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19 Primary School Lesson Ideas for TAPIF

May 18, 2023

What’s great about the TAPIF program is that you don’t need ample teaching credentials to teach English in France. And what’s not so great about the TAPIF is exactly that. I graduated from my university with a double major in journalism and French. I had no experience teaching English as a foreign language before I moved to France with the TAPIF program. In hopes of being in southern France quelque part, I requested the académie of Aix-Marseille or Montpellier with no preference for age. I received my affectation for three primary schools in Marseille, and then I renewed for a second year in a different primary school in Marseille. I wish I’d had more guidance during my first year from the teachers, but I had a wonderful school during my second year. And two years later, I finally got a better idea of teaching English as a foreign language. From songs to books, games to activities, I wanted to share some of my favorite primary school lesson ideas for the TAPIF program.

This post may include affiliate links. Full disclaimer.

Songs ideal for TAPIF primary school

If you retain anything from this post, it’s that songs are your godsend for primary school lesson ideas for TAPIF. You can be placed in anywhere from one to three schools, and you only work for a total of 12 hours per week. During my first year, I only saw some of my classes for 20-30 minutes total the entire week. That’s really not a lot to be able to create a good foundation of English. But I suppose it’s better than nothing. Not only do you have limited time with each class, but you also have a wide range of age and abilities. I worked with kids as young as 3 years old all the way up to 11 years old. Rien à voir !

Repetition is key for learning a language, but when the kids are young and simply can’t learn the way a high schooler does, you need to adapt. For example, when I learned French in high school, I used vocabulary lists, Quizlets, verb conjugations, etc. That’s very cumbersome and probably not too effective at the primary level. What worked immensely with my limited time and adapted abilities during TAPIF was songs.

With my maternelle classes, we started every single class with a song, and we’d work on the same song for weeks, even months. I printed the flashcards for each song, and we reviewed the words in the song. Here are some of my favorite songs I taught during my TAPIF years.

“Hello, how are you?”

Gee, if I had a nickel for every time I sang this song, I would have my TAPIF salary in a week’s time! This song teaches students how to ask “how are you?” and offers six responses: good, great, wonderful, tired, hungry and not so good. This was always a favorite with my kiddos, and they loved the hand motion for “wonderful.” Super Simple Songs also has helpful flashcards and activities that accompany this song.

“Open, Shut Them”

Once we mastered “Hello, how are you?”, we moved onto this song to practice opposites. “Open, Shut Them” is a song that allows students to practice their opposites: big/small, please/no, thank you, loud/quiet, fast/slow.

“Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes”

I mean, did you really teach TAPIF primary school if you didn’t sing this class children’s song until you sang it in your sleep? It’s an easy and goofy way to teach basic body parts.

“Rain, Rain, Go Away” 

If you’re tired of singing the songs above (trust me, it comes sooner than you know), “Rain, Rain, Go Away” is another great option for maternelle and primaire students. This song reviews vocab words such as: rain, mommy, daddy, sister, brother, baby, family and go away.

“Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you See?”

Both years that I did TAPIF, I taught Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you See? by Eric Carle. We’d read the book, review the colors and animals and listen to the song. Even if reading the book is also great, singing really help the kids to remember better. This song and book review the words: bear, bird, duck, frog, dog, cat, fish and horse as well as the colors.

Books ideal for TAPIF primary school

Each class, especially with my little ones, I liked to start by reviewing one of our songs above. And then we’d often focus on one book for a month or two. Each week we’d review the vocabulary in the book and do a different activity. In high school, it’s easy to hand the students a vocabulary list and assign a paper or presentation. But with primaire, you have to go a bit slower since these kids are still learning to write, read and spell in their first language. I found that books were a great way to pique their interest and stick to one theme for weeks at a time.

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen

There’s something about children’s books and bears! We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen is a fun book that kids absolutely love. Listen to Michael Rosen reading his book. You can add motions and so much onomatopoeia. Depending on the level of the students, I think this book would be better for CE1 and CE2 age. I taught this book in the maternelle, and I felt that a lot of the vocabulary went over their heads.

Here are some great flashcards to go with this book from Kiz Club. We did this adorable bear mask craft from Crafty Morning to accompany the book with my little ones.

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Eric Carle

Eric Carle books are a literal lifeline for TAPIF and ESL for elementary-aged kids. The vocabulary and plot of his books aren’t too complicated, and kids love the pictures. This book is perfect for reviewing animals and colors. Don’t forget the song that goes with this book. Here are some flashcards and games that accompany the book from Growing Book by Book.

I also loved using this coloring sheet with my students. Once they get to know the book, they remember what color goes with each animal. So, to switch it up, I’d say, “Color the bear pink and the duck orange.” That helps them distinguish between animals and colors as well as to grow in comprehension beyond just memorizing the song or book.

From Head to Toe by Eric Carle

Once again Eric Carle comes in clutch for primary school lesson ideas for TAPIF. This book reviews body parts and other animals. The kids love doing the actions like the animals. You can watch the video of the book here. Once you’ve reviewed the vocabulary, you can easily play Simon Says to reinforce body parts vocabulary.

Ketchup on Your Cornflakes by Nick Sharratt

My TAPIF classes absolutely loved Ketchup on Your Cornflakes by Nick Sharratt. It’s a silly way to learn and review food vocabulary by asking questions such as “do you like ketchup on your cornflakes?” or “do you like salt on your egg?” Here are some flashcards and some activities (crossword, matching, word search, etc.) that accompany the book. You could also have your students make their own booklets based on this book.

Although not directly related to the book, you can watch and learn the song “Do You Like Spaghetti?” as it has similar themes. This book and this song are the perfect launching pad to discuss likes and dislikes as well as food vocabulary.

Games ideal for TAPIF primary school

Kids learn well by doing and by playing games — honestly, people of all ages, too! In general, the French education system is extremely dated in its methods and material for English classes. They’re often extremely repetitive and, I’m sorry but, boring. When you look at its European neighbors like Germany and Scandinavia, France’s English proficiency levels aren’t génial. Personally, I find this to be that English instruction in public schools tends to lack creativity and innovation. This is a generalization, and it’s changing. But I find that it’s more important to help students enjoy and be motivated, which research suggests as the key to success in foreign languages.

When you make your English classes engaging, informative and fun, I believe you’re making a difference. And so after properly reviewing the vocabulary, I liked to include a game or activity in each class period. Here are some of my tried and true games adapted for TAPIF lessons.

Memory

If Kristin didn’t have time to prepare or was lacking inspiration, memory it was! I always kept a set or two of flashcards on me so that we could play memory. It’s simple: put two of each card face down and mix them up. Each turn, students flip over two cards. They should say the word each time they flip over a card. If they match two of the same card, they win the pair.

