“Traveling—it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” —Ibn Battuta

Welcome to Journeys Near and Far

Specializing in Europe and romantic travel

Hi there,

I’m Melody, a Travel Writer and Blogger who loves inspiring others to explore the world.

Whether you want to stroll the moonlit streets of Paris, experience Poland's awe-inspiring Tatra Mountains, or explore Scotland's romantic storybook castles, I hope my stories inspire you to travel the globe.

Majestic Castles

Karlštejn Castle: A Hidden Gem in the Czech Republic

Just 45 minutes from Prague, the Bohemian village of Karlštejn can be found at the foot of its Gothic castle, which sits atop a limestone rock amidst wooded hills overlooking the Berounka River.

Captivating Inveraray Castle – Downton Abbey’s real Duneagle

Downton Abbey’s Duneagle Castle, setting for the season three finale of this wildly popular show, took place in Scotland at the real life Inveraray Castle, a place where I recently payed a visit. Inveraray Castle, the seat of the Duke of Argyll, head of the Campbell Clan, is located in an idyllic spot — on the north-west border of Loch Fyne amid some of the Highlands’ most impressive scenery.

Linlithgow Palace: A Royal Retreat overlooking beautiful Linlithgow Peel

When Scotland’s royals needed a break from the political intrigue of busy Edinburgh, they retreated to Linlithgow Palace, a regal getaway just 15 miles west of the city along the road linking Edinburgh with Stirling.

Ghostly Gallivanting: a look at the world’s most haunted places

If you’re into encounters of the spine-tingling variety, you’re part of a small but passionate group of travelers. “Paranormal Travel” enthusiasts participate regularly in online forums, and there’s even a small cottage industry that specializes in highlighting travel to spooky destinations…

7 London daytrips to add to your bucket list

London is one of my favorite cities. It’s also a great base for daytrips into the surrounding countryside. Here are seven of my favorite London daytrips. You may want to consider them for your next trip!

Why you’ll love Edinburgh Castle

From hilltop citadels to turreted palaces, Scotland is renowned for its iconic castles. Whether you’re interested in romantic ruins, imposing fortresses or tiny, hidden gems, each and every castle– and there are some 3,000 of them — has an intriguing tale to tell.

Scotland’s Eilean Donan Castle: You’ve seen it In films, you’ll love it in person

On the main tourist route to the Isle of Skye, about 134 miles from Inveraray, you’ll find Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic images. Breathtakingly beautiful, it’s one of the most romantic castles I’ve ever seen.

Paradores – Spain’s Historic Hotels

Many peoples’ visions of vacations in Spain are overwhelmed by crowded beaches, partying teenagers and being harassed on Las Ramblas in Barcelona. The Paradores hotels rewrite all these preconceptions – the group of truly unique properties scattered across Spain’s rural, unspoilt regions and towns introduce visitors to a history-rich Spain.

Windswept Dunluce Castle: Romantic Inspiration for Cair Paravel?

It is said that Northern Ireland’s Dunluce Castle may have been the inspiration for Cair Paravel in C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.