# wanderings with bri > travel inspiration and planning ## Posts - [Best Budget Hotels in Isla Holbox, Mexico (2026)](https://wanderingswithbri.com/best-budget-hotels-isla-holbox/): I’ve rounded up the best budget hotels in Isla Holbox to make choosing where to stay easy, whether you’re booking in advance or scrambling at the last minute like I did. I actually decided to go to Holbox on a whim the day before arriving while I was already in Mexico and didn’t even have a place booked for the first night until I was already on the island. This guide brings all the best budget hotels in Holbox together in one place, so you can quickly find a stay that fits your needs. Every hotel on this list is […] - [Cheap Eats Ljubljana: 17 Restaurants & Budget Bites (2026)](https://wanderingswithbri.com/cheap-eats-ljubljana/): Slovenia is still a bit under the radar as an international travel destination, and its capital city, Ljubljana, completely won me over. It’s fun, walkable, and full of charm, with colorful streets and a clear commitment to its recycling and zero waste goals. The city is also one of the more affordable capitals in Europe, which makes it perfect for a budget-friendly city break. There are so many great options for cheap eats Ljubljana has to offer, from cozy restaurants and bakeries to quick takeout spots. 📍 Quick Picks: Best Cheap Eats Ljubljana Short on time? Here are a few of my […] - [Cheap Eats Lake Bled: Best Budget-Friendly Spots (2026)](https://wanderingswithbri.com/cheap-eats-lake-bled/): My sister and I spent three nights in Lake Bled, and it quickly became one of the highlights of our trip. While Slovenia overall is quite affordable, Lake Bled is a touristy spot, which means food and drinks can feel a bit pricey. The good news is that there are still some cheap eats Lake Bled has to offer. Here’s my top picks so you can easily add them to a google maps list. These spots combined with some trips to the grocery store for picnic bits will get you through your trip to Lake Bled on a budget. 📍 […] - [20 Best Cheap Eats Venice [2026] - Budget Restaurants](https://wanderingswithbri.com/cheap-eats-venice/): Venice is a dream destination for so many travelers, and while it has a reputation for being expensive, I actually found our trip surprisingly affordable. We went in November, during shoulder season, and it was perfect. I absolutely loved my time in this city. It wasn’t crowded, the atmosphere was still incredible, and we managed to stay right in the heart of Venice at a beautiful hotel without blowing the budget. On top of that, we found some great cheap eats in Venice. No matter what time of year you’re visiting, there are plenty of ways to save money on […] - [How to Take the Bus from Ljubljana to Bled (and Back Again)](https://wanderingswithbri.com/bus-ljubljana-to-bled/): If you’re planning a trip to Slovenia, visiting Lake Bled is probably at the top of your list. It’s one of the most popular day trips from the capital, but honestly, I recommend staying a night or two instead of rushing it. I spent three nights in Bled and it was perfect. Unless you’re renting a car for your whole Slovenia trip, the easiest way to reach Bled is by bus. I’ve personally done this route and I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about taking the bus from Ljubljana to Bled and back again. Taking the Bus from Ljubljana […] - [Cheap Eats London: 25 Best Budget Eats in Central London](https://wanderingswithbri.com/cheap-eats-london/): Cheap eats London might sound like a contradiction, since it’s no secret that the city can be expensive. But while prices can run high, London is a huge city, which also means there are endless choices for every kind of budget. In this guide, I’ll focus on the spots most travelers are likely to spend their time: central London, mostly within Zone 1. Of course, there are great places scattered all over the city, but these options will be your best bet without straying too far from the main sights. 