I proceeded to a tiny room at my hotel in central Valletta, oddly enough having to pass through the restaurant first. Many elderly ladies were absorbed in a riveting game of Bridge and I had to slink past their tables without bumping into them. Finding a balcony I stood overlooking the scenic water and Fort Saint Angelo in the distance while absorbing the smells of the salty water, the warmth of the Mediterranean sunshine and the tantalizing … [Read more...]
10 Things I Learned During my Stay in Minsk, Belarus
I recently spent a few days exploring Minsk and the nearby countryside. This city of 2 million+ people is at the same time spread out yet rather compact. The city features an interesting mix of noticeable architectural styles mostly dating from post World War II. Unlike a number of Western European countries, Belarus does not yet seem to be on the tourist route. Prices are fairly reasonable and it is easy to get around the historical core of the … [Read more...]
Exploring the Medieval Village of Viviers with Viking Cruises
One of the many advantages of taking a river cruise in Europe is immediate access to small off the beaten path villages and experiences. This was my second river cruise with Viking - on both cruises I've maintained a balance between participating in the offered group tours and taking time to explore on my own. Today I felt like exploring at my own pace simply letting the day unfold. Walking a dirt path on the way to town, I took delight for … [Read more...]
Essential Smells, Essential Oils, Exploring the Lavender Fields of Provence with Viking Cruises
A highlight of a Viking cruise to Provence is a full-day excursion to the heart of southern France's lavender country. However, plan your trip accordingly - timing is everything when it comes to this aromatic plant. It must be sown at a certain time of year and harvested precisely during dry warm conditions. And for those coming to be inspired by its visual appeal, there is a certain time of year for that as well. The lavender fields hit their … [Read more...]
Sick in Scotland
With the early signs of Spring blossoming this time of year in many parts of the world, I thought I would find at least some signs of the lessening grip of winter that these warmer months bring. I was completely wrong. I arrived in Glasgow and it was gloomy, raining and frigid. I didn't even see the trees starting to push green buds. After I left the bus from the airport I didn't have much energy to look further - summoning the last bit of … [Read more...]
Why now is the time to visit Cyprus
After visiting the island of Cyprus last year (located in the far eastern reaches of the Mediterranean Sea) I became enchanted by it's beauty, the slower pace of life in the small towns, its food (including seafood) and drink and the mesmerizing beauty of it's beaches. I visited Pissouri (only about a 90 minute drive from Nicoscia). Pissouri allowed me to check off everything I was looking for in a relaxing Mediterranean … [Read more...]
Three Must See Sights in Northern Cyprus
Last summer when I mentioned to people I was planning a trip to Cyprus (Northern Cyprus as well), I often received blank stares or the question "where is Cyprus". A little geography is in order; the island is in the Mediterranean Sea - in the far eastern reaches south of Turkey and just west of Lebanon. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean after Italy's Sicily and Sardinia. I flew from Beirut, Lebanon - there are certainly … [Read more...]
Remembering My Time on Paros, Greece
Of all the islands I have visited over the years, the first island I ever visited in Europe many years ago left a lasting impression on me. This was Paros, Greece. I was backpacking with my brother throughout Europe in summer. We had just arrived in Athens where the city was suffering through it's worst heat wave of the season with temperatures in the day hovering in the low 40's (105+ F). Incidentally Athens holds the record temperature for any … [Read more...]
A Perfect Picture Paradise, Pissouri Cyprus
After another epic yet challenging trip in Jordan followed by the stresses of travelling in Lebanon I was more then ready to go somewhere and 'do nothing'. However, one never really knows if your perception of a relaxing destination will actually meet your expectation once you arrive. Time and time again I've been disappointed when looking for the "perfect" place to relax - a place that is not overly touristy, has a good vibe, is surrounded by … [Read more...]
Urban Camping, Zürich Switzerland
On a bright partly cloudy sunny day I found myself tethered to a speeding boat in Lake Zürich Switzerland, attempting my first wake boarding. Several fellow journalists enjoying cold beers and sunshine were watching me from the boat while I found myself struggling to stay warm in the early summer's cold waters. Fortunately they were also cheering me on. I was pulled out of the water successfully on the first try and then again 5 subsequent times. … [Read more...]
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