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The Asthetic of Jess

See the world, your way!

Schlagwort: Travel tips

  • Getting Around Athens: The Smart Traveler’s Guide to Public Transport, Taxis & Walking

    Getting Around Athens: The Smart Traveler’s Guide to Public Transport, Taxis & Walking

    Athens may be ancient, but its transportation system is surprisingly modern, efficient, and affordable — if you know how to use it. This guide walks you through all the ways to get around Athens like a local: from hopping on the bus or metro to calling a taxi, to navigating the walkable neighborhoods on foot.

    Let’s simplify your movement, save you time, and keep your trip stress-free.

    🏛️ 1. Should You Rent a Car in Athens?

    Short answer: No.

    Traffic is chaotic, especially in the city center. Parking is scarce and confusing. Locals use tight sidewalk spots and I have seen so many parked in double rows or just stopping with warn lights, very stressful. The metro is faster than driving for most destinations. Save the rental for day trips outside the city, like Delphi or the Peloponnese.

    🚇 2. The Athens Metro: Fast, Cheap & Reliable

    Athens has three main metro lines:

    Line 1 (Green): Piraeus (port) to Kifisia — old above-ground train

    Line 2 (Red): Anthoupoli to Elliniko — connects to major tourist spots

    Line 3 (Blue): Airport to Nikaia — connects airport to city center

    Best part? All signs and announcements are in Greek and English.

    Must-Know Stations:

    Syntagma: City center, transfer point (Blue & Red Lines)

    Monastiraki: Old town, flea market, Acropolis view

    Acropoli: Closest station to the Acropolis and Plaka

    Thissio: Great for Ancient Agora and scenic walks

    Ticket Info:Single ride (90 min): €1.20, 24-hour pass: €4.10, 5-day pass: €8.20, Airport ticket (one-way): €9

    Where to buy: Metro machines (accept cash/card), airport station, or major stations.

    🚍 3. Bus: Easy Way To Get Around

    Buslines are an easy way to get around the city and to the beaches. Syntagma is a major hub for busses and was my usual start/ stop for any journey. A2 Line connects the city center to the Athenian riviera and takes you to Glyfada, Kalamaki and more. Price is the same as the metro and busses are tap-to-pay. Keep in mind that busses get crowded during commuting hours.

    X95 Lines takes you to and from the airport to Syntagma and costs 5,50€. It’s also the cheapest way to reach the city.

    🚶‍♀️ 4. Walking in Athens: The Best Way to Explore

    Many of the city’s best neighborhoods — like Plaka, Anafiotika, Koukaki, and Monastiraki — are made for wandering. Be ready for:Uneven and sometimes slippery marble stones (especially around ancient ruins, lots of hills and stairs and narrow sidewalks. But also for lots of cats, cafés, restaurants, little alleys, beautiful trees and flowers and small things to discover around every corner.

    Athens is very walkable distance-wise and I really only took a bus to get to the airport and travel to and from Glyfada or Kalamaki.

    Pro tip: Wear good walking shoes with grip. Even locals occasionally slip on worn marble.

    🚝 5. Suburban Railway (Proastiakos)

    Mainly for commuters and long-distance travel. The Airport to Athens Central Station (Larissa) route is helpful if you’re heading north or to the Peloponnese by train.

    🚖 6. Taxis in Athens: Affordable If You Use the Right App

    Taxis in Athens are cheaper than most European cities, but:they don’t always use the meter (especially at tourist spots)some drivers overcharge non-locals. You can easily flag one down on the streets.

    Uber is technically banned from operating with private cars in Athens. If you open Uber, it redirects you to official taxis via UberTaxi, which costs the same as regular taxis — no savings.

    Since we had an evening flight and arrived late, we had our hotel organise pickup, which arrived via UberTaxi and cost us 50 € to Glyfada (a price I only paid because I did want to navigate Glyfada at night )and would have cost us about 48 € from Syntagma. These prices were pre-agreed on via the hotels, prices may differ if you book it personally.

    🛵 8. Electric Scooters & Bikes

    You might see Lime or Hopp scooters parked around Athens, especially near parks and touristy spots. But: Athens’ sidewalks and traffic aren’t ideal for scooter riders — ride with caution and always wear a helmet.

