『The Travel Brats』のカバーアート

The Travel Brats

The Travel Brats

著者： Sofia Blanno Natalie Brouwer
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 Your one-stop media destination for inspiration to create a travel-filled life you don't need a vacation from. The Travel Brats are building a community around a love for travel, uncovering hidden gems with locals, and empowering exploration from your home city to around the globe.2020 Who Wear There Podcast マネジメント・リーダーシップ リーダーシップ 旅行記・解説 社会科学 経済学
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  • Solo Travel Day to Mechelen, Belgium!

    Solo Travel Day to Mechelen, Belgium!
    2025/10/07
    What to Do When Visiting Mechelen, BelgiumNestled between Brussels and Antwerp, Mechelen is one of Belgium’s most charming yet often overlooked cities. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere, it offers visitors an authentic Belgian experience without the crowds. Whether you’re spending a day or a weekend, here’s how to make the most of your visit to Mechelen.1. Start at the Grote MarktEvery great visit to Mechelen begins in the Grote Markt, the city’s picturesque main square. Surrounded by beautifully restored guild houses, cafés, and the imposing St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, this is the heart of local life. Grab a coffee at one of the terraces and soak in the view of the impressive Stadhuis (Town Hall), a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.2. Climb St. Rumbold’s TowerFor the best view in Mechelen, climb the St. Rumbold’s Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 97-meter tower offers panoramic views stretching all the way to Brussels and Antwerp on a clear day. The climb includes several stops with exhibits about the tower’s history and its world-famous carillon bells.3. Visit the Dossin Barracks and MuseumThe Kazerne Dossin Museum provides a powerful and moving experience. It tells the story of Belgium’s Jewish community during World War II, focusing on the deportations that took place from this very site. The museum balances historical insight with personal stories, making it a deeply reflective visit.4. Discover the Beguinage QuarterWander through Mechelen’s Beguinage Quarter, a maze of cobblestone lanes and quaint whitewashed houses. This peaceful neighborhood once housed a community of beguines—women who lived religious lives without taking vows. Today, it’s a serene area perfect for a quiet stroll and a glimpse into medieval urban life.5. Explore the River Dijle PathFor a unique view of Mechelen, walk along the Dijlepad, a wooden boardwalk that floats above the River Dijle. This scenic walkway winds through the city, connecting green spaces and historic buildings, offering a tranquil way to experience Mechelen from a different perspective.6. Tour the Hof van Busleyden MuseumThe Hof van Busleyden Museum, housed in a Renaissance palace, showcases Mechelen’s role during the Burgundian era. The exhibitions blend art, history, and innovation, providing insight into the city’s golden age when it was a major center of European politics and culture.7. Visit the Het Anker Brewery and DistilleryNo trip to Mechelen would be complete without a stop at the Het Anker Brewery and Distillery, one of the oldest breweries in Belgium. Located in the heart of the city, Het Anker has been brewing beer for more than five centuries and is home to the famous Gouden Carolus range. Join a guided tour to learn about traditional brewing methods and sample a selection of their award-winning beers straight from the source. The onsite distillery adds another dimension, producing fine Gouden Carolus whiskies that have gained international acclaim. The adjoining brasserie is the perfect place to enjoy hearty Belgian dishes paired with their signature brews.8. Experience the Toy Museum (Speelgoedmuseum Mechelen)For a touch of nostalgia and fun, visit the Toy Museum of Mechelen, one of the largest of its kind in Europe. This museum showcases an extensive collection of toys from across generations—ranging from antique dolls and model trains to classic board games and modern LEGO creations. It’s a wonderful experience for families and adults alike, offering both playful exhibits and thoughtful insights into how toys have evolved over time. Children can participate in interactive play areas, while adults will find themselves reminiscing about their own childhood favorites.9. Taste More Local DelightsBeyond Het Anker, Mechelen’s culinary scene continues to impress. Try Maneblusser, the city’s other signature beer, named after a local legend about the townspeople mistaking the moon’s glow for a fire in the cathedral tower. Pair it with Flemish specialties at one of the city’s many excellent restaurants, from traditional brasseries to modern bistros.10. Visit Technopolis with the FamilyIf you’re traveling with children, Technopolis is another must-visit attraction. This interactive science museum encourages hands-on exploration, with exhibits that make learning fun for all ages. It’s located just outside the city center and is a perfect choice for a family day out or a rainy afternoon.11. Relax at the Botanical GardenEnd your day with a quiet moment in Mechelen’s Botanical Garden (Kruidtuin). Originally part of a monastery, it’s now a beautifully maintained park with lush greenery, flowers, and shaded benches. It’s the ideal spot to unwind before heading back to the bustling Grote Markt for dinner.12. Stay a Little LongerMechelen may be compact, but it rewards those who linger. With its blend of history, culture, and modern charm, it’s the kind of city ...
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    38 分
  • Beyond Boston: Epic Day Trips & Weekend Getaways in New England

