Wanderers Compass Travel Blog

Wanderers Compass Travel Blog A travel blog that will inspire the wanderer within you to see the world. Live your life by the needle of a compass, not by the hands of a clock.

At Wanderers Compass, our mission is to ignite the wanderlust in everyone who dreams of exploring the world. We aim to awaken the traveler within you, inspiring and empowering you to take the leap into independent travel. Through education and inspiration, as well as stories of our own journeys and off-the-beaten-path discoveries, we will guide you in turning what may seem daunting into a beautifu

l reality. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting out, our decades of travel experience will help you plan your next exciting trip with confidence. May you always wander in wonder with open eyes and a kind heart.

18/06/2026

Even after dozens of visits spanning decades, there is still something about the Eiffel Tower that captivates us every time we return to Paris.

Built for the 1889 World’s Fair to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, the tower was originally meant to be temporary. Instead, it became one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world and the enduring symbol of Paris itself.

This reel captures the Eiffel Tower from a variety of perspectives around the city, along with views from each of its levels. From looking up at its intricate ironwork from the streets below to gazing across Paris from its observation decks, every angle seems to tell a different story.

What made this visit especially memorable was experiencing it alongside our young traveler. After an adventure that took us through five countries, countless castles, historic churches, museums, and charming towns, he still named the Eiffel Tower as one of the highlights of the entire trip. Watching him take it all in reminded us why this landmark continues to inspire visitors from around the globe.

Some places lose their magic after repeated visits. The Eiffel Tower isn’t one of them.

As we close in on lifetime Hilton Diamond status, our favorite hotel brand for decades, we are always looking for ways t...
17/06/2026

As we close in on lifetime Hilton Diamond status, our favorite hotel brand for decades, we are always looking for ways to maximize the value of our Hilton Honors points. That is why we absolutely love what Hilton is doing with its new Hilton Honors America Experiences promotion.

To celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, Hilton is releasing a series of unique road trip experiences that can be redeemed for just 250 Hilton Honors points. We are not talking about hotel nights here. These are curated experiences that include things like festivals, outdoor adventures, special events, Hampton by Hilton stays, and even gas cards. Hilton says the experiences are being released throughout the summer on a first-come, first-served basis and are designed to encourage travelers to discover different corners of the country. Next set of experience drop next week.

What I love most is that promotions like this remind us that Hilton Honors is about far more than free hotel nights. Take a few minutes to browse the Hilton Honors Experiences platform and you will find everything from concerts and sporting events to culinary experiences and unique travel opportunities that many members never realize exist.

Travel is ultimately about experiences, memories, and discovering something new. Whether it is a bucket-list event, a unique local festival, or an unforgettable road trip, opportunities like these are a great reminder to look beyond traditional point redemptions and see what else is out there.

Have you ever redeemed Hilton Honors points for an experience rather than a hotel stay? We’d love to hear about it.

Check out the link below.

https://experiences.hiltonhonors.com/the-countdown-to-americas-250th-anniversary/isynmv1/aucd/6284262

It’s Warrior Wednesday, where we visit one of the great warrior destinations from our travels. This week takes us to Mar...
17/06/2026

It’s Warrior Wednesday, where we visit one of the great warrior destinations from our travels. This week takes us to Marksburg Castle, one of Germany’s most remarkable medieval fortresses and one of the few Rhine Valley castles that has never been destroyed.

Perched high above the Rhine River near Braubach, Marksburg has stood watch for more than 700 years. Built in the 12th century, it occupied a commanding position, allowing it to monitor traffic along one of Europe’s most important trade routes while serving as a powerful defensive stronghold.

What makes Marksburg unique is its authenticity. Unlike many castles that were rebuilt after wars or fires, Marksburg survived centuries of conflict largely intact. As you walk through its stone halls, defensive towers, armory, and battlements, you are experiencing a castle that remains remarkably close to its medieval form.

The castle was designed for defense. Its thick walls, narrow passageways, fortified gates, and strategic location made it a formidable obstacle for would-be attackers. Over the centuries, soldiers, knights, and noble families called Marksburg home while protecting this vital section of the Rhine.

