Messina

Sweeping views of Messina

Messina.  Another glorious day, another glorious port.  After feeling that I missed out in Valetta yesterday, I am well equipped for today and have a trail planned out.  This pivots around being in the city’s main square at midday to see the clock chime 12pm and the mechanical performance that enshews.… Read the rest

Valetta, Malta

The Grand Harbor and Fort St. Angelo

I am utterly unprepared for the delights that Valetta, the capital of Malta, has to offer.  I have heard of the beauty of the Greek Islands, the party scene and endless nights that Ibiza has to offer but I seem to have missed Malta altogether. … Read the rest

Chania

Venetian Harbor, Chania

We’re in Crete!  We have brought the boys with us to Chania for the day and I have, as usual, a full itinerary to get through.  It’s perhaps a little ambitious but, with a promise of ice cream a the end, let’s see how we go.… Read the rest

Santorini

The blue of the sky and the sea as I emerge from below deck to the dazzling sunshine stuns me momentarily. I blink a few times and Santorini is before me.  Can this really be?

The harbour is almost unnoticeable, hidden in plain sight at the bottom of the cliffs.… Read the rest

Athens

Parthenon

The sun beats down on Athens and the temperature rises although I’m too preoccupied to notice.  Still high from the delights of Mykonos and keen to start exploring an entirely new city, I haven’t given much thought to the realities of today. … Read the rest

Ornos Beach

Blue Water, Ornos Beach

Ornos Beach, Mykonos has the vibe of a small fishing village that has been invaded.  You can tell this was once a sleepy little town but tourism has taken over and today it’s hot and busy.  It’s the closest beach to the town of Mykonos with sun beds and umbrellas for rent on the fine white sand.… Read the rest

Bracciano

Bracciano’s layers of old town

Benvenuto Bracciano!  It’s been a bit of a long day so far.  We have been up since 2am and didn’t get much sleep before that with last minute packing, not to mention the excitement.  Somewhere en route mid air over Diyarbakir, heading towards Ankara, I have a major pinch-me moment. … Read the rest

Castello Odescalchi di Bracciano

Castello Odescalchi di Bracciano by night

The incredible Renaissance castle, Castello Odescalchi, sits in the heart of Bracciano and has borne witness to centuries of change.  As we arrive in Bracciano on the first leg of our Summer Holidays, it greets us.… Read the rest