    🚡 9. The Funicular to Lycabettus Hill

    Want a lazy way up to Athens’ highest viewpoint? Catch the Lycabettus Funicular from Kolonaki (at the corner of Aristippou & Ploutarchou streets).€12 round trip, runs every 30 mins, more often during rush hour (sunset). Avoid it during foggy days — the ride is enclosed and steep.

    💳 Extra Local Tips

    Validate your ticket at the start of your journey or face a fine. Metro closes at midnight (2am on weekends). Pickpocketing is rare but can happen on crowded trains — keep bags zipped and in front.Trams are scenic but slow — great for beachside neighborhoods like Glyfada, not for tight schedules.

    Final Thoughts:

    Athens isn’t hard to navigate — but it’s much more fun when you feel in control of your movement. With this transport guide, you can focus on exploring temples, tucked-away neighborhoods, and local life without worrying about getting lost.

    Don’t wait for the right time. 
     
    Travel well now ✈️
     
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  • 7 Mid-Budget Travel Hacks I Swear By as a Full-Time Worker

    7 Mid-Budget Travel Hacks I Swear By as a Full-Time Worker

    Let’s be honest—traveling with a 9-to-5 isn’t always easy. Between vacation day limits, work stress, and trying not to blow your budget on one weekend trip, it can feel impossible to travel often and well. But after years of navigating the balance between corporate life and frequent travel, I’ve built a system. These are my tried-and-true travel hacks that let me enjoy mid-budget, comfort-focused adventures without draining my bank account or burning out.If you’re a full-time worker craving more getaways, these tips are for you.

    Sunset over Dubrovnik

    1. Book Flights Based on Calendar Strategy, Not Destination Urge

    Instead of picking a location first, I always start with my calendar. I block off long weekends, add one PTO day, then use flight tools (like Google Flights + Skyscanner) to see what’s cheapest from my city or the nearest cities during that window.

    Hack: Use the „everywhere“ or „explore“ feature with flexible dates and set alerts 4–6 weeks ahead.

    2. Aim for Boutique Hotels with Breakfast Included

    It’s the easiest way to save on meals and enjoy a soft, stylish start to your day. I look for places that serve breakfast buffets(ideal for slow mornings) and have good walkability.

    I usually don’t eat lunch when I am out and about, so this is a great way to get a good start into the day and lasts you until dinner.

    Dinner at Strandhafer, Sylt

    Bonus: Boutique hotels often align with aesthetic preferences—quiet corners, beautiful lighting, and design-forward spaces.

    3. Pack Like a Capsule Wardrobe Queen (or King)Less truly is more

    My system:

    • 1 pair of comfy boots or trainers,
    • 1 day-to-night coat,
    • 3 mix-and-match layers,
    • statement scarf,
    • stick to a muted color palette

    and you’ll look polished, feel comfortable, and skip luggage fees.

    4. Digitize EVERYTHING Before You Go

    Google Maps offline, PDFs of all confirmations in a single folder, and a shared note with emergency contacts. You’re already managing work—don’t let your brain melt from lost details while traveling.

    This is a great way to keep organized and safe, even if you don’t travel solo.

    Pro tip: I keep a digital copy + a printed copy of my full itinerary in my carry-on. Because Wi-Fi failures are real.

    5. Prioritize Two Quality Activities Per Day

    Your time is limited. Instead of cramming every landmark, choose two meaningful experiences per day: a morning adventure and an afternoon/evening wind-down.💡 Example: Morning museum → afternoon reading in a historic café.

    Dublin castle

    6. Use the “Mid-Splurge” Rule

    I don’t budget travel to suffer. I budget so I can strategically splurge on things that matter: a nicer hotel than a hostel dorm, a classical concert, or a really memorable dinner.

    Everything else? Mid-range or discounted. That’s why I tend to book budget airlines and don’t eat in the main tourist areas if possible.

    7. Travel During Shoulder Season or Midweek

    For fewer crowds, better prices, and more PTO-efficient trips, travel Tuesday–Friday or Sunday–Wednesday. You’ll save on flights and accommodations—and you’re less likely to come back from your trip exhausted.

    If not feasible travel Friday (after work) to Sunday evening or Monday (one day off). For me it’s easier to go Thursday (after work) to Sunday evening. So that’s what I mainly do. Return flights on Sundays tend to be a little more expensive though.

    Wrap-Up:

    You don’t need to quit your job to travel well. You just need systems, strategy, and a suitcase that works as hard as you do.

    Don’t wait for the right time. 
     
