Dorothy Rich Wanders

Travel and Thoughts

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The beautiful goddess Aphrodite in a fountain in Athens.

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Hermes stands, gazing across the glorious city of Athens at sunset.

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Athena, protector of Athens.

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Zeus stands at the foot of his temple, looking out over the glorious city of Athens.

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Hephaestus standing above Athens at sunset.

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Godly Adventures in Athens 🏛️☀️

Just got back from the most mythical April trip to Athens, and wow – this city is basically a living museum dedicated to the gods!

Started my divine journey at the Acropolis, where Athena's epic temple still stands tall and proud. The Parthenon? Absolutely breathtaking in the soft spring light. Pro tip: Go early to avoid crowds and catch those golden morning vibes.

Wandered down to the Ancient Agora, aka Hermes' old stomping grounds. As the god of travelers and merchants, he would totally approve of how this marketplace still buzzes with energy. Grabbed some killer street souvlaki and felt like a total local.

Dropped by the Temple of Hephaestus – mad respect for the god of craftsmanship. The best-preserved temple in Greece, and you can practically feel the ancient metalworking magic in the air. Industrial revolution who? Greeks were innovating millennia ago!

Ended my day at the Temple of Olympian Zeus, because honestly, if you're gonna pay respects to any god, might as well go straight to the king. Those massive columns? Absolute units.

Athens in April is a mood: wildflowers, perfect temps, and more mythology than you can handle. 10/10 would get lost in godly vibes again! 🇬🇷✨

[dorothyrichwanders]

Barcelona in April: When the City Blooms and Breathes

okay so barcelona in april is literally EVERYTHING i needed and didn't know i was missing?? the city has this perfect energy where winter is definitely gone but the crushing summer heat and tourists haven't arrived yet.

woke up my first morning to sunlight streaming through the shutters of my tiny apartment in el born. threw them open to find an elderly catalan woman tending to flower boxes on her balcony across the narrow street. she waved and gestured for me to smell her jasmine. THIS is the barcelona experience you can't plan for.

spent yesterday wandering park güell when the morning light was hitting gaudí's mosaics just right, turning them into these kaleidoscopic mirrors that seemed to capture all of barcelona below. april means you can actually BREATHE and take photos without twenty strangers in your shot. sat on that famous curved bench for nearly an hour, watching locals walk their dogs while tourists tentatively shed layers in the strengthening sun.

the thing about barcelona in april is the FOOD. omg. the first local strawberries and cherries are appearing in la boqueria market, seafood is ridiculously fresh, and you can actually get tables at restaurants that would be impossible during high season. found this tiny vermut bar in gràcia where the owner insisted i try his homemade vermouth with an orange slice and olive. now i understand why locals have this pre-lunch ritual.

wandered through el raval when an afternoon shower sent everyone scurrying for cover. ended up in this café filled with university students where the barista explained that april showers are "barcelona washing her face before the summer party." sipped cortado while watching raindrops race down centuries-old windowpanes, then just as quickly as it arrived, the rain departed and left everything gleaming.

the city beaches aren't packed yet, though locals are already claiming their spots on warmer days. barceloneta has this gentle energy in april—elderly men playing dominoes, children building sandcastles, couples strolling barefoot along the water's edge. the mediterranean is still too cold for most swimmers but perfect for dangling your feet while eating gelato.

nights are cool enough to justify sangria instead of cerveza, and warm enough to sit outside under heat lamps at neighborhood plazas watching life unfold. found this square in poble sec where three generations of a family celebrated a birthday at the table next to mine, the grandmother teaching the youngest child how to properly eat paella while everyone laughed.

the jacaranda trees are just beginning to bloom, turning parts of the city this otherworldly purple. spend an hour in parc de la ciutadella yesterday just watching people—couples picnicking, amateur acrobats practicing, musicians playing, dogs chasing frisbees. april in barcelona means everyone lives outside.

stumbled across sant jordi preparations my last day (apparently april 23rd is this massive catalan holiday where everyone gives books and roses??). already seeing stalls being set up along the ramblas, locals discussing which books they'll gift. the bookseller who explained the tradition to me said april in barcelona is "like the city taking a deep breath before summer" and honestly that's the perfect description.

barcelona in april feels like being let in on a secret. like the city is showing you its true self before it puts on its crowded summer costume. the light is softer, the pace is slower, and even sagrada família seems more magical when you're not sharing it with a thousand other sweaty tourists.

i get it now, why locals love their city so fiercely. april in barcelona shows you exactly why.

