Meet Elza Bērziņa-Schmidt
Es esmu Elza Bērziņa-Schmidt, a Latvian native living in Berlin, and an archivist with a passion for history and travel. Through my blog, I share my travel experiences, combining historical insights with personal anecdotes. Join me as I explore the world, uncovering hidden gems and immersing myself in different cultures. I hope to inspire you to embark on your own adventures, whether it's exploring ancient ruins or discovering the charm of a local market.
- Reserved
- Curious
- Methodical
- Empathetic
- Observant
- Independent
- Kind
- Machu Picchu, Peru
- Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Rome, Italy
- Giza, Egypt
- Huairou District, China
Latest Travel Diaries by Elza Bērziņa-Schmidt
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12 Day TripHistorical and Scenic Exploration of Ponte de LimaJoin us as we explore the historic town of Ponte de Lima, Portugal, discovering its medieval charm and picturesque landscapes over a 12-day journey.
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7 Day TripSolitary Escape to Soomaa: Embracing Estonia's WildernessJoin me on a solo adventure to Soomaa National Park, where untouched Estonian wilderness awaits with bogs, canoes, and serene landscapes.
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14 Day TripExploring the Timeless Beauty of Shirakawa-goDiscover the cultural and historical charm of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Japan, with Elza and Hans-Peter.
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11 Day TripWhale Watching and Cultural Exploration in Húsavík, IcelandDiscover the magic of Húsavík, Iceland's whale-watching capital, with cultural exploration and stunning natural landscapes.
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9 Day TripRediscovering My Roots in Cesis: A Solo JourneyExplore the medieval charm and natural beauty of Cesis, Latvia on a personal solo journey of rediscovery and cultural immersion.
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10 Day TripExploring the Historical Charms and Natural Beauty of Valle d'AostaDiscover the rich history, stunning landscapes, and charming villages of Valle d'Aosta, Italy. Perfect for history and nature enthusiasts.
More about Elza Bērziņa-Schmidt
Elza was born and raised in Cēsis, Latvia, a town steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty. Growing up, she developed a deep appreciation for her country's heritage and a love for exploring its forests and meadows. After the fall of the Soviet Union, she seized the opportunity to study history at the University of Latvia in Riga. During a student exchange program, she met her future husband, Hans-Peter, a German student studying art restoration. After graduating, Elza moved to Berlin, where she found work as an archivist at the Deutsches Historisches Museum. She and Hans-Peter married and built a life together in the vibrant city, embracing its culture and diversity while cherishing their Latvian roots. While her job is fulfilling, Elza has always harbored a passion for travel and storytelling, leading her to start a travel blog on Evendo as a creative outlet.
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53
Age
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Female
Gender
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Archivist at the Deutsches Historisches Museum
Occupation
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Latvia
Birth Country
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Cēsis
Birth City
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Germany
Current Country
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Berlin
Current City
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Married
Marital Status
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Hans-Peter Schmidt, Male, 58
Spouse
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Children
- None
Interest
- History
- Genealogy
- Baltic Culture
- Museums
- Photography
Hobbies
- Gardening (especially growing Latvian herbs and flowers)
- Visiting local markets in Berlin
- Attending cultural events and festivals in Berlin
- Exploring historical sites in and around Berlin
- Learning about German history and culture
Recent Articles & Tips by Elza Bērziņa-Schmidt
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Travel AdviceTravel Hobbies: Incorporating Personal Interests into Your AdventuresLearn how to incorporate personal hobbies and interests into your travels for a more fulfilling experience.
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Travel AdviceFinding Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel TipsDiscover how to find and enjoy hidden gems and lesser-known sites during your travels.
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Travel AdviceHistorical Research for Travelers: Digging Deeper into DestinationsLearn how to conduct historical research before your trip to enhance your travel experience.
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Travel AdviceCultural Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts for Respectful TravelUnderstand the do's and don'ts of cultural etiquette to show respect and appreciation during your travels.
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Travel AdviceTraveling Without Language Barriers: Tips for CommunicationLearn how to overcome language barriers while traveling and enhance your cultural interactions.
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Travel AdviceSustainable Travel: A Guide for the Conscientious ExplorerExplore sustainable travel practices that can help protect the environment and support local communities.
Travel Essentials
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A good camera with extra batteries
- A travel journal and pens
- A universal adapter
- A first-aid kit
- My trusty Latvian phrasebook
- A scarf for all occasions
- My favorite historical fiction novel
Travel Tips
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Always research local customs and traditions before you go.
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Learn a few basic phrases in the local language.
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Pack light and choose versatile clothing items.
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Be open to unexpected experiences and detours.
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Take the time to connect with locals and learn about their culture.
Recent Memories from Elza Bērziņa-Schmidt
This Explorers Travel Highlights
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My Travel Highlight
One of my most cherished travel memories is exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus in Turkey. Walking along the marble streets, imagining life in this once-great city, truly transported me back in time. The Library of Celsus was particularly breathtaking, and I spent hours photographing its intricate façade.
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Favourite Destination
Latvia, my homeland, will always hold a special place in my heart. Returning to Cēsis, visiting the medieval castle, and walking through the forests of my childhood is an experience that rejuvenates my soul. The blend of history, nature, and deep personal connection makes it my best destination.
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Best Hotel
The Hotel Adlon Kempinski in Berlin. Its grandeur and history are captivating, and the service is impeccable. It's a true oasis of luxury in the heart of my adopted city.
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My Adventurous Destination
Hiking in the Swiss Alps was quite the adventure! While I appreciate a relaxing stroll through museums, the challenging terrain and breathtaking views pushed me out of my comfort zone. Reaching the summit and seeing the world spread out below was an unforgettable experience.
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My Food Destination
Italy, without a doubt! From the creamy pasta dishes in Rome to the fresh seafood in Sicily, every meal was a celebration of flavors. I especially enjoyed taking a cooking class in Tuscany and learning to make authentic regional dishes.