Beyond its military history, the setting is spectacular. Surrounded by forested hills, vineyards, and sweeping views of the Rhine, it is easy to see why this region is now part of the UNESCO Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Standing atop the castle walls, you can imagine guards scanning the river for approaching merchants, allies, or enemies.

Marksburg also holds a special place in our Wanderers Compass journey. During our recent visit, it became the 500th castle we have explored around the world. What began years ago as a simple fascination with history has grown into an incredible adventure spanning six continents, hundreds of stories, and countless lessons about the people and cultures that shaped our world. It was extra special to have Ryan’s young son with us at this milestone, as well he loved our guide that made the tour so fun and special.

For castle hunters like us, Marksburg was the perfect place to celebrate this milestone. Few castles better represent the resilience, history, and enduring legacy that keep drawing us back to these remarkable places.

17/06/2026

Sometimes the best views come from changing your perspective.

This reel takes you above and below Thurant Castle, the magnificent fortress overlooking the Mosel Valley near Alken, Germany. From the lush vineyards and winding river below to the castle standing proudly above it all, every angle showcases the incredible beauty of this region.

Built in the 13th century, Thurant Castle has watched over the Mosel for centuries, and today it remains one of the area’s most striking landmarks. Seeing it from both above and below gave us an entirely new appreciation for its scale, history, and setting.

The Mosel Valley amazed us with its fairytale villages, steep vineyards, and stunning castles around every bend.

As we continue our European adventure, we have now arrived in Cochem, (Ko-hem), Germany, a destination that has been ca...
16/06/2026

As we continue our European adventure, we have now arrived in Cochem, (Ko-hem), Germany, a destination that has been calling us back ever since our first visit.

Years ago, Ryan and I briefly passed through this beautiful town along the Mosel River. We only spent a short time here, but it left such an impression that we promised ourselves we would return someday and spend a few nights exploring it properly. This time, we did exactly that.

Our hotel sat along the river with views of the magnificent Cochem Castle while enjoying breakfast each morning while gazing up at one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. Perched high above the town, the castle dominates the skyline and creates the picture-perfect scene that makes Cochem so unforgettable.

Cochem feels almost too perfect to be real. Colorful half-timbered buildings line the waterfront, their reflections dancing across the Mosel. Above it all rises the castle while steep vineyard-covered hills surround the town in every direction. It is the kind of place that makes you slow down, take a deep breath, and simply enjoy where you are.

The history of Cochem stretches back more than a thousand years. While the original Cochem Castle dates to the Middle Ages, it was destroyed by French troops during the Nine Years’ War in 1689. The castle visitors see today was rebuilt in the 19th century in a romantic Gothic Revival style and has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in Germany’s Mosel Valley.

Of course, Cochem is also famous for wine. The steep vineyards surrounding the town produce some of Germany’s finest Rieslings, and the Mosel Valley’s wine culture is woven into daily life here. Every bend in the river seems to reveal another vineyard, another village, and another breathtaking view.

What makes Cochem even more special is its location. It serves as an outstanding base for exploring some of the region’s most remarkable castles, including Burg Eltz, Marksburg, and Thurant Castle, as well as countless picturesque villages tucked throughout the Mosel Valley.

For our young traveler, this stop has been nothing short of magical. Castle after castle, riverside walks, medieval streets, and endless opportunities to ask questions and discover something. There is something special about seeing a child’s imagination come alive while exploring real castles, wandering ancient streets, and learning about the people and history that shaped these remarkable places. For our young traveler, this stop has been nothing short of magical. Castle after castle, riverside walks, medieval streets, and endless opportunities to ask questions and discover something new. He also enjoyed the classic pork schnitzel and loved the sausage dog he got at a castle. The grownups got to enjoy some of the local wine.

Some destinations are beautiful. Others stay with you long after you leave. Cochem falls firmly into the second category. Returning here has only confirmed what we felt during that brief visit years ago. It is one of the most beautiful towns in Germany and a place we are already glad we chose to revisit.