Bingo

Personally, I find bingo rote and a bit boring, but for some reasons, the students always loved playing this game. It’s an easy way to review the vocabulary, and it takes little material and preparation. You can make your own bingo cards here.

Twister

If you’re reviewing body parts and colors, this game is nickel. Twister is a fun way to review hand, foot, right, left and the colors.

Jeopardy

If you hand your students a quiz, they groan. If you say that we’re playing Jeopardy, they cheer. It’s virtually the same thing: asking a variety of questions, but with Jeopardy, they can participate in teams and wager points. It’s also a great way to introduce American culture (and the legacy of Alex Trebek!) to your students. This game is best after several units, once they’ve acquired more vocabulary, and is probably suited better for CM1 and CM2 classes. Pick four or five categories with five questions in each, making them more difficult as the points or $$ amounts increase.

Lightning or Touch

I found these games on the ESL Kids site. I liked playing Touch, where I put all of the flashcards on the board. The students were divided into two teams, and one person from each team was chosen for each turn. I’d say, “3, 2, 1” and then one of the vocabulary words. The first student who touched the correct flashcard won a point for his or her team. Similarly, the game Lightning Flashcards as mentioned on the ESL Kids site is a similar set up. However, you show one flashcard, and the first student who says the word wins. I love these because they require very little preparation and can be repeated to enforce vocab.

Activities ideal for TAPIF primary school

Once again, having students doing or creating something is a fantastic way to learn, instead of just memorizing or repeating. Here are some of my favorite activities that we did during my two years of TAPIF primary school.

Cookies in a Jar

With multiple classes, we made Cookies in a Jar, or a cookie mix preparation in glass jars. We reviewed the words for the ingredients and filled our jars together. Have your students set aside glass jars several weeks before you plan to do this activity. Here’s a recipe and instructions from I Heart Naptime; be sure to adapt to your jar sizes and the metric system. This one is always a favorite!

Paper Cone Decorations

Around Christmastime, we made these Paper Cone Decorations with my little ones. It was extremely easy prep, very cute and adapted for the maternelle.

All About Me book

Depending on the students’ levels, an All About Me book can be a great way to open or close the year. It’s a simple way to include a wide variety of topics and to sum up what they’ve learned. In one of my classes, all of the students created their booklets and put them in a pile. They took turns picking up a random book, reading it and having the class guess whose it was. These activities together are a great way to practice writing and speaking. You can get the free printable here.

Valentine’s Day cards

For Valentine’s Day, we made cards and wrote short, silly love poems. You can explain Valentine’s Day traditions in the United States and have your students make cards for their friends and family — maybe even un amoreux ou une amoreuse 😉 Here are some ideas for Valentine’s Day lessons.

Want more primary school lesson ideas for TAPIF?

I’ve got you covered. I created a freebie with 101 Classroom Ideas for TAPIF or TEFL. In this 14-page free guide, I shared my favorite game, activity, subject and resource ideas. Download it here:

Sign up to get your free 101 Classroom Ideas for TAPIF and TEFL

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Don’t forget to reward your students with some English stickers. I bought these stickers for my students, and they loved them! It can be hard to start with the little ones who have zero English. But with time and practice, you’ll start seeing their English improve and increase as the year goes on. Bon courage !

You might also be interested in my post on what to do during your first months of TAPIF.

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Best Beaches to Visit in Marseille, France

May 8, 2023

Chances are if you’re visiting Marseille, you want some sun. I’ve been living in Marseille for more than two years now and am head over heels for this Mediterranean port city’s 300 days of sunshine. Being the second largest city in France, Marseille is certainly urban, but what I love about this city is that you can have both big city and stunning nature. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach or a beach where you can jump off cliffs, I’ve got you covered. If you’re heading to Marseille and want to enjoy some time on the beach, I’m rounding up the best beaches to visit in Marseille, along with their pros and cons and how to get there on public transportation.

This post may include affiliate links. Full disclaimer.

What to pack for Marseille beaches

Note: when swimming and diving in the sea, caution should always be exercised. This post contains merely suggestions, and weather, sea depth and water conditions should always be taken into consideration. If you’re not sure the water is deep enough to jump or dive, air on the side of safety.

Plage du Prado

This beach is one of the largest Marseille beaches and one of the few sandy beaches. Plage du Prado is a popular choice for beach goers in Marseille for its family friendliness, ample space and close proximity to restaurants. This beach is one of the farthest from Vieux Port, which makes it a trek, but the bus goes directly to this beach from Vieux Port.

How to get to Plage du Prado

Take Bus 83 from Vieux Port to La Plage (about 20 minutes depending on traffic). You can also take Bus 19 or 83 from Metro Rond Point du Prado (about 5 minutes depending on traffic).

Vallon des Auffes

Out of the best beaches in Marseille, Vallon des Auffes is one of my favorites. It’s nestled in a small Provençal port with docked boats, several restaurants and small, brightly colored homes. According to Marseille Tourism, auffe is a plant that is used to make ship ropes and fish nets. Every time I walk by these darling apartments overlooking the port, I ask myself why I don’t live in this Marseille neighborhood.

There’s no sand at this beach, but there is a wading area that may be suitable for children, under adult supervision. Vallon des Auffes is a beach made up of large rocks and there’s very limited space to “lay out.” Personally, I love Vallon des Auffes for its calmer waves (thanks to its rock peninsula), the darling port ambience and sunset views. Pack a picnic, take a dip, marvel at its golden hour.

How to get to Vallon des Auffes

Take Bus 83 from Vieux Port to the Vallon des Auffes stop (about 15 minutes depending on traffic). You can also take Bus 83 in the other direction from Rond Point du Prado (about 25 minutes depending on traffic).

Plage des Catalans

Out of the best beaches in Marseille, Plage des Catalans takes the cake for closest to downtown. This beach also has sand, which isn’t as easy to find in very rocky, cliff-filled Marseille. It’s much smaller than the sandy Plage du Prado and fills up quickly on nice days. There always seems to be a round of sand volleyball going on at this beach.

Personally, Plage des Catalans is much lower on my list of best beaches in Marseille: as it’s highly frequented, it seems to be much dirtier and it’s hard to find a spot. However, if you have a short amount of time in Marseille but still want to see the sea, Plage des Catalans is easily accessible and is the closest beach to Vieux Port. Don’t forget a visit to Le Glacier du Roi for a sweet treat.

How to get there

Take Bus 83 from Vieux Port to the Corniche Audeoud stop (about 10 minutes depending on traffic). You can also take Bus 82 or 82S from Vieux Port to the Pharo Catalans stop (about 10 minutes depending on traffic).

Calanque de Sugiton

You know that scene in Monte Carlo with Selena Gomez where Leighton Meester’s character is lying on a rock with an Australian hunk in the Mediterranean? Okay, there’s a good chance you don’t since it’s certain that I have the award for the most times watching this movie. But that scene reminds me of the views from Calanque de Sugiton.

