travel – hee bune diaries

London Calling

August 22, 2025Posted in Hotels London, LondonTagged europe, London, sightseeing, travel, travel guideLeave a comment

London: A Long Weekend with a Teen 🏙️✨

A trip to London is just unbeatable when it comes to sightseeing, art, food and shopping. It was on the top of my daughter’s wish list for her confirmation, and as we really wanted to give her an experience to last, it was perfect. We stayed at The Clermont London, Victoria – not our usual boutique-style choice, but the location was great: walking distance to Buckingham Palace, The Wolseley, and the CitySightseeing bus stop, plus right next to Victoria Coach Station (perfect for the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour). Big, comfortable rooms and excellent service made it a perfect base.

NB! As of April 2025 all nok-UK-residents must have a visa to enter. Pls allow 3 days for this process, to make sure you are granted the visa before entering the UK. You can get an Express visa, if you forget to get one, however, it is relatively expensive.

Eat & Treat 🍴🍦

Restaurant Okay, Kingly Court – vibrant pan-Asian in Soho’s coolest food courtyard.

Los Mochis, Notting Hill – “Tokyo meets Tulum” fusion in a playful setting.

Sexy Fish, Mayfair – dramatic décor, mermaid sculptures, and Japanese-inspired seafood.

Pret a Manger – reliable fuel between sights.

Fortnum & Mason Ice Cream Parlour – The Parlour café on the first Floor is refined indulgence, still teen-approved.

Sakurado Mochi, Chinatown – freshly made mochis (the best we ever had); Chinatown in general is foodie heaven.

Fish & Chips – Golden Union, Soho for a classic, sustainably sourced version, or the Camden Market riverside stall for a casual, surprisingly good option.

Afternoon Tea – chic at The Wolseley or iconic at The Ritz.

See & Do 🎡🎭

Buckingham Palace – watch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony (be sure to get there 30-60 minutes before, otherwise the crowds will not allow you a chance to see anything).

Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour – a magical must-do for fans (and also not fans) of all ages.

Chinatown – buzzing streets filled with food, paper lamps, and atmosphere.

Hamleys, Regent Street – seven floors of toy wonderland (don’t miss the PopMart shop in the basement).

PopMart & Miniso – quirky collectible and lifestyle just behind Chinatown.

Jellycat Café, Selfridges – plush toys meet coffee in this playful themed café.

CitySightseeing Bus Tour – the easiest way to get your bearings and tick off landmarks.

Hayward Gallery – bold, contemporary art exhibitions on the South Bank.

Tate Modern – world-class modern art in an iconic riverside setting.

Millennium Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral – walk across the Thames straight into architectural grandeur.

Camden Market – vintage stalls, global street food, and canal-side vibes.

Carnaby Street & Soho – fashion, music history, and buzzing energy.

We didn’t get to see a show/musical, which we would love to do another time, and of course a ton of other things; London is just always a treat to come back to again and again.

Ps. Just using your creditcard in the Tube (metro) by the card reader at the ticket gates instead of buying a ticket, is both money and time saving.

Florence, the city of gold (and Gucci)

July 1, 2025Posted in ItalyTagged europe, firenze, florence, Italy, sightseeing, travel, tuscanyLeave a comment

Florence: A Micro-guide

Florence is a city of golden light and Renaissance soul — where every narrow street opens onto timeless beauty. From Botticelli’s brushstrokes to the aroma of truffle pasta and espresso, the city stirs all the senses. Whether you’re here for fashion, food, or just to wander, Florence rewards slowness and curiosity. Here’s a small curated list of classic, stylish, and quietly exceptional places in the city.

🍝 Where to Eat (Classic + Cult Favorites)

Trattoria Cammillo – Family-run since 1945 in Oltrarno; cozy vibes and Tuscan staples .

