The Solo Circuit: From the O2 to the Old Towns

May 19, 2026

This year, while John was living life on the road with Alex Warren, I decided it was time for my own rhythm. After enjoying the energy of Alex’s two massive shows at the O2 in London I headed back to Barcelona to reset. Then, I packed a bag and hit the road solo for a few places I’d never touched.

Tarragona: The Roman Soul of Spain

Just a 35-minute train ride from Barcelona, Tarragona is a "Hidden Gem" that feels like the hills of Portugal met the history of Ancient Rome and decided to move in together.

The Historic Base: I stayed in an Airbnb right in the Part Alta (Old Town). It’s a maze of narrow streets and vibrant squares that feels like stepping back 2,000 years.
The Must-Sees: You can’t miss the Amphitheatre; it’s carved right into a hill overlooking the Mediterranean. Also, check out the Circ de Tarragona (where the chariot races happened) and the massive Cathedral at the highest point of the city.
The "Life on the Road" Save: When you get to the train station, don’t fall for the taxi trap. There is a bus that goes directly to the city centre for 3 Euros, while a taxi will set you back 30 Euros. Save that cash for the tapas.
The 50 Euro Feast: This was the culinary "Lux" of the trip. I found a spot in the old town where I had a 5-course tasting menu including a bottle of wine at Osteria Del LAB for 50 Euros. The quality was world-class, the wine was local, and the price felt like a total "Life on the Road" steal.

Porto: Hills, History, and Port

From Barcelona, I jumped over to Porto. If you think Lisbon has hills, Porto is here to remind you who the boss is. It’s a city of vertical beauty and blue-tiled dreams.

Livraria Lello: Often called the most beautiful bookstore in the world. It’s got a neo-Gothic interior and a crimson staircase that looks like it belongs in a wizarding school. It’s "Lux" literature at its finest just be sure to book your entry slot in advance.
São Bento Station: Even if you aren't catching a train, walk into the lobby. It’s covered in 20,000 azulejo tiles that tell the history of Portugal in blue and white. It’s a 5-star art gallery disguised as a transit hub.
The Clerigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos): For the "Loud" fitness fans, climb the 225 steps of this bell tower. The panoramic view of the city and the Douro River is the ultimate reward for the cardio.
Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace): This is the definition of 19th-century "Lux." The Arab Room is so intricate and gold-leafed that it’ll make your head spin. It’s a mandatory stop for anyone who appreciates high-end craftsmanship.
Luis I Bridge & Ribeira: Walk the upper deck of this massive iron bridge for a "High" drama view. Then, head down to the Ribeira district—the colorful, crumbling soul of the city—to sit by the water with a glass of Port.
Vila Nova de Gaia (The Port Lodges): Cross the bridge to hit the cellars. Whether you go to Graham’s, Taylor’s, or Sandeman, a tasting tour is mandatory. There is nothing like the "Silent Luxury" of standing among century-old barrels.

Kraków: The Polish Powerhouse (Solo & Safe)

The final stop of my solo run was Kraków, and it completely blew me away. It has a grit and a soul that stays with you long after you leave.

The Vibe & Safety: As a woman traveling solo, Kraków is a dream. It consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Europe. I felt completely secure walking back to my Airbnb at night. The city is pristine, the people are incredibly welcoming, and there is a "No Stress" energy that makes solo exploring a breeze.
The Historic Heart: I stayed just a 20-minute walk from the Main Square (Rynek Główny) one of the largest medieval squares in the world.
- The Bugle Call: Every hour, a trumpeter plays from the tower of St. Mary’s Basilica. The song stops abruptly to commemorate a trumpeter who was shot while warning the city of an invasion centuries ago. It’s a "Loud" piece of living history.
- Wawel Castle: Perched on a hill overlooking the Vistula River, this was the seat of Polish royalty for centuries. It’s "Lux" architecture at its peak.
The Culture of Kazimierz: You have to spend time in Kazimierz, the historic Jewish Quarter. It’s a maze of synagogues, art galleries, and quirky cafes. It feels different from the Old Town; more bohemian, more raw, and deeply moving.

The Culinary "Lux": Michelin Quality, Inexpensive Prices

This is where Kraków really shines. You can eat like royalty on a "Life on the Road" budget.

Michelin Magic: Kraków is the gastronomic capital of Poland. I hit a few spots recognized by the Michelin Guide where the quality was 5-star, but the bill was shockingly reasonable.
- Bottiglieria 1881: If you want the ultimate "Lux" experience, this is the only two-star Michelin spot in the country. It’s intimate and world-class.
- Bib Gourmand Gems: Spots like Folga and Molám offer incredible dining for a fraction of what you’d pay in London or Barcelona.
The Speakeasy Scene: Kraków has a hidden side. You have to look for the "Silent Luxury" bars tucked behind unmarked doors.
- Mercy Brown: A stunning 1920s-style speakeasy hidden behind a cloakroom in a historic building. The cocktails are art, and the jazz vibe is pure class.
- The "Hidden" Vodka Bars: There are spots where you dial a number at a doorbell to get into a top-floor apartment for a private vodka tasting. It’s the ultimate "Loud" way to start a Polish night.

The Grand Finale: Reunited at The Gibson, Dublin

I wrapped up the solo journey by reuniting with John for the final two shows of the Alex Warren tour. There’s something special about that final tour energy.

The Stay: We set up camp at The Gibson Hotel. It’s the ultimate "Tour Life" sanctuary. It's sleek, modern, and literally steps away from the venue. It’s got that high-energy, industry vibe that makes you feel like you’re part of the show even when you're just grabbing a drink at the bar.
The Liffey Walks: To balance the "Loud" energy of the concerts, we took long walks along the River Liffey. Crossing the Samuel Beckett Bridge at night when it’s lit up like a harp is pure "Lux" magic.
Docklands Vibe: The area around the Gibson (the Docklands) is the perfect mix of old industrial grit and new glass-and-steel "Silicon Docks" energy. It’s the best place to decompress and watch the river traffic before the final curtain call.

Survival 101: The Solo-to-Tour Transition

The Shoes: You’re walking hills in Porto, cobblestones in Kraków, and river quays in Dublin. Invest in good footwear.
The Logistics: Always check for the local bus or tram. Europe is built for transit, and saving 27 Euros in Tarragona pays for half your Michelin meal in Kraków.
The Restroom Ritual: The Gibson is 5-star, but the "Life on the Road" rule is permanent: Keep those tissues in your bag. Whether it’s a Polish train or an Irish pub, the supply chain is never a guarantee.

The Takeaway

This solo circuit was the perfect intermission. From 50-Euro tasting menus to the high-energy reunion at the Gibson, I found my own rhythm while the tour was in full swing. Sometimes the best "2 Turntables" set is the one you play for yourself before joining the band for the encore.

Talk soon (and probably loudly),

Jen