I arrive before the war, having no idea of what is about to transpire or how my days and life will change. These are my first impressions of Doha Qatar as life is happening under normal circumstances. The following posts over the next few days are the precious experiences I have had. And then I’ll …
Having spent nearly a month in Oman and focusing predominantly on Muscat, I have been able to explore extensively. Here are a few ideas, besides the popular places you will already know about including the Mutrah Souq, Grand Mosque and fish market. Welcome to my list of 5 free things to do in Muscat Oman …
Something that is a must see while visiting the capital, is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat. Its not often I find I can gain access to a mosque, especially as a female, but this one is open to non-Muslims everyday but Friday from 8am to 11am. And its free. Logistics Located on Sultan …
Readers will know I love a market place, in fact, I’m a little obsessed with them. They are fun to explore and I always see and learn something interesting. In the middle east, markets are often called souqs and they are just as enjoyable as anywhere. Here is the best guide to Nizwa Souq & …
The method of my travel madness recently, has developed into one of less and less prior research. I used to be an over planner, knowing exactly what I wanted to see, even down to the restaurants I was going to dine at. After years of full-time travel, that has gone by the wayside and I …
I am splitting up my time in the capital city, by going on a trip half way through my stay. I have a hankering to see a fort that’s been on my radar for quite some time, mostly because of its aesthetic beauty. Without the funds to hire a car and driver like most do, …
To appreciate the beauty and size of the historical parts of this capital city, it is imperative to reach a height. Here are two ways to accomplish this. The first one you can simply walk from anywhere near the corniche and for the other you will need a vehicle. Muttrah Fort & Al-Bustan for the …
I love to hike, but don’t seem to do as much as I would like. When my Airbnb host told me he enjoyed hiking, I asked if there was anywhere close by I could go. Being the type of person who likes being involved in his guests stay, he offered to hike together. I gladly …
Readers know by now how much I adore visiting markets in every destination I travel to. They are one of my favourite ways to experience the culture, see the local handicrafts and immerse myself into everyday life. Well, I found some gems here. Don’t miss the amazing Mutrah Souq, gold & fish markets on your …
My kind host, the wife, has taken me to see some sights close to the village. These are two relatively small towns, both with historical value and significance. But more than that, they are interesting and unique to this side of the island. Come with me and visit fascinating Lefke & Gemikonagi in North Cyprus. …
Come with me. We are about to embark on a trip into a part of the island I have not yet explored. I have a unique opportunity to stay with a family that lives in a remote village across the border. This is the beginning of my interesting adventure to North Cyprus by bus. Leaving …
One of the reasons I enjoy spending time in this country is because of its ancient history. This came as a surprise to me when I first visited. I knew there was a little, but kept on discovering more. Feeling like an archaeologist in Paphos Cyprus fulfills a childhood dream of mine and I love …
Oh it feels good to be back on this picturesque island. I am welcomed with bright sunny skies, mild temperatures and a coastline full of beaches and views of the endless horizon. Returning to the same city I was in last time; here are my second impressions of Paphos Cyprus. Promenade What was under construction …
Yes, it is taking me two days to reach a relatively close new destination. Try as I might, I could not line up flights on budget airlines to make this work any better. Alas, I am first flying to England where I will overnight and head to my new home the following day. Here are …
This is my fourth Christmas abroad since leaving Canada in 2022. I never imagined I would be travelling this long. The journey has been everything I had hoped and more. Today I am wishing you a Happy Christmas 2025 and hoping your day is filled with joy and cheer. Solo Travel Almost all of my …
A market fiend, I will find at least one in every destination I travel to. Most are humble affairs but always alluring. Fresh produce, local goods, wonderful cultural experiences. None however, have been quite so grandiose as this one. Shopping at the best antique market in Lucca Italy is an experience of beauty and nostalgia. …
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 …
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 …
As soon as I stumbled onto the knowledge that there were ancient ruins buried under a church, I was hooked. Having no idea what to expect, I entered the largest church in the city, paid my €10 to see all four sites and was met with awe. The archaeological complex of the Lucca Cathedral is …
One thing that makes Lucca such a unique and special place to visit are the old walls that surround the historical centre. There are actually three layers, some now almost invisible, and others perfectly intact. The enchanting ancient walls of Lucca Tuscany are a feature of importance and beauty. Brief History The historical city of …