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Europe, Here I Come

April 4, 2011 by Julie 271 Comments

I feel like it has been ages since I’ve packed a salad for lunch.

Monday Lunch

I honestly don’t put too much thought into my lunches (I just make sure to have some veggies, carbs and protein), and find that I fall into patterns. This is not to say that eating bagelwich after bagelwich is a bad thing, but sometimes a girl needs a little variety in her life!

This afternoon I enjoyed a salad with lots of toppings.

All Topped Off

In the mix:

  • Lettuce
  • Black beans
  • Beets
  • Grape tomatoes
  • Carrots
  • Annie’s Naturals light honey mustard vinaigrette dressing

Served on the side: A pear (for a pear!) and a stick of string cheese.

Pear

I love cramming a ton of veggies into my mid-day meal. It makes me feel like Super(health)woman!

Now for some FUN stuff! 😀

Europe, Here I Come

I have some exciting news…

In exactly one short month, I will be boarding a plane to Europe!

As you may know, my little sister is graduating from college at the end of April. As her graduation present, my parents are taking our family to Europe! We will be visiting Italy (Florence, Lucerne, Rome and Venice), Switzerland (Lugano), France (Paris) and England (London).

PBF Invades Europe!

I have only been to Europe (Paris) once when I was in sixth grade and I don’t really remember much about it. When my family began talking about taking a trip overseas several months ago, I immediately expressed my interest. I wasn’t sure whether or not the trip would actually happen, so when my parents started talking seriously about it last Sunday, I got really, really excited.

Things happened pretty quickly, and before I knew it, last week I got a text message from my mom telling me that everything was all set!

We will be traveling with a tour group which I think will be perfect since it will allow us to see a lot of different sites without feeling overly stressed about organizing transportation, hotel stays and activities.

My family and I will be traveling for 12 days (goodbye to all of my vacation days at work!) and I plan to blog as often as I can without letting it interfere with our travels. I also have some other fun ideas for the blog during this time that I’m excited to share with you guys. 😀

For now, I need some advice!

  • We will each be packing only one carry-on for the entire 12-day trip. This means I will be re-wearing practically everything I pack. I seriously have no idea where to begin when it comes to planning for a trip like this, so any advice you may have for packing light for a long trip to Europe would be amazing!
  • What foods do I absolutely have to try on my trip? I’m planning on gaining approximately 30 pounds, so nothing is off limits. 😉

P.S. The Fashion page was updated today!

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I'd love to connect with you! I am always so grateful when you let me know you tried one of my recipes or workouts and tag me in your photos or updates. Thank you so much!!!

Filed Under: Lunch, Travel, Uncategorized Tagged With: Europe, lunch, salad

About Julie

My name is Julie and I am a full-time blogger, new mama, fitness enthusiast (certified personal trainer and group exercise instructor) and food fanatic (mostly healthy... but also not-so-healthy) living in North Carolina with my husband, dog and baby boy. Thank you for visiting Peanut Butter Fingers! I hope you enjoy little glimpses into my life and have fun trying the sweaty workouts I frequently share and making some of my favorite recipes along the way!

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Comments

  1. Melissa says

    April 4, 2011 at 6:31 pm

    In Paris definitely try a camembert and jam crepe, so good! And in Italy, eat as much gelato as you can, as well as panzanella (bread salad) and pappa al pomodoro (bread soup). I’m pretty sure I gained 30 pounds just eating those three things in Italy! 🙂 Oh and in London, don’t get fish and chips in a pub…get it at one of the totally packed lunch spots where they serve it in paper cones and you walk around the street eating it. It’s seriously the best ever!

