“Fairytale” The Sagrada Familia was one of t “Fairytale” 

The Sagrada Familia was one of the most magical of all our experiences in Barcelona.

I planned our visit for the early evening, trying to time it to golden hour when we had the best chance of strong sun rays streaming through the stained glass windows at just the right angle for the light to dance across the cathedral in the riotous display of color it’s known to create. 

While instead we had mostly overcast skies, nothing could detract from the beauty and intricacy of the design. It was truly breathtaking and as I ran towards it I truly felt like I was stepping into a fairytale.

The Sagrada Familia cathedral is a must-visit in Barcelona and by far one of Barcelona’s top attractions. Aim to go first thing in the morning (the earliest tickets you can get) or late in the afternoon for optimal light. I’d say you’re likely to have fewer crowds too, but honestly no matter what time you go it will be crowded.
I spent so much time researching and planning our I spent so much time researching and planning our trip to Cape Town, and there were still things I learned and would change if we had a do-over!

Learn from my mistakes and make sure you follow these tips for your next trip…

1️⃣ Believe the people who tell you the Table Mountain hike is hard! Unless you are an experienced hiker and in excellent shape, take cable car up and down. Don’t waste a half day on the hike, it’s not so scenic that you’re missing much if you skip it - the magic is in the views at the top so get there in the most efficient way you can to spend the most time at the top.

2️⃣ If you’re going to visit Bo Kaap, sign up for a guided tour so you can get the most out of this historical and culturally significant neighborhood. When we went on our own we were surprised to find that the colorful houses you see all over Instagram are really just one short block, and honestly taking pictures felt really icky and performative. If you’re going to check out this neighborhood make sure it’s not just to check a box! 

3️⃣ Cape Town can practice electricity load-shedding, when this happens it means certain areas lose power at certain times to distribute demand for electricity. Definitely research if this is going on during your visit and what the schedules are. It’s less impactful if you are staying at a hotel, as they usually have generators, but if you plan to stay at an AirBnB it’s wise to know when your power might be shut off. We lost power from 2AM-4AM and were not prepared with fans when it got super hot without A/C.

4️⃣ Don’t skip Kirstenbosch gardens!! We ended up cutting it from our itinerary because the Table Mountain hike took so long and was so taxing (trust me, don’t do it) and it’s my biggest regret from Cape Town. 

5️⃣ Don’t be like me and try to visit 4 wineries in a day 😂 trust me, 3 will be plenty and this way you’ll have enough time to actually enjoy one. We felt pretty rushed and wished we had more time at 2 of the ones we visited (in particular Delaire Graff was spectacular!)
There is so much to see and do in Thailand, it’d There is so much to see and do in Thailand, it’d be impossible to cover it all in one trip but I’ve done my very best 😂 on JessOBSESSED.com you’ll find Bangkok and Chiang Mai itineraries, plus a review of the BEST hidden gem luxury hotel in the Thai islands that I promise you haven’t heard of yet! Search “Thailand” on the blog for all the deets. xxx  #thailand #bangkok #chiangmai #beautifuldestinations #travelshots #exploremore #passionpassport #travelgram #traveladdicts #seetheworld #traveltherenext #thewanderingtourist #exploringtheglobe #lonelyplanet #bestvacations #keepexploring #lifeofadventure #natgeotravel #traveladdict #travelblogger #traveldiary  #travelbucketlist #passportcollective #darlingescapes #girlsthatwander #girlsvsglobe #prettycity #shetravels #sheisnotlost #wearetravelgirls
Traveling to the desert? My "What to Pack for the Traveling to the desert? My "What to Pack for the Atacama Desert" guide is on JessObsessed.com and it's got lots of packing tips applicable to any hiking/adventure/desert-style vacation. 