I published a post on how to visit Marseille’s calanques, or rocky inlets, including the Calanque de Sugiton. This is my favorite hike in Marseille, which culminates in a postcard-worthy swimming spot. Fair warning: it does take some effort to get to this beach as it’s farther from downtown and requires a hike. There’s no sand at this beach, but the views are breathtaking. This is not the beach to take small children to as the water is deep and waves can be strong.

How to get there

From Vieux Port, take either Metro 1 or 2 to Castellane. From Castellane, leave the metro station and take bus B1 toward Campus de Luminy. Hop off at stop Luminy PN des Calanques. It takes about 40 minutes. Here’s the Google Maps route. Once you get off the bus, you’re right at the entrance to the park.

Anse de la Fausse Monnaie

This beach is located in a ritzy neighborhood along La Corniche. One time I was in the bus just a stone’s throw away from this beach, and the bus was stopped and we all had to get out as the road was blocked. Why, you might ask? Apparently, President Macron was dining at Le Petit Nice Passedat, the étoilé restaurant overlooking this beach. All that to say, l’Anse de la Fausse Monnaie feels like living in a postcard and is even a spot frequented by the French president himself.

In terms of views, l’Anse de la Fausse Monnaie is one of my favorite beaches in Marseille. And the neighborhoods around the beach are also quite picturesque and therefore a great place to meander. This is definitely a rocky beach and thus not the best place to lie out. Don’t that deter you too much, as it truly has some of my favorite views and is in a boujee part of town. But it’s not going to be the most comfortable spot to take a nap at the beach.

How to get there

Take Bus 83 from Vieux Port to the Fausse Monnaie stop (about 15 minutes depending on traffic).

Malmousque

Another picturesque beach, Malmousque is the perfect spot for an afternoon dive into the cool water or an evening apéro to watch the sunset. This is another very rocky beach and is thus not ideal for children. Be sure to pack your water shoes as you’ll want to protect your feet from the rocks. Malmousque is also located in a chic neighborhood and will have you wondering why you haven’t put your life savings into property in this part of town.

Malmousque is an oasis of breathtaking nature just a bus ride from the bustling city. It has great cliff jumping, places to swim and sunset views. Given its rocky nature, it’s not suitable for small children. Compared to other rocky beaches like Anse de la Fausse Monnaie and even Vallon des Auffes, I find Malmousque harder to get to.

How to get there

Take Bus 83 from Vieux Port to the Endoume stop (about 15 minutes depending on traffic) and take a short walk to the beach.

Plage du Prophète

I find la Plage du Prophète to be a happy medium between two of Marseille’s sandy beaches: Plage du Prado and Plage des Catalans. The Plage du Prophète is one of Marseille’s few sandy beaches and is farther from Vieux Port than Plage des Catalans, and I find it to be cleaner than it, too. This beach is certainly not as big as the Plage du Prado but is still a great place to lie out, tan, have a picnic and not worry about rocky beaches.

Pros: The Plage du Prophète is a sandy beach, making it easier on your feet and back. There’s a shallow basin on this beach, making it suitable for children. Cons: It’s a bit farther from Vieux Port and can become crowded quickly.

How to get there

Take Bus 83 from Vieux Port to the Le Prophète stop (about 15 minutes depending on traffic).

Les Goudes

Escape from downtown and explore the beautiful Goudes. These calanques are massive rock formations jutting in and out of the Mediterranean and are some of the most magnificent sights I’ve seen. Les Goudes are still technically in Marseille but are on the outskirts, with a completely different vibe than downtown. Each time I visit the Goudes, it feels like a mini vacation because it’s a world apart from the urban Marseille where I live.

You cannot beat these breathtaking views, and unlike the Calanque de Sugiton, you don’t have to hike to enjoy the views. Les Goudes are certainly a rocky beach and not suitable for children. They’re also more “in the wild” and therefore caution should be exercised as the ground becomes steep. The water gets deep very quickly and the waves can be stronger.

How to get there

From Vieux Port, take La Navette, or the city boat, to Point Rouge. Then at Point Rouge, switch boats to head toward Les Goudes. Here are the hours on the RTM website. However, the boats do not run yearlong. Be sure to check that the boats are in service during your visit. Tickets for la Navette to Les Goudes cost 8 euros.

If the boats aren’t working or they’re not your thing, you can still get to Les Goudes by bus. From Vieux Port, take the metro to Castellane. Exit the metro and get onto bus 19. Take the bus to the Madrague Mont Rose stop, and then switch to bus 20, which you’ll take to Les Goudes. Here’s the Google Maps route.

Le Frioul

What I love most about Marseille is how many things and experiences there are to be had, especially the raw, unedited nature at arm’s length. Just as a visit to Les Goudes feels like a mini vacation, spending a day at Le Frioul is the perfect summer getaway. Le Frioul is an archipelago right off the coast of Marseille. I mean, taking a day trip to a nearby island? Sign me up!

Not only does Le Frioul have beaches where you can lie out or jump cliffs, but it also has a history of its own. The island is small, but you can still explore its several restaurants (read: ice cream shops) and historical sights. You can explore Fort Ratonneau, which dates back to the 1880s but was used by the German army during World War II. From Fort Ratonneau, you can enjoy one of my favorite views of Marseille. This island is also home to Hôpital Caroline, where patients were quarantined before going to Marseille as early as the 1500s. The hospital is still being restored and can only be visited on few occasions.

However, Le Frioul isn’t a beach that you can just hop over to. You need to book your tickets in advance, and given the 30-minute commute each way from Vieux Port, it’s a good idea to plan a day trip. During the summer and on holidays, tickets can and do sell out. You can buy them on the website or go to the ticket booth at Vieux Port.

How to get there

Le Frioul is easy to get to from downtown Marseille. From Vieux Port, take le Bateau that goes directly to Le Frioul. The boat ride is direct and takes about 25-30 minutes. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance as you need to book a specific time. Tickets for the boat to Le Frioul are around 11 euros.

Marseille beach overview

Whether you’re looking to simply lie out or want to hike to find the best swimming spot, Marseille has an array of beaches to suit your fancy. If you’re looking for sandy beaches, my best recommendations are the Plage du Prado, Plage du Prophète and Plage des Catalans. If you’re looking for charm, I’d recommend Vallon des Auffes, Anse de la Fausse Monnaie and Malmousque. And if you’re looking for an escape from downtown, you can’t go wrong with the calanques (Les Goudes, Calanque de Sugiton and le Frioul). When you’re not exploring the rest of this port city, you’re sure to be wowed by some of the best beaches in Marseille. Just don’t forget your sunscreen!