    Reply
  2. Chelsea says

    April 4, 2011 at 6:36 pm

    One of my favorite blogs – http://mrmrsglobetrot.blogspot.com/
    they traveled around Europe for like 6 months together with only one carry on item (I think or not a lot at least!). You can see her post on packing and what to bring and everything here – http://mrmrsglobetrot.blogspot.com/2011/02/whats-in-my-suitcase.html

    Hope it helps <3

    Reply
  3. Shelby says

    April 4, 2011 at 6:39 pm

    I hardly ever comment, but I’m so excited for you I just have to!! I’m leaving for Paris in a couple months to study abroad and I’m beyond excited! My brother just got back from Italy last night, so all this Europe talk is making me so excited I can hardly contain myself! I’ve been thinking a lot about the packing dilemma too, especially since my study abroad handbook says it costs about $15 to do a load of laundry in Paris. I plan on bringing simple sundresses, skirts and shirts that can be dressed up or down and rearranged so I can switch my outfits up. I think the hardest part will be shoes! I find it so hard sometimes to find shoes that are both comfortable AND cute! All of these comments have been a huge help for me too! I can’t wait to hear all about your trip on the blog! 🙂

    Reply
  4. Joanna says

    April 4, 2011 at 6:43 pm

    When I read your title, I nearly jumped off my seat! So happy for you! I studied abroad in London last Spring and have been nostalgic almost everyday of my life. In London, YOU MUST TRY HOBNOBS. They’re available in all supermarkets and it’s basically a tube of biscuits (1/2 chocolate on one side). IT’S A MAJOR ADDICTION. (Google “hobnob”).

    Btw, I read your blog everyday for gym inspiration haha because I try to pull myself out of bed every morning to work out.

    Reply
  5. Ashlee says

    April 4, 2011 at 6:52 pm

    Must be nice to be a spoiled little princess…

    Reply
  6. Sophie says

    April 4, 2011 at 6:54 pm

    I studied abroad in Florence and you have to go to La Carraia Gelato across the Arno (in the Oltrarno) to get gelato… and you must try buccatini amatriciana and osso bucco!

    Reply
  7. rebecca says

    April 4, 2011 at 6:56 pm

    Hi 🙂 I’ve never commented before but have been reading your blog for a while now and LOVE IT! You’re the first food blog/blog at all I started following and you’ve really got me into it all! (your name drew me in… I always eat peanut butter out the jar!!)

    Also- I am a MASSIVE Sadie fan and always show the pictures to my boyfriend- he’s agreed we can get a vizla one day!!!
    But anyway- just very excited that you will be coming from England as that’s where i live 🙂 – not really sure what food we have to offer as I think I take most of it for granted- but just seen the above comment and if you don’t have hobnobs you HAVE to try them. We go to europe a lot on holiday and I think people have said most of the important ones- definitely ice cream in italy. And CHOCOLATE in switzerland!!!!

    Hope you have an awesome time and thanks for doing such an amazing blog!!! x

    Reply
    • peanutbutterfingers says

      April 4, 2011 at 7:59 pm

      yay for a first-time comment! 🙂 i am SO excited for chocolate & ice cream!

      Reply
  8. Corbett says

    April 4, 2011 at 6:57 pm

    Gelato, eat a lot and often! My favorite was pistachio.

    Reply
  9. Elizabeth says

    April 4, 2011 at 6:58 pm

    How wonderful!! My hubs and I went to Italy in September 2010 and it was the best experience ever! I just recently started a blog and have been posting pictures and plan to all week! email me if you have ANY questions! I must say, Rick Steves was a lifesaver!

    You will LOVE it!

    Reply
  10. Lauren says

    April 4, 2011 at 7:04 pm

    I just spent a semester abroad in Florence and it was the best four months of my life I am so jealous! I have SO many good suggestions for restaurants in Florence to go eat (Gusta Pizza and Gusta Osteria are casual pizza and pasta restaurants, but AMAZING and the best you will have in Florence. you HAVE to go to Gusta Pizza while you are there!!) when i have more time I will send more suggestions!

    Reply
  11. Amy says

    April 4, 2011 at 7:09 pm

    Wow! That is so cool! Sounds like you are going to have the time of your life! I am super excited to read about travels in Europe! Yay! And double yay for your sister’s upcoming graduation!
    Oh and maybe you can bum some space in Ryan’s carry on! That’s what I do with the Mr. when we travel!