Trattoria Sostanza – Historic butter chicken & artichoke omelette, cash-only, tiny spot since 1869

Buca Mario – Authentic 1886 Florentine underground trattoria; bistecca alla Fiorentina & traditional pasta

Cucina Torcicoda – Pizzeria + osteria + gourmet restaurant under one roof; near Santa Croce

Il Santo Bevitore – Rustic-chic, modern Tuscan cooking, natural wines in Santo Spirito

Osteria delle Tre Panche – Hidden gem with truffle‑rich menu overlooking the Arno

🍨 Sweet Breaks & Cafés

Vivoli Gelato – Florence’s classic gelateria; must-order affogato

Caffè Gilli – Elegant historic café (since 1733) near Piazza della Repubblica

🍷 Rooftop Bars with a View

SE·STO on Arno – Rooftop bar at Hotel Excelsior with 360° views of Florence

La Terrazza – Chic drinks terrace at Hotel Continentale overlooking Ponte Vecchio

🌄 Morning Rituals

Piazzale Michelangelo Run/Walk – Early morning ascent via the rose garden or stairs; add San Miniato al Monte for more serenity

🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy – Florentine herbal apothecary offering historic skincare & perfumes since 1612

The Space Outlet – Prada (Levanella) – Designer outlet for Prada, Miu Miu & Church’s; pair with The Mall (that offers Gucci, Marin, Versace, and many many more). You can take a shuttle bus from the city centre to go there, it costs 18 euros return and takes approximerer 50 minutes

📚 Culture

Biblioteca delle Oblate – Rooftop café, city views, calm workspace

Giardino dell’Orticoltura – Historic garden & greenhouse with seasonal events

Palazzo Gucci (Gucci Garden) – Fashion-museum & exhibition space with on-site café

Uffizi, Bargello, Marino Marini & Palazzo Gucci – Museum-rich Florence for slow cultural immersion

Budapest

May 9, 2025May 10, 2025Posted in BudapestTagged Budapest, europe, Hotels, hungary, microguide, restaurants, sightseeing, travelLeave a comment

Harbour view towards the Buda of Budapest

Budapest: A Micro Guide 🇭🇺

Budapest is a city split by the Danube and stitched together with history, design, and thermal waters. From grand architecture, cool cafés, playful parks and world-class culture, here’s a curated micro-guide of where to stay, eat, explore — and just enjoy the city.

🛏️ Where to Stay

Stories Boutique Hotel

Eclectic, colorful, with a cozy courtyard. Located in the lively Jewish Quarter and with all the good restaurants just around every corner: Stories Hotel

Vernon House

Modern, minimalist, and peaceful. Perfect design entusiasts and great location: Vernon House

Moments Hotel

Elegant hotel on Andrássy Avenue with spa and comfortable rooms and a also close to everything. Andrássey Avenue was inspired by Champs Elysee in Paris and is home to the main international fashion houses: Moments Hotel

🍽️ Eat & Drink

Fleischer Restobar

A beautiful little spot serving elegant dishes and (good) local wines. It is a mix between tapas and Asian fusion, and we absolutely loved it. Very small. Get there early or make a reservation: Restobar

Costes Downtown

Michelin-star dining in a light, relaxed setting. Recommended for an amazing lunch: Costes

Mazel Tov

Lush ruin courtyard with greenery, lights, and delicious Middle Eastern food: Mazeltov

Franziska

Bright, modern brunch spot in Buda with healthy dishes and good coffee: Franziska

New York Café

Gilded and dramatic — come for the atmosphere, stay for the cake: New York

Gelarto Rosa

Because gelato as a rose is always a good idea: Gelarto Rosa

🖼️ Museums & Culture

Museum of Fine Arts

From ancient Egypt to 20th-century masters, all housed in a stunning neoclassical building: Szepmuveszeti

Lumiere Hall

Immersive digital art experiences in a striking industrial space: Lumiere

👀 Things to See & Do

• Parliament Building – Neo-Gothic beauty right by the river.

• Buda Castle Funicular – Ride the old cable car up Castle Hill for views and charm.

• Fisherman’s Bastion – White stone lookout towers with panoramic views.

• Chain Bridge – Budapest’s most iconic bridge, glowing beautifully at night.

• Heroes’ Square – Monumental statues and a gateway to City Park.

• City Park (Városliget) – Green space with lakes, playgrounds, and castles.