[dorothyrichwanders]

Washington in April: When the Pacific Northwest Decides to Show Off

guys i genuinely can't stop thinking about washington in april?? like imagine every shade of green you've ever seen, then multiply it by a thousand. that's what this place does to you.

woke up yesterday to rain pattering against my airbnb window in seattle (because of course) but by noon the sun broke through and suddenly the whole city was GLISTENING. made my way to pike place where the flower vendors were practically buried in tulips. bought a ridiculous bouquet for $15 that would've cost $50 back home, just because the colors were too perfect to walk away from.

the thing about april here is the constant dance between rain and sunshine. locals don't even bother with umbrellas anymore?? they just accept the occasional shower as the price for living somewhere this lush. witnessed a guy in a t-shirt casually drinking his coffee outside during a light drizzle like it was the most normal thing ever. maybe it is.

spent three days exploring olympic national park which was honestly a spiritual experience?? the hoh rainforest in april is OTHERWORLDLY. moss hanging from ancient trees, ferns unfurling their new growth, and that smell after rainfall that makes you feel like your lungs are finally working properly for the first time. stood completely still for 20 minutes just listening to raindrops hitting different layers of the forest canopy. each one makes a different sound and together it's like this perfect natural symphony that no recording could ever capture.

ferry ride to bainbridge island when the afternoon sun hit mt. rainier just right nearly made me cry?? the mountain was this impossible shade of pink against a blue sky with the seattle skyline in the foreground. had to put my phone down because i knew no photo would do it justice. some moments are just for memory.

skagit valley tulip festival is THE DEFINITION of sensory overload in the best possible way. fields of color stretching toward the horizon while the cascades loom in the background. found this tiny farm stand selling tulip-shaped cookies and lavender honey. sat on a bench watching clouds cast moving shadows across the rainbow fields while eating a cookie that tasted like spring incarnate.

the locals here have this knowing look in april. like they've suffered through months of grey for THIS moment when everything explodes into color and life. a barista in this tiny bellingham coffee shop told me april is when washington "shows off what all that rain is good for." she wasn't wrong.

everything feels possible in washington in april. the days are getting longer, waterfall volume is at peak drama from snowmelt, and wildlife is everywhere. spotted a family of otters playing along the shore of puget sound, completely unbothered by the light rain that had me huddled under my jacket.

there's this perfect balance here between wilderness and civilization that i've never found anywhere else. one minute you're in a sophisticated seattle wine bar, the next you're standing alone on a beach surrounded by driftwood that's been shaped by centuries of pacific storms.

washington in april feels like being let in on a secret. like the locals have agreed to share their treasure with you, but only for a moment before the summer crowds arrive.

i get it now, why people who live here endure the grey winters. april in washington is the universe's way of saying "thanks for your patience, here's your reward."

[dorothyrichwanders]

Liverpool: Where History Meets Harmony in the Spring Rain

sitting in the tate liverpool café right now, watching ferry boats cross the mersey through rain-streaked windows while locals hurry past under colorful umbrellas. there's something about liverpool in april that feels like being inside a nostalgic indie film??

the weather is exactly what you'd expect—moody, changeable, dramatic—but that's part of the charm. one minute you're ducking into a doorway to escape sudden showers, the next you're blinking in sunshine that makes the albert dock's brick buildings glow warm and red.

spent yesterday morning at the beatles story museum (because how could you not?) and found myself unexpectedly emotional hearing "here comes the sun" while actual spring sunlight streamed through windows. there's something powerful about standing where musical history was made while spring—the ultimate symbol of renewal—unfolds around you.

