Hallo, Deutschland

Nov 23

Here, where the Neckar (meaning "wild water") River meanders through the Baroque-style Old Town, the Heidelberg Castle has been holding watch from atop Königstuhl Hill since the early 1200s. A breathtakingly imposing sight in its own right, the castle's stunning ruins remain among the most important existing Renaissance structures north of the Alps.

Cobblestones pave the way to storied corners, to door frames literally etched by history and bricks cracked by labor, love and loss. More than 800 years of life cradled here in this beautiful nook of the world (among so many others): preserved, celebrated and revered.

What a joy to discover it -- a reminder that there's so much left to learn.

Valeria L. Palmertree

A self-proclaimed dreamer, grammar geek and storyteller with a serious case of wanderlust, I can most often be found somewhere near the water. In addition to beach-combing, my interests include: writing, reading, cooking, dining, listening to live music and taking in the outdoors -- preferably at the same time and in the company of my husband and golden retriever (whom you're likely to meet on these pages along the way).

Originally from Buenos Aires and raised in Miami Beach, I'm fluent in Spanish, Malbecand fútbol. Between the hours of 9 and 5, I'm a communications consultant for travel, tourism and hospitality brands. Additionally, my gig as a freelance writer has given me the opportunity to meet some pretty awesome people along the way. Currently, I'm the copy editor (and a travel contributor) for Electrify magazine. Always the optimist, I believe that connecting with and learning from one another is the surest way to break down barriers and spread some joy. Consider this my virtual olive branch of sorts. <3 xo

http://www.thepalmtreetype.com

Hallo, Deutschland

Gratitude from Abroad

The Day After