✨ Local Highlights (that we did not get to try, but is on the list for our next visit)

Széchenyi Baths

Baroque-style thermal baths — We heard you should go early morning or near sunset for the best experience.

Margaret Island 🏝️

A traffic-free island in the middle of the Danube with fountains, bike rentals, and shady walking paths.

Boat tour on Danube 🚤

We just stayed 3 days and though we could have spend more time, I would sat that 3 days is enough that you get a good feel of the city. Till next time, Budapest ❤️.

Guide to South Sweden, ELLE DK

April 23, 2025Posted in SwedenTagged ELLE Denmark, europe, getaway, South sweden, travel, travel guide, weekendstayLeave a comment

My full guide to 6 amazing escapes in Southern Sweden is now out on print. It will be online later, only in Danish though, but you can of course also find all about it here at the my travel diary.

Mary Hill, Southern Sweden

February 27, 2025February 27, 2025Posted in Hotels Sweden, SwedenTagged Boutique hotel, europe, Hotels, Mary Hill, Mary Hill Estate, Skåne, Sweden, travel, weekend getawayLeave a comment

There is just something about Mary…

High above the landscape, with breathtaking views of the Øresund, lies the Mary Hill Estate – a boutique hotel that combines relaxed luxury with modern design and scenic surroundings. Located on the former historic estate of Örbrön, the place is made for those seeking a high level of aesthetics and an experience where time and pace are allowed to merge.

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Trakt Forest Hotel

February 12, 2025Posted in Hotels Sweden, SwedenTagged europe, Forest Hotel, Hotels, nature, Sustainable hotel, Sweden, Trakt Forest Hotel, Trakt Hotel, travel, treetop hotel, winterLeave a comment

Trakt Forest Hotel – Simplicity, Nature an Nordic Magic

Deep in the Swedish woods, we found a little hidden gem—Trakt Forest Hotel, a small, family-run retreat that feels like a true escape from the noise of everyday life. My husband and I, along with our three girls, spent a few days here, and we fell in love with the simplicity and closeness to nature. It’s a 4 hour drive from Copenhagen, but felt literally felt like we went “off-the-grid”.

The five cabins, that are beautifully designed with sustainability in mind, blending into the forest with large windows that bring the outside in. They are designed by reknown Swedish architect Gert Wingårdh, the hotel’s five forest suites creates the feeling of being in the treetops, providing panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The suites provides everything you need, no more and no less. There’s no WiFi in the cabins (only in the main building, which also serves as the hotel’s restaurant), making it easy to slow down and just be present.

For the main part, we just stayed in the area and went for walks and logget off. Which meant seeing a moose and a morse calf in the woods (incredible experience). However, Vimmerby is very close, so the Astrid Lindgreen World is just one hours drive away.

We enjoyed every part of the experience—the fresh forest air, the incredible local and organic food, and the outdoor hot baths, where we soaked under the trees as the evening light faded. Even though Trakt isn’t specifically a family hotel, kids are more than welcome (as we have experienced with most Swedish hotels). Our toddler, Ellen, were thrilled to find toys and a kid-friendly menu in the restaurant, making the stay feel effortless for all of us. There were baby chairs and a very friendly staff every evening for us.

If you love nature, simplicity, and beautifully designed spaces, Trakt is the perfect place to reset and reconnect.

Falkenberg, Southern Sweden

December 13, 2024Posted in Falkenberg, Hotels Sweden, SwedenTagged europe, Falkenberg, southern sweden, spa hotel, Strandbaden Hotel, Sweden, travelLeave a comment

Falkenberg and Hotel Strandbaden: Chic Coastal Bliss

Nestled along Sweden’s west coast, Falkenberg is a such a lovely town that combines seaside serenity with a touch of rustic charm. Its sandy beaches, cozy cafés, and quaint streets make it the perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and exploration. For a deeper dive into the area, the Visit Halland app is an invaluable tool. It’s packed with tips on local attractions, activities, and hidden gems to make your trip even more memorable.

At the heart of my visit was Hotel Strandbaden, a haven of style and comfort right on Skrea Beach. The hotel’s spa is a standout feature, offering a chic escape with breathtaking views of the sea. Whether soaking in the outdoor hot tubs, unwinding in the sauna, or indulging in a rejuvenating treatment, the atmosphere is all about effortless luxury and relaxation.

