Gracious hosts and beautiful apartments

Haarlem

Posted by Elizabeth. Sorry it's been a while since I've posted. The kids were doing such a great job I took a little break.

I wanted to post about where we've stayed on this trip. From our current luxurious townhouse in Holland to our city perch in Barcelona and our Cinque Terra beach flat every single one has been unique and comfortable and affordable. 

Thanks to Airbnb and a smattering of VRBO we've been able to stay in 2-3 bedroom apartments with well-stocked kitchens, sunny living rooms and a garden or two -- all for between $90 and $130 per night.

A few of my favorite memories...

Istanbul

The aerie perch in Istanbul high above the chaos where we looked out over the Bosporus and the domes of many mosques. We heard the call to prayer from every corner -- sometimes a cacophony and sometimes seemingly in harmony. One night we watched a dramatic electrical storm that pierced the sky and eventually turned the city black. Thank you Hatice for your kindness and delectable breakfast treats. 

Florence

I've already posted about our home in Florence but want to remember the tree filled lane leading to the house and the view over the olive groves. The patio under the arbor made the perfect spot for a cup of Italian coffee or Algebra homework. Anna and Doreen, we still think of you and dream of your special family home. 

Berlin

Our apartment in Berlin was right in the heart of an amazingly creative and vibrant neighborhood but was still the quietist place we have stayed. For an ex-Communist area the apartment was perfectly designed with tall ceilings, light filled rooms, floor to ceiling windows and well-kept hardwoods. And we walked out the front door to a great Vietnamese restaurant, an organic grocery and coffee shops galore.

Paris

Simone's Paris flat is perfectly Parisian. An artist's space just above the rooftops with 6 flights of stairs to keep us in shape. Her quirky style shone through everywhere from the art and walls of books to the handmade ceramics. We felt like locals...super artsy trust fund locals. 

There have been so many other amazing places and I'm happy to share recommendations if anyone is headed to Europe. These apartments have made this trip possible.