the thing about liverpool in april is how ALIVE it feels. More than in the bleak sadness of winter. uni students are everywhere, bringing energy to the baltic triangle's coffee shops and repurposed warehouses. locals seem to emerge from winter hibernation, filling pubs where conversations flow as freely as the beer.

walked through sefton park yesterday when afternoon light broke through clouds, turning raindrops on daffodils into tiny prisms. an older gentleman walking his corgi told me about growing up here in the 60s, how the city has transformed while somehow remaining utterly itself.

there's this perfect blend of history and forward momentum here. cathedrals and modern architecture. traditional scouse accents ordering artisanal coffee. street performers playing beatles covers next to musicians creating something entirely new.

april means fewer tourists but plenty of cultural events. caught an emerging local band at the cavern club last night—yes, THAT cavern club—where the ghosts of musical legends seemed to nod approval from the shadows.

liverpool in april tastes like hot tea and sounds like rain on cobblestones mixed with distant guitar. it's imperfect in all the perfect ways.

[dorothyrichwanders]

St. Petersburg, Russia: Awakening from Winter's Grip

st. petersburg in april feels like watching a city wake up from a deep sleep of winter, stretching and blinking in the strengthening sunlight.

the neva river is finally free of ice, chunks of it floating downstream like winter releasing its hold one piece at a time. stood on palace bridge as sunset painted the water in shades of pink and gold, the peter and paul fortress silhouetted against a sky that seems impossibly vast.

april here means the city is caught between seasons—some days still require heavy coats and fur hats, while others offer surprising warmth that coaxes locals into parks and along river embankments. the famous fountains at peterhof aren't running yet (may 1st, apparently), but there's something hauntingly beautiful about walking through the gardens as they prepare to bloom.

found myself completely alone in a room at the hermitage yesterday, surrounded by rembrandt masterpieces, the weak spring sunlight filtering through centuries-old windows. a security guard who looked old enough to have known the tsars personally nodded at me and whispered "beautiful, yes?" in heavily accented english. stood there for what felt like hours, listening to the building creak and settle.

evenings are still long enough to justify lingering in stolovaya (these cafeteria-style eateries that serve hearty russian food for practically nothing). ate borscht and pelmeni while watching twilight slowly, so slowly, descend over nevsky prospekt.

the cultural contrast is everything—opulent palaces alongside soviet-era apartment blocks, babushkas selling handpicked flowers outside metro stations where teenagers in cutting-edge fashion hurry past. april peels back the tourist facade and reveals the real city underneath.

st. petersburg in april is like watching a ballerina stretch before a performance—graceful, disciplined, and hinting at the beauty that's about to unfold.

[dorothyrichwanders]

Innsbruck, Austria: Alpine Spring in Technicolor

how do i even explain what it feels like to drink morning coffee in a medieval town square surrounded by alps still capped with snow while spring flowers burst through every available patch of soil??

innsbruck in april is a MOOD. the old town buildings are painted in these candy-colored pastels that pop against mountain backdrops in a way that seems almost deliberately cinematic? like someone designed this whole city specifically for instagram but did it centuries before social media existed.

wandered through the hofgarten yesterday where crocuses and early tulips created patches of color against fresh grass. students from the university sprawled on blankets, soaking up sun between classes, their laughter mixing with church bells.

the thing about april here is the light. it's different—clearer, somehow, making the golden roof (literally a roof decorated with 2,657 gold-plated copper tiles from the 1500s!!) shine like it was installed yesterday. spring rain washes everything clean, and when the sun returns, the whole city gleams.

speaking of rain—got caught in a sudden mountain shower while hiking nordkette (the casual MOUNTAIN RANGE that serves as the city's backdrop). ducked into this tiny wooden shelter where an elderly austrian couple shared their thermos of tea and homemade apricot cookies with me. we didn't share a language but somehow had a 40-minute conversation anyway?

innsbruck exists in this perfect balance point between austrian tradition and youthful energy. one minute you're examining medieval architecture, the next you're in a thoroughly modern café where the barista has more tattoos than exposed skin.

april means you can ski in the morning and sit in a sunny piazza in the afternoon. it means watching snow melt into rushing streams that wind through the city. it means feeling like you've discovered a secret that summer tourists will never know.

innsbruck in april feels like being in on a secret the rest of the world hasn't discovered yet.

