Self-described as a ‘travel addict, iPhone photographer, Balkan connoisseur and Master of Europe’, she has a talent for finding herself in the strangest of places… welcome to the envy-inducing life of Larissa aka The Blonde Gypsy. As she discovers the coolest places, she shares with us a thrilling collision of travel, photography and culture via her fascinating blog.
Originally from California, and armed with a recent Masters of Arts in European Studies under her belt, she has been travelling around the European continent (and beyond) her entire life.
“My favourite destinations have been the places you can find little to no information about on Google from Europe to Central Asia,” Larissa tells Culture Trip.
“Having travelled extensively throughout Europe for over 15 years, I decided to move to Kosovo, the continent’s newest nation (depending on who you ask), and lived there for over two years where I explored just about every corner of the Balkan region.”
“This year, I set my sights east and finally got to explore two of the ‘Stans’; Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. As was expected, both were nothing like I had expected and firmly secured my passion for travelling off-the-path.”
Here are some snaps from her most exciting travels.
Marvelling at the Kokino Bronze Age archaeological site in Macedonia…
Horse-trekking to the Jyrgalan village of Kyrgyzstan…
Taking a dip in the Karaburun Peninsula of Albania…
Soaking up historic wonders in Turkistan, Kazakhstan…
Taking a stroll through Trebinje, Bosnia, Herzegovina…
Wandering around the ancient ghost city of Ani in Eastern Turkey…
Hiking for epic views over Brod, Kosovo…
Gazing at the sunset in Cappadocia, Turkey…
Sizing up military relics in Tiraspol, Transnistria…
Savouring Georgian dumplings in Akhaltsikhe…
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>
All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.
Read Next
Music
An Introduction to Folk Instruments: The Kazakh Kobyz
Sports
The Toughest 400m to Run in the World
See & Do
Get Lost in an Underwater Forest in Asia’s Tian Shan
History
Discover the Surprising Rituals of This Forgotten Central Asian Ghost Town
Food & Drink
Most Tourists Will Never Dare Try These Bizarre Kazakh Dishes
Art
Discover the Secret Legacy Behind the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan
Art
Meet the Radical Kazakh Artists Revolutionising Kazakhstan Into the Twenty-First Century
Design
Stunning Architectural Gems That Define the Astana Skyline
Guides & Tips
10 Reasons Why Kazakhstan Is One of the World's Most Underrated Destinations
Sports
A Beginner's Guide to Kazakhstan's Ski Resorts
History
How the Kazakh National Identity is Embodied in A Half-Finished Medieval Mausoleum
Art
From Yurts to Felt Crafting: Exploring Kazakhstan's Fascinating Nomad Culture
Culture Trip Spring Sale
Save up to $1,656 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.
