Yes, I plan trips for a living.
Yes, I love to travel. But no, it’s not always sunshine, Aperol, and smooth sailing. This series is all about the things that grind my gears when I’m on the road—and how I deal with them (or help my clients avoid them altogether). Whether you're a solo traveler like me or planning a dreamy couple’s escape, this series is your permission slip to stop pretending everything about travel is amazing.
Let’s keep it real… and still plan epic, beautiful, and joy-filled adventures.
There’s nothing like a massive crowd to take a magical moment and turn it into a full-blown panic attack. I’ve been to the Eiffel Tower, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican... and you know what they all had in common? Way too many people and a sense of get me outta here in my chest.
You picture yourself strolling up to a gorgeous viewpoint or fountain, having a little main-character moment, soaking it in with your person (or just vibing solo). But instead, you’re shoulder to shoulder with hundreds of strangers, everyone trying to get that shot, and you’re silently screaming.
Been there. More than once.
I’ve done it.
- Eiffel Tower? Couldn’t even move.
- Trevi Fountain? Elbowed a few tourists to get 3 seconds of eye contact with it.
- The Vatican? Beautiful, but packed to the brim even at 7:30am.
My solution? I go at weird hours.
- The Eiffel Tower? I admired it at sunrise from the banks of the Seine, completely alone.
- The Trevi Fountain? I came back in the middle of the night (worth it).
- The Vatican? I was there before dawn to beat some of the chaos (though let’s be real—it’s always crowded).
What Social Media Doesn’t Show You
Let’s talk about the real cost of that dreamy photo in Oia, Santorini.
- There’s a line to get the shot.
- You might get yelled at for standing in someone else’s shot.
- It’s 95°F, and you're wearing that floaty dress for the 'gram.
Same goes for Cappadocia’s magical hot air balloon shots. You’re up at 4am, timing the lighting, hoping the wind behaves, and trying not to blink in the photo you paid someone to take.
No shade if you love the photo game… but for me, those “perfect” moments don’t compare to a quiet, unplanned view of the Mediterranean, a wine bar tucked down an alley, or standing alone with a fresco that made me cry.
Some of my most memorable travel moments happened in under-the-radar spots that weren’t filled with selfie sticks and noise. Want a little insider scoop? Here are a few of my faves in big cities:
- Villa Doria Pamphili: Expansive park with villa views and locals walking their dogs.
- Basilica di San Clemente: Layers of ancient history without the Vatican madness.
- Aventine Keyhole: Peek through a literal keyhole for a jaw-dropping St. Peter’s view.
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: Hilly, romantic, and not crawling with tourists.
- Musée de la Vie Romantique: Small, dreamy museum with a hidden garden café. (Re-opens March 2026)
- Rue Cremieux: Pastel-colored houses = charming stroll without the Eiffel circus.
- Daunt Books in Marylebone: Heaven for book lovers in a wood-paneled Edwardian setting.
- Little Venice: Canal-side walks and quaint houseboats.
- Postman’s Park: Pocket-sized green space with heartfelt memorials.
- Giudecca Island: Local life, gorgeous views of the Grand Canal—zero tour groups.
- Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio: Relaxed piazza where actual Venetians hang out.
- Scuola Grande di San Rocco: Breathtaking Tintoretto artwork with elbow room to spare.
Let’s be real: Europe is BUSY… especially in 2025 and beyond. But that doesn’t mean you’re doomed to spend your whole trip in line. Here’s what I recommend:
- Book early. Not just flights and hotels—also tours, experiences, and museum entry.
- Go for skip-the-line and early access. Don’t wing it—these sell out!
- Travel during shoulder season: For Europe it’s April-May and September-October. Less crowd and less sweating!
- Work with a travel advisor (👋 hi!). I’ve got vetted contacts who know exactly how to navigate the tourist madness.
- Be flexible. Sometimes the real magic happens in a lesser-known village in Umbria, not elbowing your way to the Colosseum in August.
Your trip should feel like you. You don’t have to go where everyone else is going, and you definitely don’t have to wake up at 5am every day just to snap a photo before the tour buses roll in.
Let’s build something better. Something slower. Something more you—whether that’s sipping wine on a quiet terrace or exploring an ancient ruin without being herded like cattle.
I'm Amneris (or you can call me Neri... all my friends do), a travel advisor and flight attendant who curates unforgettable trips across Europe and beyond. From solo getaways to romantic escapes and luxury cruises, I help busy professionals and adventure seekers travel well—with less stress and more joy. Ready to plan your next journey? Let’s chat.
Affiliate Disclaimer
Some of the links on this blog are affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products, services, and experiences that I personally use, love, or believe will add value to your travel adventures.
Your support helps keep this blog running and is greatly appreciated!