The hotel and its restaurant exude a chic country club vibe—elegant yet laid-back. Think soft lighting, beautifully soft, crafted interiors, and an inviting, social ambiance. The restaurant’s menu, inspired by local and seasonal ingredients, pairs perfectly with its refined yet cozy setting. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy good meal while soaking in the stunning ocean views or hanging out by the central open fireplace.

Exploring Falkenberg itself is also recommended. The town offers a mix of charming boutiques, artisanal shops, and beautiful spots like the Ätran River and historic Tullbron Bridge. The friendly, small-town feel makes it easy to lose track of time wandering its streets. If you come by car; Sonja’s Veranda or the cute, award-winning, Solhaga stone oven bakery also comes with a huge recommendation for lunch or “fika”.

Båstad, Southern Sweden

December 11, 2024December 11, 2024Posted in Båstad, Hotels Sweden, SwedenTagged Båstad, Bjare Peninsula, europe, nature, Skansen Hotel, Sweden, Swedish Riviera, travelLeave a comment

Discover Båstad: Sweden’s Riviera

Nestled along the stunning coastline of Skåne in southern Sweden, Båstad is often referred to as “Sweden’s Riviera.” Renowned for its sandy beaches, charming harbors, and vibrant summer atmosphere, this picturesque town is a haven for both relaxation and adventure. Båstad boasts a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural events, including the famous Swedish Open tennis tournament, which draws visitors from around the globe. Whether you’re strolling through the small historic streets, savoring fresh seafood, or exploring the beautiful surrounding countryside, Båstad offers a perfect escape for travelers seeking a touch of a Scandinavian riviera lifestyle.

A centerpiece of the town’s allure is the iconic Skansen Hotel, a spa retreat that perfectly embodies the region’s blend of elegance and comfort. It is as relevant during the summer as it is during the winter season, as the hotel owns the Kallbadhus, which is nothing short of paradise for winter swimming enthusiasts. Perched on the edge of the water, this cold bathhouse offers great experience with its sauna, sea access, and Japanese hot tub. The invigorating combination of a chilly plunge in the Kattegat followed by the soothing warmth of the sauna or hot tub creates a rejuvenating ritual that is as thrilling as it is calming. With its stunning sea views (last time I was there the local seals were visiting the nearby rocks) and serene atmosphere, the Kallbadhus is a must-visit for anyone seeking the joys of winter swimming and Scandinavian wellness at its finest. You can also visit even if you don’t stay at the hotel for a small fee.

Nestled just outside Båstad, Norrviken Park is a stunning garden oasis where nature, culture, and culinary delights come together. Known for its beautifully landscaped gardens and tranquil atmosphere, Norrviken is also a fantastic spot to enjoy a traditional Swedish fika. The park’s café offers freshly brewed coffee, delectable pastries, and seasonal treats, all served in an idyllic setting. The Park has been influenced by the Danish artist and designer Tage Andersen, who is known for his unique and artistic approach to gardens and installations. Andersen took over the management of Norrviken for a period and brought his visionary touch to the park. His artistic influence is evident in the creative design elements and the harmony between nature and art found throughout the park. Though his time managing Norrviken has since ended, his contributions have left a lasting impact, making it a truly beautiful destination for visitors.

Harbor Life and Street Food Delights in Båstad

Båstad’s harbor is the vibrant heart of the town, bustling with activity and charm. (However, only) During the summer months, it comes alive with luxurious yachts, fishing boats, and lively crowds soaking up the sun. The harbor’s relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to unwind, watch the boats, and enjoy the sea breeze. Adding to its appeal are the cozy street food spots dotted along the waterfront, offering a variety of delicious options. From fresh seafood dishes to gourmet burgers and homemade icecream paired with the view, and you have the perfect recipe for a laid-back, flavorful day in Båstad. Also to be recommended is the Ferdinand Vinbar – a charming wine bar that has become a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant offers an impressive array of wines from around the world, including organic and biodynamic options, complemented by a menu of delicious small plates and local delicacies. The Willys and Båstad Seafood is located at the outskirts of the town (you need a car to get there, but both are great place to be grocery shopping if you have a summerhouse rental nearby).

