elizabeth palumbi (@lifeofthetravelingpin) Travel Recommendations, Book Hotels, Experiences and Restaurants

elizabeth’s recent content

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Joinery Hotel Overview

Pittsburgh, PA, United States

6 months ago

Don’t miss out on this hidden gem in Rome 😳👇🏼 📌Save this for later and share it to a friend you’d love to explore Rome with! Rome’s iconic sights are a must-see, for example the Trevi Fountain and Colosseum, but for a truly unique experience, venture off the beaten path! There are a TON of these around not only Rome but all of Italy, and I love exploring them. 📍This is the Galleria Sciarra. ✨ This stunning 19th-century palace boasts breathtaking ceilings adorned with frescoes by Baroque masters like Pietro da Cortona. Prepare to be mesmerized by the illusionistic details that make the artwork appear three-dimensional! This is truly one of my favorite quicker stops I made while in Rome Exploring lesser-known gems like Galleria Sciarra is a fantastic way to avoid crowds and discover the hidden magic of Rome. Want to unlock more unique experiences in the Eternal City? My Rome @thatch.travel itinerary travel guide has you covered! Comment “PALACE” to gain access to my 3-Day itinerary to Rome! #solotravelwoman #hiddengemsitaly #galleriasciarra #baroquearchitecture #italytravels #romeitinerary #exploreitaly #offthebeatenpathtravel Solo Travel Guide to Rome, Lesser Known Sights in Rome, Baroque Art in Rome, Galleria Sciarra, Things to do in Rome for Solo Travelers, Hidden Gems in Rome Italy, Unique Experiences in Rome, Off the Beaten Path Travel Rome

6 months ago

🧳 SAVE this for your next trip to Europe so you can pack like a pro & learn from my mistakes! Here’s what to pack (besides the obvious) for a smooth & secure trip: 🫣 Carry-on vs Big Suitcase Maximize overhead space with a carry-on bag. This way you avoid lost luggage and keep valuables close during transportation between cities or counties. To be honest I have a hard time following this one because I’ll forever be a suitcase girly. 🧥 Layer Up European weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers you can mix and match to adapt to anything, from sunshine to sudden chills. Here are some examples: A flowy maxi dress can double as a beach cover-up or a dinner outfit with a change of accessories. A button-down shirt can be dressed up or down. 👟 Footwear Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating cobblestone streets and exploring charming European towns on foot. Don’t bring those heels or shoes you haven’t broken in yet, you’ll thank me later! Another tip, invest in shoe rolls that help compress and protect your shoes (look it up! it’s a game changer!). 🧼 Wash & Wear Pack a small capsule wardrobe of quick-drying, easy-to-wash items. This allows you to pack light and hand-wash clothes in your hotel sink if needed. This is especially helpful for longer trips or situations where laundry access might be limited. 🧴 Minimize & Maximize Avoid bulky travel-sized toiletries by refilling small, reusable containers with your favorite products. OR! Buy them when you get there! This saves space and allows you to bring just the amount you need. With smart packing, you’ll be ready to explore with confidence. What would you add to this list?! 👀 #europetravels #packingtips #carryonessentials #travelsmart #solotraveling #solotravelgirl #travelgram #packinghacks Europe Packing Guide, What to Pack for Europe Trip, Carry-On Packing for Europe, Comfortable Shoes for Europe Travel, Travel Safety Gear for Europe, Travel Adapter for Europe