📍 Quick Picks: Best Cheap Eats Central London Short on […] - [How to Visit Mackinac Island on a Budget (From a Michigan Local)](https://wanderingswithbri.com/mackinac-island-on-a-budget/): I’ve lived only a few hours away from Mackinac Island my whole life. It has once gone from being more of a hidden gem during my childhood to an internationally recognized destination. It’s busier now, a little pricier, and way more famous, but you can still visit Mackinac Island on a budget. I’ve done the island every which way: day trips, overnights, with friends, with family, as a couple, on bikes, on foot. While it’s easy to spend a lot on the island, it’s just as possible to enjoy it on a budget without missing out on the best parts. […] - [Cheap Eats Dubrovnik: Where to Eat on a Budget Near Old Town](https://wanderingswithbri.com/cheap-eats-dubrovnik/): When I tell you I was standing on the sidewalk desperately searching “cheap eats Dubrovnik”, I mean it. I scoured Reddit, pulled up a bunch of blog posts that—per usual—didn’t actually list any truly budget friendly restaurants, and I was still feeling lost. Everything I found was either way out by the cruise ship port (Gruž), in Lapad, or just grab and go takeaway. But I wanted a real sit down meal, a place to watch the world go by and sip a glass of wine. Since we were staying in Pile, right outside Old Town Dubrovnik, I was hoping for […] - [How to Get from Valladolid to Holbox](https://wanderingswithbri.com/how-to-get-from-valladolid-to-holbox/): If you’re traveling through the Yucatan Peninsula and wondering how to get from Valladolid to Holbox, this post breaks it all down. We did this exact route from Valladolid to Holbox ourselves while backpacking around the region and planning things last minute, so it’s totally doable, even with little notice. If you have a rental car, you can drive to Chiquilá and catch the ferry from there, but this post focuses on the easiest public transport options: direct buses and shared shuttles. There are a few different ways to make the trip, but the easiest and most straightforward option is […] - [Cenote Azul Bacalar: What to Expect (and Whether It's Worth a Stop)](https://wanderingswithbri.com/cenote-azul-bacalar/): Cenote Azul Bacalar is one of the few cenotes in the Bacalar area — and it’s very different from the dramatic cave cenotes you’ll find in other parts of the Yucatán. I visited during my time in Bacalar, and while it’s not a “must-see,” I did enjoy it. It’s a nice spot to cool off, go for a swim, and enjoy some peaceful nature. If you’re considering adding it to your Bacalar itinerary, here’s exactly what to expect. What Is Cenote Azul Bacalar Actually Like? Unlike the crystal-clear cave cenotes you might find in Tulum or Valladolid, Cenote Azul in Bacalar feels more like […] - [Cheap Eats Isla Mujeres: Best Places to Eat on a Budget](https://wanderingswithbri.com/cheap-eats-isla-mujeres/): Super excited to bring you the next spot in my cheap eats series: Cheap Eats Isla Mujeres! This little gem of an island off the northern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula has seriously carved out a space in my head. The water is insanely blue, the beaches are world class, and I have some great memories of the evenings out at local bars. And yeah, it’s Mexico — so naturally I’m still daydreaming about the food. If you’re planning a trip to the island (or already there), here are a bunch of spots to eat well without blowing your budget. Cheap […] - [Best Golf Cart Rentals on Isla Mujeres [2026]: Prices, Tips & Where to Book](https://wanderingswithbri.com/golf-cart-rentals-on-isla-mujeres/): Isla Mujeres totally won me over. With some of the bluest water I’ve ever seen and a fun, lively vibe, it’s easy to see why people fall in love with this island. One of the most popular ways to explore is by golf cart—but with so many rental shops (and some not-so-great reviews), it can be hard to know who to trust. After researching dozens of options, I’ve rounded up the best golf cart rentals on Isla Mujeres to help you skip the guesswork. Best Golf Cart Rentals on Isla Mujeres After comparing dozens of options, these three companies stood […] - [10 Must-Visit Traverse City Wineries — By a Local](https://wanderingswithbri.com/must-visit-traverse-city-wineries/): Most people don’t think of Northern Michigan when they think of wine, but Traverse City wineries have quietly earned their place on the wine map. Thanks to Lake Michigan and the region’s location along the 45th parallel, this area has a surprisingly ideal climate for cool-climate grapes. While this region is best known for its Rieslings, Pinot Gris, and sparkling wines—there are some impressive reds grown here too. With over 40 wineries spread across the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, there’s no shortage of beautiful spots to sip and explore. As a local, I’ve spent plenty of sunny afternoons sipping wine around Traverse City, and I’ve personally visited every […] - [A