) City: Amsterdam

Language: Dutch

Currency: Euro

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Central European Time

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type F

Description: The Netherlands is a country in western Europe, known for its flat landscapes, canals, windmills and tulips. Contrary to popular belief, the terms "Holland" and "The Netherlands" are not synonymous - Holland is actually a region in the west of the country, which includes the capital city, Amsterdam, as well as the second and third largest cities, Rotterdam and The Hague, while "The Netherlands" refers to the entire country, as well as its overseas territories in the Caribbean.

Why You Should Visit: The city of Amsterdam receives a lot more tourists than the rest of the country, and not always for the right reasons, which is why the Dutch government is currently trying to encourage tourism to other regions. Though strangely enough, I was pleasantly surprised during our trip to Amsterdam last year to find that attractions such as the Rijksmuseum and the canal boat cruises were not crowded at all, and the city generally had a less touristy vibe than other European capitals. The architecture there really is beautiful and unique, so I'd definitely recommend going at least once in your life, but if I return to the Netherlands in the future, I'd want to visit some of the other beautiful cities and regions around the country.

Fun Fact: There are twice as many bikes in the Netherlands as there are cars.

My Blogposts About the Netherlands

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- Zaandam: A Fairytale Town Near Amsterdam

- Amsterdam

Clockwise starting from top left: Zaandam; Begijnhof, Amsterdam; Basilica of Saint Nicholas, Amsterdam; Zaandam; Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam; Traditional Amsterdam houses

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Malta

Name: Malta 

Continent: Europe

Capital City: Valletta (in Maltese: il-Belt Valletta)

Largest Town: Saint Paul's Bay (in Maltese: San Pawl il-Baħar)

Languages: Maltese and English

Currency: Euro

Drives on the: Left

Time Zones: Central European Time

Adaptor Type: Type G (same as UK!)

Description: Malta is a small island country located right in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, between Tunisia, Sicily and Libya. It is made up of three main islands: Malta (the biggest one), Gozo (a more peaceful, rural island) and Comino (the smallest one, where you can find the famous Blue Lagoon). Because of its position and the fact that it has been ruled by various groups throughout history, it has a wide variety of cultural influences.

Why You Should Visit: Malta is a great place to visit for several reasons. In the UK at least, it is mostly known as a destination to enjoy sunshine and beaches, and of course that's true, although most of its beaches are rocky rather than sandy. However, there is a lot more to discover throughout the country, including beautiful medieval citadels, such as Mdina on Malta and Cittadella on Gozo, as well as prehistoric temples that are even older than Stonehenge!

Fun Fact: Malta has no permanent rivers.

My Blogposts About Malta

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Valletta and Megalithic Temples)

- My Dream Travel Destinations: Updated!

- Valletta

- A Day Trip to the Blue Lagoon

- Mdina and Rabat

- Gozo

- Life in Malta

- Travel Tips: Ten More of My Favourite Beach Destinations (Ramla Beach, Gozo)

- Travel Tips: The Best Hotels I've Ever Stayed in (Victoria/Rabat, Gozo)

- Charlotte's Travel Adventures is 5 Years Old!

- Travel Tips: The Best Destinations to Live in - Part One

Clockwise starting from top left: Ta' Pinu, Gozo; Spinola Bay, St Julian's; Mdina; Valletta viewed from Sliema; Tarxien Temples; The Blue Lagoon, Comino

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Brazil

Name: Brazil (in Portuguese: Brasil)

Continent: South America

Capital City: Brasília

Largest City: São Paulo

Languages: Portuguese

Currency: Real

Drives on the: Right

Time Zones: Acre Time (UTC -5), Amazon Time (UTC -4), Brasília Time (UTC -3), and Fernando de Noronha Time (UTC -2)

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type N

Description: Brazil is the largest and most populous country in South America. 60% of the world's largest rainforest, the Amazon, is located within its borders, meaning that it is one of the most diverse countries in terms of flora and fauna. Other than this, Brazil is also well-known for its beaches, success in football, samba music and dance, and the Rio Carnival.

Why You Should Visit: Rio de Janeiro is a city unlike anywhere else in the world - its mountains, beaches and cultural attractions are incredible and it has amazing vibes. Even though it rained most days during our visit in December 2022, we still had a fantastic time and plan to go back sometime in the future. We also loved visiting the paradise beaches of Arraial do Cabo, a few hours away from the city. Other places in Brazil that look fascinating to visit include the Iguazú waterfalls and, of course, the Amazon rainforest.