[dorothyrichwanders]

Lake Tahoe: Between Winter's End and Summer's Promise

current status: sitting on a log at emerald bay, wrapped in my favorite oversized sweater, watching clouds cast shadows that race across the water like thoughts i can't quite catch

dreaming of last month's visit which was colder

lake tahoe in april is this beautiful in-between state that tourists usually miss?? the crowds are gone but the magic remains. the lake is this impossible shade of blue that makes you question reality, somehow even more vivid against the patches of remaining snow.

hiked eagle falls trail this morning when frost still crunched beneath my boots. halfway up, had to strip down to my t-shirt as the spring sun strengthened. stood at the viewpoint completely alone—ALONE at one of tahoe's most photographed spots!!—watching the lake shimmer below like some kind of blue galaxy.

april here means nature is stirring but hasn't fully awakened. wildflowers are just beginning to peek through melting snow patches, and wildlife is emerging from winter hideaways. spotted a family of deer this morning, still wearing their winter coats but looking decidedly ready for change.

best part? the locals actually talk to you now that the winter sports crowd has thinned. got coffee at this tiny cabin-like café where the owner (melissa? melanie?) told stories about growing up here, watching the lake change through seasons and decades.

nights are still cold enough to justify fireplaces, and there's something about falling asleep to the sound of pine branches moving in the wind while embers glow in the darkness. it's healing in ways i didn't know i needed.

tahoe in april is like that friend who actually listens instead of waiting to speak. profound without trying to be.

[dorothyrichwanders]

Recap of March Travels

March Wanderings: My European Adventure Recap

hey travel fam! ✨ just got back from my march adventure across europe and i'm still processing everything i experienced while trying to beat this jet lag (coffee is my best friend rn).

march in europe is this magical in-between season where you get to experience places without the summer crowds but still catch the first whispers of spring. some days were unexpectedly warm, others had me bundled in every layer i packed, but that's part of the adventure, right?

first stop: vilnius, lithuania

if you follow my blog, you know i'm drawn to places that aren't on everyone's radar, and vilnius absolutely stole my heart. there's something about those narrow cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings that feels like stepping into a storybook.

caught the first cherry blossoms beginning to open in bernardine gardens, had the most life-changing šakotis cake at this tiny bakery where the owner insisted i try three different varieties, and spent way too much money on amber jewelry (no regrets though).

the contrast between soviet-era remnants and the vibrant, artistic energy of the present-day city creates this tension that's somehow both melancholy and hopeful?? if you're planning a trip, march means you'll practically have uzupis republic to yourself!

alpine dreams in innsbruck, austria

honestly might have to dedicate a whole separate post just to the MOUNTAINS. innsbruck in march is this perfect blend of winter wonderland and early spring. caught some late season snow my first day which made the whole city look like it was dusted with powdered sugar.

spent my birthday hiking along mountain trails where alpine flowers were just starting to peek through melting snow. the air there has this crisp, clean quality that made me realize how polluted city air actually is.

pro tip: march means you can still catch some skiing in the morning and then enjoy afternoon coffee in a sunny plaza. best of both worlds!

a quick escape to lake tahoe

ok so technically not europe, but i couldn't resist a quick detour to lake tahoe when my flight had that 3-day layover in california (we all know that was intentional planning on my part lol).

the contrast between european cities and the raw natural beauty of tahoe was exactly what my travel-weary soul needed. the water was that impossible shade of blue that makes you question if someone's secretly editing your reality, and hiking with patches of snow still on the ground but warm sun on my face felt symbolic somehow.