Local’s Ultimate Guide to Visiting Traverse City, Michigan](https://wanderingswithbri.com/traverse-city/): If you’re planning a trip to Northern Michigan, Traverse City should be at the top of your list. It’s the perfect base for exploring Lake Michigan beaches, wine country, and endless outdoor adventures. Plus, it has that small-town feel while still offering plenty to do. Even after traveling all over the world, this area is still one of my favorite places, and I’m lucky to call it home. Because I’m a traveler too, I know what kind of info actually helps when you’re planning a trip. So I wrote this Traverse City travel guide to be practical, personal, and packed […] - [Best Cheap Eats in Traverse City [2026] – A Local’s Guide](https://wanderingswithbri.com/cheap-eats-traverse-city/): Eating out in Traverse City can get expensive fast, but you don’t have to totally blow your budget to enjoy good food around here. As a local, I’ve put together my personal go-to list of the best cheap eats in Traverse City. I’ve really enjoyed putting together this cheap eats series for places all over the world, and I figured it was about time my hometown got the same love. Whether you’re visiting or just trying to save a little on nights out, this guide rounds up my favorite budget friendly eats in town. These are the places I actually […] - [Cedar Point on a Budget: Best Money-Saving Tips for 2026](https://wanderingswithbri.com/cedar-point-on-a-budget/): Growing up in Michigan, Cedar Point has always been a classic getaway. On my most recent trip with my boyfriend, we set out to do Cedar Point on a budget… and honestly? We had such a fun time. In this post, I’m sharing everything we learned — from the best time to go, tickets, where to stay and tips for food — so you can plan your own Cedar Point trip on a budget. Cedar Point can actually be a pretty affordable amusement park, comparatively. The base ticket prices aren’t bad, but your total cost really depends on where you’re coming […] - [10 Best Budget Hotels in London [2026] – Affordable & Central](https://wanderingswithbri.com/best-budget-hotels-london/): Traveling to London and looking for somewhere affordable to stay? Tired of searching for “budget hotels in London,” only to be met with listicle sites showing hotels that start at $200+ per night? I know this frustration firsthand. That’s why I’ve created this hand-picked guide to London’s real budget hotels—options that are actually affordable without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Every hotel here meets strict criteria: ✔ Genuinely affordable rates for the area—No overpriced “budget” hotels. ✔ Prime locations—All well within a 30-minute public transport ride to central London, with many right in the heart of the city or within walking distance of major attractions. ✔ Highly rated—At least 7+ on Booking.com and 4+ […] - [Mexico Off the Beaten Path: 8 Unique Destinations to Escape the Crowds](https://wanderingswithbri.com/top-small-towns-in-mexico/): When most people think of traveling to Mexico, beach destinations like Cancún or resort towns like Cabo often come to mind. But some of the country’s most memorable travel experiences happen in Mexico off the beaten path—places that move at a different pace, have fewer tourists, and give you the chance to connect more deeply with the setting. My love for Mexico really deepened when I started going beyond the more typical spots. Bacalar, Valladolid, and Holbox were some of the first Mexico off the beaten path spots I visited, and they quickly became favorites. While not every town on […] - [How Much Does a Trip to Guatemala Cost? [Real Budget + Itinerary Tips]](https://wanderingswithbri.com/guatemala-travel-budget/): Want to see our exact Guatemala trip cost? In this post, I break down exactly how much we spent on a two-person, one-week trip to Guatemala, including transportation, food, lodging, and activities — plus tips to help you stick to your Guatemala travel budget. If you’re trying to figure out what a realistic Guatemala travel budget looks like, you’re in the right place. Our Travel Style Travel style is important as it gives context to what was spent. There is always a way, with any trip, to do a trip cheaper or to do it for more. Understanding our travel style is […] - [How to Visit Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle Without a Car from Ljubljana](https://wanderingswithbri.com/ljubljana-to-postojna-cave-predjama-castle-without-car/): Visiting Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle without a car from Ljubljana is easier than you might think. If you’re hoping to do this day trip without renting a car, this guide walks you through exactly how I did it, plus covers everything I wish I’d known ahead of time. Visiting Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle makes for a fantastic day trip from Ljubljana Getting from Ljubljana to Postojna Cave by Bus The easiest way without a car to reach Postojna Cave from Ljubljana is by bus. Where to Catch the Bus: Start at Ljubljana’s main bus station (AP Ljubljana). The buses […] - [One Night in Evora, Portugal: The Ultimate Travel Guide](https://wanderingswithbri.com/one-night-in-evora-travel-guide/): Evora is a beautiful city in Portugal’s Alentejo region, known for its well-preserved historical landmarks and charming streets. I was drawn to Evora after seeing photos of it’s architecture, the iconic viaduct, churches and roman influences. During our two-week trip through Portugal using only public transportation, staying the night in Evora made more sense than a day trip, particularly given the train schedules. In this post, I’ll share our experience with a detailed itinerary, including recommendations on what to do, where to stay, eat, and how to get around. Why Stay One Night in Evora? We chose to stay overnight […] - [Cheap Eats Holbox: 9 Great Spots to Eat on a Budget](https://wanderingswithbri.com/cheap-eats-isla-holbox/): Isla Holbox is a fun little island just off the northern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches. While it’s becoming a popular spot for travelers, it’s still totally possible to eat well on a budget. I spent a few days on the island tracking down the best cheap eats Holbox has to offer. This guide shares my favorite spots and top recommendations around the island. Holbox Budget Tip: Bring Cash! One crucial tip for Holbox: bring enough cash! The island’s ATMs often run out, and many budget-friendly restaurants and street food vendors don’t accept […] - [Where to Stay in Amsterdam on a Budget – My Top 10 Hotel Picks](https://wanderingswithbri.com/best-amsterdam-budget-hotels/): Amsterdam and budget hotels? Yep, it’s possible. I’ve done what I do best and gathered my top 10 budget hotel picks to help you plan an affordable stay in Amsterdam. Whether you’re looking for cheap hotels in Amsterdam or wondering where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget, these picks should help you save big time. While Amsterdam isn’t the most budget-friendly destination, it’s still doable on a budget. After digging around for the best Amsterdam budget hotels for my own trip, I found some solid options worth sharing. I’ve visited Amsterdam a few times now, along with other parts of the Netherlands, and […] - [Two Nights in Sintra, Portugal: Why You Should Spend More Than a Day in This Fairytale City](https://wanderingswithbri.com/two-nights-in-sintra-portugal/): Spending two nights in Sintra, Portugal feels like stepping into a fairytale, with its castles perched on hills, palaces with secret tunnels, and streets lined with colorful buildings. It’s no wonder Sintra is a popular day trip from Lisbon, but with so much to explore, many travelers face a common dilemma: Is a day trip enough, or is it better to stay overnight? With two nights in Sintra, you can experience everything from the vibrant palaces to serene sunsets at Cabo da Roca, all without feeling rushed. We opted for two nights in Sintra and quickly realized that this gave us […] - [Discover the Magic of Spending a Night in Óbidos, Portugal](https://wanderingswithbri.com/a-night-in-obidos-portugal/): When planning our 2-week Portugal trip, I knew we wanted a mix of cities and smaller towns. That’s when I stumbled upon Óbidos, and it immediately caught my eye. The cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings adorned with flowers, and medieval charm made it an easy choice to add to our itinerary. I’m so glad we did, especially because we decided to spend the night within the walled city—it was truly special. Óbidos, just an hour’s drive from Lisbon, is a small medieval village rich in history and full of charm. It offers a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of […] - [Travel Portugal on a Budget: 2 Weeks for $2000 [Full Breakdown]](https://wanderingswithbri.com/ultimate-portugal-travel-budget-guide/): I’ve been super excited to start off this budget breakdown series with Portugal. Besides