Elena A.

Hi, I’m Elena, the person behind Sparkling Escapes. I’ve been traveling since I was a child, but once I started planning my own trips, I saw how easily travel can become stressful. Sparkling Escapes came from wanting trips that include iconic places and quieter ones too, with a real plan that lets you see more and enjoy it better. Not days packed with endless “must-see” lists or running back and forth across a city. I plan by areas and neighborhoods, adding iconic cafés, restaurants, and hotels that add to the whole experience. I work a 9–5, and in the evenings I plan my next trip with too many tabs open and a notebook full of notes. If you like having a clear plan for your next trip, you’re in the right place.

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Christmas Lights in Paris: The Best Spots and an Easy Walking Route

I absolutely love Paris, and seeing the Christmas lights in Paris is one of my favorite reasons to go back. It’s pretty at any time of year, but visiting during the Christmas season is one of my favorite things. Give me the shop windows, huge trees and streets covered in twinkling lights, and I’m happy.

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15 Best Things to Do in Strasbourg, Colmar & the Most Beautiful Alsace Villages

If this is your first time in the Alsace region of France, Strasbourg and Colmar are the obvious places to start. Strasbourg is the biggest city in the region, while Colmar puts you closer to some of the most beautiful villages in Alsace. Moreover, together they form a great base for a short trip or

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2 days in Naples, Italy guide: 15 top things to do

If you’re planning 2 days in Naples, you’re probably wondering if the city is really worth visiting. After hearing so many mixed opinions, I asked myself the same question before my trip. Out of all the Italian cities I’ve visited, the city of Naples surprised me the most. It’s loud, chaotic and full of life. The Historic Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site,

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