Lux living in Luxembourg, first impressions : )

Luxembourg truly lives up to its name, putting the luxury in living. This tiny but mighty country is, after all, one of the wealthiest nations in the world. It also shares its name with the Belgian Province of Luxembourg, as both were once part of the historic Duchy of Luxembourg before being divided in the nineteenth century.

local beer: Diekirch

One of the finest views of the capital city can be found from the iconic viewpoint known as the Chemin de la Corniche—often nicknamed "Europe's most beautiful balcony." It is easily reached thanks to Luxembourg's free public transport network. The city's buses and trams, dressed in their distinctive colours, stand out beautifully against the beige façades that characterize much of the city.

Once you're here, however, there is no better way to explore than on foot. Walking along the cliffside is especially enjoyable if you've picked up a quick snack beforehand. With much of the architecture blending seamlessly into the landscape, the city reveals itself best when you slow down and appreciate one building at a time. Personally, I found myself happily indulging in a bit of building-watching along the route.

The city is exceptionally well maintained and generously draped in ivy—a familiar sight across this part of Europe. Along the cliffs, sculptures, artworks, and thoughtful architectural details more than compensate for the open spaces, making the area a treasure for tourists and travellers armed with nothing more than a camera and a healthy sense of curiosity.

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