I try and visit at least one cemetery in each new destination I visit. I find them peaceful, for the most part, full of art, architecture and beauty. They are free to enter and offer a glimpse into a culture that is unique and historical. I found two incredible cemeteries in Florence you must see …
Readers will know by now how much I adore a good market. It doesn’t really matter what kind; however, I do have preferences and favourites. I was able to visit several during my visit, and aim to give you an idea of where to go and what to see. The best markets in Florence, lets …
The largest museum in Florence is the historical home of the Medici family. It actually contains seven separate museums and over 500 pieces of Renaissance art in one of them alone. I aim to provide some insight as to the contents of each place, so you can plan your visit accordingly. What to see in …
Always on the hunt for the more unusual things to see or do at a new destination, I found an absolute gem. I was not prepared for the sheer volume of displays nor their quality. What I saw, will stay with me for years, incredibly interesting and fascinating beyond belief. Inside the stunning La Specola …
A first trip to Florence would not be complete without seeing specific historical and cultural sights. Many of these have to be planned prior to arrival, for the tickets sell out online as soon as they are released months in advance. Visiting the beautiful Uffizi Gallery & Vasari Corridor is one such place. Getting There …
What a pleasure it is to be back in Italy. I can’t explain why, but something about this country feels so right to me. The weather, history, beauty, language, art and food all combine to create a perfect atmosphere that feels like home. Here are my first impressions of Florence Italy after my initial walk-a-bout …
I have been looking forward to departing the Balkans and getting back to Italy and the day has finally arrived. This should be an easy trip, two short flights on the same airline with a two-hour layover in Vienna. My travel day Skopje to Florence on Austrian Airlines doesn’t quite turn out the way I …
I have no trouble what so ever providing ideas for future visitors. Skopje is filled with curiosities and interesting things to see and do. With its varied history, different ethnicities and current government, the city is simply fascinating to explore. Here are 5 free things to do in Skopje Macedonia that I hope you enjoy …
One might notice that there are far more mosques in Skopje than churches. This is a curiosity as roughly 50% of the population is Eastern Orthodox and 30% Muslim. Because of the Ottoman history, this interesting balance exists. Here is an example of beautiful churches & mosques of Skopje Macedonia that are definitely worthy of …
I was not prepared to see quite as much variety as I have in this European capital city. Each day I leave my abode, it seems I am discovering a new style. Perhaps arriving from Podgorica, where one is inundated with sameness, the difference seems starker. The fascinating architecture of Skopje Macedonia is both intriguing …
Always a fan of these types of historical museums, I was disappointed when I tried to visit and found it closed. Under refurbishment for a month during late summer, luckily it reopened before I left the city. The amazing Archaeological Museum of Macedonia is worth a visit for sure. Getting There You can’t miss it. …
One might think by now, that I would be getting tired or bored with markets. Not so my dear readers, if anything the fascination grows. Each time I encounter an item I have not seen before, it feeds my curiosity. I am in luck here in this capital city. Bit Pazar is the best market …
As a lover of ancient history, I knew this would be a structure that I was going to try and get up close and personal with. Located just two kilometers from the city, one feels like they are truly in the middle of nowhere, standing beside this mammoth snake. But there is intrigue here. What …
It is an interesting subject and one that is quite nuanced. When I first arrived, I had seen photos, but nothing prepared me for the reality of the situation. It is one of the reasons I find the city so fascinating and you might too. Why is beautiful Skopje The City of Statues? I’ll try …
One of my favourite ways to discover a new destination, is to let myself wander with abandon. Doing this, with no preconceived agenda, allows me the presence of mind, to really explore a space. Get lost with me in the Old Bazaar in Skopje Macedonia, lets discover magic. Brief History The Old Bazaar is located …
An historical treasure that dominates the landscape in this capital city is the Skopje Kale (kale being Turkish for ‘fortress’). Used on the coat of arms which in turn shows up on the city flag, you know this is an important structure. On your next visit, don’t miss Skopje Fortress a real historical treasure. Getting …
Just arrived and fresh to this city, I am seeking food and drink to fill my Airbnb kitchen. I’ve gone to the grocery store and picked up a few essentials, now its time for a more local experience. The vibrant & lively Green Market in Skopje is the perfect next stop. Getting There Located at …
Having travelled to a few Balkan countries now, I feel I have an idea of what to expect. Each one is different of course, but many of them have a similar and familiar recent history that unites them. Here are my first impressions of Skopje Macedonia. Beggars Right from the get go, on that initial …
My cherished visit to Canada has ended, and now I find myself faced with another 40-hour travel adventure. I’m heading back into my regular scheduled program of full-time travel. Let’s get this day started. Here is my travel day Canada to Macedonia via Rome from start to finish. Victoria to Calgary It is with a …
It is strange to be writing one of these posts as a tourist now, for my home town area on Vancouver Island. Visiting this summer, even though it was short and sweet, has been a surreal experience. I have some ideas to pass along, that others might enjoy as much as I have. Here are …