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Destinations, Itineraries

Utrecht in a Day Itinerary: The Ultimate Dutch City Escape

If you’re visiting the Netherlands and want a daytrip that’s full of charm, history, and boutique shopping, a day in Utrecht should be at the top of your…

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Hello! I’m Gwen, the ‘Bug Girl’!

Welcome to Bug Girl Adventures, a vibrant travel blog where I share my personal journeys to inspire Gen Z and millennial explorers to discover the world, connect with new cultures, and create unforgettable experiences. Designed for mid-budget travelers who crave adventure without breaking the bank, this platform is all about real, relatable travel. Join a growing community of 5,7k+ fellow wanderers who follow along on Instagram as we navigate the world, one destination at a time.

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thebuggirladventures

Travel for Gen Z and Millennials on a Budget🌍🐛
📍Limburg, Netherlands → Next: Manchester
💌 gwen@buggirladventures.com
🧳Read my travel blog⬇️

💸 Planning a trip soon? Here's a little travel hac

💸 Planning a trip soon? Here's a little travel hack for you!👀✈️

I book a lot of my activities through @getyourguide, and you can get 5% off your first in-app purchase with my code:

✨ THEBUGGIRLADVENTURES5 ✨

Over the years I've booked some incredible experiences through the app, including:
🐱 Amsterdam's quirky cat museum, the KattenKabinet
🌅 A sunset cruise on Lisbon's Tagus River (still one of my favourite travel memories ever⛵)
🏙️ The Rua Augusta Arch Viewpoint for stunning views over Lisbon
🇬🇧 The iconic chimney lift experience at Battersea Power Station in London

For me, activities are what really bring a destination to life. Whether it's a museum, viewpoint, boat tour or something completely unexpected, they always end up being the highlights of my trips.

So if you're planning your next adventure and have a few activities on your wishlist, don't forget to use THEBUGGIRLADVENTURES5 for 5% off your first booking in the GetYourGuide app!

Which activity from this reel would you try first?👇

AD | Affiliate collaboration with @getyourguide #getyourguide #getyourguidediscountcode #travelhack #budgettravel #traveldeals @getyourguidecommunity

Is @twentysixbudapest worth the hype? Here's my ve

Is @twentysixbudapest worth the hype? Here's my verdict...

You know those restaurants that keep popping up on your Instagram and TikTok feeds until you finally cave and visit? That was me with Twentysix Restaurant in Budapest🇭🇺

And honestly? The hype is justified!

The moment you walk in, you can see why it's become such a popular spot. The restaurant is set inside a stunning open space with high ceilings, natural light, and greenery everywhere you look. It almost feels like dining in an urban jungle right in the middle of Budapest🌿

Despite not having a reservation, we were seated immediately. Service was a little slower than usual, but the restaurant was absolutely packed during lunchtime. It was clear that this place has gone viral for a reason. The staff even warned us about the wait beforehand, so we were happy to sit back and enjoy the atmosphere.

For lunch, I ordered the Burrata on Bruschetta with roasted cherries and cherry tomatoes, cucumber, basil, and a chilli honey dressing🍒🍅

And wow🤤

Sometimes the simplest dishes are the best ones. The ingredients tasted incredibly fresh, the burrata was perfectly creamy, and the sweet cherries combined with the chilli honey created one of those flavour combinations that you keep thinking about long after you've finished eating😋

It's not often that a viral restaurant exceeds my expectations, but Twentysix genuinely did.

If you're planning a trip to Budapest and you're looking for a beautiful brunch or lunch spot, this one absolutely deserves a place on your list.

Verdict: Worth the hype. I would happily return. One of my favourite food spots in Budapest!

#twentysixbudapest #budapest #budapesttravel #budapestrestaurant

✨A little luxury in Budapest that was actually wor

✨A little luxury in Budapest that was actually worth the splurge✨

During my recent trip to Budapest, I spent a night at @hoteloktogon , and honestly? I'd book it again in a heartbeat💗

The moment you walk in, you're greeted by a gorgeous, boujee lobby that immediately makes the hotel feel more expensive than it actually is. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming throughout our stay, which always makes a difference.