imperial grandeur in st. petersburg

st. petersburg is like that impossibly elegant person who somehow manages to look put-together even when they just rolled out of bed. even with march slush and occasional grey skies, the city maintains this imperial dignity that's honestly intimidating.

the hermitage with minimal crowds?? absolute dream. stood alone in rooms filled with rembrandts and rubens, the weak march sunlight filtering through centuries-old windows. found this family-run blini place where the grandmother insisted on teaching me the "proper" way to eat them (apparently i've been doing it wrong my whole life).

the neva river was just starting to break its ice, huge chunks floating downstream like winter releasing its grip one piece at a time.

flashback to liverpool at christmas

looking through my photos from st. petersburg actually reminded me of my december trip to liverpool (maybe it was the similar quality of light?). still can't believe i experienced that rare snowy day in liverpool when everything looked like a dickens novel come to life.

makes me realize how different places can be depending on when you visit them. liverpool in december was all holiday markets and cozy pubs with fireplaces, while i imagine spring there brings a completely different energy.

final thoughts on march travels

if i had to sum up march travel in europe in one word, it would be "transition." everything feels like it's in motion, changing, becoming. there's something deeply poetic about visiting places as they shake off winter and stretch toward spring.

yes, you need to pack for literally every type of weather. yes, some attractions have limited hours. but the trade-off is experiencing places at their most authentic, when locals are going about their lives without the summer tourist crush.

who else has traveled europe in march? what was your experience? drop your stories below!

[dorothyrichwanders]

Vilnius, Lithuania: Where Spring Whispers Old Stories

guys I can't even begin to describe what Vilnius feels like in April?? better than march. like imagine walking through narrow cobblestone streets while cherry blossoms drift around you and buildings painted in pastels peek through morning mist. it's MAGICAL.

woke up early yesterday and wandered to Cathedral Square when the morning light was hitting just right. the bell tower was catching this golden glow while locals hurried to work, bundled in light jackets. this city breathes history but doesn't make a big deal about it??

found this tiny coffee shop down a hidden alley where the barista insisted I try their homemade šimtalapis (this layered pastry thing that's basically heaven) with my coffee. sat by the window watching april showers come and go, raindrops racing down antique window glass that's probably seen centuries pass by.

the contrast here is everything - old baroque churches next to quirky street art, traditional amber shops beside hipster boutiques. april means fewer tourists but the weather is this perfect mix of crisp mornings and sunny afternoons.

and don't even get me started on Užupis!! crossed the little bridge to this self-declared "republic" within the city where artists live by their own constitution (which includes gems like "everyone has the right to be happy" and "everyone has the right to be unique"). the river was swollen with spring melt, rushing beneath me as locals sat along the banks, faces tilted toward the strengthening sun.

vilnius in april is like reading a poem while drinking really good coffee. it's understated but stays with you, you know?

[dorothyrichwanders]

Dorothy's Travel Diaries: Hidden Gems of St. Petersburg, Russia

Hello, fellow wanderlust souls! 🌍✈️

Last year I had a mesmerizing trip to St. Petersburg, Russia, a city that feels like a beautiful mosaic of history, art, and enchanting canals. While many flock to the iconic sights of the Hermitage and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, I want to share some of my favorite lesser-known spots that truly made my visit unforgettable.

1. The Valaam Monastery If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, take a boat trip to Valaam Island. This tranquil retreat, situated on Lake Ladoga, is home to the stunning Valaam Monastery. I spent an entire afternoon wandering through the serene grounds, savoring the peaceful ambiance away from the tourists. The monks have an impressive collection of art, and the natural beauty of the island is simply breathtaking. Bring a book and just relax by the water!

2. The Fabergé Museum Forget the lined-up crowds at the Hermitage for a moment and make your way to the Fabergé Museum. This gem houses a collection of exquisite Fabergé eggs and other ornate pieces of jewelry. What struck me most was not just the stunning craftsmanship but the intimate atmosphere of the museum, where you can experience the art up close without feeling rushed.

