almond bark clusters

 These almond bark clusters are my go-to when I need to bring something to a holiday get together! They are so simple to make! And, give me fond memories since my aunt used to have them every year at her house while opening presents on Christmas Eve.

Ingredients:

8 squares of vanilla almond bark

4 cups Captain Crunch cereal

2 cups miniature marshmallows (either white or colored)

1 cup unsalted peanuts (optional)

Instructions:

1) Line 2 baking sheets with waxed paper and set aside.

2) Place cereal, marshmallows, and peanuts (if including) in a large mixing and stir to combine.

3) Place almond bark into a microwave safe mixing bowl. Microwave almond bark for 1 minute. Stir, and continue microwaving at 30 second increments until just melted.

4) Pour almond bark immediately over cereal/marshmallow/peanut mix. Stir together until well coated.

5) Using a cookie scoop, plop mixture onto the prepared wax lined cookie sheets in round balls.

6) Keep on cookie sheets on counters until firm. Once firm, store in an air-tight container.

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Hotel Recommendation - Ghent, Belgium

 When I travel, I absolutely must have a cute place to stay each night! I know what you're thinking...why bother? You don't even spend that much time in your room when on vacation! 

BUT, I DISAGREE!

I believe having a cozy place to return to after a long day of sightseeing is crucial to staying relaxed and ready to go for the next day without feeling completely out of your element and home sick. This is even more important if you do a lot of solo travel like myself! 

ON MY RECENT TRIP TO BELGIUM & THE NETHERLANDS, I FOUND SUCH AMAZING PLACES TO STAY!

Everyone's budget is different, but I found lodging to be less expensive than in the states by far! For what I spent on most of my stays, you could only get a Hampton Inn or something similar. Nothing as quaint and boutique as what I was able to find. I did splurge on a few nights, but offset it other nights by finding a deal. 

BELOW IS WHERE I LAID MY HEAD MY FIRST NIGHT IN BELGIUM!

I flew into Brussels and hopped on the train straight to Ghent. 1898 The Post was a bit hard to find coming off of the tram as the entrance is on the backside of the building down by the river. But, it was such an incredible hotel for my first night in Belgium! 

Sloped ceilings, old wooden floors, exposed riveted beams, and moody decor and period furniture pay homage to the post office that was housed in this building prior. 

The hotel was opened in 2017. And, has since been voted one of the top 500 hotels in THE WORLD by readers of Travel and Leisure magazine! 

 

With its location in the city center, it is a great central location for walking. Although, I was so tired from my flight that I most appreciated the generous sized fluffy bed and blinds that closed out the light!

I found most restaurants to stop their service around 7pm. So, head out early for dinner. Or, take advantage of the restaurant and bar in the hotel. 

 

Either way, definitely don't miss the breakfast! The most delicious array of waffles, croissants, meats, cheeses, omelettes, and on and on, fresh cooked in front of you! This is an add-on to your room that I would 100% recommend. And if you end up staying at a different hotel, then still come by The Post for breakfast as non-guests are also welcome if there are seats available. 

 

Prices for 1898 The Post can really vary. I stayed in "The Stamp" room, which has a king size bed and was around $175 including the breakfast. However, the same room can be close to $400 for just the room at other times of the year. They also have lofts and suites if you are traveling with others, or just want something a little fancier. Book directly on their site or any major hotel booking site.

STAY TUNED FOR WHERE I STAYED ON THE REST OF MY TRIP!

And, pin this post if you want to remember this hotel while planning a future trip!