We booked a Superior Twin Room and were pleasantly surprised by how spacious it was. Our room featured a beautiful slanted skylight window that could be opened, giving us lovely views over the city rooftops🌃 It felt like such a special touch! The room was spotless, had all the essentials you'd need for a city break, and the shower felt wonderfully luxurious after a long day of sightseeing.

Location-wise, it's hard to fault. The hotel is very central and within easy walking distance of metro and tram stops, making it a great base for exploring Budapest.

Now let's talk about the breakfast because WOW. Think pastries, Hungarian specialities, a full English breakfast, a pancake machine, and yes... even champagne if you're feeling fancy before 10am🥂😂

The hotel also offers amenities like a sauna and gym, although I only stayed for one night so I didn't get a chance to try them myself.

As someone coming from the Netherlands, I found the price-to-quality ratio excellent. Even if you're a budget-conscious traveller like me, this is one of those hotels that's worth spending a little extra on for the comfort, location, and overall experience.

⭐ My verdict: Would absolutely stay here again on my next Budapest trip!

London girlies, THIS is the skincare spot you need

London girlies, THIS is the skincare spot you need to visit in Chinatown!👀🧴✨

If you’re looking for Korean and Japanese skincare & cosmetics in London, my favourite place to browse is definitely P2BUS in Chinatown. Located just off Leicester Square, this place is PACKED with beauty products.

Think: sheet masks, viral sunscreens, Japanese makeup, Korean skincare, lip tints, cleansers, cute beauty accessories… honestly it’s so easy to spend way too long in here😭

To me, they have one of the best assortments I’ve seen in London when it comes to Asian beauty products. You’ll find brands and products that are super hyped online, but it’s just so much more fun being able to actually browse everything in person instead of endlessly scrolling online.

Now, fair warning, it’s definitely not the cheapest place. But honestly, it makes sense considering everything is imported, and for me the experience of walking around the shop and discovering new products makes it worth visiting anyway.

If you’re spending a day in Chinatown or central London, definitely add this one to your list!

📍21 Newport Court

@p2bus #p2bus #london #chinatownlondon #chinatown

London, don’t miss this 👀🍜🇯🇵 The Shōtengai Pan-Asi

London, don’t miss this 👀🍜🇯🇵
The Shōtengai Pan-Asian Market is back at Coal Drops Yard from 16–19 April and trust me, you’ll want to add this to your London plans!

This pop-up Pan-Asian street market is inspired by traditional Japanese shopping streets (shotengai) and brings together some of the best Asian food, drinks, and independent brands in one place.
Think: steaming bowls of noodles, fresh dumplings, matcha treats, Japanese snacks, and so many unique stalls you’ll want to try everything😭

I went to a previous edition and LOVED it! Such a fun atmosphere, amazing food😋, and just overall good vibes. It does get busy, but honestly that just adds to the experience.

Perfect plan for a spring day in London: eat your way through the market, browse the stalls, and hang out around King’s Cross☀️

Save this for your April London plans👇

@shotengai_market @coaldropsyard #london #coalsdropyard #kingscross

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly cultural g

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly cultural gem in Valencia… this is it👇

One of my absolute favourite things I did in Valencia was visiting the Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia and the best part? It’s completely free!💸

This museum is one of the most important art collections in Spain, with works ranging from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Think Spanish masters, religious art, and beautiful Renaissance pieces - all spread across multiple rooms and exhibitions, so there’s actually a lot to explore🖼️

But honestly… even if you’re not a huge art person, it’s still worth visiting. The building itself is stunning. The architecture, the peaceful atmosphere, and especially this courtyard with the soft pink walls and lush greenery… it just feels like a hidden oasis in the city🍃🩷

💡 Travel tip: Add this to your itinerary if you want a slower, more cultural moment during your trip and save some money while you’re at it.

