My tour is booked and I wake up early in anticipation. Earlier than I would wish, given how busy the week has been. I am ready in the lobby on the dot of 8am for my 8-8:30am pick up. … Read the rest
Jeita Grotto and Harissa
Beirut
I find myself in Beirut for work, having arrived late last night and worked all day today, I leave the office feeling less than energetic. There is more work to do but I need a walk and a chance to clear my head. … Read the rest
Uplistsikhe Georgia: Exploring an Ancient Cave City
Uplistsikhe, literally translated as the ‘Lord’s Fortress’, is one of Georgia’s most extraordinary historical sites. This ancient cave city, carved into the sandstone cliffs overlooking the Mtkvari River, sits just outside Gori, around 90 minutes’ drive from Tbilisi.… Read the rest
Mtskheta Georgia: Exploring Its Ancient Churches
Mtskheta: Georgia’s Ancient Capital and Spiritual Heart
My first destination this afternoon, after exploring some More of Tbilisi, is the Museum of Fine Arts. Unfortunately, it’s closed when I arrive. A little disappointing, but there is plenty more to see.… Read the rest
More Of Tbilisi: Churches, City Views and a Race Against the Rain
Yesterday, my travel companion Diana and I escaped the city for a day exploring the Kakheti Region. Today, however, there is still plenty of Tbilisi left to discover before Diana’s flight home this afternoon.
We have a full day ahead, although our feet might have other ideas!… Read the rest
Bodbe Monastery Georgia: St Nino’s Convent & History
Set among towering cypress trees on a hillside above the Alazani Valley, Bodbe St Nino’s Convent is one of Georgia’s most beautiful and spiritually significant monasteries. Just a short drive from Sighnaghi in the Kakheti wine region, this peaceful sanctuary is the final resting place of St Nino, the woman credited with bringing Christianity to Georgia in the fourth century.… Read the rest
Kakheti Georgia Day Trip: Monasteries, Wine and History
After spending a little time exploring Tbilisi, my travel companion Diana and I are excited to venture beyond the capital. Today, we’re heading east to explore the Kakheti Region, Georgia’s celebrated wine country.… Read the rest
Exploring Old Tbilisi: Churches, Sulphur Baths and Narikala Fortress
I awake on my first morning in Tbilisi, Georgia, excited to explore everything my first impressions of the city have promised. My travel companion, Diana, has arrived during the night. Despite a rather restless sleep, I’m far too excited to spend much time in bed.… Read the rest
First Impressions of Tbilisi: Discovering the Charm of the Old Town
There are plenty of words to describe my first impressions of Tbilisi. Pretty, charming, atmospheric and beautiful all spring to mind. Yet none quite captures the energy of the Old Town, or just how excited I am to be here.… Read the rest
Pyramids and Plans
Pyramids and plans are on my mind and then that first taste. That first glimpse! That first glimpse. It’s never enough. It only serves to whet the appetite, as the saying goes. Likewise my first glimpses of Cairo.… Read the rest