Most of us have heard of the iconic leaning tower, but what about everything else? There is a sizeable city here, but I rarely hear of anyone talking about it. What I do hear from time to time, a sentiment that comes across my social media, is that its ‘underrated’. Is the City of Pisa …
An advantage of staying in Lucca is the proximity to other places near the coast in Tuscany. One such holds an iconic tourist attraction that I never believed I would visit in my lifetime. I have seen photos of it in the encyclopedias I studied as a child and now I get to witness the …
Two things’ visitors to Lucca can see for a small fee are these. Both are located inside the historical core and only a six-minute walk apart. One is a palace that is partially open to the public, and the gardens are accessible too. The other, the only remaining medieval family tower, of the 250 that …
One of the reasons for basing myself at Lucca is its proximity to the Tuscan coastline. When one thinks of Tuscany, rolling green hills and vineyards come to mind. But there is a huge coastal community here too. For a mere €3.90 train ride, I took a day trip to the big beautiful beach at …
After one short train ride, I have changed destinations and now find myself in another area of Tuscany. Wanting to explore smaller cities, this one also has the advantage of being near the coast. I see day trips in my future. Here are my first impressions of Lucca Italy. Walkable What a well laid out …
Its that time, the end of my visit to this extraordinary city in Tuscany. What a magical place. I have barely scratched the surface and know I will return over and over, there is that much to experience. Here are 5 free things to do in Florence Italy that I hope you will find as …
One very special aspect to travel is trying local food. Italian cuisine is known around the world, almost everywhere one travels they can find some form of pizza or pasta. But to be in Italy and tasting the real deal? How blessed am I. Oh to eat amazing food in Florence Italy is indeed a …
Something I enjoy doing in each destination that has an historical core, is wander aimlessly. To have no time constraints or specific goal in mind, simply to explore and discover. Get lost with me in Florence Italy and let’s see what we can uncover. Duomo The place to begin this adventure for me is the …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
When I first moved to the island in the early 90’s, I was taken to this abandoned trestle and couldn’t believe my eyes. At that time, it still had the metal railway lines and daring visitors could walk out onto the old structure, no railings, no safeguards at all. Today, it has been lovingly restored …
Never one to turn down a visit to a beach, this is a particularly amazing area of the City of Victoria. My favorite in fact, I think it’s the best part, and an absolute treasure. Not only are there various parks and recreational areas, the views and coastal vibes are unique and authentic. Dallas Road …