xxx

 #beautifuldestinations #exploremore #passionpassport #stayandwander #seetheworld #traveltherenext  #welltravelled #exploringtheglobe #lifeofadventure #letsgosomewhere #speechlessplaces #artofdestinations #traveladdict #theglobewanderer #travelblogger #traveldiary #travelpassion #iamtraveler #travelbucketlist #thetraveltribe #passportcollective #dametraveler #darlingescapes #girlaroundtheworld #girlsabroad #girlsthatwander #girlsvsglobe #ladiesgoneglobal #globelletravels
What’s your favorite big city around the world? What’s your favorite big city around the world? Tokyo is definitely up there for me, probably tied with Paris. Even though they’re so different, I got the same feeling in both cities…immediately at home, comfortable, secure and at peace. Do you get that same feeling from your favorite places around the world? #bloggerstravellovers #thattravelblog #LiveTravelChannel #TravelStoke #justgoshoot #TheGlobeWanderer #passionpassport #worlderlust #femmetravel #travelandlife #TLpicks #travellershouts #citybestpics #europe_vacations #bestvacations #topeuropephoto #travellingthroughtheworld #beautifuldestinations #wonderful_places #dametraveler #outdoorwomen #wearetravelgirls #radgirlslife #darlingescapes #ladiesgoneglobal #globelletravels #sheisnotlost #earthgirllifestyle #jetsettingchicks #girlsvsglobe
In need of an easy, one-bowl GF cookie recipe that In need of an easy, one-bowl GF cookie recipe that feels fancy and festive for the last min holiday invites or request to bring dessert? 

My dark chocolate cranberry oatmeal cookies are here to save the (holi)day! 

Recipe is on JessOBSESSED.com. 

#holidaycookies #holidaydesserts #thanksgivingdesserts #thanksgivingrecipes #glutenfreerecipes #glutenfreethanksgiving #glutenfreecookies #glutenfree #glutenfreefoodie #glutenfreechef #glutenfreemeals #glutenfreecooking #f52grams #feedfeed #forkyeah #glutenfreefoods #glutenfreeeats #glutenfreefoodshare #nogluten #wheatfreediet #gffood #glutenfreelife #glutenfreeliving #glutenfreebloggers #glutenfreegirl #glutenfreefinds #glutenintolerance
Seeking Madrid recommendations! I’m working on m Seeking Madrid recommendations! I’m working on my latest blog post about the top things to do in Madrid. Let’s use the comments to inspire each other and share our favorites things to do, see and where to eat snd drink in Madrid. Leave your best rec below 👇 #madrid #travelinspo #bloggerstravellovers #thattravelblog #LiveTravelChannel #TravelStoke #justgoshoot #TheGlobeWanderer #passionpassport #worlderlust #femmetravel #travelandlife #travellershouts #citybestpics #europe_vacations #bestvacations #topeuropephoto #travellingthroughtheworld #beautifuldestinations #wonderful_places #wearetravelgirls #radgirlslife #darlingescapes #ladiesgoneglobal #globelletravels #sheisnotlost #jetsettingchicks #girlsvsglobe
Celebrating Halloween in Mauritius, no costumes ot Celebrating Halloween in Mauritius, no costumes other than my bikini, but reading something fun and witchy to get into the spooky spirit. Loving this book so far! link in stories. #bookrecs #bookstagram #mauritius #lemorne #lemornebeach #booktok #bookrecommendations
My favorite swimsuits for every style and budget a My favorite swimsuits for every style and budget are on the blog! 

I rounded up the cutest bikinis, one-piece, one-shoulder, cut-out, tie dye and more styles from all over the web (Amazon + Target included!). 

If you're looking for a cute new swimmy for a vacation or pool day search "bathing suits" on JessObsessed.com! 

 #fashionbloggers #stylediary #fashionoutfits #stylepost #wiwtoday #outfitdetails #ootdinspo #outfitinspo #outfitideas #outfitgram #outfitdiary #fashioninspo #beachvibes #sunandsea #sandytoes #sunshine #swimwearlover #swimwearfashion #swimsuitfashion #swimwearstyle #swimweartrends #swimwear2021 #bikinibabes #onepieceswimsuit
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Travel · July 22, 2020

Home » Blog » Travel » Top Reasons To Visit Chile’s Atacama Desert In 22 Majestic Photos

Top Reasons To Visit Chile’s Atacama Desert In 22 Majestic Photos

When planning a trip to Chile, you may ask yourself if it’s worth it to visit Chile’s Atacama Desert, and the answer is YES! The Atacama Desert is a travel bucket list destination you must experience! San Pedro de Atacama is the trip of a lifetime and these photos will convince you why this region in Northern Chile is worth visiting as soon as possible!