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City Guide: Copenhagen, Denmark

May 1, 2023

Living abroad has its pros and its cons. Pros: I get to live out my dream of doing life and working in another culture and country. Cons: seeing friends and family is hassle and few and far in between. So when my college friend Mimi texted me saying she was coming to France in a few months, I was delighted. Moving to France during Covid meant I’ve had few visitors. She said she’d be spending some time in Paris and then flying over to Copenhagen. As much as I love Paris, I adore exploring new places. I said, I don’t have much time off, so let me join you for Copenhagen! So, I jetted off to Copenhagen for 48 hours and made the most of it with an old friend. Here’s some of the best things to do in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Where we stayed in Copenhagen

I’m usually an Airbnb girl, but I switched it up this time. Mimi and I stayed at the Generator hostel. We booked a private room with a private bathroom, and although it wasn’t the most glamorous, I’d definitely still recommend the Generator. The location is fantastic; it’s close to the metro and lots of restaurants and sights. The room was, well, cozy, but it was still clean and had everything we needed. The Generator isn’t just a hostel; they also have a bustling bar on the second floor and therefore a nightlife of its own. Nevertheless, I felt safe and very much appreciated the small price tag of this hostel. We spent so little time in the room, so I wouldn’t have changed staying here.

Kafferiet

On our first morning, we set out for a day of sightseeing, but first things first: fuel. We stopped by the cutest and smallest coffeeshop I ever did see along our way. Their slogan is “slow coffee,” and I loved my latte and the teeny tiny shop with its knick-knacks. We took our coffee to go and enjoyed it in the Kongens Have park right behind one of this store’s several locations.

Kongens Have park

Enjoy a stroll and your Kafferiet coffee in the Kongens Have park, or the King’s Gardens. You can sit on a park bench and people watch those taking a morning run or walking their dog. Or you can pack a picnic and enjoy the well-maintained grounds with its flowers, statues and castle views.

Rosenborg Castle

If you’ve been following this blog for any amount of time, you know that I’m a castle girl. (Let’s never forget the time I befriended a French person with a family castle.) So naturally, the Rosenborg Castle was at the top of my list of things to do in Copenhagen. The longer I live in Europe, the more I kick myself for not paying more attention in my AP European History Class. But hey, I get to visit it with my own eyes and relearn with my own eyes. That being said, if we covered Danish history during my sophomore year, it is a very vague recollection.

I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the Rosenborg Castle. You literally step back into history as this castle dates back 400 years under the direction of Christian IV. From buck heads hanging over door frames to the ancient toilet, the lion statues to the framed floral prints in the winding staircase, I enjoyed rewinding the clock several hundred years. And you can even explore the treasury with its crown jewels, which are absolutely stunning. I loved seeing the old crowns up close and personal and still attest to the fact that I would’ve been a great princess!

Statens Museum for Kunst (SMK)

Modern or classic art? At the Statens Museum for Kunst, you don’t have to pick. The SMK prides itself in being the country’s biggest art museum. I admired its temporary exhibition on Carl Bloch, a Danish artist who painted exquisite yet emotion-packed pieces. His paintings of the life of Jesus particularly struck me, as he painted emotion of these classic religious scenes with a different perspective.

The SMK showcases Danish and Nordic art as well as western European pieces with names such as Picasso, Matisse, and C.W. Eckersberg. One wing is mainly classic art, and the other wing is more modern art, which offers a large selection of surrealist pieces.

I love seeing artists’ renditions of cities, especially ones I’ve been to or happen to live in. I love imagining what life was like decades or even hundreds of years ago. It’s not surprising to stumble upon renditions of French towns in French museums, but at the SMK, I found several paintings of Marseille, where I live.

Nyhavn

Out of all the blog posts featuring things to do in Copenhagen, Nyhavn is undoubtedly on the list. Not only do the colorful buildings make a beautiful backdrop for a postcard, but the spot also boasts historical significance. Fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen lived on this street where he penned The Princess and the Pea, among other classics. There are lots of restaurants along the canal where you can soak up the view and the sun.

Vaffelbageren

Do not ask me to pronounce this, but we enjoyed a spot of ice cream at Vaffelbageren, which was right on the Nyhavn. We grabbed our cone and cup of ice cream to go and sat along the canal in the sunshine.

Church of our Saviour

Before my trip, I’d read on blog posts that the Church of our Saviour is something to add to your list of things to do in Copenhagen. I made the trek to this spot, where you can climb up and have great views of Copenhagen. However, I didn’t feel like paying to go into a church, so I simply walked around the grounds.

Strøm

From the outside, Strøm is nothing extraordinary. You walk down several steps into the entrance of the bar from the street and immediately meet this cozy yet chic cocktail bar. A friend of Mimi’s recommended this spot, and it did not disappoint with its creative cocktails including ingredients such as creamy pumpkin spice and homemade plum caramel. I opted for the Bubble Tea-quila with its tapioca bubbles waiting for me at the bottom of my drink.

Stefano’s Pizza Bar

On Saturday night, we had planned to go to Torvehallerne, a popular food market, but it was closed when we wanted to go. We had a hankering for a pizza and found Stefano’s Pizza Bar, a place that also had gluten-free options for me. The gluten-free pizza was just alright, but Mimi loved her pizza and the restaurant’s vibe was cute.

Madklubben

Mimi and I did research on both ends for things to do in Copenhagen. And we had separately put Madklubben on our list, so we knew it was fate. We went to the Vesterbro location and enjoyed BBQ pork burgers with fries perfectly seasoned with rosemary. It’s the ideal spot for a classier dinner in Copenhagen. We were more adapted to Western European dining times aka 8 or 9 p.m. to start dinner. However, the restaurant was nearly empty by 9 or 10 p.m.

Mad & Kaffe

We had also ready great things about Mad & Kaffe’s brunch selection. We booked a reservation for 1:30 p.m., and unfortunately, they were no longer serving brunch. However, we enjoyed burgers in the bright cafe. Next time in Copenhagen, I’ll be sure to book my table further in advance so I can get one of their coveted brunch reservations!

Overall impressions of Copenhagen

I really enjoyed exploring more of northern Europe, and my weekend in Copenhagen reminded me of my trips to Amsterdam and Prague. Copenhagen was very easy to get around, and I felt safe. I also chuckled at seeing so many blondes in Copenhagen because normally, in Marseille, my hair color is a rarity. I flew into Copenhagen, and getting from the airport to downtown was painless and quick. However, everything was in Danish crowns, so it was hard to have an idea of how much I was spending unless I converted it directly on my phone. I was floored when I realized one metro ticket corresponded to more than 3 euros. So be sure to properly assess your budget as you’re planning your trip to Copenhagen.

A girls’ weekend in Copenhagen was exactly the break I needed during a difficult season. So, yes, living abroad does come with its challenges. But when the “halfway point” is Copenhagen with your gal pal from college, I’m not complaining.