the sheer joy of travel itself, one of my favorite aspects is planning a trip on a budget and tracking expenses. Portugal is a wonderful place for a budget trip. It is one of the more affordable Western European countries, and there are many things to do and see. From historic cities to stunning beaches and delicious food, there’s something for everyone here. If you’re planning a trip to Portugal on a budget, you are in the right place. Stick around as I share my tips […] - [10 Essential Travel Apps Every Traveler Should Download](https://wanderingswithbri.com/10-essential-travel-apps/): Traveling has become so much easier with the rise of mobile apps designed to help us on the go. As a frequent traveler, I’ve found that certain apps really make travel more smooth and enjoyable. There are countless helpful travel apps out there, but starting with these ten will set you up for success. These are the ten essential travel apps that I would recommend my friends and family to download to their travel folders. 1. Google Maps Google Maps for me is a must-have. This might be the most important one on this list. Whether it be looking for […] - [Cheap Eats Lisbon: The Complete Guide to Eating Affordably in the Heart of Portugal](https://wanderingswithbri.com/cheap-eats-lisbon/): Welcome to My Cheap Eats Series: Lisbon Edition. Today’s spotlight is on Lisbon, Portugal—one of my favorite European destinations and a fantastic spot for budget-friendly dining. I know firsthand how easy it is to fall into pricey tourist traps when all you want is a delicious, affordable meal.  That’s why I’ve curated this guide to help you discover the best cheap eats Lisbon has to offer. My Cheap Eats series focuses on different destinations to provide valuable information to budget-conscious travelers. It’s basically the blog post I wish I had before traveling to the places I feature in them. Food […] - [5 Affordable International Destinations for a Week-Long Trip](https://wanderingswithbri.com/affordable-week-long-international-destinations/): I love travel research and planning, so I’ve curated a list of five affordable international destinations, perfect for a week-long getaway from the US. These budget-friendly destinations offer great value, natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure, making them ideal for a memorable week-long trip. With shorter flight durations and affordable costs, these destinations allow you to maximize your vacation time without breaking the bank. Planning an Affordable Week-Long Getaway from the US: My Recommendations Keep your flights short: When you only have a week, it’s crucial to maximize your vacation time. Choosing destinations with shorter flight durations minimizes travel fatigue and […] - [The Unplanned Adventure: Solo in Mexico and How Taking the Leap Changed My Life](https://wanderingswithbri.com/solo-travel-mexico-first-trip-tips/): I found solo travel in 2018 when I had a group trip planned, and one by one everyone except me bailed. I decided I had put too much into the trip to quit, so I took the leap and went solo. Unexpected Solo Travel Circumstances A solo trip to Mexico was not on my radar, solo travel in general was not on my radar. Previously, my solo travel experiences were limited to navigating airports and getting to my destinations. Every time I had been somewhere before it was to visit someone, visit family, etc. Never just to go to a […] - [Guatemala Travel Inspiration: 45 Stunning Photos to Fuel Your Wanderlust](https://wanderingswithbri.com/guatemala-travel-inspiration-photos/): Prepare to add Guatemala to the top of your travel bucket list. No, seriously. If you’ve been asking yourself, “Is Guatemala worth visiting?” — I’m here to show you why the answer is a resounding yes. From colorful towns, to volcano hikes, this one-week trip blew me away. Guatemala had been on my travel radar for a few years, but I always imagined visiting as part of a longer Central American backpacking trip. However, when the opportunity arose for a one-week getaway, I jumped at the chance to travel to Guatemala. Let me tell you, I’m so glad we picked this destination. […] - [How to Pack Carry-On Only: 10 Pro Tips for Packing Light](https://wanderingswithbri.com/carry-on-travel-packing-light-tips/): One question I often encounter is how I manage to travel carry-on only. From week-long getaways to backpacking adventures lasting four weeks or more, I’ve become quite proficient at packing light. Picture this: you’re