Stockholm

Stuténska huset, Gamla Stan, Stockholm

We dock in Nynäshamn, Sweden.  I hear the low grumble of the ship’s motors moving us ever so slowly and carefully towards the port.  Usually I’m happy to find my own way but today we’re booked onto a Big Red Bus transfer into Stockholm, an hour away.… Read the rest

Venice Of The North

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

A taste of old Russia at Eliseyev Emporium

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

Warnemünde & Rostock

On the canal, Warnemünde

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

Clock Tower outside the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater

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.

Statues outside the Hotel Ambassadori

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

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

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

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