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How to Take a Day Trip to the Calanques from Marseille

February 12, 2023

There are few places in the world that simply take our breath away and make us feel small in the most magnificent way. There are places that make us feel like we’re living in a postcard and perhaps we’re looking at a green screen. The calanques in Marseille are truly some of the most beautiful places I’ve seen in my life. The calanques refer to the majestic rock formations jutting in and out of the Mediterranean sea. It’s the perfect place to take a hike, picnic or swim. There are multiple calanques in southern France. If you’re headed to Marseille or even the south of France, I’d highly recommend adding the calanques to your itinerary. Best of all, it’s accessible by public transportation. If you’re itching to see these breathtaking sights, look no further: here’s how to take a day trip to the calanques from Marseille.

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What is a calanque?

The word calanque translates “rocky inlet.” It’s definitely not a phrase we use often in English, but think massive rock formations lining the sea. The Calanques National Park is located in Marseille and nearby towns. There are a dozen or so different calanques. My favorites are Calanque de Sugiton, Calanque de Callelongue and Les Goudes.

Do I need a car? Can I get there by public transportation?

No, you don’t need a car to visit the calanques in Marseille, and yes, you can get there by public transportation. Here’s how to get to four different calanques using public transportation in Marseille.

How to get to Calanque de Sugiton

From Vieux Port, take either Metro 1 or 2 to Castellane. From Castellane, leave the metro station and take bus B1 toward Campus de Luminy. Hop off at stop Luminy PN des Calanques. It takes about 40 minutes. Here’s the Google Maps route. Once you get off the bus, you’re right at the entrance to the park.

How to get to Calanque de Callelongue

From Vieux Port, take the metro to Castellane. Exit the metro and take bus 19 to Madrague de Montredon. This journey should take about 40 minutes. Here’s the Google Maps route.

How to get to Les Goudes

From Vieux Port, take La Navette, or the city boat, to Point Rouge. Then at Point Rouge, switch boats to head toward Les Goudes. Here are the hours on the RTM website. However, the boats do not run yearlong. Be sure to check that the boats are in service during your visit. Tickets for la Navette to Les Goudes cost 8 euros.

If the boats aren’t working or they’re not your thing, you can still get to Les Goudes by bus. It’s similar to the route for the Calanque de Callelongue. From Vieux Port, take the metro to Castellane. Exit the metro and get onto bus 19. Take the bus to the Madrague Mont Rose stop, and then switch to bus 20, which you’ll take to Les Goudes. Here’s the Google Maps route.

How to get to Le Frioul

Le Frioul is an archipelago right off the coast of Marseille and is easy to get to from downtown Marseille. From Vieux Port, take le Bateau that goes directly to Le Frioul. The boat ride is direct and takes about 25-30 minutes. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance as you need to book a specific time. Tickets for the boat to Le Frioul are around 11 euros.

What time of year should I visit the Calanques?

Personally, I prefer visiting the calanques in the spring or fall. The weather usually isn’t too hot, and even still, the hike warms you up enough to be ready for a swim at the end of the hike. In the summer, it can be extremely hot in Marseille, and that can make hiking unbearable and even dangerous. However, on a nice summer day, you certainly can take a nice hike and finish off with a swim at the calanques.

Marseille is known for its intense winds called Le Mistral. In the wintertime especially, these winds can be brutal and can make your hike less than ideal.

What should I do at the Calanques?

Whether you’re a hiking aficionado or sun bum, there’s something for you at the calanques. You can enjoy some unbelievably gorgeous hikes, snack on a charcuterie picnic and dive into the Mediterranean from a rocky cliff. The Calanques National Park even has an app you can download, and you can explore its maps, 20+ hiking routes and wildlife and plant information. Here’s what you can do and which calanque I recommend for each activity.

Take a hike

My favorite calanque hike is easily the Calanque de Sugiton. Not only is it simple to access from downtown Marseille, but it also has breathtaking views. After taking the path from the parking lot, you’ll come to a fork in the road. You can head right and hike up to the summit (belvédère), or you can head to the left and hike down to the water (Puget – Gardiole). For an easier, shorter version, head up to the summit (belvédère), and then head back. This hike is less steep and is adapted for more ability levels.

For the longer, harder version, go down to the water, and bring your swimsuit. Here are more detailed instructions with photos. You can also check out the app. As you get closer to the water, it gets steeper and slicker. What makes this hike harder is hiking all the way back up after getting to the water, ha! I like to wear my swimsuit underneath and pack a picnic and towel. If you do both the summit (belvédère) and the descent to the water (Puget – Gardiole), this hike will take about 3-4 hours. If you just hike to the summit and back to the parking lot, it takes about 2 hours.

My next favorite hike would be the Calanque de Callelongue. It’s also fairly accessible from Marseille. This hike is also stunning but less strenuous. Once you get off the bus (see directions above), you’ll find the trailhead across the road. Follow the red trail markings, and the hike will take 1.5 to 2 hours.

Pack a picnic

If you’re looking for the best picnic spot at the calanques, look no further. I enjoyed a picnic with my friend Kelly and this amazing picnic backpack at the Calanque de Sugiton. We hiked up the summit, and instead of going down to the water, we enjoyed our sandwiches near the summit.

I also recommend picnicking at le Frioul or during your hike at the Calanque de Sugiton.

Enjoy a swim

If you’re looking for a good swim at the calanques, I’d recommend going to the Goudes. However, this is a rocky, cliff beach, and is less suited for small children. My friends and I like to jump from these cliffs of the Goudes and swim in the bay. I also really enjoy swimming at the Calanque de Sugiton in the middle of the hike.

Another great place to swim on your day trip to the calanques is le Frioul. It’s a short boat ride from the heart of Marseille, and you can even explore Fort Ratonneau, which dates back to the 1880s but was used by the German army during World War II. From Fort Ratonneau, you can enjoy one of my favorite views of Marseille.

What should I pack?

Can I take a boat tour of the Calanques?

Yes! When my family visited me in Marseille, we didn’t have time to go hiking in the calanques. But I still really wanted them to see one of my favorite Marseille sights. Solution: we took a boat ride through the calanques. If you’re less of a hiking type or don’t have the mobility for a several-hour hike, no worries. Taking a boat ride through the calanques is a great way to enjoy the sights, without figuring out how to get there, hiking for several hours, etc.

My family and I booked a boat tour with Croisières Marseille Calanques. They have several boat tour choices, and we opted for the L’Essentiel des Calanques, which was about 2 hours and hit the highlights of the calanques. They also offer boat tours that are longer or even include docking so that you can swim.