    Travel well now ✈️
     
    Subscribe for inspiration that fits your real life, practical guides and tips and tricks on all things travel

  • What No One Tells You About Traveling During European Shoulder Season

    Everyone talks about how magical Europe is in spring and fall—the so-called „shoulder seasons.“ You’ll hear phrases like fewer crowds, milder weather, and better prices. And while a lot of that is true, there’s so much that no one tells you until you’re actually standing under an overcast sky, wondering why the museum hours suddenly changed.

    Sunset on Sylt in March

    After traveling through cities like Dubrovnik, Vienna, and Edinburgh during the off-peak months, I’ve learned the beauty and the frustrations of shoulder-season travel. Here’s what I wish I knew before planning—and what you should consider before booking that dreamy May or October getaway.

    1. The Weather Is Wildly Unpredictable

    The internet may promise mild, pleasant weather—but I’ve had everything from surprise hailstorms in Austria to blazing sun in Ireland. You need to pack layers (and possibly waterproof shoes), no matter what the forecast says. Shoulder season is less predictable than it looks on Instagram.

    Pro tip: Always pack a compact umbrella, a trench coat, and a light sweater—even for southern Europe.

    Ireland in May

    2. Opening Hours Can Be a Mess

    Museums, castles, even restaurants often shift to reduced hours without much notice. In Munich, a charming pavillon I’d bookmarked was closed for “winter transition” in early November. Be ready to pivot your plans and always double-check hours on Google and the official websites.

    Munich in November – the statues are wrapped in wood for winter already

    3. You’ll Have Moments of Magic (and Solitude)

    Here’s the upside: fewer crowds really can transform the experience. I’ve stood alone inside palaces in Munich and walked through near-empty streets in Dublin at golden hour. It’s peaceful, surreal, and honestly, worth the trade-offs if you’re seeking a more reflective trip.

    4. Prices Can Be Lower—But Not Always

    Flights and hotels are usually cheaper, but not across the board. Tourist-heavy destinations like Athens or Amsterdam may still charge peak prices for certain attractions or tours. And in smaller cities, the fewer accommodation options might mean paying a premium even in off-season. My advice: Use Google Flights’ date grid and book directly through hotels for shoulder season perks (like free breakfast or room upgrades).

    5. Locals Are More Relaxed (and You’ll Feel It)

    This might be my favorite part: without peak-season pressure, locals are often more open to conversation, more patient, and more genuine. I’ve had warm chats with café owners, extra time with museum guides, and better service in restaurants during shoulder season than I ever did in July.

    Sylt, Germany in March

    Final Thoughts

    Shoulder season travel isn’t as effortless as TikTok might make it look, but it is worth it—if you’re prepared. Embrace the unexpected, plan for flexibility, and you might just discover your favorite version of Europe.If you’re a traveler using PTO, shoulder season gives you more value for your time and money—but it requires smart planning. That’s why I always travel with my own set of go-to planning tools.

    P.S. My Smart Traveler’s Toolkit includes my seasonal packing list, weather planner, and itinerary template

    Don’t wait for the right time. 
     
    Travel well now ✈️
     
    Subscribe for inspiration that fits your real life, practical guides and tips and tricks on all things travel

  • Smart & Safe: How to stay safe while traveling (especially as a female solo traveler)

    ©️AstheticofJess

    Whether you’re jetting off on a solo weekend trip or backpacking through Europe for a month, safety is the cornerstone of a great travel experience.

    While social media makes travel look carefree, the reality is that smart planning and situational awareness are what keep trips enjoyable and stress-free—especially if you’re a solo female traveler.

    In this post, we’re diving deep into actionable safety tips that apply to everyone, with special guidance for women navigating new places alone. Think of it as your travel-savvy big sister’s guide to staying safe on the go.

    1. Research Like a Local, Plan Like a Pro:

    Before you even book your flights, do a quick safety check of your intended destination. Is the city walkable after dark?Are there any known scams targeting tourists?What neighborhoods should you avoid? Tip: Join local Facebook groups or Reddit threads (like r/solotravel or r/travel) to get first-hand, up-to-date advice from fellow travelers. You’ll often find advice that never makes it into guidebooks.

    2. Also, download offline maps (like Google Maps or Maps.me)

    in case Wi-Fi is sketchy. Mark your accommodation, the nearest police station, and embassy if you’re abroad.