6 months ago

Don’t go to Mexico City without knowing this! 🇲🇽👀 📌 SAVE and SHARE this for later! Forget Europe for a sec, have you considered the vibrant energy of Mexico City? Here’s why it’s perfect for your 2024 solo adventure! Q&A Edition: 🚨Is Mexico City safe for solo females? Generally, yes! Stick to well-lit areas at night, use Uber for taxis, and trust your gut. Download offline maps in case you get lost. I never felt uneasy here except maybe during the nighttime where I was unfamiliar. 🚕What’s the best way to get around? The Metro is cheap and efficient! Grab a “tarjeta recargable” (rechargeable card) for easy travel. Just be aware it can get crowded at peak times. If you’d like to rely on car, both Uber or Didi are affordable and trustworthy as well. I mostly used Uber during my time. 🌮What’s the food scene REALLY like? Street tacos are a must, but explore for hidden gems. Ask friendly locals for recommendations. Mexico City has Michelin-starred restaurants too! If you’re really a foodie, I’d suggest taking a cooking class. I did one through airbnb experiences and it was AMAZING! 🗣️ Do I need to speak Spanish? Short answer, no. Longer answer, yes. Basic phrases are great! “Gracias” (thank you) and “por favor” (please) go a long way. Many menus and signs are in Spanish and people will likely assume you know it, so download the google translate app for help! 🏠 What are some cool neighborhoods to explore? Roma Norte and Condesa has trendy cafes, Polanco is more expensive and reminds me a lot of California. Each area has its own vibe! I’d suggest just walking and wandering through these areas. Mexico City is calling! Book that flight! ✈️ #solofemaletravelers #mexicocityvibes #cdmxtravel #mexicotraveltips #travelgram #solotraveling #safetravel #mexicocitytravel Mexico City Solo Travel Guide, Things to do in Mexico City Solo Female, Mexico City Public Transportation, Mexico City Walking Tours, Mexico City Must-See Sights, Best Neighborhoods in Mexico City for Solo Travelers

6 months ago

Have you heard of Jalisco? 🇲🇽👀🌮⭐️ Jalisco isn’t just about tequila (though that’s pretty amazing too!). This vibrant region in Mexico offers stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and way fewer crowds than other tourist hotspots. Here’s my top recommendations for activities to do in the area: 🍹 Take a Day Trip to Tequila 🧡 Shop and Arts Area of Tlaquepaque ⛵️ Visit Chapala Lake (Largest in Mexico) 🌯 Eat Amazing Food in Guadalajara or Take a Street Food Tour ⛪️ Take in the Guadalajara Cathedral 🌊 Zipline & Adventure in Puerto Vallarta 💃 Catch a Live Mariachi Performance at Plaza Garibaldi Who would you take here? 👇🏼 #solotravelwoman #jaliscomexico #tequilatour #guadalajarafoodie #mexicotravel #solofemaletraveler #travelblogger #exploremexico Jalisco Solo Travel Guide, Things to do in Jalisco Mexico Solo Traveler, Tequila Tastings in Jalisco, Guadalajara Mexico Solo Travel, Guadalajara Nightlife, Day Trips from Guadalajara, Adventure Activities in Jalisco

6 months ago

More things to know about a Tequila Day Trip 🇲🇽👇🏼 This was an AMAZING place to visit (and tbh I didn’t know existed until right before my trip to Mexico)! I loved taking a day trip and getting a taste for what there is to offer in Tequila. This charming town is the birthplace of this iconic spirit, and it’s the perfect solo or group travel escape. Here’s how I did it with ease: Getting There ⬇️ • Go it alone: Rent a car (but be warned the driving is a bit crazy!), take a bus from Central Vieja, or hire a taxi! • Guided tour: I booked a day tour through Airbnb Experiences! They picked us up at a central location in Guadalajara and whisked us away to Tequila. Highly recommend!! Tequila Experience ⬇️ • Distillery Tours: Along route 15, you will find several distilleries on the way such as the Tres Mujeres distillery, Tequileria Don Roberto and the likes, all of which have some sort of distillery tour and tasting. • Tastings: Sample different tequilas (blanco, reposado, añejo, extra añejo) and discover your new favorite. We also got to have UNLIMITED tastings. Time to Visit ⬇️ January-March is the best time to visit Tequila. No holiday or summer crowds and cooler mornings. Tequila Town ⬇️ • Explore Plaza principal • Visit the National Museum of Tequila • Eat a ton of amazing street food like quesadillas or tacos • Drink a cantarito in the streets • Wander the colorful buildings Let the party begin ⬇️ Last stop, best stop! We headed over to the famous Cantaritos el Guero. The atmosphere was ELECTRIC with live bands, mariachi, dancing, and drinking. You have to go here if you visit! This day trip was the perfect way to experience the magic of tequila and explore a beautiful part of Mexico. Whether you’re a solo traveler or with friends, it’s a must-do! Share this with a friend you’d love to go to Tequila with! 👀 #tequiladay #airbnbexperiences #tequilamexico #tequilatasting #solotraveldiaries #mexicotravel #solotrip #tequilajalisco Tequila Day Trip from Guadalajara, Solo Travel in Jalisco Mexico, Tequila Distillery Tours, Things to do in Tequila Mexico, Airbnb Experiences in Mexico, Best Tequila Tastings in Jalisco

