Castel Nuovo is an impressive building. From its perch on the entrance to Naploli, it stands guard over the Gulf of Naples almost as impressive as Mount Vesuvius on the other side of the city. Certainly as proud, almost as formidable. … Read the rest
Santa Chiara
The Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara is incredible. Like a little walled world of its own, it must have been even more so, a haven from the outside world, during periods of Napoli’s unsettled past.
It’s another stunning day of our summer holidays and we’re exploring Naples. … Read the rest
Napoli
It still astounds me to wake up in a new city! To step out and behold Napoli at my feet! It has been a long time but I still remember the taste of the pizza, the chill of the cobbled streets under the weight of the grey sky and drizzling rain, not to mention the noise from the morning markets in the piazza below from my last visit. … Read the rest
Messina
Messina. Another glorious day, another glorious port. After feeling that I missed out in Valetta yesterday, I am well equipped for today and have a trail planned out. This pivots around being in the city’s main square at midday to see the clock chime 12pm and the mechanical performance that enshews.… Read the rest
Chania
We’re in Crete! We have brought the boys with us to Chania for the day and I have, as usual, a full itinerary to get through. It’s perhaps a little ambitious but, with a promise of ice cream a the end, let’s see how we go.… Read the rest
Rhodes
Rhodes was never even on my radar. When it came up as a stop on our itinerary I really didn’t give it much thought. Usually a planner down to the minuscule details, I viewed this as a bit of a rest day.… Read the rest
Athens
The sun beats down on Athens and the temperature rises although I’m too preoccupied to notice. Still high from the delights of Mykonos and keen to start exploring an entirely new city, I haven’t given much thought to the realities of today. … Read the rest
Mykonos
The day is crystal clear as we approach Mykonos old town on our hired moped. We find a park and walk into the vehicle free Old Port area from the North along Polykandrioti (a street named after Thanasis Polykandriotis, a Greek musician). … Read the rest
The Windmills of Kato Mili
I’m in Mykonos exploring the main town, old port of Chora and of course, the Windmills of Kato Mili. I have been walking for a while discovering the cobbled streets and sparkling town with its overflow of shops, churches, charm and style.… Read the rest
Bracciano
Benvenuto Bracciano! It’s been a bit of a long day so far. We have been up since 2am and didn’t get much sleep before that with last minute packing, not to mention the excitement. Somewhere en route mid air over Diyarbakir, heading towards Ankara, I have a major pinch-me moment. … Read the rest