For me, this was one of those places that just hits different!😍

#visitvalencia @visit_valencia @gvamubav #museodebellasartesdevalencia

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It’s honestly that simple!✈️📱

🎉 Use my code "buggirladventures" for 5% off your Holafly eSIM! Link in my bio👉

AD | Affiliate collaboration with @holafly_esim @filify_app #HolaflyTraveller #AD #Affiliate #TravelESIM #Holafly

Brunch that actually lives up to the hype? Yes ple

Brunch that actually lives up to the hype? Yes please🍳

Tried @risebrunch York and honestly… such a solid spot for a brunch date😋

I went for the eggs benedict with halloumi + a banana bread matcha. The hollandaise was so flavourful, eggs perfectly poached, and the matcha tasted really high quality, not that watery kind and that clear green color you want. The portion looked a bit small on the plate at first, but it was actually super filling as a main.

The vibe: small, cosy, and clearly very popular. There was a bit of a queue, but since we were just 2 we got seated right away. It was a little noisy and quite packed, but the staff were so friendly and helpful which honestly made up for it.

Overall: 8/10. Great food, great people, would 100% return🫶

#risebrunch #york #yorktips #visityork

My favourite shop in York might just be the most m

My favourite shop in York might just be the most magical one🧙‍♀️🔮

If you’re wandering through the historic streets of York, you have to step inside @thesocietyofalchemists. Located right on The Shambles, it’s hard to miss and honestly one of the most unique shops I discovered in the city!

Walking in feels like stepping into a hidden apothecary from a fantasy novel. The shop is filled with candles, perfumes, incense, soaps and all kinds of mysterious curiosities inspired by botanicals, herbs and old-world alchemy🧪🫧 Even the packaging and product names feel like they came straight out of a potion book.

Of course I couldn’t leave empty handed. I picked up:
🖤 Till Death eau de parfum
🍄 Candied Toadstool embalming lotion (I love that they call it embalming lotion)
🔥 A Fire scented soap coin

For me as a tourist it was the perfect place to pick up some unique, one-of-a-kind items to take home from York. If you love fantasy vibes, witchy aesthetics or unusual indie shops, this one is an absolute must!

@visityork #thesocietyofalchemists #thesocietyofalchemistsyork #york #visityork

York might just have the quirkiest shops in the UK

York might just have the quirkiest shops in the UK 👀✨

While exploring York I found some of the coolest independent stores. From handmade ghosts to magical apothecaries and the best smelling soap shop ever!😍

Featured in this reel:
👻 @yorkghostmerchants
🫟 @yorkghostshop
🧪 @thesocietyofalchemists
🧼 @yorkshiresoap

If you’re visiting York, make sure to wander into these shops, that’s where the real magic is🪄

Save this for your next York trip!

#visityork #york @visityork

Did I just step into Bali… or am I still in Valenc

Did I just step into Bali… or am I still in Valencia?😱🌴

One of the most unique dining experiences I had in Valencia was at Voltereta Bali. Part of the Voltereta restaurant concept where every location has a completely different theme and menu. Think places like Manhattan with jazz club vibes or Casa with a Mediterranean feel🎷🥘

The Bali location is all about Southeast Asian inspiration. From the moment you walk in it honestly feels like stepping into Indonesia; waterfalls, lush decor, atmospheric lighting, and even the bathrooms are fully on theme😆 The attention to detail is impressive!

We didn’t even have a reservation but were seated right away (love when that happens)!

For food I had the salmon dish, which came with a mango salad and a super flavorful sauce on the side🥭 The portion was a little on the smaller side for the price, but the quality and taste were easily a 10/10 for me. The salmon was perfectly seasoned, the sauce was insanely good, and the mango salad added such a refreshing contrast!

And because I simply can’t skip dessert… I had a mango mochi, which was fresh, light and the perfect sweet ending🤤

Overall: great food, amazing theme, and such a fun dining experience! If you’re in Valencia and want a restaurant that’s a little different, this one is definitely worth adding to your list!

Have you tried any of the Voltereta restaurants yet? 👀🍽️

@volteretavalencia @volteretarestaurants #valencia #voltereta #volteretavalencia #volteretabali

A little green escape in the middle of Valencia🌿

A little green escape in the middle of Valencia🌿

If you’re planning a trip to Valencia and love botanical gardens or peaceful strolls through nature, the Jardín Botánico is such a lovely stop to add to your itinerary! For just 4€, you can wander through a historic garden filled with palm trees, tropical plants, cacti collections, and beautiful shaded pathways🚶‍♀️

Originally founded in the 16th century for the study of medicinal plants, today it’s a calm oasis where you can explore different plant collections from around the world🌍 One of my favorite parts was the huge greenhouse filled with towering tropical plants and the impressive cactus garden🌵

It’s the perfect place to slow down for an hour or two, take a break from the busy city, and enjoy some greenery right in the heart of Valencia.