6 months ago

Mexico City Must-Knows! 🇲🇽 (📌Save this for later!) Here’s the lowdown on things I wish I knew before 👇🏼 🕳️ The amount of bumps, cracks, and holes in the sidewalks here are a bit insane. However, nothing you can’t do without paying attention and wearing good comfortable shoes. 🏔️ Mexico City sits high - around 2,200 meters (7,500 ft)! Take it slow your first day to avoid altitude sickness. Hydrate, don’t push yourself too hard, and maybe pack some dramamine. 🗑️ One of the most frustrating things I noticed was that garage cans can be scarce in some areas. A tip is to always have a small bag to hold your trash until you find a designated bin. 🚗 I thought NYC traffic was rough.... But Mexico City is even worse. Make sure to leave wherever you’re going 10-20 minutes ahead of time! Also, Uber and Didi are super affordable and probably the safest option (check license plates before getting in the car!) ☀️ Mexico City weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers and a rain jacket so you’re prepared for both sunshine and potential rain showers. 🗣️ Knowing some basic Spanish goes a long way. Even “gracias” (thank you) and “por favor” (please) will be appreciated by locals. I noticed a bit of a struggle with the language gap so I’d be sure to try and brush up a bit more than basic if you can. With a little planning, you’ll have an unforgettable adventure. What shocked you the most about Mexico City? 🫣 #mexicocity #traveltipsandtricks #cdmxtravel #latinamericatravel #solotraveling #mexicotravel #mexicocitytravel #cdmx Mexico City Travel Guide, Things to do in Mexico City, Mexico City for First Timers, Mexico City, CDMX, Mexico City Itinerary

6 months ago

📲 SAVE this list of my most used phone apps for your upcoming trip to Europe! Traveling to Europe can be very overwhelming, especially in the planning process as a first-timer or even a busy seasoned traveler. So here are my go-to apps that I have used on every single one of my Europe trips over the last few years! ⤵️ 🗣️ Google Translate: Translate signs, menus, and conversations with either the voice talk or picture features. 🗺️ Citymapper or Google Maps: To be honest I have tried a TON of navigation apps and these two are the best. I prefer Google Maps for offline maps and citymapper for navigating! 💰XE Currency Converter: Instead of guessing or ranging how much you’re spending each transaction, this app helps you convert currencies easily and quickly. 💻 Wi-Fi Map: Finding free Wi-Fi can be a lifesaver in Europe, especially for staying connected and using data-heavy apps. Wi-Fi Map helps you locate hotspots and connect easily throughout your trip. 🛌 Hostelworld, Airbnb, or Booking.com: Find your perfect hostel, airbnb or hotel on the go, with options for any budget. I use these 3 the most for finding my accomodations! 🚗 Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow: Need a ride? These apps offer safe and reliable transportation options across Europe. 🚊 Trainline or Omio: Train travel is a fantastic way to explore Europe. It’s simple, quick, and easy. These apps have helped me tremendously when needing to book tickets and navigate train systems. 💬 WhatsApp: Staying connected with friends and family back home with free messaging and calls. This is also widely used by Europeans as well. What apps do you recommend for Europe travel?! 🧐 #solotraveleurope #travelapps #travelessentials #traveleurpoe #traveltipsandtricks #exploreeurope #essentialapps #firsttimeeurope #europeadventure Europe Travel with Confidence, Europe Travel Apps for Solo Travelers, Europe Travel Tips, Solo travel essentials, Useful Apps to Download for Europe, First time to Europe Tips