    Beyond Boston: Epic Day Trips & Weekend Getaways in New England
    2025/09/23
    Beyond Boston: Epic Day Trips & Weekend Getaways in New EnglandBoston is amazing, but here’s the thing: sometimes you’ve gotta escape the city limits to really soak in New England magic. Lucky for us wanderers, Boston sits at the heart of some of the coolest, quirkiest, most historic little towns in the U.S. We’re talking witch trials, fishing villages, patriotic battlegrounds, and even beachy boardwalk sunsets.Grab a rental car (yes, it’s finally worth it outside the city), load up on Dunkin’ iced coffee, and let’s road trip Travel Brats style. Here are the best day trips and weekend escapes from Boston that’ll make you fall in love with New England all over again. Salem: Witches, Ghosts & Seaside VibesAbout an hour north of Boston, Salem is basically Halloween Town year-round. It’s spooky, historic, and surprisingly charming.Walking Route to Hit the HighlightsGedney House (21 High St) – One of the oldest timber-frame homes in Salem, creaky and full of character.Salem Jail (50 St. Peter St) – Atmospheric and eerie; you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a gothic novel.Broad Street Cemetery – Quiet, haunting, and beautiful.The Witch House (310 Essex St) – Former home of Judge Jonathan Corwin from the witch trials. Legit spooky.Ropes Mansion (318 Essex St) – Movie fans, this is Allison’s house from Hocus Pocus. The gardens are gorgeous.Salem Witch Museum (Washington Sq.) – Dramatic, theatrical, and totally worth it for the immersive history lesson.Optional extra: Max & Dani’s House (Ocean Ave) from Hocus Pocus. It’s a bit of a trek, but fangirls/fanboys, this is your moment.Afternoon Treat: Schooner Fame CruiseFor a change of pace, hit the water on the Schooner Fame. You can help hoist the sails, steer the ship, and pretend you’re a pirate for the afternoon. Way more interactive than your average harbor cruise.Eats in SalemVillage Tavern – Cozy, hearty, and pub-y.Longboards – Chill vibe, seafood-heavy menu.Oneil’s – Local classic. Lexington & Concord: Where the Revolution BeganIf you geek out on history (hi, it’s me ✋), this one’s a must. Just 30 minutes from Boston, these twin towns are where the Revolutionary War kicked off.Drive between the sites because they’re spread out, but don’t expect Uber to save you here—it’s not very ride-share friendly.Highlights:Lexington Battle Green – Where the “shot heard ’round the world” was fired.Minute Man National Historical Park – Scenic walking trails + reenactments.Concord’s North Bridge – Stand where the colonists forced the British to retreat.Orchards & Farms – Depending on the season, you can go apple picking or just sip hot cider.It’s basically a living history lesson, except with better snacks.Walden Pond: Nature Meets LiteratureWalden Pond is the kind of place that makes you want to throw your phone into the lake and live like Thoreau (minus the whole no-WiFi situation).For history lovers: This is where Henry David Thoreau lived in his tiny cabin and wrote Walden.For nature lovers: It’s a gorgeous, swimmable pond surrounded by peaceful hiking trails.Pro tip: Visit in the morning to beat the crowds, especially in the fall when the foliage is next-level. Cape Cod & Martha’s Vineyard: Beachy BlissAbout 90 minutes south of Boston, Cape Cod is summer in postcard form: sandy beaches, salty air, and clapboard houses.Cape HighlightsHyannisport – Kennedy family stomping grounds.Sandwich Boardwalk – Walk this at sunset for pure magic.From here, hop a ferry to Martha’s Vineyard. Yes, it takes planning—parking, ferry tickets, bus passes—but it’s worth every ounce of effort. Once you’re there, rent bikes or hop the island buses to explore:Oak Bluffs – Cute gingerbread houses.Edgartown – Upscale shops and restaurants.Beaches – All of them. Pack snacks and beach hop.It’s laid-back, stunning, and gives you all the coastal New England vibes. Gloucester & Rockport: Fishermen & Art LoversNorth of Boston, you’ll find Gloucester, one of America’s oldest fishing ports.Fishermen’s Memorial – A powerful tribute with the names of those lost at sea.Harbor Walk – Scenic and lively with boats everywhere.Nearby Rockport is like a tiny storybook village with shops, art galleries, and ocean views for days. Perfect for an afternoon stroll with an ice cream cone in hand. Portsmouth, New Hampshire: A Seaport SurpriseDrive about an hour north and boom—you’re in Portsmouth, NH. This little town is buzzing with cool restaurants, historic homes, and waterfront charm.Perfect for:A dinner out with fresh seafood.Wandering cobblestone streets.Starting a mini New England road trip if you’re heading toward Maine. Foxborough: Patriots NationIf you’re into football, a trip to Gillette Stadium in Foxborough is basically a pilgrimage.Training Camp (summer) is free, but it gets packed.Patriot Place is like an entertainment complex on steroids—restaurants, shops, and a ...
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    21 分
  • Exploring Boston: History, Culture, and Hidden Gems in the Cradle of Liberty