An overview on the calanques

I’ve been to multiple countries and have traveled extensively throughout France, and truth be told, the calanques are absolute stunners. If you’re anywhere near southern France, you must add a day trip to the calanques to your itinerary. Whether by boat or by foot, to picnic or to hike, these rocky inlets will have you drooling.

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15 French Culture References in Emily in Paris Season 3

January 3, 2023

Since Season 1, Emily in Paris has taken some turns and has faced some choices. Gabriel or Alfie, Chicago or Paris, Sylvie or Madeline. Along with the plot developing, the show has refined its approach to presenting the French culture. Although I had mixed feelings on Season 2, Season 3 surprised me with its more accurate nods to French culture, more dynamic plot and more French language. While Season 1 crossed off the major clichés of French culture, its third season dives deeper into la richesse de son patrimoine, or France’s rich heritage. While still plenty Americainized, I thoroughly enjoyed the French culture references peppered throughout the season. Here are 15 French culture references explained from Season 3 of Emily in Paris.

La Fête de la Musique

In Episode 2 of Emily in Paris Season 3, the group enjoys an outdoor musical festival called La Fête de la Musique. Virtually every French person knows this said event as it’s observed all over France. Each year, it takes place on June 21, the longest day of the year. (Also known as my birthday!) Musicians fill the streets all over France every year on the summer solstice. The first Fête de la Musique took place in 1982, and since then, this tradition has spread to other countries. I love that they sprinkled this French cultural reference in Emily in Paris as it’s my favorite day of the year.

Edith Piaf

In Episode 3, Mindy is preparing for her jazz show and looks up at the framed photos of famed singers, including Edith Piaf. You may never have heard of her, but you certainly know her work. This singer crooned the classic, “La Vie en Rose,” and created a name for herself in the music industry, particularly during the 1940s.

Josephine Baker

Mindy also gives a nod to Josephine Baker, another musical star whose photo hangs in the dressing room. A St. Louis native, Josephine Baker migrated to France where her entertainment career flourished. She also participated in the Resistance during World War II, and she’s one of five women buried in the Pantheon, next to other French heroes such as Marie Curie, Victor Hugo and Émile Zola. I loved that they included this French cultural reference in Emily in Paris since this icon hails from my hometown.

No air conditioning

Also in Episode 3, they make a comment about how the French don’t believe in air conditioning. Don’t even get this me started! In my personal experience, I’ve noticed that many French people are extremely reluctant to turn on air conditioning and believe that it makes them sick. Many are appalled that I grew up with air conditioning on for months at a time.

Angelina hot chocolate

In Episode 4, Emily briefly mentions Angelina hot chocolate, an American tourist favorite in Paris. Located on Rue Rivoli just steps away from the Tuileries and the Louvre, this patisserie-café serves up crafted pastries and — you guessed it — thick, creamy hot chocolate. If you want a table, be sure to reserve one in advance. I’ve tried multiple times to queue for a table, to no avail. If you forget or simply want a quick peek, hop in the à emporter (to-go) line, which goes much quicker.

Monet’s water lilies

Emily also references Claude Monet’s famed water lilies paintings. You can appreciate this Impressionist painter’s craftsmanship at Musée d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie. If you’re looking to admire the wall-long Monet paintings in a curved room, head to the Orangerie Museum, which is smaller than Musée d’Orsay. In Episode 9, Camille and Gabriel admire a Degas’ statue of a dancer and pass the gigantic clock in the Musée d’Orsay. I love this nod to French culture as museums and art are at the heart of its patrimoine.

“Too bad we don’t work for tips here.”

It’s true: you generally don’t tip in France. And unlike much of the United States, you can make a living wage by working as a restaurant server. No tips needed. That was something that surprised me lots about life in France is that working at the mall or a restaurant is enough to support yourself. Oftentimes, working retail or in restaurants in the U.S.A. is seen as a part-time job for students. But the reality is that in France, these jobs still pay the SMIC, or France’s minimum wage. It’s not a crazy amount, but with government aid such as CAF, you can make it.

“I don’t do well sitting still.”

In Episode 4, Emily makes a comment about not being able to sit still. In my opinion, this is one of the biggest differences between French and American cultures. And it was what I struggled most with in terms of adapting to French life. Americans are more like human doings than human beings; as a culture, we’re busybodies. The French, however, have grasped the concept of simply being. Some might call it lazy, but the French understand what it means to be in the moment and to rest.

Unemployment

In this same breath, I’ve noticed that unemployment in France doesn’t carry the shameful connotation it often does in the U.S.A. In a country with capitalist roots and little government aid, unemployment can be seen as failure and may generate much fear for some. But in France, the French don’t fear unemployment nearly as much. First off, it’s extremely difficult to fire employees in France. And unemployment benefits are livable and can be used for up to two years at a time (for those age 52 and younger).

Visa paperwork

In Episode 5, Emily and Sylvie uncover the foibles of paperasse, or paperwork, involved for Emily’s visa. Hellooooo and welcome to my world! This French cultural reference hit home for me. I’ve already had four different visas and haven’t even lived in France for three years. Applying for jobs in France as a foreigner is a workout because it’s more complicated for a French company to hire a foreigner than another French person. In my experience, it meant lots of paperwork, a medical visit, big fees and visits to la préfecture, or the French administration that handles visa applications among other tasks.

Le Monde

Emily winds up on “La Liste” in a newspaper called Le Monde. Although there is no Janine Dubois at this newspaper, Le Monde is one of the major newspapers in France. If you’re looking to brush up on French language, subscribing to their newsletter is a great way to practice. If you’re looking to simply catch up on French news, you can subscribe to the newsletter’s English version.

Looking for more ways to improve your French language? Download my Basic French for Travelers or 50 Most Common French Verbs resources.

Americans and Australians colluding

There’s a very quick reference to Americans and Australians colluding in Episode 5. This is a subtle reference to a not-so-little submarine incident. In September 2021, Australia ditched a $66 billion submarine deal with France to make a deal with the United States and the United Kingdom. Let’s just say Macron was not happy about it and had a big talking-to with these ambassadors.

TGV

In Episode 6, we get a glimpse into a major part of French life as well as one of the things I love most about living in France: train travel. The TGV, or train à grande vitesse, is a high-speed train connecting major cities. For the French, trains are ubiquitous, but for this American who grew up driving everywhere, I am amazed by the train system. I can get to Marseille to Paris in 3.5 hours, thanks to the TGV. If I were to drive, this trip would take about 9 hours, depending on traffic. See what I mean? Life-changing.

The Luberon

Emily and Gabriel visit a restaurant called L’Esprit du Luberon. According to Ici, the crew filmed in Gordes, Apt, Bonnieux and Buoux. In reality, the restaurant where they filmed is called Clover Gordes. My boyfriend’s family lives nearby, and we’ve visited the charming village of Gordes, which is part of the Luberon, a group of mountain ranges in Provence. If you’re itching to road trip through the Luberon, take a peek at my guide to the most darling villages.

