Author: Shared Suitcase

Review: Fenix Greek Restaurant, Amazing Aesthetic in Manchester

Really fantastic setting and service (Chelsey was our main contact and was awesome) with food to complement, from the guys behind Tattu (which is also worth a visit), writes Elliot. First things first and to get it out of the way, I’ve had better food. If you’re absolutely looking for Michelin Star food, go and […]
One Day in Verona: Romance, History, and Hidden Gems

Verona wasn’t originally high on our list – we were basically looking for somewhere to spend a day between Bologna and Venice as part of our 10 night Italian train trip. But, after spending a day here, we wished we had more time. It’s a city that blends ancient history with charming streets, offering everything […]
Wake Up to Giraffes: Chester Zoo’s New Luxury Lodges Look Incredible

Chester Zoo’s new luxury lodges look amazing. We’re not even being paid to write this! The Reserve is a brand-new safari-style lodge experience set to open in August 2025. The recently revealed artist’s impressions showcase an incredible African-inspired getaway, offering guests the chance to stay right next to some of the zoo’s most iconic animals. […]
How to Keep Your Devices Charged While Travelling in 7 Tips

How to keep your devices charged while travelling is a perrenial question – certainly in the more modern era (which is a bit sad actually!) Whether you’re navigating new cities, planning your way round, showing boarding passes, snapping photos, or simply keeping in touch with loved ones, staying charged can be essential when you’re traveling. […]
Zika Virus, Travel and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know Before Travelling in 10 Steps

If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you may or may not have heard about the Zika virus and its potential risks. FYI Kirsty had, Elliot hadn’t – so it was a bit of a shock when we had to alter our plans to account for it! Zika has been a major concern for […]
The Clam-Gallas Palace: Prague’s Amazing Baroque Hidden Gem

Tucked away in the heart of Prague, the Clam-Gallas Palace (Klam-Gallasovský palác) is one of the city’s quietest and most underrated attractions. During our visit, we were the only ones there, which was a refreshing change from the usual crowds of tourists flocking to the major sights. And trust me, this hidden gem is one […]
Pisa Unveiled: Secrets, Sights, and So Much More Than the Tower

Pisa might be most famous for its Leaning Tower, but it’s far more than just a one-sight city. During our short visit, we found a vibrant and historic place with much more to offer than we’d expected. Our short but sweet visit, following a flight from Manchester, provided us with an unforgettable glimpse into the […]
Florence Hotel: Casual Rinascimento Firenze

We had a fantastic stay at the Casual Rinascimento Firenze. The location is really hard to beat—it’s just a short walk to both the main square and the Uffizi, so you’re right in the heart of Florence but still tucked away in a quieter spot. It made sightseeing so easy, and it was great to […]
Bologna’s Sanctuary San Luca: Is It Worth It?

If you’re wandering the streets of Bologna, you may notice the Sanctuary of St. Luke (Santuario di San Luca) sitting majestically atop the hill. With its stunning views, rich history, and the grand Portico di San Luca, the sanctuary is more than just a religious site—it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Bologna. Our visit to […]
Basilica of San Petronio – Massive Masterpiece in Bologna

When you step into Bologna’s vibrant Piazza Maggiore, the towering Basilica of San Petronio immediately demands your attention. Its massive scale and intricate design make it one of the most impressive churches in Italy, apparently among the ten largest in the world and largest brick gothic church (however, we felt it feels smaller and less […]
Bologna: Discover Italy’s Beautiful, Delectable City For The Soul

Bologna—often overshadowed by the likes of Rome and Florence—turned out to be a truly delightful surprise during our recent Italian road trip. Nestled in the heart of Italy, Bologna feels like a city that hasn’t been overly polished for tourists. It has a welcoming, authentic charm, with layers of history, art, and food that completely […]
How To Travel to Other EU Countries Once in the EU – 6 Tips

If you’ve ever traveled within Europe, you know that one of the biggest perks of being in the European Union (EU) is the ease with which you can hop from one country to another. For example, we’ve done several fun day trips, like traveling from Budapest to Vienna, and it’s always been an absolute breeze. […]
Budapest: Secrets, Shadows, and the Spirit of the Danube

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a city where history, architecture, and vibrant modern life come together beautifully. We visited in November, when the crisp autumn air set the stage for a winter wonderland filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of the festive season. The Christmas markets were out in full force, offering mulled […]
Should You Stay in an Airport Hotel the Night Before an Early Flight?

When you’re facing an early morning flight, the last thing you want is to deal with the stress of catching a cab or navigating public transport in the dark hours. That’s when staying at an airport hotel can seem like a no-brainer. We recently had a 6am flight to Prague, and decided to stay at […]
Review: Nyx Hotel Prague

If you’re looking for a hotel with a prime location, the Nyx Hotel Prague is hard to beat. A mere 10-minute stroll will have you at the Old Town Square with the famous Astronomical Clock, and a quick 15-minute walk will get you to the iconic Charles Bridge. Perfect for those who want to explore […]
A Winter Escape at School Farm Holidays: A Cozy Stay in the Owl Pod & Hottub

Nestled in the heart of the Shropshire countryside, School Farm Holidays offers a delightful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We visited in late December – between Christmas and New Year. Pictures and video below. For our two-night stay, we opted for the charming Owl Pod, a perfect little sanctuary for two. […]
Ultimate 10-Night Italy Train Tour: Unforgettable Adventure

Italy, with its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine, has always been on our travel bucket list. Our 10-night adventure took us from Pisa to Florence, Bologna, Verona, and Venice, with each city offering a unique blend of culture, architecture, and food. While the weather didn’t always cooperate (we got rained on quite a […]
Belfast: Exploring the Heart of Northern Ireland’s Capital

Belfast, with its vibrant history, striking murals, and contemporary art, surprised us in all the best ways. We spent a few days immersing ourselves in this fascinating city, discovering its mix of history, culture, and nightlife. From the Titanic Museum to hidden gems like the Crown Bar, and even a few unexpected adventures (like getting […]
7 Tips to Keep Your Luggage Organised When Travelling

Keeping your luggage organised while travelling can often feel like a never-ending battle. No matter how carefully you pack at the start, by day two, it seems like everything is in a chaotic jumble. But over the years, we’ve picked up a few strategies that really help us stay organised and save time when we’re […]
The Best Websites and Apps for Booking Flights

Finding the best flight deals can be one of the most time-consuming parts of planning a trip, but with the right tools, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re hunting for a budget-friendly option or a last-minute deal, there are plenty of websites and apps out there that make booking flights easy and, most importantly, […]