This time last year, I was amidst my first European traveling experience. My dad and I had found insanely inexpensive tickets to Stockholm, Sweden, and thought, “Why not?”

We flew out on the first of February and (unsuccessfully) prepared ourselves for a harsher climate than that of the Northern Californian winters we were accustomed to. A twelve day trip yielded seven days in Sweden and five in Spain. We made sure to pack lightly knowing that we wouldn’t be spending much time in any one given city. 

Sweden proved to be just as bitterly cold as we had anticipated but oh, so, magical. We spent several days in Stockholm, exploring the city as much as we could with non-stop snow. Warm coffee shops became a sort of sanctuary for us; stopping in for some hot beverages to recharge before heading out into the cold once more. After a few nights in the city, we hopped aboard a train and headed north to the enchanting ski town, Åre. Hints of it reminded me of Lake Tahoe as there was a giant, frozen lake with several ski lodges and lifts sprinkled along the adjacent hillside. We were welcomed by severe windstorms and cold, grey skies, but thankfully on our last day, the sun came out to bid us farewell.

With Spain came sunshine and 70 degree weather. We stayed several nights in Malaga, enjoying views of the Mediterranean Sea, and one night in Ronda which had some of the most spectacular landscapes I’ve been fortunate enough to witness firsthand. Because of the beautiful weather, we were much more mobile and spent most of our time outdoors exploring the surrounding area. Although the weather was pretty spectacular, we still frequented many coffee shops since we both have a weakness for smooth, delicious espresso.

Some of these photos I have never before shared. I cherish them and am so grateful for the memories we made. These photos will always be here to remind me of that. And a big shout out to my dad for putting up with me and my ever-present camera. 😉