Michelin stars

In Season 3, Luc does his best to not give away the identity of his friend, who is a Michelin inspector. Like Gabriel, chefs strive to earn and keep Michelin stars. When giving Michelin stars, these anonymous inspectors consider five elements: “the quality of the ingredients, the harmony of flavors, the mastery of techniques, the personality of the chef as expressed through their cuisine and, just as importantly, consistency both across the entire menu and over time,” according to the Michelin website. Restaurants can earn up to three Michelin stars. You can see if there are any Michelin-starred restaurants near you on their website.

From its cultural events to lifestyle, its rich cuisine to idyllic villages, Emily in Paris Season 3 peppers out quite a few French cultural references. Sure, it’s still a TV representation with many Americanisms and clichés, but I found that Season 3 did a better job of showing some nuances to the French culture. What did you think of Season 3 of Emily in Paris?

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City Guide: Amsterdam, the Netherlands

November 6, 2022

Like many, I’d always dreamed of traveling for work to glittering destinations. In June, I started a new job for a company specializing in student exchange programs, and thanks to this internationally minded position, I’ve had the chance to live out this dream of traveling for work. Most recently, our company headed to Amsterdam for our annual staff retreat. When we weren’t in meetings or giving presentations, we explored the tranquil city of Amsterdam. From biking to exploring museums, here are some of the best things to do in Amsterdam.

This article may include affiliate links. Full disclaimer.

An overview of Amsterdam

There’s no hiding it: Amsterdam has a reputation. The Netherlands’ capital is known for its weed and Red Light District. To each his own, but personally, these activities aren’t really my speed or reasons compelling me to travel. I came into this trip with an idea of Amsterdam. Although it’s true that these two activities are prevalent, there’s certainly so much more to Amsterdam.

I was struck as to how calm the city was. There are bikes literally everywhere; there are nearly 900,000 bikes in Amsterdam, according to I Amsterdam. That means less noise and pollution from cars. Add in the tranquility of the canals, Amsterdam has a very calming presence. I was honestly shocked at how calm it was for being the country’s capital.

All over Amsterdam, you may see three red Xs on buildings and objects. These Saint Andrew’s crosses are Amsterdam’s city symbol. And legend has it each X representing one of the following tragedies that struck the city: fire, flood and Black Death. As you’re exploring some of my favorite things to do in Amsterdam, see how many of these Xs you can find.

Where to stay

Our group stayed at the Ambassade Hotel, which was conveniently located and had everything we needed. The hallways were decked with modern art, and the rooms were tastefully decorated. They also had a breakfast area available.

Just a heads up, Airbnb is severely restricted in Amsterdam. Properties in this city can only be rented out 60 nights per year. So this may restrict availability if you tend to stay in Airbnbs while traveling.

What to pack

Amsterdam isn’t known for its superb weather. Read: chilly and rainy. So be sure to prepare for your trip with all the essentials, like good rain boots, rain jacket, etc.

Rent a bike

It would just be wrong to visit Amsterdam and not ride a bike. Although biking in a big city may seem stressful, Amsterdam is truly catered to bikers with many dedicated bike lanes. If you’re not comfortable riding on the streets, there are plenty of parks where you can ride comfortably. Our group rented our bikes from A-Bike Rental & Tours.

Snack on stroopwafels

The Netherlands created this wonderfully delicious cookie called a stroopwafel, a thin waffle-like cookie sandwich with caramel in between. In other words, amazing. When in Amsterdam, you must snack on one of these treats. There are speciality shops sprinkled throughout the city, but we grabbed ours at the grocery store at a very reasonable price. And bonus, I even found gluten-free stroopwafels!

Take a walking tour

One of the best ways to see a new place is with your feet. Our group enjoyed a leisurely walking tour of Amsterdam, strolled past the canals and got the lay of the land. Take a look at these free walking tours available.

Eat Dutch pancakes

I mean, I don’t know why I’d need to twist your arm to eat pancakes anyway, but Dutch pancakes must be on your list. Dutch pancakes are larger, thinner versions of their American counterparts. We ate at none other than Pancakes Amsterdam, a restaurant serving up a wide variety of Dutch pancakes, including gluten-free ones. I opted for a simple ham and cheese gluten-free Dutch pancake, and I might as well have licked my plate clean.

Visit the Anne Frank House

Amsterdam is also home to the the Annex, where Anne Frank and her family hid during World World II. It’s certainly not the most “fun” thing to do in Amsterdam, but this sobering memorial pays honor to Anne Frank and the three quarters of Dutch Jews who were killed during World War II. I remember reading Anne’s journal as a girl, seeing the play and studying her work at school. And when I learned I’d travel to Amsterdam, I knew that the Anne Frank House was a must.

It was chilling to see the very bookcase that hid her from the rest of the world, to hear the church bells of Westerkerk, to climb the steep stairs that she tiptoed up and down. I’ve visited the Holocaust museums in Washington, D.C., and in St. Louis, but I felt that the Anne Frank House wasn’t as dark and heavy. Although it’s not one of the lightest things to do in Amsterdam, I highly recommend a visit to the Anne Frank House. But be sure to book your tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly.

Explore the Van Gogh Museum

From Starry Night to sunflowers, the Van Gogh Museum walks you through the highlights of Vincent Van Gogh’s tumultuous life and work. I enjoyed strolling through this museum and listening to the interactive audio guide.

I didn’t have time to explore the Rijks Museum, which holds the haunts of Vermeer, Rembrandt and other artists. If you have more time and love art, be sure to add this to your list of things to do in Amsterdam.

Have a drink at Dante

Looking for a spot to enjoy some appetizers and a fancy drink? Enjoy the chic ambience and perfect location of Dante. My coworkers and I enjoyed a drink at Dante after a long day of walking around the city.

Smell the tulips

The Netherlands are well-known for their tulips, which are in their prime season around April and May. We visited Amsterdam in October, so certainly not tulip season. But even still, tulips and fresh flowers fill the city of Amsterdam. Enjoy the gorgeous bouquets and flower markets while visiting Amsterdam.

Eat the fries

Hear me out: I live in France, I’ve been to Belgium, so I know fries. But there was something different about the fries in Amsterdam, something that made them notably better. There are street vendors selling fries, and they just lob sauce onto your order of fries. If you want to try a specialty, order the Dutch satay sauce, which has a peanut base.

Take a canal cruise

Everything looks better from the water, right? Even in cold, rainy Amsterdam. Our group took a canal cruise through the “Venice of the North.” Add a couple glasses of wine and a few appetizers, seeing Amsterdam by canal is great way to explore. You’ll even get a close look at Amsterdam’s various houseboats. Explore canal cruise options.

