Today is a special day—it’s my wife Katie’s birthday! If you know Katie, you know she has a deep love for history, literature, and classic European charm. Over the years, she has had the chance to visit some incredible destinations that perfectly fit her interests. So, in honor of her, I wanted to highlight a few of her favorite travel spots and why they are so special.
Bath, England – A Jane Austen Lover’s Dream
Katie is a self-proclaimed Jane Austen nerd, so naturally, Bath holds a special place in her heart. She has read and reread Austen’s novels countless times, and walking through the streets of Bath feels like stepping into one of her beloved books. This historic city, founded by the Romans in the first century AD, is famous for its thermal hot springs and beautifully preserved Georgian architecture. The Roman Baths remain one of the best-preserved ancient bathhouses in Europe, offering a glimpse into the city’s early history.
In the 18th and early 19th centuries, Bath became a fashionable retreat for England’s elite, a setting that heavily influenced Austen’s novels. The Jane Austen Centre dives deep into her time in the city, exploring how places like the Pump Room and the Assembly Rooms shaped the social world of her characters. Each September, the Jane Austen Festival brings the Regency era to life with costumed promenades, literary talks, and themed events. For Katie, there is nothing quite like donning a Regency dress and immersing herself in the world of her favorite author, making Bath a dream destination.
Marburg, Germany – A Fairytale Town Untouched by Time
Marburg is one of those hidden gems that feels like a storybook town brought to life. Unlike many other German cities, Marburg was spared from destruction during World War II, meaning its medieval charm remains beautifully intact. The city, founded in the 12th century, flourished as a center of education and faith. The University of Marburg, established in 1527, is one of the oldest Protestant universities in the world, attracting great thinkers throughout history.
Marburg’s old town is a winding maze of cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and steep staircases that lead up to the stunning Marburg Castle. Perched high above the city, the castle dates back to the 11th century and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Adding to the fairytale charm, the Brothers Grimm studied in Marburg, and the city is said to have inspired many of their famous tales. Katie, with her love for fairy tales and historical architecture, is always enchanted by Marburg’s magic.
Salzburg, Austria – The Sound of Music and Timeless Beauty
Salzburg is a city where music, history, and breathtaking scenery come together in perfect harmony. Best known as the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for The Sound of Music, Salzburg has a way of making you feel like you’ve stepped into a different era.
The city’s Altstadt (Old Town) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, packed with baroque churches, charming squares, and the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress, which has stood watch over the city since the 11th century. Mirabell Gardens, with its perfectly manicured lawns and fountains, is instantly recognizable to fans of The Sound of Music as the location where Maria and the von Trapp children sang “Do-Re-Mi.” A visit to Nonnberg Abbey, where the real Maria von Trapp lived as a novice, adds another layer of history to the experience.
Katie has loved The Sound of Music since childhood, and visiting Salzburg was a dream come true for her. Whether we were retracing Maria’s steps through the city, humming along to the iconic songs, or simply taking in the stunning Alpine views, Salzburg felt like a place where movie magic and real history merged into something truly special.
London, England – A City of Endless Discovery
London is one of those places that you can visit again and again and still find something new to explore. It’s a city of contrasts, where centuries-old landmarks stand beside cutting-edge modern attractions. With Katie’s love of history, literature, and classic British traditions, it’s no surprise that London is one of her favorite destinations.
History is everywhere in London, from the Tower of London’s medieval walls to Westminster Abbey, where monarchs have been crowned for nearly 1,000 years. Literary lovers can wander through Bloomsbury, where writers like Virginia Woolf once gathered, or visit 221B Baker Street to pay homage to Sherlock Holmes. Museums abound, from the British Museum’s vast collection of world treasures to the Victoria & Albert Museum’s stunning exhibits on design and fashion.
And then there’s the simple pleasure of afternoon tea. Few things feel as quintessentially British as enjoying delicate finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and a perfectly brewed pot of tea at places like Claridge’s or Fortnum & Mason. Katie, with her love of refined traditions, could happily spend an afternoon savoring every detail of this elegant ritual.
London is especially meaningful for us because it’s where Katie and I honeymooned. Walking along the Thames, seeing the city lights from the London Eye, and enjoying our first big adventure as newlyweds made it an unforgettable place in our travel story. It was the perfect mix of history, romance, and excitement—just like our journey together.
Celebrate Your Own Travel Love Story
Travel is always special, but sharing it with someone who brings it to life in new ways makes it even better. Whether you’re a history buff, a literature lover, or a fan of classic films, there’s a perfect destination out there waiting for you.
If you’re ready to explore these incredible places (or find your own favorites!), we’d love to help craft the perfect itinerary. Whether it’s a rail adventure, a river cruise, or a combination of both, we’ll make sure it’s an unforgettable journey—just like the ones Katie and I have shared.
Happy Birthday, Katie! Here’s to more adventures ahead!