    Reply
  12. Kristen says

    April 4, 2011 at 7:13 pm

    EUROPE! that is awesome. my dad just retired last year and we went to Ireland it was a blast!
    let me know if you need any tips

    Reply
  13. Amna says

    April 4, 2011 at 7:28 pm

    what tour group are you using?? i’m trying to plan a trip with italy and france and was thinking globus tours?

    Reply
    • peanutbutterfingers says

      April 4, 2011 at 7:57 pm

      that’s who we’re using!

      Reply
  14. Kate says

    April 4, 2011 at 7:32 pm

    Well, basically anything you eat in those places will be good! The only thing I found I didn’t like were most of the sweets in London. I found a Baklava store (I never knew there was more than one kind!) that was awesome, but I went to Hamleys (a toy store with a candy shop at top) and was excited to try all these different candies, but I really didn’t like any of them. They have great dried fruit stands and if amazing sandwiches and quick sandwich bars. Also, Marks and Spence has great to-go meals. Such a wider selection than grocery stores in the US. They’re also very affordable.

    In Italy, um, everything is fantastic. I gained 10 lbs from gelato alone during my semester in Florence, for no gelato stand is alike (I even found a place that sold soy gelato!). The sandwiches are fantastic as is the bread and pasta (of course). What is so tough is that they have all their sandwiches in the windows and they’re tough to pass up. The market in Florence is fantastic, so check that out for shopping and food. You can get a multi course meal very inexpensively and it will be great.

    As for Paris, I am a vegetarian, so I found it a bit difficult to eat here, but I became addicted to the Gran Marnier crepes. Crepe stands abound and they are great. I was going to try different types every day, but couldn’t stray from the GM one after I tried it. Of course, if you don’t like GM you wouldn’t like it 🙂

    Just try a little of everything and you’ll have a great time! So jealous!

    Reply
  15. pawsitivelife says

    April 4, 2011 at 7:39 pm

    I am so excited for you. I am going to Europe this summer too, but not the places you are going. Italy is by far my favourite. All I can say is gelato, gelato, gelato and tomatoes and mozzarella for some reason they taste much better there. Word to the wise, although you are packing light make sure you have things that cover knees and shoulders, many sites in Europe wont let you tour unless you are ‘decent’

    Reply
  16. Megan@eatmybeets says

    April 4, 2011 at 7:43 pm

    soooo jealous! You are going to have the BEST time! I want to go back to Europe so badly. Actually I want to go on vacation ANYWHERE so badly haha.

    Reply
  17. Whitney says

    April 4, 2011 at 8:13 pm

    Julie- I visited London for a week a few years back in college- the food was different, but interesting! we ate subway one day and they offered CORN as an option…huh?!? haha

    we found a drink they made that was delicious! it’s called SNAKEBITE. the local college kids made us try it. forgot exactly what’s in it- a few dark beers, some grenadine… sounds crazy but it was awesome!!

    you MUST drink one for me!!!! 🙂

    Reply
  18. Rachel says

    April 4, 2011 at 8:21 pm

    In Paris, you have to go to Berthillon! It’s a famous ice cream/sorbet spot….seriously amazing! It’s in I’ile de Saint Louis. What an exciting trip! Have so much fun!

    Reply
  19. Melissa says

    April 4, 2011 at 8:25 pm

    Incredible! I have never been to Europe, so I am looking forward to reading along while you travel! Have an amazing time! 😀

    Reply
  20. anon says

    April 4, 2011 at 8:27 pm

    Wow that sounds great! I live in a big city outside London, but i’ve been to london a few times.

