We Women, have the natural ability to nurture and give, yet there comes a moment when we must pause, reflect, and remind ourselves that self-care is essential before we can care for others.

So, tribe—lace up your shoes and embark on a journey of self-discovery and exploration !!

Solo tripping isn’t just travel; it’s liberation. 

Try it—I did!

“Enchanting Alsace“

Colmar:

Growing up with fairytales in hand, I always dreamed of experiencing magic in real life. 

My first being Colmar, nestled in France’s Alsace region, (also being the birthplace of August Bartholdi, who created The Statue of Liberty) I found my own fairytale!

Imagine charming medieval villages, crisp air, and an ambiance perfect for solitary reflection or sharing moments with loved ones. Every street corner whispered a story, leaving me awestruck…..

I had stepped back in time!

So the best way to discover a new place is seeing it through the eyes of a local!

While the internet offers guidance, the hidden gems of any destination are often revealed by those who call it home. That’s where Chris stepped in— a part-time guide and business school English teacher—who enthusiastically shared these delightful insights!!

Colmar, often hailed as the crown jewel of France’s wine route, sits gracefully in a picturesque valley along the Rhine River, where French elegance meets Germanic heritage.

At the heart of Alsace, the famed Wine Route winds through rolling vineyards and fairytale villages like Eguisheim, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Ribeauvillé—each known for their medieval charm and rich wine traditions.

For food lovers, the region is a true paradise. Renowned for its exceptional wines, Alsace also dazzles with its culinary scene, dotted with Michelin-starred restaurants—a gourmet adventure I plan to savor next time, perhaps with my husband in tow!!

A mini train wound its way through town, inviting me on an adventure. I hopped aboard and felt like a child again, marveling at Colmar’s half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets!!

One sight I simply couldn’t miss was the Pfister House, with its captivating façade adorned with murals depicting biblical scenes and figures, as well as Germanic emperors from the sixteenth century. The day ended with a profound sense of awe and satisfaction!

The following day, I set out to explore the enchanting villages along Alsace’s wine road:

Eguisheim: 

Quaint streets with pastel coloured half timbered houses winding up to the tiny old town square which had a beautiful church was indeed a picture perfect scene !

Their flavored cheese was definitely a highlight and it warmed up our palette beautifully!!

Kaysersberg: 

With postcard-perfect scenery, this enchanting village is nothing short of breathtaking — and at its heart lies the unmissable La Chambard.

La Chambard is more than just a hotel — it’s a soulful experience. The late Anthony Bourdain, revered not only for his culinary expertise but also for his deep empathy and insatiable curiosity about cultures, chose to stay here during his time in Kaysersberg. 

With elegant dishes rooted in Alsatian tradition and a deep connection to the land and people, La Chambard truly captures the essence of this magical region.

The architecture throughout these villages is a charming blend of French and German influences—a nod to their cultural crossroads.

Riquewihr: 

This enchanting fairytale town — said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Beauty and the Beast — truly lived up to its legendary charm.

Riquewihr, with its vibrant facades, cobbled lanes, storybook houses, and iconic clock tower, felt like a step back in time. 

Among its many treasures is a historic winery dating back to 1574, where I indulged in a delightful tasting session. As a white wine enthusiast, I found myself completely smitten — Riesling stole the show.

Alsace, the land of Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris, is a paradise for wine lovers. Each sip is a sensory journey through sun-drenched vineyards, fragrant terroirs, and centuries of winemaking tradition. The region’s storybook villages and age-old cellars blend French romance with German precision, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.

“In Alsace, where every sip of wine whispers tales of the land and its spirit.”

On my last day in Colmar, I treated myself to a perfect finale:

A peaceful boat ride along a serene canal—a truly soul-soothing experience, a taste of the slow life !

Walking in Colmar became a routine for the few days I spent here .., and I had already relished the  delicacies .., today the table was set for a very local meal in their delightfully buzzing square !

Entrée: Tarte flambée
Known as Flamkuchchen in German 
(Somewhat similar to the pizza without the traditional tomato sauce !)

Wine: Pinot Gris, the perfect complement!

Main: Bibalakäs (a creamy cottage cheese dish with sautéed potatoes and some greens with warm cheese), highly fulfilling!

Dessert: pear flavour gelato, just so fruity!

This delectable meal was the ideal capstone to a magical journey. 

Colmar and the Alsace region feel like stepping into a living fairytale—a place I look forward to revisiting sometime .

Solo travel is the start of something amazing… “live your passion, explore what lies beyond and watch how you transform!” is my mantra for self care and self discovery.