Visit Chile's Atacama Desert

Northern Chile’s Atacama Desert is one of the world’s most incredible yet overlooked adventure travel destinations in the world. Here you can traverse Mars-like landscapes, gaze at the Milky Way every night, hike golden sand dunes, frolic with flamingos and watch the terrain shift from ice-white to yellow sand to red rocks in the span of a 10-minute drive. And you can experience all of this without wanting for any luxury or modern convenience, thanks to some spectacular hotel experiences in San Pedro de Atacama.

I had the pleasure of visiting the Atacama Desert in 2019 and was absolutely blown away by the stunning landscapes, peaceful nature and stark beauty of the driest desert on the planet. And since a picture says a thousand words, here are my favorite photos of the Atacama Desert, to demonstrate as articulately as I can why Chile’s Atacama should be on your travel bucket list. Want even more info on Atacama? Check out my travel guide.

(Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase from a link in this post, at no additional cost to you. Additionally, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting this site!)

(Additional Disclosure: I was visiting Chile as part of a work trip, so all expenses were covered by my former employer which is unrelated to this blog. This post is not sponsored in any way and all opinions are my own)

Visit Chile’s Atacama Desert For The Famous Mountain Views

Alto Atacama Chile View of the mountains and desert -Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert

San Pedro de Atacama’s Colorful Market

Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Visit Chile's Atacama Desert

Experience The Stunning Landscape Of Moon And Mars Valley When You Visit Chile’s Atacama Desert

Best Luxury Hotel in San Pedro de Atacama - Alto Atacama Desert Lodge and Spa - Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert

Visit Chile’s Atacama Desert To See The Best Stargazing In The World

Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert

The Surreal Landscapes Of Atacama’s Salt Flats

Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert

A Lake That’s So Clear It Looks Like A Mirror At Tebinquiche Lagoon

Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert

Massive Cacti That Tower Over 7 Meters High When Hiking In Valle De Los Cactus

Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert
Top Reasons To Visit Chile's Atacama Desert

Are you planning to visit Chile’s Atacama Desert? I’d love to hear all about your experiences in the comments below! And for even more amazing things to do and see in San Pedro de Atacama, read my complete Atacama travel guide, my guide on Where To Stay in San Pedro de Atacama, and my Atacama Desert Packing Guide post.

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“Fairytale” The Sagrada Familia was one of t “Fairytale” 

The Sagrada Familia was one of the most magical of all our experiences in Barcelona.

I planned our visit for the early evening, trying to time it to golden hour when we had the best chance of strong sun rays streaming through the stained glass windows at just the right angle for the light to dance across the cathedral in the riotous display of color it’s known to create. 

While instead we had mostly overcast skies, nothing could detract from the beauty and intricacy of the design. It was truly breathtaking and as I ran towards it I truly felt like I was stepping into a fairytale.

The Sagrada Familia cathedral is a must-visit in Barcelona and by far one of Barcelona’s top attractions. Aim to go first thing in the morning (the earliest tickets you can get) or late in the afternoon for optimal light. I’d say you’re likely to have fewer crowds too, but honestly no matter what time you go it will be crowded.
I spent so much time researching and planning our I spent so much time researching and planning our trip to Cape Town, and there were still things I learned and would change if we had a do-over!

Learn from my mistakes and make sure you follow these tips for your next trip…

1️⃣ Believe the people who tell you the Table Mountain hike is hard! Unless you are an experienced hiker and in excellent shape, take cable car up and down. Don’t waste a half day on the hike, it’s not so scenic that you’re missing much if you skip it - the magic is in the views at the top so get there in the most efficient way you can to spend the most time at the top.