Fun Fact: Brazil has won 5 World Cup titles, which is more than any other country.

My Blogposts About Brazil

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- My Dream Travel Destinations (Rio de Janeiro)

- UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Rio de Janeiro)

- Rio de Janeiro: Day One

- Rio de Janeiro: Day Two

- Rio de Janeiro: Day Three

- Rio de Janeiro: Day Four

- Arraial do Cabo

- Travel Tips: Ten More of My Favourite Beach Destinations (Rio de Janeiro and Arraial do Cabo)

- Charlotte's Travel Adventures is 5 Years Old! (Rio de Janeiro)

Clockwise starting from top left: Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro; Botanical Garden, Rio de Janeiro; Arraial do Cabo; Botafogo Beach, Rio de Janeiro; Escadaria Selarón, Rio de Janeiro; Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Peru

Name: Peru (in Spanish: Perú)

Continent: South America

Capital (and Largest) City: Lima

Languages: Spanish, Quechua and Aymara

Currency: Sol

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Peru Standard Time (UTC -5)

Adaptor Types: Type A and Type C

Description: Peru is a country on the western side of South America, bordered by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia and Chile. It has a coastline along the Pacific Ocean on its western side, as well as the Andes mountain range in the centre and the Amazon rainforest in the east. Best-known for its archaeological sites and traditional culture dating back to the Inca period and earlier, Peru is a destination on many people's bucket lists.

Why You Should Visit: Of course, Machu Picchu is the place that everyone wants to visit in Peru, and with good reason - it's absolutely spectacular - but there are many other interesting places to visit all over the country. Personally, I've visited two regions of Peru: the Cusco region, which is beautiful and fascinating, but very touristy, and the Tacna region in the far south, which is rarely visited by anyone other than Peruvians or Chileans. Despite being off the radar, Tacna has some great architecture, interesting archaeological sites and dramatic landscapes, and I'm sure the same applies to every region of the country.

Fun Fact: Peru is home to over 70% of the world's alpaca population!

My Blogposts About Peru

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Cusco and Machu Picchu)

- Movie Travels (Cusco and Machu Picchu)

- Our Day Trip to Peru (Tacna region)

- Cusco

- Sacred Valley of the Incas

- Maras and Moray

- Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu Pueblo)

- Machu Picchu

- Travel Tips: The Best Hotels I've Ever Stayed in (Cusco and Aguas Calientes)

- Charlotte's Travel Adventures is 5 Years Old! (Machu Picchu)

- My Year of Adventurous Travel (Cusco region)

Clockwise starting from top left: Aguas Calientes, Cusco, Chinchero, Tacna, Machu Picchu, Maras

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Uruguay

Name: Uruguay

Continent: South America

Capital (and Largest) City: Montevideo

Language: Spanish

Currency: Uruguayan Peso

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Uruguay Standard Time (UTC -3)

Adaptor Types: Type C, Type F and Type L

Description: Uruguay is one of South America's smallest countries and can be found in between Argentina and Brazil. It also has a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and Río de la Plata. Like its neighbour Argentina, it is famous for football and tango dancing, and it is also often considered to be the most progressive country in Latin America.

Why You Should Visit: Uruguay isn't one of the top Latin American tourist destinations, but I would definitely recommend going there! The UNESCO World Heritage town of Colonia del Sacramento is just a short ferry ride away from Buenos Aires, and is such a picturesque place to spend a day exploring. There are also some great beaches and beautiful green countryside to discover all over the country. And the fact that it's so small compared to most other South American countries makes it easy to get around!

Fun Fact: 95% of the energy used in Uruguay now comes from sustainable sources.