3. The Mariinsky Theater’s Open-Air Performances For a taste of culture without the formal dress code, I highly recommend catching an open-air performance at the Mariinsky Theater. I enjoyed a delightful performance of ballet right in the heart of the city. It’s such a lovely way to experience the elegance of Russian arts in a relaxed outdoor setting.

4. The Yusupov Palace Tucked away along the Moika River, the Yusupov Palace is a treasure trove of history and intrigue. Be sure to check out the rooms adorned with stunning interiors and the eerie history of Grigori Rasputin’s assassination here. The palace has a lesser-known garden that's perfect for a peaceful stroll when you want to escape into nature for a moment.

5. The Literature and Architecture Walking Tour As a literature lover, I was delighted to discover a walking tour that highlights the literary history of St. Petersburg. From Dostoevsky’s haunting inspiration to Pushkin's legacy, this tour gave me such a deeper understanding of the city’s influence on Russian literature. Definitely a stand-out experience!

Each of these spots made my visit richer and brought me closer to understanding the essence of St. Petersburg. I'd encourage you not only to visit but to also wander off the beaten path. Every corner of this city is alive with stories waiting to be discovered!

[dorothyrichwanders]

Discovering the Hidden Charms of Vilnius, Lithuania – A Solo Adventure

Hey, fellow wanderlusters! 🌍✈️ It’s Dorothy here, ready to whisk you away to the enchanting streets of Vilnius, Lithuania. After a recent trip, I can’t help but share my delightful discoveries in this charming city. Known for its baroque architecture and rich history, Vilnius is a must-visit that often flies under the radar!

Arriving in Vilnius

As I stepped off the plane, the crisp air enveloped me like a welcome hug. Vilnius radiates a blend of warmth and a unique spirit. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is where I began my adventure, but let me share some lesser-known gems that truly stole my heart.

The Art of the Unknown 🖼️

While many flock to the famous Gediminas Tower, I stumbled upon the Uzupis Republic—a quirky self-declared independent area of the city full of artistic vibes and local charisma. It’s like stepping into a whimsical world! With its unique constitution, complete with the right to be lazy and the right to be happy, Uzupis is a haven for artists and dreamers. Take a leisurely walk along the streets filled with murals and quaint cafes, where you can sip on a delicious cup of kava (coffee) while engaging in profound conversations with fellow travelers.

The Charm of a Bookstore 📚

Speaking of quaint, I must recommend The Book Smugglers Museum located in the heart of the city! This hidden treasure sheds light on the brave Lithuanian book smugglers who fought against censorship during the Russian Empire. Tucked away from the usual tourist trails, this small museum gives you an intimate glimpse into Lithuania's literary past. Be sure to check out their unique collection of books and maybe even pick up a local title or two!

Culinary Delights 🍽️

Now, let’s talk food! While many rave about traditional cepelinai (potato dumplings), I found an amazing little eatery called Šneke Nyškė, where I indulged in their heavenly šaltibarščiai, a cold beetroot soup. Trust me; you haven’t lived until you’ve dipped your bread into this vibrant dish! Plus, the laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals made for some delightful conversations.

Serene Escapes 🌳

If you're seeking a bit of nature amidst the city hustle, don't miss out on the Bernardine Gardens. This oasis is perfect for a quiet afternoon stroll or even a peaceful picnic. I spent an hour basking in the sun while listening to the gentle rustle of leaves. It’s serene and offers a lovely view of the nearby Vilnius Cathedral.

Final Thoughts

As I wrapped up my trip, I felt as if I had unraveled the layers of Vilnius beyond the typical tourist spots. It’s a city rich in history, culture, and surprising charm. Traveling solo allowed me to immerse myself fully in the experience, but I can’t wait to return with my partner or even my adventurous friends!

So, if you’re planning your next getaway, don’t overlook Vilnius! Pack your bags, and go explore the hidden nooks and crannies of this lovely city. Who knows what treasures you’ll find? Happy travels, everyone! 💖🧳

Feel free to reblog or share your thoughts below! Have you been to Vilnius? What hidden gems did you discover? ✨

[dorothyrichwanders]

Lake Tahoe in the Spring