If you love Harry Potter, one of the best places to visit in the world is Oxford, England. The movies were filmed here, and while Oxford is the oldest English-speaking University in the world, it's also home to MANY filming locations from the Harry Potter series. What I love so much about the connection between Harry Potter and Oxford is that Rowling came and got so much inspiration here. From characters, names, dress, and Hogwarts itself. Just walking the streets makes you feel like you're on a movie set. Except it's real life! I live in Oxford, England and I've taken dozens of Harry Potter ..read more

It's hard to tell what I've done more: traveled to Paris, or watched the film, “Midnight in Paris.” Woody Allen's flick is one of my favorite movies of all time to capture the essence of Paris and is a good understanding of why I myself moved abroad. From the opening scene playing “Si Tu Vois Ma Mere” showcasing various scenes of Paris, to the old school Parisian bars and restaurants of the 1920s, Midnight in Paris makes you want to hop on a plane and go. On my recent trip to Paris I knew I had to seek out some of the iconic scenes and shooting locations from Midnight in Paris as well as some ..read more

Paris is one of the greatest cities in the world. But what should you see and do? It's so big and there's so much, how can you choose? This guide will cover all the essentials for what to do in Paris. I'll never forget my first time in Paris. It was mid-July and I was 25. I wasn't as worried about skin cancer but I was concerned about lightening my hair and darkening my skin in the sun. I can't tell you if Paris was hot or cold. I can't tell you if it rained. All I know is that I loved it. I glided through the streets as if on pink roller skates, marveling at the beautiful buildings. People to ..read more

“An inspiring yet relatable read for anyone ready to stop settling.” —Nina Ruggiero, digital editorial director, Travel + Leisure  “Helene brings the same genuine energy from her lovable blog to her memoir, weaving her backstory with her trademark voice, equally witty and heartfelt. She takes us along on her global adventures—and misadventures!—not just as a sidekick but as a true travelmate, reminding us all to live in the moment—even if we always feel like we’re caught in between.” —Rachel Chang, travel and pop culture journalist Two O'Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain ..read more

I am beyond excited to announce… my book tour!! My book, Two O'Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain is coming out April 9th and I'm going on tour!! ME?? This memoir is about going for your dreams and taking risks – even if you're afraid. It's my story of becoming a travel influencer, moving abroad, and carving out a life I never thought possible. If you have a dream: this book is for you. Seven-year-old Helene is punching the air right now. Never in my wildest of dreams did I think that I'd be going on tour. I truly cannot wait. I'm so thrilled to share my book with you, hear your story and h ..read more

Combine the beauty of an epic movie, the intricate detail of a fantasy novel, and the historical significance of an ancient civilization and you've got the Cotswolds. The stunning landscape and rolling hills are filled with farm animals, ancient stone buildings, and lively pubs and restaurants. You might just want to retire here for the rest of your life! I have your ultimate guide to the Cotswolds. With the prettiest villages to explore, quaintest hamlets, and the best places to see as well as where to stay. The Cotswolds were once a thriving place for the wool industry, now they seem stuck i ..read more

Spring unfurls in Europe unlike any other place in the world. Roses the size of your hand, beautiful weather, and a cheery atmosphere seem to take hold of the whole continent. If you're dreaming of spring in Europe, I've got the best places that will inspire a visit. From the sunny daffodils, the winding wisteria, and the miles of tulips, Spring in Europe is one of the best times to visit. As Europe starts to thaw from Winter, the most brilliant blooms and luscious landscapes emerge. I’ve mapped out the best places to visit Europe in the spring. Seven places that offer the most beautiful ..read more

The best travel books transport you, their words lilting over a place, making you feel like you’re smelling the salty sea breeze, hearing the bustle of a crowded cobblestone street, or feeling the pinch of the bitter cold day as the snow begins to fall. A good story shouldn’t just ensnare your mind, but make you feel like the characters are real and the place described is in reach. I’ve complied a list of my favorite travel books, both fiction and non fiction that I believe are some of the greatest travel books of all time. From the interesting tales of years past in old Europe, to the excit ..read more

This is your ultimate guide to the best Christmas markets in Europe! I've traveled to hundreds of Christmas markets to bring you the best places for Christmas Markets in Europe for 2023. Picture this: You’re walking the ancient cobblestone streets, on either side warm lights of cafes and shops beckon you inside, you have a slight chill despite your warm winter coat. You see a castle in the mist on the hill ahead of you. Could today get any better? Yes, yes it could. As you turn the corner you’re first hit with the smell. It’s a mixture of true merriment: candied nuts roasting in sugar, mulled ..read more

Do you smell that? It's hot spiced wine wafting through the air mixed with roasting sausages and nuts. It's Christmas in Europe which means one of the most festive ways to get into the spirit of the season: Christmas Markets! Ornately decorated stalls nestled together in city squares selling hand painted glass ornaments, seasonal food, and all-around yuletide cheer. Growing up in America (Texas to be exact) I never experienced the magic that is Christmas in Europe. Now that I've had the pleasure of going to some of the best markets across Europe I'm creating my ultimate guide to the European C ..read more