    You might wanna go to the houses of parliament in westminster abbey, hyde park, a boat ride on the river thames etc.

    i seriously feel like going over to London to say Hi 😀

    Reply
  21. Natalie @ ittleedibles says

    April 4, 2011 at 8:42 pm

    Julie! I’m your girl – I used to live in Italy and spent many weeks traveling in a BACKPACK. I am a super high-maintenance girly girl. Let me just say – versatility, layers, comfort! Italy will be warm, Paris will be moderate as will London and maybe even a little chilly this time of year, especially in evenings – I’d bring sundresses, skirts, things that are really comfy for traveling – and know that no matter where you go you’re going to feel like an AMERICAN. In Italy you’re going to get so much attention because you’re blonde! In Paris you’re just going to feel like a tourist! Things to eat – ITALIAN GELATO AND PIZZA. I know this sounds so cliche, but believe me, it is nothing like either of the things in the states – get the gelato in Florence for sure, and when you get pizza, get it somewhere small and quiet, not “the big pizza place on the main piazza in Rome.” If you don’t see a lot of Americans around, go there. That’s my general advice. In Paris, MACAROONS! You MUST go to one of the patisseries and get some, and you MUST get some French bread, cheese, and wine and find a park and a picnic blanket. MUST MUST MUST. In Venice, let yourself get lost – it’ll happen even if you don’t try. Just don’t get lost after dark. Get a venetian mask.

    HAVE AN AMAZING TIME! Florence is one of my favorite cities in the whole world. It is so beautiful. Please have a great time, bring LAYERS and cute comfy ballet flats (never tennis shoes!) and classy sandals… if you want to fit in a little better, may I recommend going to Zara if there is one near you- it is a big store in Italy (there’s one in Florence actually) and they have great international fashion.

    One last word – leave room in your suitcase to bring souvenirs and new clothing home!!

    Reply
  22. Kris says

    April 4, 2011 at 8:43 pm

    I’m going to be in Rome, Florence and Venice in May too! I’ll keep my eyes open for you!

    On a side note, I love your blog and read it everyday! Thanks for the daily motivation =)

    Reply
  23. Lizzy says

    April 4, 2011 at 8:43 pm

    You should DEFINITELY go to Navona Notte in Rome. My Italian neighbor recommended it, and it was one of the best meals of my life. I’ve been twice over the past few years, and it was equally delicious each time. Plus it’s reasonably priced! A walk over to Piazza Navona before or after is also worth it.

    You should also make sure to go to the outdoor markets across Europe. They are so incredible, and it makes me wish we had the same thing in the US. In London, I strongly recommend Borough Market and Portabello Road.

    Reply
  24. KaraHadley says

    April 4, 2011 at 8:46 pm

    1-Pack light, loose layers in mostly solid colors. You won’t win any fashion awards, but you can mix and match well.
    2-Make sure you have plenty of things that cover your knees and shoulders. A lot of older Churches (especially in Italy and Paris) are strict about that policy and won’t let you in if either is showing.
    3-I saw your tweet and Toms are an ah-maze-ing idea! They’re definitely not grandma shoes. I can almost guarantee you’ll see a lot of young people in Europe wearing them, or shoes similar. But more importantly, they’re ridiculously comfortable and easy to pack. They fold up into almost nothing, come in a variety of colors and prints, and are for a good cause. I’m not a grandma, but I own 3 pairs and can’t get enough of them.
    Have fun with your trip.

    Reply
  25. Lisa @ Fit in the Midwest says

    April 4, 2011 at 9:55 pm

    I am sure everyone else has given you great comments on what to eat and what to wear. I just saw Lugano and freaked out! I lived there in 2005-2006 and studied at the University there. It’s so beautiful. You’ll have to run along the lake and take some pictures for me! Lots of tours stop there, so I am not sure where you will be eating, but the town itself has some pretty good Italian restaurants.

    You said Lucerne was in Italy, but it’s in Switzerland as well. Love all of the Swiss German food and never got sick of it! If you can, try raclette in a Swiss German region or in Lugano. The fondue is so good too!

    Reply
  26. Tricia says

    April 4, 2011 at 10:52 pm

    Laduree in Paris for the delicious macaroons!!!

