Battle of the Oranges: Ivrea’s Historic Carnival

ivrea carnival a square of oranges

Many have heard of the Tomatina battle in Spain, but few have heard of the Battle of the Oranges in Italy! This famous festival takes place during the Carnival of Ivrea in Northern Italy, starting just before Lent, and… yes, thousands of people throw oranges at each other! It sounds crazy, but it’s actually real … Read more

2024 Travel Highlights and Reflections

girl in stockholm

Another year has come and gone, and it’s time for my annual travel reflections. 2024 was a year full of new experiences, unexpected trips, and beautiful memories. I explored new destinations, went back to some familiar places, and had a few challenges along the way. Here’s a recap of my travels this year: January Nothing … Read more

Carcassonne: A trip to the fairytale French town

carcassone_toulouse

It’s time to talk about Carcassonne – one of the most magical day trips you can take from Toulouse! This incredible fortified city looks like it jumped straight out of a Disney movie. I’m not kidding – when you see those towers and walls, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back to the Middle Ages! CARCASSONNE … Read more

Turin: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Italy’s Hidden Gem

If someone asked me which Italian city I would leave Rome for, I’d choose Turin in a heartbeat. This incredible destination has everything a traveler could want: it’s clean, well-organized, and perfectly sized. The locals are incredibly proud of their city, and after visiting 3-4 times, I completely understand why! About Turin: More Than Just … Read more

Stockholm: The Best Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss!

cafe stockholm

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Northern Europe. Built across 14 islands, with numerous canals and bridges, it stands out as a truly unique destination! If you’re planning to visit, get ready for a city that blends nature, history, modern architecture, and, for fashion enthusiasts, the distinctive Scandinavian style, which is quite different … Read more

Carbonara: the original italian recipe with egg

Carbonara with egg, the origin The truth is that the origin of the famous Italian dish remains a mystery to this day! There are, of course, many versions. Some claim it originated from the Umbria region and became known to the residents of Rome in the 19th century. Others argue that the father of carbonara … Read more

DISCOVER THE 8 BEST THINGS TO DO IN BRUSSELS

Brussels, a thrilling city in the heart of Europe, is a must-visit destination in Belgium. This city of around 2.13 million people beautifully blends old-world charm and modern energy. Join me, a seasoned traveler, on this journey to uncover the best of Brussels with My Pretty Travels Blog! BRUSSELS AT A GLANCE Before you start … Read more