My Blogposts About Uruguay

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- An Eventful Day in Uruguay (Montevideo and Colonia del Sacramento)

- UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Colonia del Sacramento)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Beaches (Colonia del Sacramento)

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Historical Destinations (Colonia del Sacramento)

- Charlotte's Travel Adventures is 5 Years Old! (Colonia del Sacramento)

Clockwise starting from top left: Parroquia San Francisco de Asís, Montevideo; all other photos taken in Colonia del Sacramento

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Sweden

Name: Sweden (in Swedish: Sverige)

Continent: Europe

Capital (and Largest) City: Stockholm

Language: Swedish

Currency: Swedish Krona

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Central European Time

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type F

Description: Sweden is the largest country in the Scandinavia region, bordering Norway and Finland. It is famous for its cold, snowy weather, and for its success in the areas of interior design, crime fiction, and music, having produced several Eurovision winners, including ABBA. It is also known for its high standard of living.

Why You Should Visit: In 2020, my boyfriend Claudio and I spontaneously visited Stockholm and had an amazing time. The city is beautiful, especially the historic centre (Gamla stan), and it has plenty of interesting museums to check out, such as Skansen open-air museum, and the Viking Museum. If I go back to Sweden, I would like to see more of the country's natural landscapes, including the glaciers and fjords that Scandinavia is famous for.

Fun Fact: Sweden has more islands than any other country in the world!

My Blogposts About Sweden

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- London: Day Four + Arriving in Sweden (Stockholm)

- Stockholm: Day One

- Stockholm: Day Two

- Stockholm: Day Three

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Fairytale Destinations (Stockholm)

- Charlotte's Travel Adventures is 5 Years Old! (Stockholm)

Clockwise starting from top left: a traditional house at Skansen open-air museum, House of Nobility, Stortorget, traditional log cabins at Skansen, Gamla stan (all located in Stockholm)

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Spain

Name: Spain (in Spanish: España)

Continent: Europe

Capital (and Largest) City: Madrid

Language: Spanish

Currency: Euro

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Central European Time

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type F

Description: Spain is a country in southwestern Europe which is known for its warm weather and Mediterranean beaches. It is also famous for its food (including tapas and paella), wine, flamenco dancing and success in football. Spain borders France, Portugal and Andorra, and its territory includes the Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, and two cities in North Africa.

Why You Should Visit: Many UK tourists visit Spain every year for its beaches and nightlife, with popular destinations being Benidorm and Magaluf. But there is a lot more to it than that! Spain has an array of beautiful cities to explore, in addition to picturesque rural villages, and the Pyrenees mountain range. Personally, I've been to several different parts of the country (including Madrid, Valencia, Málaga and Menorca), but there's a lot I still want to discover on my future travels!

Fun Fact: Spain actually has five official languages: Spanish (or Castilian), Catalan/Valencian, Basque, Galician and Aranese.

My Blogposts About Spain

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- Madrid

- The Night Train From Madrid to Lisbon

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Nature Destinations (Montanejos)

- My Gap Year 2014-2015 (Valencia)

- UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro, Madrid)

- Charlotte's Travel Adventures is 5 Years Old! (Madrid)

- Travel Tips: The Best Destinations to Live in - Part Two (Barcelona)

Clockwise starting from top left: Santa Catalina Tower, Valencia; City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia; Palacio de Cristal del Retiro, Madrid; Plaza de la Villa, Madrid; Montanejos Hot Springs

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Slovenia

Name: Slovenia (in Slovene: Slovenija)

Continent: Europe

Capital (and Largest) City: Ljubljana

Language: Slovene

Currency: Euro

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Central European Time

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type F

Description: Slovenia is a small country in the Balkans, bordering the Alps and the Adriatic Sea. It is best known for its lakes and mountain landscapes, and in recent years it has become more and more popular as a tourist destination.

Why You Should Visit: Slovenia really makes you feel as if you've stepped into a fairytale. Lake Bled in particular is a incredibly beautiful place, featuring a medieval castle overlooking the lake from a precipice, and a little island with a old church that can only be reached by rowing or swimming. I went there with my family back in 2014, and would definitely like to return in the future.

Fun Fact: Even though Slovenia is a small country, it has more than 10,000 caves!

My Blogposts About Slovenia

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Castles and Palaces (Bled Castle)

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Nature Destinations (Lake Jasna)

- My Gap Year 2014-2015 (Bled, Kranjska Gora, Lake Jasna and Ljubljana)

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Fairytale Destinations (Lake Bled)

Clockwise starting from top left: Lake Bled, Lake Jasna, Meadow near Bled, Panoramic view of  Ljubljana, Kranjska Gora

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Slovakia

Name: Slovakia (in Slovak: Slovensko)

Continent: Europe

Capital (and Largest) City: Bratislava

Language: Slovak

Currency: Euro

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Central European Time

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type E

Description: Slovakia is a landlocked country in Eastern Europe. It was formerly part of Czechoslovakia, before splitting from the Czech Republic (now known as Czechia) in 1993. It's not the best-known tourist destination in Europe, but there are plenty of reasons to visit...

