Cardiff, Wales.

Dragons are for real, and castles are the city center.

Being only a short four hour bus ride from London, it was ideal for a day trip in between studying. In less than 24 hours I was falling in love with this city and it’s excessively elongated language. Not only did it have the cutest hostel, but also the cutest coffee shop. Cute may sound like a kiddish compliment, but these were exceptionally inspirational. The hostel had daybeds in their lobby, fabrics galore, mason jars scattered, and a desired quaintness. The coffee shop had dozens of different light fixtures, exposed brick, and sea-foam colored tea pots – what more could a girl ask for?

The cities main park was filled with blooming tulips shouting spring, an incredibly peaceful river, and these flowers that look as if they came straight out of a Dr. Seuss book.

Without even scavenging the entire town, I knew it was a splendid place. It’s more of an underrated tourist attraction, making it even more appealing to a traveler like me.

A hidden gem of sorts.