2️⃣ If you’re going to visit Bo Kaap, sign up for a guided tour so you can get the most out of this historical and culturally significant neighborhood. When we went on our own we were surprised to find that the colorful houses you see all over Instagram are really just one short block, and honestly taking pictures felt really icky and performative. If you’re going to check out this neighborhood make sure it’s not just to check a box! 

3️⃣ Cape Town can practice electricity load-shedding, when this happens it means certain areas lose power at certain times to distribute demand for electricity. Definitely research if this is going on during your visit and what the schedules are. It’s less impactful if you are staying at a hotel, as they usually have generators, but if you plan to stay at an AirBnB it’s wise to know when your power might be shut off. We lost power from 2AM-4AM and were not prepared with fans when it got super hot without A/C.

4️⃣ Don’t skip Kirstenbosch gardens!! We ended up cutting it from our itinerary because the Table Mountain hike took so long and was so taxing (trust me, don’t do it) and it’s my biggest regret from Cape Town. 

5️⃣ Don’t be like me and try to visit 4 wineries in a day 😂 trust me, 3 will be plenty and this way you’ll have enough time to actually enjoy one. We felt pretty rushed and wished we had more time at 2 of the ones we visited (in particular Delaire Graff was spectacular!)
There is so much to see and do in Thailand, it’d There is so much to see and do in Thailand, it’d be impossible to cover it all in one trip but I’ve done my very best 😂 on JessOBSESSED.com you’ll find Bangkok and Chiang Mai itineraries, plus a review of the BEST hidden gem luxury hotel in the Thai islands that I promise you haven’t heard of yet! Search “Thailand” on the blog for all the deets. xxx  #thailand #bangkok #chiangmai #beautifuldestinations #travelshots #exploremore #passionpassport #travelgram #traveladdicts #seetheworld #traveltherenext #thewanderingtourist #exploringtheglobe #lonelyplanet #bestvacations #keepexploring #lifeofadventure #natgeotravel #traveladdict #travelblogger #traveldiary  #travelbucketlist #passportcollective #darlingescapes #girlsthatwander #girlsvsglobe #prettycity #shetravels #sheisnotlost #wearetravelgirls
Traveling to the desert? My "What to Pack for the Traveling to the desert? My "What to Pack for the Atacama Desert" guide is on JessObsessed.com and it's got lots of packing tips applicable to any hiking/adventure/desert-style vacation. 

xxx

 #beautifuldestinations #exploremore #passionpassport #stayandwander #seetheworld #traveltherenext  #welltravelled #exploringtheglobe #lifeofadventure #letsgosomewhere #speechlessplaces #artofdestinations #traveladdict #theglobewanderer #travelblogger #traveldiary #travelpassion #iamtraveler #travelbucketlist #thetraveltribe #passportcollective #dametraveler #darlingescapes #girlaroundtheworld #girlsabroad #girlsthatwander #girlsvsglobe #ladiesgoneglobal #globelletravels
What’s your favorite big city around the world? What’s your favorite big city around the world? Tokyo is definitely up there for me, probably tied with Paris. Even though they’re so different, I got the same feeling in both cities…immediately at home, comfortable, secure and at peace. Do you get that same feeling from your favorite places around the world? #bloggerstravellovers #thattravelblog #LiveTravelChannel #TravelStoke #justgoshoot #TheGlobeWanderer #passionpassport #worlderlust #femmetravel #travelandlife #TLpicks #travellershouts #citybestpics #europe_vacations #bestvacations #topeuropephoto #travellingthroughtheworld #beautifuldestinations #wonderful_places #dametraveler #outdoorwomen #wearetravelgirls #radgirlslife #darlingescapes #ladiesgoneglobal #globelletravels #sheisnotlost #earthgirllifestyle #jetsettingchicks #girlsvsglobe
In need of an easy, one-bowl GF cookie recipe that In need of an easy, one-bowl GF cookie recipe that feels fancy and festive for the last min holiday invites or request to bring dessert? 

My dark chocolate cranberry oatmeal cookies are here to save the (holi)day! 

Recipe is on JessOBSESSED.com. 