    Giolitti’s in Rome- best gelato ever (try the marron glaces *candied chestnuts*) it is out of this world

    Di Pietro in Rome- order the gnocchi with pesto and asparagus they are little pillows of heaven
    6-8 Piazza San Paolo, 00153 Rome, Italy
    06 57 80 252

    Matricianella in Rome- best mozzarella they bring it in from Naples daily!!!
    Via del Leone, 4
    00186 Rome, Italy
    066 832100

    London
    See We will rock you the musical/play. It is based off of Queen’s music but is honestly out of all the plays/musicals it completely blew me away

    Borough market its a must for sampling and wandering around. It is near the Globe Theatre

    Also if you want to see the world’s best whole foods they actually have maps for you when you enter the store!! It is the one in Kensington

    Florence has great open air markets and Venice has beautiful glass works

    Wear comfortable but chic shoes. I wore my ked ballet flats around for the summer in europe. Dress in layers, it can get cool at night.

    I know you will have the best time!!!

    Reply
  27. Alexa @ SimpleEats says

    April 4, 2011 at 10:59 pm

    Oh my gosh, I have SO many ideas for you! I studied abroad in London for a semester, so I can definitely give you some tips for that.
    London:
    -Go to Edgware Road…amazing food like baklava and schwarma.
    -Harrods: Just walk in and roam around, it’s gorgeous! They even have huge multiple rooms JUST for gourmet and specialty foods.
    -Check out any museum you can, they are all gorgeous (and usually free!)
    France:
    -All of the coffee drinks are amazing, and try escargot!
    -Any fish or duck dish you get will be amazing.
    Italy:
    -Gelato (obviously)
    -Limoncello…it’s just amazing.
    -Any bolognese sauce will be to die for.
    -Buy art there! They have the most gorgeous paintings for your apartment in little, hidden art shops.

    I will give you tons more tips if you want to email me, haha. Also, if you need a guest post, I’d be more than happy to help!

    Reply
  28. Michelle @thearnolds.wordpress.com says

    April 4, 2011 at 11:38 pm

    Congrats on your trip! Very exciting! As a business traveler, I am the Queen of Packing! The trick is really in the folding. I am also a HUGE fan of packing cubes. In terms of rewearing, make sure you can wear each item more than once and that it can fit into another outfit. Although tedious, I find making a list is really helpful, with each outfit detailed and pre-planned. Note: Italy can have very dirty streets and can leave you feet and long skirts/dresses dirty. I would not recommend white skirts, pants or shorts unless you are really careful. Another option is to plan around a color scheme. For example, I am also heading to Italy in a few weeks and have decided to wear a blue/coral color scheme. Wearing like colors for the entire trip means that I can bring fewer accessories and pack a but less. As for food — try everything! Please let me know if you need food recommendations in Rome and Florence! Hope this helps!

    Reply
  29. Angie says

    April 5, 2011 at 12:09 am

    Sounds like it will be an amazing trip! I’ve been to Europe and we never used a tour guide, so it was a lot more expensive and disorganized. Have fun though!

    Reply
  30. Andreea @Our Journey To USA says

    April 5, 2011 at 12:48 am

    Switzerland chocolate have earned an international reputation for high quality. The famous Toblerone came from Switzerland; so you Must try it!

    Did you know there’s a The Swiss Chocolate Train ? Plus, Lugano is known as “Monte Carlo of Switzerland, but also a town of parks and flowers, villas and sacred buildings.

    Lugano is the warm spot of Switzerland, so you can wear your favourite skirts.

    Reply
  31. Andrea P says

    April 5, 2011 at 12:58 am

    So excited for you! Thought of an awesome packing tip, not sure if anyone mentioned it but rolling tank tops/small items and putting them in your shoes saves a LOT of space! I’m frantically packing for a week long trip and trying to fit everything in one carry on, just thought of this and had to share 🙂

    Can’t wait to read about your trip!!

    Reply
  32. Kari says

    April 5, 2011 at 1:43 am

    I went to France when I was five so I don’t remember but my parents never stop talking about this pizza they got out of a foodcart there. Instead of tomato sauce the shimp pizaa had -get this- cream drizzled atop it! Kind of like a carbonara pizza. I hope to one day taste it:)

    Reply
  33. Jenny C says

    April 5, 2011 at 2:01 am

    There is a restaurant called “Le Garrick” in Covent Garden in London. It’s a really quirky French restaurant but it does all sorts. The steak is amazing!!!