Why You Should Visit: The main reasons people visit Slovakia are its mountains, which are great for hiking and skiing, and its castles, which can be found all over the country. Personally, I've only been to Bratislava so far, but I really enjoyed my day exploring the city, and especially loved the castle, which looks straight out of a fairytale.

Fun Fact: Slovakia holds the title of the country with the highest number of castles per capita!

My Blogposts About Slovakia

My Year Abroad Blog 2017-2018

- Vienna and Bratislava

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Castles and Palaces (Bratislava Castle)

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Fairytale Destinations (Bratislava)

Clockwise starting from top left: Capuchin Church, Bratislava Castle, View of St Martin's Cathedral and the city of Bratislava, Slovak National Theatre, Most SNP or UFO Bridge (all located in Bratislava) 

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Portugal

Name: Portugal

Continent: Europe

Capital (and Largest) City: Lisbon (in Portuguese: Lisboa)

Language: Portuguese

Currency: Euro

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Western European Standard Time

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type F

Description: Portugal is located on the Iberian peninsula in the southwest of Europe, bordering Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. It's a popular tourist destination amongst Brits and other Europeans, thanks to its warm weather and many sandy beaches. And it's also famous for port wine, Fado music, and for being successful in football.

Why You Should Visit: In addition to Portugal's beaches, there are various interesting cities to visit, most famously Lisbon and Porto. I have only visited Lisbon so far, but my trip there really stayed in my mind, because of its beautiful architecture and cultural attractions. I would definitely go back there and to other Portuguese destinations in the future.

Fun Fact: Portugal is the oldest country in Europe, having existed since 1139!

My Blogposts About Portugal

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- The Night Train From Madrid to Lisbon

- Lisbon

- The Belém and Ajuda Neighbourhoods (Lisbon)

- Castelo de São Jorge (Lisbon)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Cities (Lisbon)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Castles and Palaces (Castelo de São Jorge, Lisbon)

- UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Monastery of the Hieronymites and Tower of Belém in Lisbon)

- Travel Tips: My Top Five Colourful Cities (Lisbon)

- Charlotte's Travel Adventures is 5 Years Old! (Lisbon)

Clockwise starting from top left: Belém Tower, Sala Thai Pagoda, panoramic view from Castelo de São Jorge, Igreja de São Domingos, Tram 28 (all located in Lisbon)

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Poland

Name: Poland (in Polish: Polska)

Continent: Europe

Capital (and Largest) City: Warsaw (in Polish: Warszawa)

Language: Polish

Currency: Polish Złoty

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Central European Time

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type E

Description: Poland is a relatively large country in Eastern Europe, which borders the Baltic Sea in the north and the Carpathian Mountains in the south, as well as several other European countries. It is known for its historic cities, including Kraków, Warsaw and Gdańsk, and it's also a popular hiking and skiing destination.

Why You Should Visit: I had a really fantastic and memorable time in Poland when I volunteered there in 2019, teaching English with the Angloville programme. There are many beautiful places to see throughout the country (I only saw a few, but I would definitely go back in the future). In addition, the people are very friendly, and everything is cheap, so you're sure to have a great time!

Fun Fact: The world's largest castle (the Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork) is located in Poland!

My Blogposts About Poland

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- Kraków

- Ciężkowice

- Volunteering in Poland With Angloville (Modrzewiowe Wzgórze)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Cities (Kraków)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Castles and Palaces (Wawel Castle, Kraków)

- UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Kraków)

- Travel Tips: My Top Five Mountain Destinations (The Tatra Mountains)

- Charlotte's Travel Adventures is 5 Years Old! (Kraków)

Clockwise starting from top left: St Mary's Basilica, Kraków; Wawel Castle, Kraków; Modrzewiowe Wzgórze; Statue of Ignacy Jan Paderewski in Ciężkowice; Kraków Cloth Hall

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Liechtenstein

Name: Liechtenstein

Continent: Europe

Capital City: Vaduz

Largest City: Schaan

Language: German

Currency: Swiss Franc

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Central European Time

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type J

Description: Liechtenstein is a tiny country (the fourth smallest in Europe) located in the Alps, in between Switzerland and Austria. 