As our 5-country summer adventure continued, our next stop took us to the southern Netherlands and the charming city of ...
14/06/2026

As our 5-country summer adventure continued, our next stop took us to the southern Netherlands and the charming city of Roermond. While it may not be the first destination that comes to mind for many travelers, we have learned time and again that there is so much charm in places that fly a little under the radar.

Roermond proved to be a wonderful base for two nights as we explored this fascinating corner of the Netherlands. The city itself surprised us with its beautiful waterfront, lively atmosphere, and welcoming Dutch charm. Sitting near the borders of Germany and Belgium, the region reflects a blend of cultures that has shaped its history, cuisine, and character for centuries.

Much of our time was spent in nearby Maastricht, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. We explored its historic streets and, of course, had to take the famous cave tour. Although most visitors call them caves, they are actually a vast network of man-made limestone mines carved over hundreds of years. Walking through the underground passages offered a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history and geology. Our young travelers especially got into the tour and was able to saw his own limestone as a souvenir.

Back in Roermond, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay at TheaterHotel De Oranjerie. The hotel was exceptional, combining comfort, elegance, and a fantastic location that made it easy to explore the city on foot. The breakfast is one to write home about and father and son has some fun pool time while Nana stayed back in the room.

Travel constantly reminds us that you should mix it up by choosing off the beaten path destinations as well the main attractions.

Our return to Ghent, Belgium, was something we had been looking forward to for a long time. During our first visit, we o...
13/06/2026

Our return to Ghent, Belgium, was something we had been looking forward to for a long time. During our first visit, we only had a couple of hours to explore and left knowing we needed to come back. This time, we dedicated most of the day to discovering one of Belgium’s most fascinating cities, and it did not disappoint.

One of the highlights was visiting Gravensteen Castle, the mighty medieval fortress that rises above the city center. Built in the 12th century by the Counts of Flanders, it looks like something straight out of a storybook and quickly became a favorite for Ryan’s son. Watching him explore the towers, walls, and hidden corners was so cool.

We also visited Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, home to one of the world’s most celebrated masterpieces, the Mystic Lamb. Seeing this remarkable work of art in person was every bit as impressive as we had imagined.

Even the rain could not dampen our day. Ghent’s lively streets, historic buildings, cozy cafés, and beautiful canals were buzzing with energy. Yet the best part was watching a young traveler experience it all. His eyes light up with every castle, every new food, and every story from history. His curiosity seems endless. He asks questions about local culture and traditions, eagerly samples new foods, and even tries speaking the local language wherever we go. Across the board everyone has been so kind and welcoming.

Moments like these remind us that travel is about far more than the places we visit. It is about inspiring curiosity, building connections, and seeing the world through fresh eyes.

Our stay at Hotel de Castillion in Bruges was nothing short of exceptional.Tucked within a beautifully restored historic...
12/06/2026

Our stay at Hotel de Castillion in Bruges was nothing short of exceptional.

Tucked within a beautifully restored historic building in the heart of Bruges, this family-run boutique hotel perfectly balances old-world charm with modern luxury. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with the kind of warm, attentive service that makes a stay truly memorable. Every interaction felt personal, genuine, and reflective of the pride this family takes in their hotel.

The property itself is stunning. Elegant décor, thoughtfully curated furnishings, and beautiful historic details create an atmosphere that feels both refined and inviting. While the building embraces its heritage, the rooms offer every modern comfort we could ask for, with spacious accommodations, contemporary amenities, and a level of comfort that made it difficult to leave each morning.

Speaking of mornings, breakfast at Hotel de Castillion is an experience all its own. Served in a remarkable medieval cellar, it is the perfect way to begin a day exploring one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. The setting alone is unforgettable, adding yet another layer of history to an already remarkable stay.

The location could not be better. Just steps from Bruges’ iconic canals, historic squares, churches, shops, and restaurants, it provided the ideal base for exploring this UNESCO-listed city while still offering a peaceful retreat at the end of the day.

What made this stay even sweeter was that we redeemed Chase Sapphire Reserve points for our visit. It’s a great reminder that points and miles are not just about saving money, they can open the door to extraordinary experiences and memorable properties that might otherwise be out of reach.