6 months ago

Dreaming of island hopping, ancient cities, and crystal-clear Adriatic waters? Croatia has it all! Comment “SEA” for a link to all my Croatia guides. Here’s my ultimate 2-week travel itinerary to experience the best of this magical country (without needing a car): Dubrovnik (3 Days): • Explore the stunning walled city and walk the iconic Game of Thrones filming locations. • Take a boat trip to explore hidden caves and secluded beaches. • Hike up Mount Srd for breathtaking panoramic sunset views. Korčula (3 Days): • Discover the charming town of Korčula, nicknamed “Little Dubrovnik.” • Rent a bike and explore the island’s vineyards and olive groves. • Relax on the beautiful beaches of Vela Luka or Lumbarda. Hvar (4 Days): • Soak up the sun on the glamorous beaches of Hvar Town and explore the vibrant nightlife. • Hike up to the Spanish Fortress for stunning views of the Pakleni Islands. • Take a day trip to the Pakleni Islands and discover secluded coves and crystal-clear waters. Split (5 Days): • Explore the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, a Roman emperor’s ancient residence. • Relax on the sandy beaches of Bačvice or Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn). • Take a day trip to Krka National Park and/or Plitvice Lakes National Park and swim under cascading waterfalls. This was my exact itinerary from last summer and enjoyed the amount of time in each because it allowed you to take many day trips from each location. Is Croatia on your list? Are you heading there this summer? ☀️ #visitcroatia #solotravelwoman #croatiatravelinfo #balkantravel #travelblogger #explorecroatia #islandhoppingcroatia #europeadventure 2 Week Croatia Itinerary, Croatia Travel Guide, Solo Travel Croatia, Things to do in Dubrovnik, Things to do in Korčula, Things to do in Hvar, Things to do in Split, Croatia on a Budget, Backpacking Croatia, Best Time to Visit Croatia

6 months ago

💰 DON’T miss these money saving hacks for your first Europe trip! ✈️ After learning from my own experiences, I wanted to make some suggestions to hopefully help you avoid similar missteps! Let’s dive in on money matters I wish I knew before my first Europe trip 👇🏼 1️⃣ Airport currency exchanges have terrible rates! Use ATMs abroad or order travel cards beforehand. I ALWAYS get my cash from the ATM! However, you’ll want to avoid ATM’s in corner shops and small supermarkets. I prefer to find ATM’s attached to banks for security as well. 2️⃣ Not everywhere accepts plastic! BUT credit cards are your best friend in most scenarios. I find my AMEX isn’t used widely but can be used in more place than I used to. Just to be safe pack some euros for smaller shops, cafes, and public transport (especially in rural areas). 3️⃣ Set up a travel notice on your accounts. Let your bank and credit card companies know you are traveling. If you haven’t set up a travel notice, the foreign purchases can trigger a freeze on your card. 4️⃣ Tipping customs vary by country. In some places, it’s included in the bill, while others appreciate a small gratuity. Do your research! 5️⃣ Always select to pay in Euros (or the local currency) at the store & at the ATM – never convert to USD or your banks currency. This “courtesy” is known as a Dynamic Currency Conversion and will end up costing you money. Sure, it’s nice to know what the rate is in USD, but you will pay 5% – 10% more to have the money converted at the point of sale. Don’t do it! 6️⃣ Spend extra cash before leaving the country, exchange it at the airport or exchange once home. If I’m getting near the end of the trip, I’ll start paying for more in cash to get rid of it. This is especially true with coins as you can’t exchange coins back to USD. If all else fails, I usually keep it for my next trip. What are your tips for managing money in Europe? 🤔 #europetraveltips #moneysavingtips #travelhack #solotravelerwoman #europetravelexpert #travelsmarter travel money, exchange hacks, cashless travel, europe travel essentials, eurotrip, travel tips, tipping in europe, cultural travel, avoid hidden fees