Why You Should Visit: The country is small, but it has a lot to offer, including mountainous landscapes and fairytale castles. Vaduz is definitely a must-visit city, as you can find beautiful architecture there, as well as two great museums: Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein and Liechtenstein National Museum.

Fun Fact: Liechtenstein is one of only two doubly-landlocked countries in the world. (The other one is Uzbekistan.)

My Blogposts About Liechtenstein

My Year Abroad Blog 2017-2018

- A Memorable Few Days (Innsbruck, Sargans and Vaduz)

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- Travel Tips: Destinations off the Tourist Trail (Vaduz)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Cities (Vaduz)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Castles and Palaces (Vaduz Castle)

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Fairytale Destinations (Vaduz)

Clockwise starting from top left: Vaduz Castle, Vaduz City Centre, Vaduz Parliament and St. Florin Cathedral, Vaduz Parliament, Vaduz City Hall

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Italy

Name: Italy (in Italian: Italia)

Continent: Europe

Capital (and Largest) City: Rome (in Italian: Roma)

Language: Italian

Currency: Euro

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Central European Time

Adaptor Types: Type C, Type F and Type L

Description: Italy is a country in the south of Europe, bordering the Alps and the Mediterranean sea. It is well-known across the world for its delicious food, such as pizza and pasta, and also for its history as the birthplace of the Roman Empire and the Renaissance movement. Many tourists visit every year to discover the Italian cuisine, art and culture.

Why You Should Visit: Italy probably has more beautiful cities than any other country in the world, the most famous ones being Rome, Venice, Florence and Milan. However, some of the smaller, lesser-known cities are also amazing places to visit (I particularly loved Udine). The country also has various picturesque landscapes to see, including the Alps in the north, many great beaches all around the coastline, and the green countryside of Tuscany in the centre.

Fun Fact: Italy only became a unified nation in 1861. For this reason, all of the regions still have their own distinct identities.

My Blogposts About Italy

My Year Abroad Blog 2017-2018

- Udine

- Florence

- Back to Italy Again (Venice)

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- Travel Tips: Destinations off the Tourist Trail (Udine)

- UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Florence, Venice and Syracuse)

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Historical Destinations (Florence)

- A Weekend in Sicily (Pozzallo and Syracuse)

- Travel Tips: The Best Hotels I've Ever Stayed in (Syracuse)

- Charlotte's Travel Adventures is 5 Years Old! (Syracuse)

- Rome: Day One

- The Vatican City (Rome)

- Rome: Day Two

- Santa Severa (Santa Severa and Rome)

- Rome: Day Three

- Rome: Day Four

Clockwise starting from top left: Ponte Vecchio in Florence, The Grand Canal in Venice, Saint Mark's Basilica in Venice, Piazza della Libertà in Udine, Giardino di Palazzo Medici Riccardi in Florence

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: France

Name: France

Continent: Europe

Capital (and Largest) City: Paris

Language: French

Currency: Euro

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Central European Time

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type E

Description: France is a country in Western Europe that is famous around the world for its cuisine, art and culture. It also has a great variety of landscapes, including scenic countryside in areas like the Loire Valley, mountains such as the Alps in the east of the country, and Mediterranean beaches in the south. 

Why You Should Visit: Paris is one of the most amazing cities in the world, and I believe every traveller should try to visit at least once in their lifetime. I also really love the south of France, especially the Occitanie region, which has beautiful beaches and great towns and cities like Montpellier and Nîmes. And the final thing I would recommend are the many picturesque châteaux that can be found all over the country.

Fun Fact: France is the most popular tourist destination in the entire world.