Amsterdam surprised me with its calming ambience, shocking bike-ability and intricate history. From eating Dutch pancakes to street fries, from visiting the Van Gogh museum to Anne Frank House, Amsterdam has no shortage of things to do to explore its rich culture.

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Island Guide to Maui, Hawaii

August 14, 2022

When you’re invited to a Hawaii destination wedding, you go. My cousin recently had her wedding on Maui, and given my relocation to France, I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to make it. If you look at France on the map, Hawaii is literally on the other side of the globe. I mean, c’mon! But I can’t turn down getting invited to a Hawaii wedding and having the opportunity to enjoy time with the whole extended family. So, we made quite the adventure of it, especially given the wild state of airport cancelations and delays. But four flights later, one missed flight, one hotel stay and 40-something hours later, I made it to Maui. We were able to spend an entire week on the island, and here are some of my top things to do in Maui, Hawaii.

This post may include affiliate links. Full disclaimer.

Where we stayed

When you’re traveling with a party of 8, you need space, and space comes at a premium in Hawaii. While the Montage and the Westin offer luxurious views directly on the beach, they come at a hefty price. Given our large party size and limited budget, we opted for a condo a little further from the water at Ka’anapali Plantation condos in Lahaina. We appreciated the modern touches and patio — and just a 5- or 10-minute drive from the beach. 

Rent a car

You cannot do Hawaii well unless you rent a car. There’s so much to do all over Maui, and you can drive for hours and still be on Maui. I didn’t realize it would be as big as it was, but having a car made it manageable. You can rent a car directly at the Kahului airport (OGG) on Maui.

Downtown Paia

I didn’t realize the sheer size of Maui and that there would be many small towns to explore. And one spot to add to your list of things to do in Maui is the town of Paia, which is on the northern side of the island. Paia is filled with cute boutiques, trendy coffee shops and snow cones that will make you melt. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite activities to do in and near Paia.

Maui Sunriders

When I heard “26-mile bike ride,” I wasn’t so sure. I like being active, but I’m not the sportiest of girls. Yet Maui Sunriders’ Downhill Self-Guided Bike Tour was well-rated on Trip Advisor, so we gave it a go. I don’t have the best hand-eye-foot coordination, but I had no problem on this gorgeous bike ride. We started at the bike shop where we had a safety briefing and then hopped in a van to drive up the volcano. Our tour guide was quick to answer our questions about biking and the island as we went up the volcano.

After our short drive, he dropped us off and fitted us on our bikes. Lucky for us, it’s a downhill bike ride, which means I barely pedaled. The Maui Sunriders’ bike tour was an amazing way to soak up the Hawaiian countryside with its lush foliage, rolling fields and delightful flora. I remember coasting along the relatively empty road and inhaling deeply to fill my lungs with the sweet floral perfumes along the way. We stopped along the way to say hello to farm horses and chickens strolling about.

The bike tour stops along several cute towns where you can grab a bite or do some light shopping. I love that it was self-paced because my family and I were able to go at our own speed. Once we started rolling, we spent about 2 hours completing the bike tour. Biking down the Haleakala Volcano was one of my favorite memories from my time in Maui.

Better Things

Just steps away from the Maui Sunriders shop sits this trendy coffeeshop. When we arrived to our bike tour 40 minutes early (thanks, Dad), they recommended that we head over there while we wait. Better Things offers açai bowls, fancy coffee drinks and gluten-free goodies. Oh, and avocado toast! We stopped here multiple times during our time in Maui.

Ululani’s Hawaiian Shaved Ice

When it comes to dessert, I’m an ice cream girl through and through. And when it comes to ice cream, I prefer the richer flavors such as chocolate, caramel and Nutella and less so fruity flavors. But Hawaii is the land of fruit, so when in Hawaii “do as the locals” briefly became my motto. On the plane ride to Kahului, we sat next to a local from Maui, and we asked him the best things to do. And Ululani’s Hawaiian Shaved Ice was on his list of best things to do in Maui.

I’ve eaten many snow cones in my day. Heck, I even had a snow cone maker as a child. And in my humble opinion, 9 out of 10 snow cones are about the same in terms of quality. It’s ice and syrup; what’s so difficult? I don’t know what Ululani’s does differently, but their snow cones were indeed superior. The texture and consistency were soft and had the right amount of syrup. If eating snow cones is on your list of things to do in Maui, Ululani’s is the one to try.

Lima Cocina and Cantina

After we finished our Maui Sunriders bike tour, our group wanted a bite to eat. The guides at Maui Sunriders recommended Lima Cocina and Cantina, a Peruvian restaurant next to the bike shop in Paiia. Lima is a tastefully decorated and classy restaurant with fresh fish and thoughtfully prepared dishes. And we had a coupon from Maui Sunriders, too! The food was good, but I felt a tad underdressed after a 2-hour bike ride. In retrospect, Lima is a great spot for date night or drinks.

The Shoppe by Hale Zen

During our time in Maui, we browsed multiple shops, but The Shoppe by Hale Zen remains my favorite. They offer stylish home decor such as candles and tableware and thoughtful jewelry, including the darling tortoise shell hoops I purchased there.

Downtown Lahaina

Located on the western side of Maui, Lahaina is a town sure to charm you with its close location to beaches and mega resorts. Lahaina also has a wide array of shops to peruse. Here’s a roundup of what we enjoyed doing in Lahaina.

Cool Cat Cafe

If you’re looking for a casual spot to grab a quick bite, the Cool Cat Cafe is calling your name. We enjoyed their burgers and sandwiches, so much so that we returned during our visit. We were also delighted that Cool Cat Cafe had gluten-free buns for our Celiac bunch.

Eat a Dole Whip

Like I’ve said, when in Hawaii, do as the Hawaiians. And Dole Whip is the big kahuna of the land. This soft-served pineapple ice cream can be found all over Maui, but we were able to taste some refreshing Dole Whip at Lahaina Ice Cream Parlour. Order your Dole Whip in a cup or cone and maybe even sprinkle it with real pineapple to enjoy as you browse downtown Lahaina shops.

Shop at the Maui Pineapple Store

In the same vein, after eating your Dole Whip at Lahaina Ice Cream Parlour, head next door to the Maui Pineapple Store. This store has all the pineapple-themed memorabilia you could ever wish for. They also sell Camp Craft Cocktails; these mason jars filled with dried fruits and ingredients become DIY cocktails once you add alcohol.

Walk along Kapalua Coastal Trail

Although the beach is certainly on your list of things to do in Maui, you may want a break from being in the water. The Kapalua Coastal Trail is a beautiful walk-meets-hike along the ocean. It’s accessible for all levels and guides you along stunning views in Kapalua. There’s free (very limited) parking, and the walk takes you right past the beautiful Montage resort and to volcanic rock juxtaposing the Pacific.