6 months ago

unreal beauty you have to see at some point in your life! 🇳🇿 I didn’t realize just HOW beautiful this amazing country is 👀 New Zealand blew my mind! Stunning mountains, glaciers, beaches - it’s like another planet and everywhere I turned I literally said “WOW”. (no joke!!!) Now is the perfect time to start planning a road trip through New Zealand for later this year or early next year. Why You NEED to Visit: • Diversity: From mountains to rainforests to beaches, NZ has it all for adventure and outdoors lovers. • Thrilling Activities: Hike, kayak, or bungee jump - it’s the perfect place for adrenaline junkies! • Nature Paradise: Unique wildlife, glowworm caves, and breathtaking landscapes. • Solo-Friendly: Safe and welcoming, you’ll easily make new friends along the way. I’ve created a guide that is the exact roadtrip through New Zealand I took last year. So comment “ROAD” and I will DM it to you 🔗 New Zealand is a dream! Is it on your bucket list?! ✈️ #travelnewzealand #nzadventure #bucketlisttravel #explorenz #travelplanner #newzealandguide #beautifuldestinations #femalesolotraveler Solo New Zealand Travel, New Zealand Itinerary, Must-Visit New Zealand, New Zealand Backpacking, New Zealand Adventure Travel, NZ Wildlife, Natural Wonders NZ, Best Time to Visit New Zealand

6 months ago

I knew Portugal was hilly, vastly different, and insanely stunning BUT I didn’t realize just how amazing this country was until I visited 👀 📌 SAVE this for your first or next trip to Portugal Here are some travel tips to make your Portugal adventure even smoother: 👟Portugal’s cities are full of HILLS and often slippery, cobblestone streets. Pack comfortable walking shoes with good grip! I may or may not have wiped out a few times 😂 🚊Lisbon and Porto have metro systems. Purchase a reloadable travel card for convenient and affordable travel. Getting between cities is EASY with buses, trains, or driving. 💶While credit cards are accepted in many places, some smaller shops and restaurants might prefer cash. Always carry a small amount of Euros with you! I didn’t know this before going and had to get more than I thought out of an ATM. 🥐Don’t leave Portugal without trying a Pastel de Nata (custard tart)! These delicious pastries are amazing.. I probably ate at least 20 😅 🗣️A few basic Portuguese phrases will go a long way. Learning “Bom dia” (good morning) and “Obrigada” (thank you) shows respect and easier opening. Though, English is widely spoken. 👯‍♀️Many hostels and guesthouses in Portugal offer social events, perfect for meeting fellow travelers! Portugal was one of the friendliest places I’ve ever traveled. Is Portugal on your summer bucket list? ☺️ #solotravelwoman #portugaladventures #traveltipsandtricks #lisbontravel #portotravel #exploreportugal #adventure #travelportugal Solo Travel Guide Portugal, Traveling to Portugal Tips, Backpacking Portugal on a Budget, Lisbon Solo Travel Guide, Things to do in Porto Solo Traveler, Must-Try Food in Portugal

6 months ago

Dreaming of an Amalfi Coast escape? 🇮🇹 Here are the photogenic spots to capture your unforgettable adventure: 1. Positano 2. Ravello 3. Sorrento 4. Picturesque Boat Tour 5. Cliffside Restaurants with a view outside Ravello 6. Amalfi What is your favorite spot? 👀 #Positano #Italy #TravelGram #CliffsideParadise #Ravello #AmalfiCoastViews #TravelInspiration #EuropeVacay #SecretItaly #HiddenGems #TravelPhotography #SorrentoSunset #RomanticGetaway #SummerVibes #TravelBlogger #NaturalBeauty #ItalyMustSee #TravelTheWorld #AmalfiCoastBoatTour #Travelgram #BucketListTrip #TravelAesthetic #ItalyVacation #TravelGoals #EuropeTravel #SummerTravel2024 #italybucketlist Amalfi Coast Photography Spots, Best Places to Photograph Amalfi Coast, Amalfi Coast Italy Guide, Summer Travel Italy 2024, Where to Go Amalfi Coast, Must-See Amalfi Coast, Most Beautiful Towns Amalfi Coast

