Tag: travel
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An Afternoon in Madrid: Coffee, Tapas, and the Palacio Real de Madrid
Throughout my time in Spain, I was able to fully relax into a “work to live” mindset. With scheduled breaks and sunshine together, a weight was lifted off my shoulders. I felt lighter as I started my morning midday. Sood Sipping from a ceramic mug, my flat white packed a punch. Strong and rich, the…
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A Slow Morning on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile | Scotland
High Street The solid, grey stone around me formed the foundations of Edinburgh’ s rich history. Touched by the tales the dramatic structures could tell, I wandered amongst the medieval architecture on High Street. Colorful cashmere and wool tartans stared at me as I window-shopped. I could have been satisfied for ages. Eventually, the stunning…
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’t Koffieboontje | Coffee in Utrecht, Netherlands
Space Wrapping my palms around a warm latte, I felt cozy with cushions and friends at ‘t Koffieboontje. Sipping and chatting, I could have stared out the window at the canal for hours. Tons of tight knit, indoor seating was available, making me feel at ease. Like I was visiting a companion’s home. The interior…
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Corner Coffee and Cardiff Castle: Cardiff, Wales
In crisp, chilly air, Cardiff Castle stood at the opposite end of my early stroll. I appreciated the calmer nature of Cardiff this morning. My slow wandering through the historic town provided a needed rest from the fast-paced nature of bigger cities. An intentional reset to a sustainable pace is required now and again ……
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Wilson St. Pantry: Coffee and Brunch in Glasgow, Scotland
I opened my eyes after a weekend packed with shows, only to discover I slept through breakfast. Sore and starving, my hangry alter ego awoke. I create this problem for myself all the time on tour. What can I say? A girl needs her beauty sleep. Luckily, a short walk away, Wilson St. Pantry waited…
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Palais Garnier – Paris, France
I’d erased the Palais Garnier from my Paris wishlist. The historic opera house ended up being my favorite site I saw in the city. The Palais Garnier is a masterpiece of 19th century French architecture. Every inch of the opulent structure is a feast for the eyes. Like being in the center of a decadent…
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Paris Morning Itinerary for Athlete Recovery
Paris, a feast for the eyes, made me slow down in the mornings. I found myself pausing to absorb the iconic city that figure skating had brought me to. Wandering through Parisian neighborhoods shifted my perspective on my career — and on life itself. This life is precious. As athletes, it’s easy to become consumed…
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Abu Dhabi, UAE
The oppressive heat in the mall parking garage made enduring the speech from our tour guide a matter of survival. The garage was sucking all the water from my body like a leech. He was ensuring we understood how women were expected to act in a mosque. My hydration wasn’t helped by the fact that…
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Exploring Dubai: A Thrilling Desert Safari Experience
A swarm of salesmen gave their pitches for UV and dust protection headscarves at a roadside shop. The vibe reminded me of a car salesman who really needs that last sale of the quarter. Hooked or not, you were GOING to make a purchase. Pictures of a falcon on your head were also on the…
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