This place is special to me because my husband proposed to me by a brook off the beaten path at Neuschwanstein Castle. For the less romantically inclined, the Alps are breathtakingly beautiful, and offer hiking in summer and world class skiing in winter (note the Olympic Skistadion). Take the cable car up the Zugspitze, Germany's highest point which is snowcapped year round. The 3 castles in the area are tied to "mad" King Ludwig II, who grew up in Hohenschwangau, built Linderhof, and died before the completion of Neuschwanstein, which later became the inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle. For those wishing to see vintage household and work articles as well as learn how Germans lived in earlier days, visit the Freilicht and Violin museums.Cafes are dotted all over the area where you can partake of a favorite German custom - Kaffee and Kuchen. Have fun like I did and shop for touristy items such as a Dirndl (traditional German dress), Lederhosen, and a cuckoo clock, which are actually made in the Black Forrest. For the best experience, I encourage you to stay with locals, who rent out apartments in their homes.

Kapana is a small walkable district in the town of Plovdiv. Its history dates back to the 16th century, when it was the merchant and crafts center of Plovdiv. A few of its streets are actually named after the craftsmen that practiced there for centuries: Zhelezarska Str. (Blacksmith Str.), Zlatarska Str. (Goldsmith Str.), Abadjiyska Str. (Coat-Tailor Str.), Kozhuharska Str. (Fur-Tailor Str.). The name itself (Kapana) means “trap” or “labyrinth”. And it’s well-deserved too — one can easily get lost in its cobblestoned streets that always meet at peculiar angles. Having lost its liveliness since the mid-20th century (the streets being mostly packed with parked cars), in the past few years the neighborhood has been revived again, largely thanks to Plovdiv's nomination for the European Capital of Culture 2019. Today Kapana is the colorful heart of Plovdiv — a social place with an artistic spirit and unique atmosphere.

This place is special to me because this is where I used to spend my summer vacations as a child and teen. I always stayed in my cousin’s house. It was an adorable typical little house. Ericeira is a small and lovely village. Is a very calm, charming, typical fishing town that is situated along a coastline of outstanding surfing beaches. Nowadays, and because of the boom of surf lovers, Ericeira is a nice fusion of Portuguese heritage houses and atmosphere with a cool surfing ambience, where traditional fishermen’s cottages live amongst trendy lounge bars and cafes. The fresh smell of the sea is all over this place. It’s truly just wonderful.

This place is special to me because... it's my current resting place and I have learnt a lot about life here.

Plovdiv is special to me because of its mix of millennial history, culture and laid back style of its people. It is one of the oldest cities in the world, continuously inhabited throughout the centuries. Among the things to experience here are the ancient roman ruins that lie at the heart of the city, the atmosphere of the old town, the artistic and social places in Kapana district, the monuments and architecture of its recent history and the breathtaking views that open from the tops of its hills.I hope this map will make you think of visiting my hometown!

MAPPING SPECIAL PLACES. With a rich cultural, architectural, and culinary history, downtown Charleston—particularly the French Quarter—is one of my absolute favorite places on the planet! I love to wander the cobblestone streets and take in the beauty of the old buildings and ironwork. There are also alleyways and gardens around every turn...it's a never-ending visual feast of colors and textures that feeds my artistic soul!

I graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design many years ago. I wanted to share an illustrated map that could serve as a guide to students and tourists alike who want to explore some favorite spots in the historic district.

This place is special to me because it allows me to really experience what it means to be a Canadian. From the vast wildlife and foliage, to incredible sights in every direction you look, there is never a dull moment while exploring Banff National Park. The turquoise blue lakes are exceptionally picturesque. While the Rocky Mountains always offer challenging hikes that take me to new heights. Every trip brings new experiences, breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures. Downtown Banff has a delicious food scene and plenty of shops to spend hours perusing. There are plenty of activities for the young and old during any time of the year. This National Park is one of many Canadian treasures which I can’t get enough of!

Lots of fun places to eat, drink and enjoy the summer in South County!

Isle of Palms, South Carolina is the beach where I spent most of my childhood summers. There's no better place for a long barefoot walk along the surf.

The Isle of Mull was one of our favourite place in Scotland! We spent two days exploring the island and had the time of our lives…

The beautiful town of Tobermory (house to the only whisky distillery on the island) was a favourite! But we also enjoyed smaller less touristic areas such as the Isle of Mull Weavers yarn factory and the lovely Isle of Mull cheese farm…

I love this fictional town, “where everybody fits in”! As a Canadian I’m so proud of this gem. I live in a small rural town, but not as fun filled or interesting as these characters & this town! If you watch it, you’ll get this map, as I only had room to add icons from a few of my favourite episodes. There’s no real direction or compass “rose” pun intended, but just wandering through this town would prove interesting! Digitally illustrated with love! and watch out for the poison oak!

map of random places that I love in Hackney

An Illustrated map of Castellón, a small city part of Comunidad Valenciana.