6 months ago

Hi, everyone! 👋🏼 My name is Elizabeth! 📸 l’m a content creator, adventure and solo traveler, aspiring photographer, and window seat lover! ⚡️ I currently work 9-5 in energy as a meteorologist where I get to geek out about the weather. I even have a lightning bolt tattoo. ⛱️ I love to help people plan vacations more efficiently and effectively! I am super type A and am super organized to the point that some might call it OCD at times. I typically say when my apartment or room is a mess my life is a mess HA 🏡 I grew up in Pittsburgh, PA and almost all of my family still lives there. I try to visit at least 2x a year. ✈️ The travel bug has been around for almost 10 years whenever I got the opportunity in college to study abroad in Florence, Italy. However, I think it has been ingrained in me since a young age whenever my mom would always plan and execute every trip. On the way home from some we would spontaneously stop in a place and adventure. For example, simple beach vacation to Ocean City, MD we decided why not head up for a weekend to NYC on a last minute notice. I got my constant go-go-go personality from that (or that’s what I tell myself 😂) 👀 Besides travel, I also love pilates, french fries, taking long walks, and a good farmers market. Okay, your turn! Tell me something about yourself in the comments! 👇🏼 #travelphotography #travelphotographers #contentcreator #adventure #introductionpost #letsconnect

6 months ago

📌 SAVE these for your Croatia bucketlist! Don’t miss these beautiful places when visiting Croatia! My absolute favorite of them all was the island of Hvar, which in my opinion just had the most to offer. I took a boat tour to the blue cave, swam with fish in the crystal clear waters, and met some amazing people along the way. If you’re looking for more outdoorsy areas such as Krka and Plitvice Lakes National Parks, it’s best to station yourself in Split or stay closer to the parks for a couple nights! Follow for more travel content @lifeofthetravelingpin #visitcroatia🇭🇷 #bucketlisttravels #travelinspiration #hiddengems #hikingadventuresforwomen #travelmoreoften #croatiatrip #croatiatravels

6 months ago

The Perfect Day Trip from Lisbon! 🇵🇹 📌Save this for later and share with a friend you want to visit with Visiting Sintra was the first thing I did when I arrived in Lisbon last year and it’s seriously a fairytale escape. This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds stunning palaces, colorful architecture, and a touch of mystery! Here’s how to conquer Sintra as a solo or group traveler on a day trip from Lisbon: 🚞 The quickest and most affordable way to get to Sintra is by train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station. Trains depart frequently, and the journey takes about 40 minutes. Pro tip: If you have a Lisboa Card, enjoy free train travel to Sintra! 🎒Pack comfortable walking shoes (those hills😰!), a refillable water bottle, and a hat for the sun. Also don’t forget your camera to capture the amazing sites! 🏯🏰Explore the magnificent Pena National Palace, wander through the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira, and take in the views from the Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros). There are soooo many to explore but make sure to buy tickets in advance!! ☕️Don’t neglect the town of Sintra with its many cafes and restaurants! Make sure to try the famous pastries Travesseiro and Queijada de Sintra. I loved both but I think if I had to choose my favorite would be the cheese tart (Queijada de Sintra) since it’s a bit sweeter. Want a free guide with even more tips and hidden gems in Sintra? Comment “DAY” and I’ll DM it to you! #SintraPortugal #LisbonDayTrip #SoloTravelPortugal #PortugalTravel #HiddenGemsPortugal #Travelgram #ExplorePortugal #EuropeAdventure Sintra Day Trip from Lisbon Guide, Solo Travel Sintra Portugal, Things to do in Sintra in a Day, Pena National Palace Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira Sintra, Moorish Castle Sintra, Free Sintra Travel Guide, Solo Travel Tips Portugal

6 months ago

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Discover and book trips with trusted recommendations.

elizabeth's featured destinations

193 properties

Pittsburgh, PA, United States

About Plannin

Earn with Plannin

Social Media

Language and Currency

elizabeth palumbi

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Joinery Hotel Pittsburgh Curio Collection by Hilton

Joinery Hotel Pittsburgh Curio Collection by Hilton

193 properties

Pittsburgh, PA, United States

elizabeth’s recent content

Joinery Hotel Overview