My Blogposts About France

My Year Abroad Blog 2017-2018

- Year Abroad - France Update (Occitanie region)

- Language Course in Montpellier (Montpellier, Mauguio, Nîmes, Pézenas, Cap d'Agde, Béziers, Avignon, Sète and Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert)

- The First Week and a Half in France (Paris and Versailles)

- Rouen

- Étretat

- Le Havre

- Dieppe

- Veules-les-Roses

- The Final Part of the Adventure (Rennes)

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- Travel Tips: Destinations Off the Tourist Trail (Sète and Le Havre)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Places to Visit in France (Montpellier, Nîmes, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Sète, Cap d'Agde, Avignon, Nice, Le Havre, Dieppe and Paris)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Cities (Montpellier and Paris)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Castles and Palaces (Château de Dieppe)

- My Gap Year 2014-2015 (Plus Gap Year Tips) (Cannes and Nice)

- Year Abroad: Dealing With Problems

- Year Abroad: The Best Bits

- Planning a Year Abroad

- UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Canal du Midi, Avignon, Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France, Paris, Versailles, Le Havre, Nîmes)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Beaches (Cannes and Cap d'Agde)

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Fairytale Destinations (Château de Dieppe)

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Historical Destinations (Nîmes)

- Movie Travels (Paris)

- A Very Special Trip to Paris

- Château de Vincennes

- Travel Tips: The Best Destinations to Live in - Part One (Montpellier and Rouen)

- Travel Tips: The Best Destinations to Live in - Part Two (Paris)

Clockwise starting from top left: Cap d'Agde, Arc de Triomphe in Montpellier, Sacré-Cœur in Paris, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Sète, Étretat, Eiffel Tower in Paris, Veules-les-Roses

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Chile

Name: Chile

Continent: South America

Capital (and Largest) City: Santiago

Language: Spanish

Currency: Chilean Peso

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Chile Standard Time (GMT -4)

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type L

Description: Chile is a very long and very thin country located on the western side of South America, between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes mountains. Because of its unusual shape, it features many different landscapes and climates, from the hot, dry Atacama Desert in the north to cold, icy Patagonia in the south. It is also famous for its literary heritage and its wine production.

Why You Should Visit: The natural landscapes of Chile are so varied and are unlike anywhere else on Earth. The country is filled with mountains, volcanoes, beaches, lakes, forests, waterfalls and glaciers, and is also home to many amazing species of animals, including penguins, flamingos, vicuñas, guanacos and pumas. In addition, Chile has several stunning cities to explore, such as Santiago and Valparaíso.

Fun Fact: The Atacama Desert is the driest non-polar desert on Earth.

My Blogposts About Chile

My Year Abroad Blog 2017-2018

- Life in Santiago

- Viña Undurraga (Talagante province)

- The Sky Costanera (Santiago)

- Cerro Manquehue (Santiago)

- Algarrobo

- My Day in Valparaíso

- Viña del Mar

- Cerro Santa Lucía (Santiago)

- The Maule Region

- Huilo Huilo and Other Magical Places (Los Ríos region)

- My Last Month in Santiago

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- Back in Santiago Again

- El Cementerio General (Santiago)

- Parque Metropolitano (Santiago)

- Cajón del Maipo

- An Unforgettable Trip to Algarrobo (Algarrobo, Isla Negra and Santo Domingo)

- San Pedro de Atacama

- Valle de la Luna

- Salar de Atacama, the Altiplano and Other Exciting Places

- Laguna Cejar, Ojos del Salar and Laguna Tebinquinche

- Travel Tips: Destinations off the Tourist Trail (Maule region and Huilo Huilo & Siete Lagos)

- Exploring Santiago Again

- Pueblito Los Domínicos (Santiago)

- La Serena

- Coquimbo

- Valle del Elqui

- Pomaire

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Places to Visit in Santiago

- A Few Highlights From Chile (Santiago and Chicureo)

- A Day at the Beach (Viña del Mar, Reñaca and Concón)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Cities (Valparaíso and Santiago)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Castles and Palaces (Castillo Wulff, Viña del Mar)

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Nature Destinations (Atacama Desert, Valle del Elqui, Algarrobo, Cajón del Maipo, Maule Region and Huilo Huilo & Siete Lagos)

- Year Abroad: Dealing With Problems

- Year Abroad: The Best Bits

- Planning a Year Abroad

- UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Valparaíso, Qhapaq Ñan, Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works, Archaeological sites of the Chinchorro culture and Churches of Chiloé)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Beaches (Algarrobo, La Serena and Reñaca)

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Fairytale Destinations (Huilo Huilo)

- Travel Tips: My Top Five Colourful Cities (Valparaíso and Coquimbo)

