Travel, life, loves and laughs.
An early morning walk and then a visit, en route, to the delightful Ardenica Monastery, sees us arrive in Gjirokaster for a late lunch at Kodra Restaurant. Perched high on the hill in the old town, it is currently raining and so, a lazy lunch seems the perfect way to await finer weather.… Read the rest
Atop a hill overlooking the small town of Fier in Albania, lies the Monastery of Ardenica, also known as the Monastery of the Nativity of Theotokos in Ardenica.
It has topped this hill in one form or another since 1282 when it was first founded by the Byzantine Emperor, Andronikos II Palaiologos after his victory against Angevins in the siege of Berat.… Read the rest
The Osumi River is calling me. It flows past us in Berat and despite its milky, cold appearance, I know that the canyons up river await us for an exciting rafting adventure.
We depart Berat just after 9am and it doesn’t take long to get out of the little town.… Read the rest
Berat Castle sits atop the hill and is the original centre of Berat. More of a small fortified town than a castle, the complex takes in walls, towers, churches, mosque ruins and an historic cistern as well as numerous small buildings that are maintained today as houses, restaurants and shops.… Read the rest
A short drive through the countryside from Berat, after a morning at Berat Castle and the Onunfri Museum, and we come to the tiny village of Roshnik where the Alpeta Winery makes a big impression.
We’re here for wine tasting, a tour of the Vineyard and a hearty lunch sourced from local produce.… Read the rest
The Onufri Museum is a little gem of medieval preserved and restored artwork located within the walls of Berat Castle. The museum is dedicated to the renowned Albanian painter Onufri. It showcases a collection of religious icons and artwork from the 14th to the 20th century.… Read the rest
It is nice to know that there is a Friendly House just around the corner. Arriving in Berat it is already evening. We have travelled all day and now, having checked into our hotel, we are keen to stretch our legs and explore.… Read the rest
We arrive in Berat wearied from a travel day although somewhat revived by our recent Byrek late lunch. It’s the perfect time to head out to explore the town, grab a sundowner and enjoy the early spring evening.… Read the rest
We have arrived in Albania! We meet Endrit, our guide from Albania Private Guide at the airport and all of a sudden we are really on our way! One of our first decisions is what to eat? The clear winner is Byrek.… Read the rest
The Saigon Social at Blue Jade is a delightful way to celebrate the beginning of the weekend. This Friday night brunch at Dubai’s Ritz Carlton, JBR is picture perfect from arrival to the last sip.
I am swept away before we even get to Blue Jade.… Read the rest