#holidaycookies #holidaydesserts #thanksgivingdesserts #thanksgivingrecipes #glutenfreerecipes #glutenfreethanksgiving #glutenfreecookies #glutenfree #glutenfreefoodie #glutenfreechef #glutenfreemeals #glutenfreecooking #f52grams #feedfeed #forkyeah #glutenfreefoods #glutenfreeeats #glutenfreefoodshare #nogluten #wheatfreediet #gffood #glutenfreelife #glutenfreeliving #glutenfreebloggers #glutenfreegirl #glutenfreefinds #glutenintolerance
Seeking Madrid recommendations! I’m working on m Seeking Madrid recommendations! I’m working on my latest blog post about the top things to do in Madrid. Let’s use the comments to inspire each other and share our favorites things to do, see and where to eat snd drink in Madrid. Leave your best rec below 👇 #madrid #travelinspo #bloggerstravellovers #thattravelblog #LiveTravelChannel #TravelStoke #justgoshoot #TheGlobeWanderer #passionpassport #worlderlust #femmetravel #travelandlife #travellershouts #citybestpics #europe_vacations #bestvacations #topeuropephoto #travellingthroughtheworld #beautifuldestinations #wonderful_places #wearetravelgirls #radgirlslife #darlingescapes #ladiesgoneglobal #globelletravels #sheisnotlost #jetsettingchicks #girlsvsglobe
Celebrating Halloween in Mauritius, no costumes ot Celebrating Halloween in Mauritius, no costumes other than my bikini, but reading something fun and witchy to get into the spooky spirit. Loving this book so far! link in stories. #bookrecs #bookstagram #mauritius #lemorne #lemornebeach #booktok #bookrecommendations
My favorite swimsuits for every style and budget a My favorite swimsuits for every style and budget are on the blog! 

I rounded up the cutest bikinis, one-piece, one-shoulder, cut-out, tie dye and more styles from all over the web (Amazon + Target included!). 

If you're looking for a cute new swimmy for a vacation or pool day search "bathing suits" on JessObsessed.com! 

 #fashionbloggers #stylediary #fashionoutfits #stylepost #wiwtoday #outfitdetails #ootdinspo #outfitinspo #outfitideas #outfitgram #outfitdiary #fashioninspo #beachvibes #sunandsea #sandytoes #sunshine #swimwearlover #swimwearfashion #swimsuitfashion #swimwearstyle #swimweartrends #swimwear2021 #bikinibabes #onepieceswimsuit
Where is the best STREET FOOD you've ever had? T Where is the best STREET FOOD you've ever had? 

The street food in Thailand was by far the best I have ever had. JB agrees now but he was so nervous to eat in Thailand because everyone freaked him out with travel tales of getting sick off street food! He couldn't believe how adventurous I was ready to be trying all different street foods (being careful about avoiding gluten of course!) because I'm usually the picky restaurant eater between the two of us 😂

But food + travel is my greatest passion and joy in life and I think enjoying local, authentic foods in new cities is one of the best ways to explore and get a feel for the local culture. Planning my meals when traveling takes up about 90% of the research I do! 

If you know what to look for and are careful you should be 100% fine tasting all the delicious street food all over the world! 

This is some of the best pad thai I've ever had, on Yaowarat street in Bangkok's Chinatown. I organized a street food tour through Bangkok Food Tours and it was EPIC! They were able to accommodate my gluten allergy and were so nice, flexible and knowledgeable. We loved talking to our guide about the food just as much as we enjoyed eating it. Read all about it by searching "Bangkok" on  JessObsessed.com! 

What's the best street food you've ever tried? Tell me in the comments 👇

xxx

 #glutenfree #glutenfreefoodie #glutenfreeeats #glutenfreebloggers #glutenfreegirl #glutenfreefinds #passionpassport #stayandwander #travelgram #traveladdicts #seetheworld #artofdestinations #traveladdict #travelblogger #traveldiary #travelpassion #travelbucketlist #girlsthatwander #girlsvsglobe #foodielife #foodiegram #foodiesofinstagram #foodlover #foodventure #foodoftheday #bangkokfood #bangkokfoodies #bangkoktravel #bangkokeats #bangkokstreetfood

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