    3. Choose the Right Accommodation:

    Your accommodation can make or break how safe you feel, especially if you’re arriving late or staying alone. Here’s what to prioritize: Good reviews from solo female travelers, 24-hour front desk or easy check-in, secure location—avoid isolated properties, even if they’re cheaper. Check local hotspots: a hotel near the main station in a major city may sound amazing,but sometimes these areas are rather unsafe to walk the streets in after dark. Pro tip: Email your hotel or host in advance with your expected arrival time and ask about the neighborhood. Bonus: many hotels will offer airport pickup if you ask.

    4. Keep Your Friends (and Backup Plans) Close:

    Always share your travel itinerary with someone you trust. Whether it’s your partner, parent, or best friend, let them know:Your accommodation details. your flight/train times, a general idea of your daily plans, apps like Life360 or Google Maps location sharing can help your loved ones feel reassured. And yes, always have a backup plan. If your phone dies or you lose your way, have these: A physical map or printed address, emergency cash stashed separately, backup copies of your ID and passport (digital + printed)

    5. Dress Smart (for You & the Culture):

    This isn’t about policing your style—it’s about blending in and feeling comfortable in different settings. When in doubt, research local norms around clothing. In more conservative regions, covering your shoulders or legs can save you unwanted attention. A lightweight scarf can be your best friend: it dresses up an outfit, covers you in religious spaces, and even doubles as a beach wrap or pillow.Feeling confident and respectful of local customs doesn’t mean sacrificing your personal style—it means traveling with cultural awareness.

    6.Trust Your Gut and Set Boundaries Early:

    Your instincts are your best travel tool. If something feels off, excuse yourself, walk away, or decline politely—but firmly. Examples:If a taxi driver gives you a weird vibe, don’t get in. Walk away.If someone insists you “just come see this thing real quick,” say no. If you’re seated next to someone overly chatty on a flight or train, it’s okay to put your headphones in and disengage. Learning to say “no” clearly and kindly—without over-explaining—is a powerful safety skill. And yes, practice makes perfect.

    7. Avoid Looking Like a Target:

    You don’t need to dress like a local, but looking like a completely lost tourist can make you an easy mark. Smart habits: Don’t flash large amounts of cash or wear expensive jewelry, keep your phone tucked away while walking, walk with purpose—even if you’re a little lost, in transit zones (train stations, tourist squares, etc.) keep your bag in front of you, zipped, and ideally under your arm. A crossbody bag with anti-theft features is a smart investment.

    8. Say No to Over-Sharing (in Real Life & Online):

    We get it—you want to share that dreamy café or solo sunset hike in real-time. But wait until you’ve left the location before posting, especially if your profile is public. And in person: Be vague about where you’re staying and how long you’ll be in town. If someone pushes, say you’re meeting a friend or partner later—even if you’re not. You owe no one your full itinerary.

    9. Have a “Get Out” Signal or Code:

    If you’re traveling with others or meeting new friends, establish a signal for when you feel uncomfortable—like a text code word or phrase. Solo? Set up a fake call app or tell someone you have a check-in time that you “can’t miss.”It’s always okay to prioritize your gut feeling over being polite.

    10. Learn a Few Local Phrases (and Key Emergency Words):

    Even just knowing how to say “help,” “I need a doctor,” or “where is the police station?” in the local language can be incredibly helpful. Apps like Google Translate now allow you to download entire language packs offline. Flashcards or printed emergency phrases are a great backup.

    11. Stay Sober-ish and Aware:

    You don’t have to avoid alcohol entirely while traveling, but know your limits—especially when you’re alone. Order your own drinks, watch them being made, never leave a drink unattended. If you’re going out at night, pre-plan your route home and avoid walking in unfamiliar areas alone. Consider taking a registered taxi, Uber, or Bolt, depending on what’s safest locally.

    12. Use Local Emergency Numbers + Smart Tech:

    Save the local emergency number in your phone (it’s not always 911!) and download safety apps like: Smart Traveler (for alerts and embassies), Noonlight (sends silent emergency alerts), TripWhistle (global emergency numbers). These small steps can give you peace of mind when you’re exploring unfamiliar ground.

    Own Your Power—Travel Confidently! Traveling solo doesn’t have to mean being afraid—it just means being smart and aware. Most people are kind, helpful, and respectful. But having safety systems in place lets you explore with confidence, joy, and freedom. So whether you’re sipping espresso in Budapest or hiking in the Scottish Highlands, you deserve to feel safe doing what you love.