    Reply
  34. kat says

    April 5, 2011 at 2:33 am

    which tour company are you traveling with? I work for a worldwide tour company and i’m actually based in Lucerne, Switzerland now (and for the past 3 years) you will LOVE it here.. absolutely breathtaking. Have a wonderful trip!

    Reply
    • peanutbutterfingers says

      April 5, 2011 at 6:25 am

      Globus!

      Reply
  35. Hilary says

    April 5, 2011 at 2:52 am

    so, I never comment, but I thought I should on this post… I am a pbf reader and live in Lugano, Switzerland! You are going to have a wonderful time. I hope the weather will be great for you while you are here 🙂

    Reply
  36. Geraldine says

    April 5, 2011 at 3:38 am

    I lived in London last year and my food highlight was afternoon tea at The Berkeley in Knightsbridge. It was so amazing for my eyes and mouth! 🙂 Beautiful sandwiches, every tea you could ever imagine and mouthwatering cakes and biscuits inspired by designer clothes.

    Wahaca in Covent Garden has amazing Mexican food and you don’t need to book a table.

    And a place called Snog does yummy frozen yoghurt.

    Layer up your clothes b/c the tube can get ridiculously hot and outside might not be…
    The London Eye is pretty amazing as long as you’re not afraid of heights!

    The one place I wish i’d been to but didn’t get to, was the Tower of London, it has so much history behind it. If you’ve ever read a Phillippa Gregory book you’ll know what i’m talking about!

    Reply
  37. Nerida says

    April 5, 2011 at 3:46 am

    Was going to mention that I thought Lucerne was in Switzerland, but I see comment 183 said it!

    In terms of gelato in Italy- try buffalo mozzarella flavour if you see it. Trust me 🙂

    In France try and eat a few rillettes (pork or duck) and I’ll jealously look on. Also, if you go to a supermarket (for example Carrefours) in France check out the gorgeous yoghurt pots- you can buy them in pretty individual ceramic or glass pots.

    Reply
  38. Kristen - Anywhere There's An Airport says

    April 5, 2011 at 3:59 am

    What a wonderful trip!

    I am actually from Orlando, and currently living in Madrid, Spain.

    I am queen of “only one carry-on” packing. The cheap airlines in Europe only allow 1! Not 1 and a purse, ONE! And they watch you put your purse in you other suitcase. Moving on… 🙂

    I always pack layers. Things you can wear over and under signature pieces to create different outfits. You can save space on shoes too. Pack comfortable, yet fashionable (obviously!) It won’t be cold, but sweaters and light scarves could be needed in the evening. This changes the look of any outfit.

    With every trip I streamline my own packing a little more… and still overpack. We just don’t need as much as we think we do. Oh, and save room for the purchases. I was recently in Paris and had to sit on my bag to zip it up! 🙂

    I have a page on my site that recaps some of my travels – Rome and Paris, are the only two cities that match your itinerary I believe.

    I think I am going to be home in Orlando when you are flying over this way… funny.

    If you are need a guest post on travel or moving abroad during your adventures I would be honored to contribute.

    Happy Packing! No doubt your trip will be amazing!

    Reply
  39. Janiek says

    April 5, 2011 at 6:17 am

    Well, in france, if your a fan of wine, I can reccomend buying an expensive glass of the best wine in a restaurant, French wine is worth it!! I’ve never been to Italy but if you need food related tips: watch eat pray love! As far as Switzerland goes, I wasn’t a huge fan of their food when I was on a trip there, but rösti is pretty nice, and I guess you have to try the cheese fondue, but I found the cheese to be too sweet. England is not really that different from other countries. You should have an english breakfast, just so you can say you had one. And as far as tips about London go, I have a few! If you want to visit a musical,I would say: go see Avenue Q, but unfortunately it’s not on west end any longer. I went to see it this summer and it was awesome! Behind the theater of avenue Q is a little italian restaurant which served an amazing pizza! Also, you can not miss the harrods food section. IT IS AWESOME. It feels like walking around in the willy wonka chocolate factory! Oh and another thing, have an hightea in london. There’s this one place, called the orangerie. It is a part of kensington palace which is in the middle of kensington park, it is absolutely gorgeous. And the high-tea isn’t too pricey either, but make sure you make a reservation or come there on time, because it is a popular place. Here’s a link to more information: http://www.hrp.org.uk/KensingtonPalace/Foodanddrink/Orangery.aspx (AND YES, IT IS JUST AS GORGEOUS AS THE PICTURES!)
    Oh and one other thing, as far as packing goes, make sure you have an umbrella in London. It can rain for just two minutes, but when it rains, it poors!
    Okay, I’ll stop myself from talking about London now, I just love that city.
    Too bad you won’t be stopping by my country: The Netherlands. You could be eating your cheesy heart out here!
    Have so much fun, I’m sure you will love Europe just as much as I do.