Hotels can provide a place to sleep. Special hotels become part of the destination itself. Hotel de Castillion firmly belongs in the latter category and was one of the highlights of our time in Bruges.

One of the most important ways to experience a destination is through its food, and Belgium certainly did not disappoint...
12/06/2026

One of the most important ways to experience a destination is through its food, and Belgium certainly did not disappoint.

Before arriving, we knew Belgium was famous for a few things: beer, chocolate, and waffles. What we quickly discovered in Bruges is that food is deeply woven into the culture and history of this remarkable country.

Of course, we sampled some traditional Belgian favorites, including the famous beef stew known as Carbonnade Flamande, a rich and hearty dish slow-cooked with Belgian beer. Vol au Vent a definite favorite with chicken in a delicious cream sauce poured into a puff pastry. Seafood also plays a major role in Belgian cuisine, especially here in Flanders, where fresh mussels and other seafood specialties can be found throughout the city.

But let’s be honest. Ryan’s son quickly discovered what many visitors learn almost immediately: Bruges may very well be heaven for anyone with a sweet tooth.

The waffles were impossible to resist. Topped with chocolate, whipped cream, and just about every imaginable topping, they became an instant favorite. Then there was the chocolate. Everywhere we turned, artisan chocolatiers displayed handcrafted creations that looked almost too beautiful to eat. Almost.

Add in the ice cream, nougat, pastries, and incredible croques that seemed to appear on nearly every menu, and it became clear that food is a huge part of the Bruges experience.

What we loved most wasn’t just how good everything tasted. It was how food connected us to the culture. Sitting in a café, sharing a meal, visiting family-owned chocolate shops, and enjoying local specialties allowed us to experience Bruges in a way that museums and landmarks alone never could.

Some of our favorite travel memories come from meals shared around a table, and Bruges reminded us once again why food is such an important part of understanding a destination.

⚔️ It’s Warrior Wednesday, where we visit one of the great warrior destinations from our travels. This week takes us to ...
10/06/2026

⚔️ It’s Warrior Wednesday, where we visit one of the great warrior destinations from our travels. This week takes us to Vianden Castle in Luxembourg, one of the finest and most impressive medieval castles in all of Europe.

Perched high above the Our River and the charming town of Vianden, this magnificent fortress dates back to the 10th century, with much of the castle we see today constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries. Built on the foundations of a Roman and later Carolingian refuge, Vianden evolved into a powerful stronghold that reflected both military necessity and noble prestige.

The Counts of Vianden were among the most influential noble families in the region during the Middle Ages. The castle’s strategic position allowed them to control important routes through the Ardennes while defending their territory from rival powers. Massive defensive walls, towers, fortified gates, and commanding views of the valley below made it a formidable military stronghold.

What makes Vianden particularly fascinating is its architecture. The castle blends Romanesque and Gothic styles, showcasing centuries of expansion and adaptation. The grand chapel, great hall, and residential quarters reveal that this was not only a fortress built for war but also a residence designed to demonstrate wealth and power.

Like many European castles, Vianden experienced periods of decline. After centuries of changing ownership, it was eventually abandoned and fell into disrepair. Remarkably, one of Luxembourg’s most treasured landmarks nearly disappeared altogether. Extensive restoration efforts beginning in the 20th century brought the castle back to life, preserving it for future generations.

Walking through its halls today, it is easy to imagine armored knights preparing for battle, noble families hosting grand gatherings, and sentries watching over the valley for approaching threats. Few castles capture the spirit of medieval Europe quite like Vianden. The museum is excellent and we found this castle one of the most informative castles we have visited. Our young traveler especially enjoyed all he learned.

Today, Vianden Castle stands as one of Luxembourg’s greatest treasures and one of the best-preserved castles in Europe. For castle hunters like us, it is an absolute must-visit and a perfect reminder of why Luxembourg deserves a place on every history lover’s travel list.

Address

Bibury

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Wanderers Compass Travel Blog posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Wanderers Compass Travel Blog:

Shortcuts

Share

Category