Castel Nuovo

Castel Nuovo

Castel Nuovo is an impressive building.  From its perch on the entrance to Naploli, it stands guard over the Gulf of Naples almost as impressive as Mount Vesuvius on the other side of the city.  Certainly as proud, almost as formidable. … Read the rest

Santa Chiara

Courtyard

Nestled just off Naples’ bustling Spaccanapoli, Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara unfolds as a testament to Gothic resilience and Franciscan simplicity. Instantly I find this place both overwhelming and incredible.  Like a little walled world of its own, it must have been even more so, a haven from the outside world, during periods of Napoli’s unsettled past.… Read the rest

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