Cozy Travel Stories & Hidden Destinations Around the World

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Stories & Moments That Inspire the Way We Travel

Asian woman relishing a serene boat journey through the lush karst landscape of Thailand's Khlong Sok.
A tourist photographs the ancient stone arches in Jerusalem's Old Town, capturing the essence of travel and history.
Stunning view of the Handara Gate in Bali with mountains and lush greenery.

My Journey to Meaningful Travel

Hi, I’m Nina — a traveler, storyteller, and eternal seeker of hidden corners.
I believe that every place has a soul — you just need to slow down long enough to feel it.
Here, I share the real side of travel: unfiltered moments, personal impressions, and cultural details that often get lost between airport gates.
Here you’ll find cozy winter escapes, soulful city strolls, and the hidden corners that make travel unforgettable
Botly Travel began as my personal diary of small adventures — sunrise walks through quiet cities, mountain trains cutting through snow, and moments that stay with you long after the trip ends.
Over the years, I’ve explored more than 30 countries — some of them have drawn me back again and again, while others remain beautiful been-there memories.
What truly fascinates me isn’t just the landmarks, but the local ways of living — the quiet rituals, flavors, and small gestures that make every place unique.
I love discovering authentic traditions, learning from locals, and approaching every destination with respect and curiosity. Before I travel anywhere, I dive deep into its culture, everyday habits, and practical tips that help turn each trip into a genuine experience.
I believe travel should connect us — not just to places, but to people, stories, and the world’s shared beauty.

With real stories, firsthand insights, and carefully crafted travel tips, we help travelers make informed decisions at every stage of their journey.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, our destination guides, safety advice, and travel hacks are designed to inspire smart, safe, and unforgettable travel experiences.
We prioritize authentic recommendations, meaningful moments, and trusted resources for every traveler looking to explore the world on their own terms.

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Hidden Corners & Soulful Journeys Around the World

Every season tells a different story — from snowy mountain mornings to summer sunsets by the sea, from bustling city tours to quiet weekend escapes.
I love exploring both the grand adventures and the little day trips — the ones that start with coffee at dawn and end with memories that last for years.
Whether it’s a hidden café in Venice, a train ride through the Alps, or a lazy afternoon on the coast of Cyprus, I’m here to share the places, stays, and moments that make travel feel alive all year long. From my experience as a traveler, explorer, and someone open to the new, I’ve learned that the true beauty of any place depends on the mindset you bring to it.
Whether you travel solo or with company, you should never arrive with prejudice — reality is rarely what we imagine, and that’s exactly what makes every journey worth taking.

Monte carlo coffe time

My goal is to help you discover not just where to go, but how to experience it fully — with heart, curiosity, and a touch of wonder.

Winter Escapes & Magical Destinations

December has always been my favorite month of the year.
After living in England for more than 15 years, I’ve learned to recognize the magic that begins here long before Christmas — when people start decorating their homes and gardens at the end of November.
I love the twinkling lights wrapped around the trees, the scent of freshly baked cookies, the sound of sizzling sausages, and the warm aroma of mulled wine you can find at every Christmas market.
So far, I’ve wandered through the festive streets of Prague, Budapest, Geneva, Montreux, Vienna, and London — and next on my list are Strasbourg and Colmar.
Each place carries its own kind of winter magic — a mix of lights, laughter, and that comforting feeling of being exactly where you’re meant to be.
If you, too, love the cozy charm of winter travels, this section is for you — filled with my favorite markets, chalets, and destinations that make the cold season feel like home.

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🏛️ Cozy City Moments – A Winter Escape to Malta

Some of my favorite trips happen in cities that feel like home from the very first step.
One of them is Malta — that small Mediterranean gem where European charm meets oriental warmth.
The journey begins the moment you land in Valletta, the island’s golden capital. From the airport, a simple €2 bus ride can take you anywhere — through sunlit villages, coastal roads, and centuries-old fortresses.
My day usually starts with a slow coffee by the harbor, followed by a walk through Valletta’s narrow streets shimmering in the sun. The rhythm of the city is calm, unhurried — fishermen chatting by the docks, church bells echoing over the sea, and the scent of fresh pastries from small corner cafés.
By noon, I’m usually on my way to Mdina, the Silent City — a fairytale of stone and silence where time seems to stand still. Its medieval alleys whisper stories from another world.
The next stop is always Popeye Village, a joyful seaside gem that still carries the colors of the old film set. Standing on the cliff above, the turquoise sea below feels almost unreal.
But no Maltese adventure is complete without visiting Gozo and the world-famous Blue Lagoon. The short ferry ride offers stunning coastal views, and once you arrive, the water is so crystal clear it looks like glass.
Locals serve a unique pineapple cocktail — freshly hollowed fruit filled with icy sweetness, perfect to sip as you watch boats drift lazily in the sun.
Malta is one of those places that fills your soul effortlessly — a blend of warmth, history, and sea breeze that stays with you long after you return home.

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Affordable Winter Beach Getaways

Sometimes winter feels best under the sun.
A few months ago, I joined a Royal Caribbean winter cruise that made a stop in the Canary Islands — and Tenerife completely stole my heart.
Golden beaches, soft warm sand, and calm turquoise waters that stay inviting even in November. The island was alive yet peaceful — surfers chasing waves, locals enjoying late breakfasts by the ocean.
What surprised me most were the prices — much lower than I expected for such a destination. A fresh juice and coffee on the beach for €5, and a plate of grilled sea bream with garnish for around €18.
Tenerife is the kind of place that lets you forget it’s winter — where sunshine replaces snow, and every walk by the shore feels like summer’s gentle echo

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Day Trips & Short Escapes

Not every adventure needs a suitcase.
Some of my favorite memories come from spontaneous one-day trips — a morning flight to the coast, a few hours in a new city, or a sunset walk through a quiet village.
Living just 10 minutes away from the second largest airport in England, my travel opportunities are truly endless.
Every destination feels within reach — a day trip to Milan, Valencia, Málaga, or Nice is absolutely possible (and often irresistible!).
The best part? Many of these airports are almost within walking distance from the city centers, and public transport connections are incredibly easy to navigate — metro, buses, or trams for as little as €1.50.
Flight deals are everywhere too — return tickets for £40–£50 are not uncommon, which makes a quick escape both affordable and refreshing.
Even a single day away can recharge your energy and shift your mindset — reminding you how big and beautiful the world really is.
That’s the magic of day trips: they keep your soul curious until the next adventure calls.

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Stories Shared by My Readers

Sophie L.

Paris, France

“Your post about Vienna’s Christmas markets made me book my trip immediately — and it was everything you described. Magical and heartwarming!”

Marco D.

Rome, Italy

Thanks to your one-day trip guide, I visited Nice last weekend. The tips about local transport saved me so much time

Emily R

Crawley, UK

I love how you describe places — it feels like traveling with a friend who knows all the secret spots.

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