Explore the Dramatic Beauty of Hovs Hallar

Just a short drive from Båstad, Hovs Hallar is a breathtaking natural reserve known for its dramatic cliffs, rocky shores, and panoramic views of the Kattegat Sea. This rugged landscape is a paradise for nature lovers, offering scenic hiking trails that wind through unique rock formations and along the coastline. The area is famous for its stunning sunsets, making it a popular spot for photographers and romantics alike. Hovs Hallar is also a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot seabirds and even seals basking on the rocks. Whether you’re exploring the trails, enjoying a picnic by the sea, or simply soaking in the unspoiled beauty, Hovs Hallar is an unforgettable part of any visit to the Båstad region.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/eX26Nwne36C1teC9A

Also Worth visiting is the Hallands Väderö. It is just a short ferry ride from Torekov, this idyllic island is a nature reserve with stunning beaches, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, including seals and rare birds. To get there the easiest is to book via Book Båstad (here you find trips and tips for a lot of other really nice experiences like seal safaries, tennis tournaments and much more).

Reykjavik

May 26, 2024May 26, 2024Posted in Iceland, ReykjavikTagged europe, Guide to Iceland, Hallgrimskirkja, Iceland, Reykjavik, sun voyager, travelLeave a comment

Hallgrimskirkja

Iceland Day 4

For our last day in Iceland we got up early (as we did every day) and strolled through the streets of Reykjavik. Of course the iconic Hallgrimskirkja was a must see, the charming pedestrian roads in the city centre as well as the “Sun Voyager” by Jón Gunnar Arnason. Reykjavik is tiny, so we pretty much covered it all in an hour…

Before going past the 66north outlet, on the way to the airport, we made a stop by the hotel spa – which was amazing – and then off to shop for a few souvenirs.

It was not necessary to have a small jeep on this trip, however, it would for sure be needed during the winter season. And we had such a good time all those hours spend it in. We rented through Europcar purely due to convenience and it was both super easy and the car was just as expected.

Thank you Iceland. We had such an epic trip.

Tingvellir National Park

May 26, 2024May 26, 2024Posted in Iceland, ReykjavikTagged europe, Iceland, Laugarvatn fontana, oxararfoss, Reykjavik, roadtrip, sightseeing, Silfra, Silfra snorkel, tingvellir, travelLeave a comment

Silfra – in between two tectonic plates

Iceland Day 3

In the National Park (UNESCO protected) Tingvellir a crack in between the North American and the European continents is visible. I never saw or heard about this natural phenomenon anywhere else and here in the park it is even available for a snorkel (or diving) trip.

Silfra is actually a fissure created by the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates cutting through Iceland. The Silfra fissure fills with glacial water that has been filtered underground for decades through hardened, porous lava rock. The filtering process of the glacial water makes Silfra one of the clearest bodies of water on earth with up to 120 meters of visibility. How crazy is that?

We were a little in doubt as to whether this trip was something for us to try, but it was such a mind-blowing experience and we would recommend it to everyone thinking about it. Yes, it is cold, 2 degrees all year around, yes it is a somewhat transgressive decision to make, but I promise it is so worth it; 35-40 minutes of what feels like entering another dimension. Nature is just amazing.

The underwater images was taken by our guide and is available after a tour for 20 euros. We booked our tour with Dive.is and we highly recommend them as we had such a good trip and was well taken care of all the way through.

Some of the Silfra fissure

On the way to Silfra we did a small stop at the Oxaràrfoss and also saw the place where the first Scandinavian democratic meeting took place (it is marked).

There are probably a lot of other places to be seen in this UNESCO protected area, but on this day it was just so cold and windy, so after the snorkel trip we got in our car and drove to Laugarvatn Fontana geothermal baths. The drysuits did prevent the cold water from “cooling us down”, however we did get a little cold from the water and the high chill factor of the ice cold winds after walking back from the water to the changing rooms, so the 38-40 degree geo-pools was just perfect 🙏🏼.