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
Castello Odescalchi di Bracciano
The incredible Renaissance castle, Castello Odescalchi, sits in the heart of Bracciano and has borne witness to centuries of change. As we arrive in Bracciano on the first leg of our Summer Holidays, it greets us, presiding over the piazza as we unload our bags, the boys too tired to notice, me bewitched and speechless at the sight. … Read the rest
Wadi Aday
Wadi Aday and Yiti, the nearest town, is an off the beaten track, yet comfortable 1 hour drive, south of Muscat. So the day hasn’t exactly gone to plan so far. Not that I can complain – I spent the morning at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque while my husband ran the kids around in 40+ degrees Celsius at the nearest park and then got picked up and taken to lunch. … Read the rest
Mutrah Souq
Mutrah Souq is a delight to the senses, a chaotic mix of sights, sounds and smells. Enter from the Corniche, near the traffic lights where pedestrians can safely cross over and make your way up the main covered corridor. Be sure to look up as there are a couple of spectacular colored ceilings, both glass and wood.… Read the rest
Bateaux Dubai
We are only here by luck. Our Bateaux Dubai cruise was an ‘extra’ on our resort weekend stay at the JA Palm Tree Court. We nearly decided to forego it, though thank goodness we didn’t!
Appearing as a bonus in the fine print, we have completely underestimated the value and enjoyment of this activity. … Read the rest