Exploring Amsterdam and Beyond

Hi, I’m Lily — an Amsterdam-based creative director, writer and photographer sharing curated travel guides and photo journals that highlight authentic, cultural experiences.

Focused on intentional travel, my city guides explore local perspectives and observations through my lens of curiosity and creativity. Follow along to get inspired, see the world, and welcome new discoveries — whether exploring near or far.

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Tripadvisor Feature: Four European City Trips To Take In Autumn

Travel to Europe in Autumn with my long-weekend itineraries for Reykjavik, Edinburgh, Porto and, of course, Amsterdam. Featured on Tripadvisor.

Lily Heaton 8/27/24 Lily Heaton 8/27/24

Join Me On YouTube for Analog Adventures

Join me on YouTube (Lily Wanderlust) for analog adventures, photography tips, and photowalks in Amsterdam and beyond. Learn how to capture your own travel stories on film.

Lily Heaton 6/20/24 Lily Heaton 6/20/24

Lonely Planet Feature: Amsterdam Local Flavor

A local’s guide for the best places to eat and drink in Amsterdam. Lonely Planet travel writer Lily Heaton shares her favorite independent cafes, restaurants, bars, and sunny terraces in Amsterdam.

Lily Heaton 12/18/23 Lily Heaton 12/18/23

Lonely Planet Feature: Amsterdam's Five Best Independent Shops

Curious about shopping in Amsterdam? Read my latest digital article for Lonely Planet featuring five of my favorite local independent shops in Amsterdam

Lily Heaton 9/12/23 Lily Heaton 9/12/23

Film Photo Journal: Summer in Zurich with Canon AE-1

Explore summer in Zurich through 35mm film photography. This travel photo journal features golden hour cityscapes, Lake Zurich, and pastel architecture—shot on Canon AE-1 with Fujicolor 200 film.

Lily Heaton 9/7/23 Lily Heaton 9/7/23

Visit Zurich: Summer City Guide

A summer city guide to Zurich, Switzerland—featuring must-visit spots, lakeside bathhouses, and what to see, do, and eat in Zurich. Plan the perfect summer getaway in Zurich.

Lily Heaton 6/29/23 Lily Heaton 6/29/23

Amsterdam Jordaan Open Garden Days

Explore secret gardens and hidden courtyards during Open Garden Days in Amsterdam’s lively Jordaan neighborhood.

Lily Heaton 4/10/23 Lily Heaton 4/10/23

Orlando City Guide

Discover where to eat, drink, and shop in Orlando, Florida with a local’s guide to The City Beautiful.

Lily Heaton 10/5/22 Lily Heaton 10/5/22

City Guide: Palma de Mallorca

Explore Palma de Mallorca with the ultimate city guide featuring the best places to eat, stay, drink, shop, and experience culture on Spain’s Balearic island.