Outings Archives - Page 5 of 9 - Stelmaatje Travels

Budapest City Trips Events December 13, 2023December 13, 2023 by Stelmaatje

Christmas Market in Budapest

It was on a cold December morning as I walked through the streets of Budapest, wrapped in a warm winter coat. My curious gaze was immediately drawn to the impressive St. Stephen’s Basilica, where the scent of freshly baked treats and the cheerful sound of Christmas music blended together. The Christmas market at the foot of St. Stephen’s Basilica revealed an array of handmade treasures and Hungarian delicacies. Just a short walk away, on Vörösmarty Tér, I found myself immersed in a lively mix of lights, music, and heartwarming food.

Bruges City Trips Events December 9, 2023December 10, 2023 by Stelmaatje

Bruges Christmas Market

In Bruges, Belgium, the traditional Christmas market transforms into Winter Glow Bruges, featuring two locations – the Markt and Simon Stevinplein – each adding its own character to this winter experience. The Markt offers familiar elements of a classic Christmas market, while Simon Stevinplein emphasizes artisanal products. To escape the winter chill, a popular winter bar awaits at Minnewater, complete with an ice rink.

City Trips Events Ghent December 5, 2023December 6, 2023 by Stelmaatje

Ghent Christmas Market

As the holidays approach, there is no better place to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit than the charming city of Ghent in Belgium. Nestled along the banks of the River Lys, Ghent transforms into a winter wonderland at Christmas, with its streets decorated with twinkling lights and the air filled with the sweet smell of Belgian waffles and mulled wine. The real highlight of the Ghent festive season, however, is the enchanting Christmas market.

Events Vienna November 28, 2023December 11, 2023 by Stelmaatje

Christmas Markets in Vienna 2023

It’s winter in Vienna, and as evening falls, the first snowflakes gently descend. Walking through the city, the aroma of warm glühwein fills the air, accompanied by the joyful laughter of people. The winter chill surrounds you as you find yourself amid Vienna’s Christmas markets. In this blog, I’ll guide you through three different Christmas markets, adorned with festively lit stalls full of artisanal treats and the cozy atmosphere of the holiday season.

Food Groningen October 31, 2023December 1, 2023 by Stelmaatje

American Pancakes in Groningen

For pancake enthusiasts, there is a special place in the heart of Groningen: Blue Bananas Pancake Café. Here, pancakes are not just served casually; they are genuine American pancakes. These small, airy delights are a true pleasure for the lover of American pancakes. At Blue Bananas, they are not only baked with care but also presented in an artistic manner.

American House decorated with Halloween items.

Eindhoven Outings October 29, 2023November 29, 2023 by Stelmaatje

American Style Houses in the Netherlands

Although America is thousands of kilometers away, you don’t necessarily need to book a transatlantic flight to experience the charm of American style houses. In the southern part of the Netherlands, in the Blixembosch neighborhood of Eindhoven, you’ll find a piece of America. The streets are named after legendary American jazz musicians, and the houses themselves exude the typical American atmosphere. You can stroll along Miles Davis Avenue, Chet Baker Lane, and over Count Basie Canal, musicians who ushered in the modern era of America. In this blog post, I’ll take you to this unique place and explore what makes these houses so special.

Standing on the bridge at the Japanese Garden in The Hague

Asian Experiences Events The Hague October 25, 2023January 23, 2024 by Stelmaatje

Japanese Garden in Autumn

On a rainy autumn day, where the leaves slowly changed their colors, I visited the Japanese Garden in The Hague. Raindrops fell on the leaves, creating a calming effect. Located on the idyllic Clingendael Estate, this garden offers an oasis of peace and beauty amidst the seasonal changes.

Ayurveda Food October 24, 2023December 7, 2023 by Stelmaatje

How to Make Paneer Butter Masala

Paneer Butter Masala is a delightful autumn dish that highlights the versatility of seasonal vegetables. You can choose from root vegetables like celeriac and carrots, or experiment with pumpkin and sweet potatoes. These vegetables are combined with creamy cubes of homemade paneer, a sauce made from soaked cashews and pureed tomatoes, enriched with ghee. The paneer absorbs the flavors and adds a creamy texture to the dish, making every bite a delight.

How to Make Your Own Panir: An Ayurvedic Delight

Ayurveda Food October 23, 2023December 7, 2023 by Stelmaatje

How to Make Your Own Paneer: An Ayurvedic Delight

Panir, a versatile Indian cheese commonly used in Vedic cuisine, adds a delightful flavor to a wide range of dishes. From mild to spicy, from appetizers to desserts, this fresh cheese can be enjoyed in many ways. While Panir is readily available in health food stores and other venues, making it yourself is not only more enjoyable but also surprisingly easy. Here’s how you can prepare your own delicious Panir at home, a flavorful addition to your culinary creations!

Ayurveda Food October 19, 2023December 7, 2023 by Stelmaatje

Ayurvedic Cooking in Autumn: A Balance of Flavors and Energies

With the arrival of autumn, the world around us undergoes a transformation. Leaves change colors and temperatures drop. Did you know that this season offers a unique opportunity to adjust your diet? Recently, I attended the workshop “Ayurvedic Cooking in Autumn” by Silvia de Haas. In this article, I’d like to share my insights on how Ayurvedic cooking in autumn can contribute to a balanced well-being.