    Exploring Boston: History, Culture, and Hidden Gems in the Cradle of Liberty
    2025/09/09
    Boston is one of those cities that just gets under your skin in the best way possible. Equal parts old-school history and modern-day hustle, it’s where cobblestone streets meet glass skyscrapers, where the story of America was born, and where you can eat your body weight in lobster rolls without a shred of regret.Founded in 1630 by English Puritans, Boston has played host to some of the most pivotal events in U.S. history—the Boston Tea Party, the Battle of Bunker Hill, and even the first public park in America. Today, it’s a vibrant mix of college-town energy, cutting-edge innovation, and diehard sports fandom (you’ll never hear a “Go Sox!” shouted with more passion than here).I recently spent five days exploring Boston like a local, armed with a loose plan, comfy walking shoes, and an appetite big enough to conquer the city’s legendary food scene. Here’s how it all went down—my perfect Boston adventure. Day 1: Arrival & First Taste of the CityFlying into Logan International Airport is a breeze—it’s practically right in the city. But here’s your first Boston pro-tip: skip renting a car if you can. Boston traffic is next-level chaotic, parking is expensive, and the city is surprisingly walkable. Between the subway (locals call it “the T”) and Uber, you’ll get around just fine.Of course, I had to test the rental car waters—$368 for two days of a Nissan Rogue—and let me tell you, the line alone made me question my life choices. If you do rent, book with a company that lets you walk straight to the garage and grab your car. Otherwise, hop in an Uber and save yourself the headache.Where to StayI split my stay between two totally different vibes:Hampton Inn & Suites Watertown – Budget-friendly ($100 a night) and great if you don’t mind being just outside the city. Parking in Boston can run you $30 a day, so staying here helped balance the budget.Copley Square Hotel (FOUND Hotels) – Right in the heart of Back Bay, this historic gem ranges from $300–$600 a night. My corner-view studio overlooked the breathtaking Trinity Church at sunset, and it felt like waking up inside a postcard. Designed in 1877 by architect H.H. Richardson, this place is dripping with Richardsonian Romanesque charm—arched windows, rough stone, and colorful details. Around Copley, you’ll also find:Fairmont Copley Plaza (1912) – A Gilded Age beauty and part of the Historic Hotels of America.Boston Public Library McKim Building (1895) – A Renaissance Revival masterpiece with white marble halls and free daily tours at 2 pm. Don’t skip it; the architecture is jaw-dropping.Old South Church (1873) – A National Historic Landmark in Northern Italian Gothic style, complete with multicolored stone and a towering bell.John Hancock Tower (1976) – Boston’s tallest skyscraper at 790 feet, shimmering in blue glass.After a long travel day, we celebrated our first night with dinner at Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar. Order the lobster guacamole and grilled elote—and when in Boston, remember the golden rule: always order seafood. Steaks are for later. Oh, and if you see Scrod on the menu? Don’t panic. It’s not a weird mythical fish; it’s just the white catch of the day—usually cod or haddock. Day 2: Walking Through HistoryIf Boston had a greatest hits album, it would be the Freedom Trail—a 2.5-mile path that connects 16 historic sites and tells the story of America’s revolution. You can do it self-guided, join a regular tour, or go all out with an actor-led adventure (think Paul Revere cosplay).Morning Coffee & Boston CommonStart with caffeine at Thinking Cup Coffee Bar, then wander into Boston Common, the oldest public park in America (1634). It’s massive, filled with monuments, and now home to the striking Embrace Memorial, honoring Martin Luther King Jr.From there, the trail unfolds like a time machine:Massachusetts State House (1798) – Charles Bulfinch’s golden-domed wonder, still home to the state government.Park Street Church (1809) – Once Boston’s tallest landmark, it sits on the site of the city’s old grain storage.Granary Burying Ground (1660) – Final resting place of heavyweights like John Hancock, Sam Adams, and Paul Revere.King’s Chapel & Burying Ground (1686) – Boston’s first Anglican church, with over 330 years of history.Boston Latin School Site (1635) – The oldest public school in America; today it’s marked by a Benjamin Franklin statue.Old Corner Bookstore (1718) – Once the publishing hub of legends like Hawthorne, Longfellow, and Thoreau. Now… a Chipotle (I wish I were kidding).Lunch at Union Oyster HouseBy now, you’ll be starving. Enter Union Oyster House, America’s oldest continuously operating restaurant (since 1826). The JFK booth is a must-sit, and yes—you’re ordering a lobster roll.Afternoon: Monuments & Baseball MagicDon’t miss the New England Holocaust Memorial—six glass towers etched with survivor stories, both sobering ...
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    45 分
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