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 […]
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 […]
Giant’s Causeway Coastal Route: Rock Features, Rope Bridge, Ruins
Driving the Giant’s Causeway coastal route of Northern Ireland, we found ourselves instantly entangled in the mystery of the region. Volcanic activity created the Giant’s Causeway 60 million years ago. Standing at its base, I could begin to appreciate its magnitude. Across the Inner Seas sits its mirror, Fingal’s Cave on Scotland’s Isle of Staffa. […]
How to Maximize One Day in Athens Greece
One day in Athens is not enough to explore the historic sites of the ancient empire and the modern portions of Greece’s capital city. Athens is filled with important landmarks, culinary delights, and both ancient and modern art. Yet, one day in Athens is all cruise ship passengers have, so how did we see it […]
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 […]
Carcassonne, Is This Medievel French City Named for A Pig?
Like many medieval walled cities, Carcassonne France has a beautiful castle with a moat. As the story goes, back in medieval times, the town was under siege. The attackers thought by surrounding the castle and the walled city of Carcassone they would starve the inhabitants, therefore simplifying victory. So, the people of Carcassone stuffed a […]
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 […]
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