- Travel Tips: The Best Day Trips From Santiago (Región Metropolitana and Valparaíso region)

- Movie Travels (Valparaíso, the south of Chile, and the Atacama Desert)

- Travel Tips: My Top Five Mountain Destinations (the Andes)

- Cute Animals in the Wild (the Atacama Desert and Algarrobo)

- My First Weeks in Santiago

- Discovering More of Chile's Beaches (La Laguna, Maitencillo, Cachagua)

- Life in Chile: Update 1 (Santiago)

- Iquique

- Our Atacama Desert Road Trip

- Life in Chile: Update 2 (Santiago and Maipo province)

- Life in Chile: Update 3 (Santiago)

- Trekking in Parque Nacional Conguillío

- Life in Chile: Update 4 (Santiago)

- Arica

- Exploring the Arica Province

- Life in Chile: Update 5 (Santiago and Chicureo)

- Bosque Santiago

- Zapallar

- Our Snow Day! (Farellones, El Colorado, La Parva and Valle Nevado)

- Rapel Lake

- Life in Chile: Update 6 (Santiago)

- Life in Chile: Update 7 (Santiago and Monticello)

- Papudo

- Back in Valpo! (Valparaíso)

- El Yeco and Tunquén (Plus Algarrobo)

- The Journey Between Santiago and Mendoza (200th Post!)

- Life in Chile: Update 8 (Santiago, Talagante provice, Cajón del Maipo and Rancagua)

- Parque Nacional Radal Siete Tazas

- Parque Nacional Vicente Pérez Rosales

- Chiloé

- Puerto Varas

- Frutillar

- Our Civil Union (Santiago)

- Viña del Mar

- My Last Month in Chile

- Travel Tips: Ten More of My Favourite Beach Destinations (Cachagua, Iquique, Arica, Zapallar, Papudo, Frutillar and Viña del Mar)

- Travel Tips: The Best Hotels I've Ever Stayed in (Arica and Puerto Varas)

- Charlotte's Travel Adventures is 5 Years Old! (Atacama Desert, Santiago and Frutillar)

- Travel Tips: The Best Destinations to Live in - Part One (Santiago)

- My Year of Adventurous Travel (Santiago, Papudo and Cajón del Maipo)

Clockwise starting from top left: La Serena Beach, Laguna Chaxa in the Atacama Desert, Salto del Huilo Huilo, the Japanese Garden and Costanera Centre in Santiago, Mirador de Monjes Blancos in the Maule Region, Embalse el Yeso in Cajón del Maipo, Stairway in Valparaíso, Montegrande Church

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Belgium

Name: Belgium (in Dutch: België, in French: Belgique, in German: Belgien)

Continent: Europe

Capital (and Largest) City: Brussels (in French: Bruxelles, in Dutch: Brussel)

Languages: Dutch (Flemish), French and German

Currency: Euro

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Central European Time

Adaptor Types: Type C, Type E and Type F

Description: Belgium is a small country in western Europe, bordering the Netherlands, France, Luxembourg and Germany. Its capital city Brussels is known as one of the capitals of the European Union (along with Strasbourg and Luxembourg), and the country as a whole is famous for its chocolate, beer, and picturesque towns and cities.

Why You Should Visit: Personally I've only been to Bruges (plus the train station in Brussels!), but it was one of the most memorable cities I've ever been to, thanks to its canals, beautiful architecture and entertaining museums. I would love to go back there in the future, and also visit other cities in Belgium.

Fun Fact: French fries were actually invented in Belgium!

My Blogposts About Belgium

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- My Gap Year 2014-2015 (Plus Gap Year Tips) (Bruges)

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Fairytale Destinations (Bruges)

- A Christmassy Trip to Bruges

Clockwise starting from top left: Markt (Market Square), the Béguinage, an old bridge over a canal, the City Hall, and a canal (all located in Bruges)

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Austria

Name: Austria (in German: Österreich)

Continent: Europe

Capital (and Largest) City: Vienna (in German: Wien)

Language: German

Currency: Euro

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Central European Time

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type F

Description: Austria is a landlocked country in the centre of Europe. Most of it is located within the Alps, and for that reason it's famous for its mountains, as well as its Alpine meadows and lakes. In the summer the weather is warm, but in the winter the whole country turns into a winter wonderland with lots of snow! In terms of culture, the country is a very popular destination for skiing and other winter sports, and is also known for its musical heritage.