    xoxo

    Janiek

    Reply
    • Julie @ Peanut Butter Fingers says

      April 5, 2011 at 9:47 am

      oh high tea sounds like so much fun!!!

      Reply
      • Janiek says

        April 5, 2011 at 11:24 am

        It is! And they had the weirdest kind of tea’s. My sis had, if I remember correctly, a milk chocolate tea, it was pretty good! And the green tea there, AMAZING. Haha, but maybe that was just because I was extremely thirsty:p

        Reply
  40. Janiek says

    April 5, 2011 at 6:21 am

    Oh haha, I have to mention one more thing about London (yep, I have an obsessiong), If you have the time, make sure you visit camdens lock, it has some really cool food stalls of mostly asian food, and you can eat your food sitting on old scooters! (http://www.google.nl/imgres?imgurl=http://images.travelpod.com/users/rainylin/1.1224280800.26-mar-10-cute-food-court.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.travelpod.com/s/camden%2Bcourt%2Bhotel&usg=__9EKp9qtvHA801Yoj36zOKLpFIZQ=&h=413&w=550&sz=120&hl=nl&start=55&zoom=1&tbnid=yt0DHluQf1XsBM:&tbnh=127&tbnw=179&ei=4eyaTaSiOZHpOcGClOwG&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dcamdens%2Block%2Bfood%26um%3D1%26hl%3Dnl%26biw%3D1345%26bih%3D583%26tbm%3Disch&um=1&itbs=1&iact=rc&dur=296&oei=w-yaTayUIcqEOueu6PgG&page=4&ndsp=19&ved=1t:429,r:8,s:55&tx=86&ty=56) nope I ain’t jokin’!

    Okay, now I’ll shut up, I promise!

    Reply
  41. Runi says

    April 5, 2011 at 8:09 am

    Hi there

    I read your blog very often, but have never commented here.
    I was in Florence last year, you should go eat lunch at the mercato centrale. If you can, try a glass of montalcino there. Be careful because it shuts everyday at 2:00 pm.

    I’ll be in Paris towards the end of the month. Will say hello if I see you 🙂

    Have never been to the US myself, would love to go there!

    Reply
    • Julie @ Peanut Butter Fingers says

      April 5, 2011 at 9:46 am

      thank you so much for commenting! i hope we run into each other! 😀

      Reply
  42. Katie says

    April 5, 2011 at 8:19 am

    I’m a day late on this one, but I always pack one outfit that I wear only for traveling. That way on the way back, you’re not sitting on a plane for several hours in stinky clothes. 🙂

    Eat the tiramisu!!!! I had this in Paris and it was phenomenal!

    Reply
  43. Lisa says

    April 5, 2011 at 8:28 am

    Hope you and your family have an amazing time. I’ve been to several European countries, but that was way, way back in my teens. So my advice for you from some things I remembered. Pack a voltage adapter and make sure you use the right connection (a friend learned the hard way what happens when you don’t). Gelato is a must in Italy. My favorite was coconut from this place smack next to our hotel in Rome. (too many years ago to remember the name..sorry). E-how might have some advice on how to pack a suitcase for a long trip (or Martha Stewart’s site may as well). Also, go to LL Bean for ways to travel with your money (and other belongings) safely. And pack extra batteries for your camera. Have a wonderful time.

