Finland’s capital, Helsinki, sits on a southern peninsula in the Gulf of Finland. We have arrived at the port and I’m itching to get into the city but as usual, it’s a bit chaotic getting five people ready. … Read the rest
Helsinki
Venice Of The North
Today we get to experience St. Petersburg’s canals. Alexander the Great founded this city as his own and had a vision to turn it into the Venice of the North, criss-crossing the city with canals to provide a means of transport as well as beauty.… Read the rest
A Taste Of St. Petersburg
After a day of exploring Peterhof and the Catherine Palace at Pushkin, I’m ready to delve into St. Petersburg proper. After dropping the rest of the tour group back at the port, mum and I are taken to the metro at Primorskaya where we are handed over to another guide for the evening. … Read the rest
Tallinn, Estonia
The wind whips through my hair as we walk along the pier to our first glimpses of Estonia. There’s not much by way of sign posts to the Old Town but I know Tallinn is going to be special.… Read the rest
Warnemünde & Rostock
I wake up in Warnemünde, our first port of call, and I can’t wait to get out and explore. After dressing, breakfast and other morning tasks, we walk from the port into town and follow the pretty canal lined with boats floating prettily and little pension (B&B) along the banks.… Read the rest
First Impressions
There are many words to describe my first impressions of Tbilisi, yet none of them quite capture the vibe of the Old Town or just how excited I am to be here.
It’s still early and I have checked in to the Museum Hotel Orbeliani, dropped my bags and logged in to finalise a few last work emails before the long weekend really sets in. … Read the rest
Troyes
Heading to Troyes after our beautiful stay in Auxerre, but at the same time having been overwhelmed by all the old towns and historic sights, we spot an Outlet Centre on the way into town. Stopping for a quick rest and a stretch of the legs our mornings’ shopping quickly turns into the best part of the day.… Read the rest
Dijon
We arrive in Dijon and it’s already dark. Of my top 5 things to do in Dijon, the Christmas markets are high on the list and we head out to discover the old town’s Christmas charm.
Christmas Markets
Having arrived here from Beaune today, we’re still in the heart of France’s Burgundy region.… Read the rest
Cesky Krumlov Castle
The centerpiece of the stunning medieval town of Cesky Krumlov (Český Krumlov) is its magnificent castle complex. The castle, founded by the Vítkovci family in the 13th Century, is one of the largest in Central Europe. The castle reflects a blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles shaped by centuries of expansion and renovation.… Read the rest
Cesky Krumlov Dreaming
Cesky Krumlov Dreaming. If there was ever a place where it’s possible to find yourself in a fairy tale, this MUST be it.
We left Karlovy Vary this morning, headed for Cesky Krumlov. I have heard of its beauty and charm previously but nothing has quite prepared me for what we encounter.… Read the rest