Definitely one to add to your Valencia list if you love botanical gardens, plants, or just a peaceful walk surrounded by nature!

📍C/ de Quart 80, València

#valencia #visitvalencia #jardinbotanico #botanicalgarden

Okay but the Leeds Corn Exchange is THAT girl! If

Okay but the Leeds Corn Exchange is THAT girl!

If you’re in Leeds and love indie shopping, historic buildings and finding things you absolutely did not plan to buy… you need to stop by @leedscornex

Built in 1864 (yes, she’s historic✨), this stunning domed building used to be a trading hall and is now packed with independent shops and small businesses. The architecture alone is worth popping in for, those curved balconies and the glass roof? Unreal for photos📸

My fave spots inside: @indiemakers_uk
@sourcherryleeds @giant.kitten @thegreatyorkshireshop @chineselaundry_leeds

It’s such a fun place to wander, especially if you love supporting independents instead of big chains. Leeds honestly surprised me in the best way and this was one of my highlights.

Save this for your next Leeds city break!

#leedscornexchange #leeds

Is @fortitudebakehouse actually worth the hype? 👀🍞

Is @fortitudebakehouse actually worth the hype? 👀🍞🍪
Fortitude Bakehouse, located in Bloomsbury near the British Museum, is one of the most hyped bakeries on London socials right now, so obviously I had to investigate🕵️‍♀️

This tiny, independent bakery is known for its laminated pastries, bold flavours (hello cardamom) and that slightly chaotic-but-cool London bakery energy. It’s small, it’s busy, and yes… there will probably be a queue.

I went for the cardamom croissant swirl🥐 (£4.25) and I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s one of the best pastries I’ve had in a long time! It’s genuinely up there with bakeries of the same calibre like Bread 41 in Dublin, which says a lot.

The dough? Buttery, decadent, perfectly laminated.
The cardamom flavour? Spot on. Fragrant but not overpowering.
The price? Honestly reasonable for London.

Verdict: the hype is justified.
If you’re anywhere near the British Museum, do yourself a favour and swing by!

Would I queue again? Absolutely!

#fortitudebakehouse #londonbakery #londonfood #londoneats

Valencia in February >>> ☀️🍊 If you’ve been watchi

Valencia in February >>> ☀️🍊
If you’ve been watching my stories, you already know I was just in Valencia (and if not, it’s all saved in my highlights 👀). So here’s the official photodump📸

And let me tell you… February is elite travel timing.
✈️ Flights were affordable
🏨 Hotel prices? So reasonable
👣 Hardly any tourists
⏳ No long queues anywhere

For a Dutchie, the weather was honestly peak! The hotel receptionist told us it was “bad weather” and that January is usually better… meanwhile we were out here feeling like it was spring/summer😭☀️

Yes, we had a bit of rain one day and some strong winds🌬️☔, but we also had a 21°C sunny day. Perfect excuse for a beach walk, which we obviously did⛱️

If you’re looking for a sunny European escape without peak-season chaos, I would 100% recommend visiting Valencia in February.
Off-season travel just makes sense!🇪🇸

Would you rather travel in peak summer or low season?

#valencia #visitvalencia #valenciaspain #spain @visit_valencia

A new moon has risen in Heerlen🌙 Say hello to @bar

If you’re visiting Amsterdam, Albert Cuyp Market i

If you’re visiting Amsterdam, Albert Cuyp Market is an absolute must!🇳🇱

Located in the lively De Pijp neighbourhood, this is the city’s most famous street market and one of the best places to experience local life.
You’ll find over 250 stalls selling everything from fresh produce🥕, herbs, tea and spices to jewelry💍, clothing and souvenirs. It’s one of my favourite spots to browse for unique jewellery and little finds you won’t get in regular shops.
Food lovers, this place is a dream!🤍

It’s the perfect spot to try classic Dutch snacks all in one place:
🍪 Stroopwafels made fresh in front of you
🥞 Poffertjes with powdered sugar
🍴 Bitterballen
🐟 Herring (for the brave 😌)

Whether you’re shopping, snacking, or just soaking up the atmosphere, Albert Cuyp Market is vibrant, authentic and so much fun, especially if you want a taste of Amsterdam beyond the canals!

