Laura Longwell

Philadelphia

Co-Founder, Editor and Blogger at Travel Addicts

Co-Founder and Editor at Guide to Philly

Music & food lover, world traveler, insomniac, pharma communications exec

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Articles

Why the Helsinki Christmas Market is Worth a Visit

2 months ago | traveladdicts.net | Laura Longwell

In a large square in the shadow of the city’s cathedral, the Helsinki Christmas market is not to be missed. Honestly, we were surprised how much we loved this experience, and we now recommend it as often as we can. This lovely place has everything you could want from a Christmas market. There is local merchandise that you actually want to buy and excellent food, all in a welcoming and easy-going setting. There is nothing not to love here.
What to Know Before You Visit the Philadelphia Flower Show

2 months ago | guidetophilly.com | Laura Longwell |around Philadelphia

Few cities do history and tradition quite like Philadelphia. Surprisingly, one of our longest running events has nothing to do with revolution or independence. Instead, it’s all about natural beauty. At nearly 200 years old, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s (PHS) Philadelphia Flower Show is packed with creativity every year.
Epic Ideas for a Fun Date in Philadelphia

Jan 16, 2025 | guidetophilly.com | Laura Longwell |around Philadelphia

There are plenty of options in the city for a conventional night out, but why settle for dinner and a movie when the City of Brotherly Love is at your fingertips? If you’re an art fan, exercise enthusiast, or simply a lover of love, you will find no shortage of suggestions to keep you and your significant other occupied. We’ve dated, been engaged, and gotten married while living here, so we’ve spent plenty of nights out trying different activities.
Romantic Restaurants in Philadelphia for a Night Out

Jan 14, 2025 | guidetophilly.com | Laura Longwell |around Philadelphia

An historic inn in a park setting, a garden lit with white lights, or cozy fireplace seating–whatever ambiance you’re looking for, there’s a great romantic restaurant that fits the bill in Philadelphia. After years of date nights around the city, we’ve put together our top recommendations for where to eat on a night out. Click the purple markers for specific addresses. Getting a primetime Zahav reservation is one of the most coveted achievements among lovers of good food in the city.
Where to Find Delicious Hot Chocolate in Philadelphia

Jan 10, 2025 | guidetophilly.com | Laura Longwell |around Philadelphia

From rich drinking chocolate to hot chocolate piled high with marshmallows or paired with ice cream, there are a wealth of options for the warming drink. We’ve sampled our way around the city to put together this list of some of our favorite spots for great hot chocolate in Philly when the temperatures plummet. Click the red markers for exact addresses.
A First Timer's Guide to One Day in Philadelphia

Jan 7, 2025 | guidetophilly.com | Laura Longwell |around Philadelphia

One day is just enough to see the highlights of Philadelphia and to get a taste of what this city has to offer. There is so much to see here that it’s hard to narrow it down for a quick visit, so we’ve focused our recommendations on the things that truly set Philly apart from other destinations. In this itinerary, we suggest beginning the day with some of the city’s top historic sites.
Fun Sledding Hills Around Philadelphia

Jan 6, 2025 | guidetophilly.com | Laura Longwell

It’s been a little while since the Philadelphia area found itself on the receiving end of much snow, but things are looking up this year. It doesn’t take much for winter lovers and kids of all ages to emerge with sleds and toboggans (or garbage can lids and cardboard boxes…whatever works) in search of snowy adventure. While the Delaware Valley isn’t known for massive hills, there are plenty of places to pick up a little speed as you soar over the white stuff.
Holiday Lights in Montgomery County Worth Driving For

Jan 2, 2025 | guidetophilly.com | Laura Longwell

Every year, we spend more time than we’d like to admit on the quest for awesome Christmas light displays. Luckily, Montgomery County has lots of incredible ones to see. From yards that feel like a holiday explosion to elegant white lights, lots of homeowners unleash their creativity to spread holiday spirit. There are synchronized light shows, custom yard decorations, and lots of music to enjoy.
Where to See Christmas Lights in Delco

Dec 31, 2024 | guidetophilly.com | Laura Longwell

Delaware County has an incredible range of free lights displays at Christmas. There are lots of creative neighbors with over-the-top decorations and homes that have become traditions to visit thanks to displays they have built over decades. There are yards packed with sculptures, custom radio stations to accompany animations, and lots and lots of holiday spirit. Take a look at some of our favorite Christmas lights in Delco to visit this season.
Why Prague's Christmas Markets Are Totally Overrated

Dec 22, 2024 | traveladdicts.net | Laura Longwell

It only takes a few minutes to see why people love Prague so much. You just need to step on Charles Bridge, get a view of the castle, or walk half a block in Old Town—the city’s beauty and history are apparent in no time. When my husband and I decided to visit the Prague Christmas markets, we knew the city’s magical appeal because we’ve visited before. Our expectations were high. Unfortunately, our experience didn’t measure up.