    Reply
  44. Nicole says

    April 5, 2011 at 8:52 am

    Such a great trip planned, you’ll have a great time!! I think you’ve received enough advice on the food, I have one for packing though…after you finish, take out 5-10 things. You’ll want to bring so much back and at that point will certainly be over the weight limit. Plus keep it simple, live like the europeans 😉

    Reply
  45. Christina says

    April 5, 2011 at 9:11 am

    This trip sounds amazing! I’ve only been to London when my sister studied abroad there but my two favorite (food) places were:
    – Snog (tart frozen yogurt!)
    – Hummus Bros — an entire restaurant for hummus!!
    Also, the Indian food and Thai food are really amazing there!
    Have sooo much fun 🙂

    Reply
  46. Brittany says

    April 5, 2011 at 10:15 am

    Hi! I’m currently studying in London and have been here since January and have been going on weekend trips everywhere so I’m not a pro at packing light! I also somehow did 9 days in Italy with just a JanSport backpack! When packing I stick with my basics I need to have, like my favorite pair of jeans. I also stick with a lot of layering pieces in colors that will go together easy. This way you can mix and match items and not look like you wore the same shirt in pictures all week! Also make sure you bring good walking shoes – the best way to see Italy is by walking around!

    When in Florence you must go to Gusta Pizza! We ended up going there twice (I believe I have picture on my blog) and it was amazing… they are closed Mondays, though. Also, if you have time, go to the Chianti countryside for a half day wine tour, it is beautiful there! In Italy look for restaurants that have the word Trattoria (I think that is how it’s spelt) becuase it means it is family owned.

    In London, the international food is much better than the typical English food. However, if you can get your hands on real fish and chips it is well worth it. There is a restaurant called the Volunteer on Baker St which is really good and is right next to the BEAUTIFUL Regent’s Park where I go to school (which you should try to see, there is even the London zoo!) Indian food is really good here. Also try to do high tea at a place like Harrod’s.

    If you have any questions about London I’m a pro at living here by now so let me know!

    Have fun 🙂

    Reply
  47. Amber K says

    April 5, 2011 at 10:43 am

    Have an amazing time!!! I went to Europe and visited seven different countries about a decade ago (wow can’t believe it has been that long!) And I can’t wait to go back someday. 🙂

    Reply
  48. Stephanie Clement says

    April 5, 2011 at 10:49 am

    HIIIII Julie!!

    My parents did the same thing with my family when I graduated high school and I can say that it was the best trip of my life. My advice is to be SPONTANEOUS!!! We had very little planned, besides the cities we were going to visit, and it was awesome!! Especially meals. We would walk and walk and walk and walk and when we were about to DIE from hunger, we’d stop at the nearest, nicest looking place and dig in. It was never a mistake…because even for the duds, there was always a story to tell about them!!

    I’m insanely jealous!! Have an amazinggggg trip!!!!!!

    Reply
  49. Tianna says

    April 5, 2011 at 11:08 am

    Hi!

    Best source for travel information and reviews is http://www.tripadvisor.com/. This is how we navigated the restaurants and sights on a trip to Paris, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Helsinki, Talin, St. Petersburg, Stockholm and Berlin for a month this summer. It will be your best friend for getting all the specific details for every sight, restaurant and activity they have in each city! Europe is so exciting, I hope you have a wonderful trip! It will probably be quite warm when you go so bringing light layering basics will be great, that way you can just peel them off as the day goes on.

    Enjoy every minute of it 🙂

    Reply
  50. Ashley says

    April 5, 2011 at 11:59 am

    Paris – Pain au chocolate. I think I ate at least 2 per day.

    Italy – Pizza (even at the roadside gas stop places, it’s amazing). Pasta. GELATO.

    Reply
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Hi! I’m Julie and I am a mom to three energetic boys and a personal trainer and blogger living in Charlotte, North Carolina. Welcome to my blog! Peanut Butter Fingers follows my life and my interests in food, fitness, family, travel and (mostly) healthy living.
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