Why You Should Visit: Austria is a beautiful place, thanks to its natural scenery and picturesque cities, such as Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck. Vienna in particular is a must visit, as it is one of the most iconic cities in Europe, and is renowned for its historic architecture. Another reason to go to Austria is to see its fairytale castles: you can find many of them in every corner of the country.

Fun Fact: Although the movie "The Sound of Music" was set in and filmed in Salzburg and the surrounding area, it is actually not at all a well-known movie amongst Austrian people.

My Blogposts About Austria

My Year Abroad Blog 2017-2018

- Salzburg (Salzburg, Sankt Gilgen and Mondsee)

- My New Town (Feldkirchen in Kärnten)

- Vienna and Bratislava

- A Memorable Few Days (Innsbruck, Sargans and Vaduz)

- My Last Five Weeks in Kärnten

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- Travel Tips: Destinations off the Tourist Trail (Kärnten region)

- Travel Tips: My Top Five Places to Visit in Austria (Vienna, Salzburg, Mondsee, Innsbruck and Kärnten region)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Castles and Palaces (Belvedere Palace, Vienna)

- My Gap Year 2014-2015 (Plus Gap Year Tips) (Klagenfurt and Velden am Wörthersee)

- Year Abroad: Dealing With Problems

- Year Abroad: The Best Bits

- Planning a Year Abroad

- UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Salzburg, Vienna and Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna)

- Travel Tips: My Top Ten Fairytale Destinations (Salzburg and Hochosterwitz Castle)

- Movie Travels (Salzburg and Mondsee)

- Travel Tips: My Top Five Mountain Destinations (the Alps)

- Cute Animals in the Wild (Innsbruck)

- Travel Tips: The Best Destinations to Live in - Part One (Feldkirchen in Kärnten)

- Travel Tips: The Best Destinations to Live in - Part Two (Vienna)

Clockwise starting from top left: Innsbruck, Mirabell Palace in Salzburg, Sankt Gilgen, Belvedere Palace in Vienna, Villach

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!

Country Guide: Argentina

Name: Argentina

Continent: South America

Capital (and Largest) City: Buenos Aires

Language: Spanish

Currency: Argentinian Peso

Drives on the: Right

Time Zone: Argentina Standard Time (UTC -3)

Adaptor Types: Type C and Type I

Description: Argentina is the second largest country in South America and has a very varied geography and climate. Featuring desert landscapes in the north, the Andes mountains in the west, Patagonia in the south, and the Pampas lowlands and Atlantic Ocean in the east, there is plenty to visit in every corner of the country. In terms of culture, Argentina is famous for being the birthplace of tango dancing and for being a football-loving nation.

Why You Should Visit: You should visit to see all of the amazing nature Argentina has, including Aconcagua (South America's highest mountain), the Iguazú Falls on the border with Brazil, and the lakes and glaciers in Patagonia. Another highlight is Buenos Aires, one of the most incredible cities in the world, which is known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant culture.

Fun Fact: Y Wladfa in Patagonia is the largest Welsh-speaking community outside of the UK.

My Blogposts About Argentina

My Year Abroad Blog 2017-2018

- My Weekend in Argentina (Mendoza Province)

Charlotte's Travel Adventures

- Buenos Aires: Day One

- Buenos Aires: Day Two

- Buenos Aires: Day Three

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Cities (Buenos Aires)

- Travel Tips: My Ten Favourite Castles and Palaces (Casa Rosada, Buenos Aires)

- Travel Tips: My Top Five Colourful Cities (Buenos Aires)

- Movie Travels (Buenos Aires)

- Travel Tips: My Top Five Mountain Destinations (the Andes)

- The Journey Between Santiago and Mendoza (200th Post!)

- Mendoza

- White-Water Rafting in the Andes! (Mendoza Province)

- Charlotte's Travel Adventures is 5 Years Old! (Buenos Aires)

- My Year of Adventurous Travel (Mendoza Province)

Clockwise starting from top left: Cacheuta Spa, Mendoza Province; Casa Rosada, Puente de la Mujer, La Boca neighbourhood (all three in Buenos Aires); View of Mendoza from Cerro de la Gloria

Check out the rest of my Country Guides here!