📍 Albert Cuypstraat, Amsterdam
Tip: go hungry and bring cash just in case!

#amsterdam #albertcuypmarkt #amsterdamfood #amsterdammarkets #albertcuypmarket

Budapest through my lens📸🇭🇺 I just spent a few da

Budapest through my lens📸🇭🇺

I just spent a few days exploring Budapest and genuinely loved every second of it! It’s one of those cities that instantly pulls you in. From the food scene to the architecture, and just wandering around taking in the energy🚶‍♀️

Some highlights from this trip:
• Visiting the Hungarian National Gallery, where art and history come together so beautifully🖼️
• Standing at Heroes’ Square, one of those places that really makes you stop and look around
• Crossing the bridges over the Danube and taking the funicular up to Buda Castle. It all feels so cinematic🌉
• Seeing the Hungarian Parliament in real life (even more impressive than I imagined)
• Exploring St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Opera House, and modern spots like the Museum of Ethnography

We stayed at a&o for a few nights, which was a great base for exploring the city🏨 Comfortable, affordable, and super well connected to public transport🚋

What I loved most about Budapest is how accessible it is. Public transport is easy to use, museums are budget-friendly, and students or under-26s often get great discounts, which makes it such a perfect city for younger travelers!

If you’re looking for a beautiful, culture-filled and budget-friendly European city, Budapest is an absolute must! Save this for later and add it to your travel list✈️🧳

#ad @aohostels #aohostels #everyonecantravel #aotraveller

Budapest completely stole my heart!🇭🇺❤️ From wand

Budapest completely stole my heart!🇭🇺❤️

From wandering through historic streets and iconic landmarks to incredible food spots, museums, and views that made me stop in my tracks - this city has so much to offer.

What I loved most? How accessible it all felt. Easy public transport, affordable museums, student/under-26 discounts, and so many beautiful places you can explore without rushing. It’s one of those cities where you can just walk, look around, and soak it all in🚶‍♀️

We stayed at a&o for this trip, which was a great, budget-friendly base while exploring the city. But honestly, Budapest itself is the real star here🌟

If you’re looking for a European city that’s rich in culture, stunning to explore, and kind to your budget… add Budapest to your list!

#ad @aohostels #aohostels #everyonecantravel #aotraveller

If you’re visiting York, this is a non-negotiable

If you’re visiting York, this is a non-negotiable stop 👻

@yorkghostmerchants is one of the most unique little shops in the city and honestly, half the magic is how you buy a ghost.

Each tiny, handmade ghost is crafted from recycled materials and painted by hand, making every single one completely unique🧑‍🎨 The shop was created by local artists and has become a cult favourite in York, not just because the ghosts are adorable, but because the whole place feels like stepping into a Victorian curiosity cabinet.

And then there’s the buying experience…

When you choose your ghost, the staff turn it into a full performance. Dramatic reveals, suspense, a bit of theatre. It’s playful, wholesome, and so very York! You don’t just buy a souvenir here, you take part in a moment.

Tip: skip the long queues on The Shambles and visit their pop-up location instead in St. Anthony's Garden. Same magical ghosts, way less waiting👀

Trust me, this is the kind of souvenir you’ll smile about every time you look at it.

👻 Which ghost do you think I picked?

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“Moments of Adventure, Captured Forever”

Step into a world of wonder. Explore a captivating collection of images that capture the magic, mystery, and raw beauty of my journeys.

Covent Garden, London

Times Square, New York

Dublin Castle, Dublin

Newcastle, UK

New York

Berlin Cathedral

Antwerp

Top of the Rock, New York

”Look closer, the world is full of wonders.”

Contact me:

email: gwen@buggirladventures.com
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