standing at the airport, the excitement of a new trip ahead of you, and there it is – the dreaded check in and baggage drop line. But wait, not for you! You stride past, carry-on in tow, ready to explore the world. This is just one of the perks of traveling carry-on only. In this guide, I’ll give you tips that will transform the way you […] - [Best Cheap Eats Tulum, Mexico [2026 Guide]](https://wanderingswithbri.com/cheap-eats-tulum/): Tulum might be known for its trendy beach clubs and pricey resorts, but budget travelers, don’t worry — you can eat well here on a budget. Whether you’re passing through on a backpacking trip or settling in for a week of sunshine and cenotes, this guide to the best cheap eats Tulum has to offer in 2025 has you covered. Tulum was actually the destination of my very first solo trip, and I have so many great memories of dining at these very spots. These recommendations come from firsthand experience, and lots and lots of tacos. Getting to Know Tulum’s Food Scene […] - [The 7 Best Hostels in Lisbon (Updated for 2026)](https://wanderingswithbri.com/best-hostels-lisbon/): Looking for the best hostels in Lisbon? You’re in the right place. Lisbon is a fantastic European city—affordable, full of character, and great for solo travelers and backpackers. With its rich history, charming neighborhoods, and location right on a river, Lisbon offers an awesome blend of culture and fun while also standing out as one of the more affordable capitals in Western Europe. During my time in Lisbon, I stayed at Good Morning Solo Traveller Hostel and scouted out some of the most highly rated options in the city. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or looking for a social vibe, […] ## Pages - [Subscription Complete](https://wanderingswithbri.com/subscription-complete/) - [work with me](https://wanderingswithbri.com/work-with-me/): Lifestyle photography for hotels, guest houses, and travel experiences Hey there! I’m Brianna, a passionate traveler & photographer dedicated to capturing the beauty of destinations and experiences. Let’s elevate your brand through captivating visuals. Offering lifestyle, documentary and travel photography for hotels, guest houses, and travel experiences. Explore My Work Accommodations Tours & Experiences Destination Highlights - [contact](https://wanderingswithbri.com/contact/) - [home](https://wanderingswithbri.com/): blog packing destinations - [blog](https://wanderingswithbri.com/blog/) - [about](https://wanderingswithbri.com/about/): about me Hey, I’m Bri—and I’m so glad you’re here. I started this blog to share things: mainly my photography, practical travel tips, real price breakdowns, and stories from my travels and Northern Michigan. This space is part blog, part photo journal, and part travel research dump.  How It Started I spent my early twenties hopping between extended trips to England to visit my boyfriend at the time, and working gig jobs and an office job back home. I ended up spending many months in the UK altogether, and it really solidified my love of seeing the world. But it […] - [destinations](https://wanderingswithbri.com/destinations/): Destinations // My Travel Map Take a peek at my travel adventures worldwide! Click on a country on the map to see into all the articles I’ve written about each destination. - [start here](https://wanderingswithbri.com/start-here/): What Can You Find Here? Let’s Get Started! Chances are, you clicked on this page because you’re either seeking guidance to get started or feeling overwhelmed with where to begin. Don’t worry—I’ve got your back! Let’s keep things simple and straightforward. - [resources](https://wanderingswithbri.com/resources/) - [privacy policy](https://wanderingswithbri.com/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy Introduction This Privacy Policy describes how Wanderings with Bri (“we,” “us,” or “our”) collects, uses, and shares personal information when you visit or make use of our website www.wanderingswithbri.com (the “Site”). Information We Collect When you visit the Site, we may collect certain information automatically from your device, including: Information You Voluntarily Submit to the Site We may collect personal information from you such as your name or email address. For example, you may voluntarily submit information to the Site by leaving a comment, subscribing to a newsletter, or submitting a contact form. We will only use this […] [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)