Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Al Fahidi wind tower

I arrive at the SMCCU (Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding) early and have time to wander around the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood before my cultural breakfast begins.

Doorway

My real quest, heading into the quiet streets, is for a karak tea – that lovely, strong, sweet tea flavoured with cardamom (or sometimes other flavours if you’re lucky, like at Global Village). … Read the rest

Villa Borghese

Tempio di Esculapio across the lake in Villa Borghese

If there’s one thing Italy does well (after gelato), it’s Villas.  Villa d’Este was a fantastic example of this, Villa Borghese is another.  Whilst the Palazzos and Castellos are interesting and impressive, the villa gives way from the regal, political and military to a more laid back take on Italian lifestyle, architecture and the outdoors, namely a garden. … Read the rest