As we pulled into the port of Izmir Turkey, I questioned our decision to visit the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Our time in port was limited, and after our disappointing excursion to Pompeii, our expectations were low. However, from the first moment we arrived, I knew we made the right choice. And then, we turned …
Ancient City
Pompeii and Naples – Why You Need to Visit Both Cities
Naples is our final cruise port on Italy’s Mediterranean coastline. Like in Pisa/Florence and Rome/Vatican, one day is not enough. We opted for Pompeii and Naples, but that meant giving up the Amalfi Coast. In truth, I have waited a long time to visit Pompeii. Thirty years ago, I toured Europe. Back then, Pompeii closed …
How to Maximize One Day in Athens – Cruising to Greece
One day in Athens is all cruise ship passenger have to explore the historic sites of the ancient empire and the modern portions of Greece’s capital city. The list of key places to visit in Athens includes significant landmarks, culinary delights, and both ancient and modern art. Despite the time restrictions, we managed to see …
Misfat Al Abriyeen: Discover a Village in Oman’s Hajar Mountains
Stepping back in time, we entered Misfat Al Abriyeen, a town literally built into the mountainside. It is one of Oman’s oldest villages. The Omani people here follow a more traditional lifestyle, and we found them to be warm and welcoming. The mountain village of Misfat Al Abriyeen is a maze of alleys surrounded by traditional …
Volubilis is an Ancient Roman City in Morocco, Northern Africa
The ancient city Volubilis exceeded our expectations. Situated in Northern Africa, it is part of the vast Roman Empire, yet somewhat different than other ruins we have seen as it blends the Roman and indigenous cultures. An UNESCO World Heritage site, Volubilis is often considered to be the best-preserved archeological site in Morocco. Located near Meknes …
Roman Baths and Stonehenge: History and Wonderment in England
After a very long travel day, which is not the way I would do it if I were traveling this way again, and a good night sleep we had a fantastic day of history and wonderment. What could be better than a morning at the Roman Baths, followed by an afternoon at Stonehenge. Bath, England …
Giant Buddha and an Ancient Town – Leshan and Haunglongxi, China
Today we took a two hour drive, boarded a boat and went to see the world’s largest buddha carved in a mountain. We were really excited about the giant buddha, but I have to say it was rather a let down. Unlike most of the other things I have written about, in this case I …
