Travel Logs – Page 8 – Travel Destinations

The Northern Lights are in my Mind

In 2019 we pointed you in the direction of the Northern Lights. In fact in 1978 the group Renaissance were singing about the Northern Lights in their only hit single. The beauty of the song matches the sight of the lights.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coLTXx9utQM

The Northern Lights or to give them their technical name, the “Aurora Borealis” are a natural light display, which are the result of disturbances in the magnetosphere caused by the solar wind. The Northern Lights are so high up in the atmosphere that they don’t pose any threat to people watching them from the ground but they provide the most amazing sites.

One of the places to head this winter to see the Northern Lights is Finland. Not only can you see the lights but you can experience all that Lapland has to offer with moose, reindeer, husky and snowmobile safaris and that once in lifetime trip for that little ones that will make this time of year so special.

Your trip will be slightly different this year but the Finnish authorities are doing everything they can to allow you to visit Santa in these Covid times, though you might have to spend 72 hours in isolation depending on the length of your stay.

Santa Claus - Rovaniemi - Xavier Turpain — Santa Claus – Rovaniemi

If you plan to travel to Finland for less than 72 hours you can enter without a COVID-19 test. Longer stays require two tests, read here for details. Finland itself has amongst the lowest rates of Covid in Europe and so Finland is on the UK government’s travel corridor list .

An ideal destination is Rovaniemi which is the official home of Santa Claus. Just 8km north on the Arctic Circle is Santa Claus Village where you can find Santa at home every day of the year.

For more information about seeing the Northern Lights, winter safaris or meeting Santa contact Maggie.

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My girl and I went walking

by the Caribbean sea. So wrote Jimmy Buffett in his track Pre-You. Buffett is multi-talented American singer–songwriter, author, and businessman. His songs often make reference to an “island escapism” lifestyle. I think that many of us could do with some of that right now. His songs are full of references to various Caribbean islands and the sea itself.

In fact this week we head off to Antigua as it is on the UK quarantine free travel list. Only 1 Covid test within 7 days of travel is required to entry the island if you fly in or none is you arrive by cruise ship. One thing that you can certainly do in Antigua, as there are 54 miles of coastline, to walk along. There are in fact 365 beaches along the coast, that’s one for every day of the year.

Of those beaches, amongst the most famous are Galley Bay Beach for surfing, Half Moon Bay for relaxing and Dickenson Bay which is the most popular, with a number of hotels and restaurants. For example it is here that you can find the Sandals Grande Antigua Resort and the Siboney Beach Club.

Dickenson Bay - Antigua — Dickenson Bay – Antigua

Many of the hotels on the island are built along the beaches so that you can literally step out of your room straight on to the beach. In fact you could be on the beach within 10 hours of taking off from London with flight times of around 8 and a half hours.

Should you want to tear yourself away from the beach, then head up to Shirley Heights from where you can obtain the best view on the island. At a height of 490 feet, you get superb views of English and Falmouth Harbours and is best visited at sunset and the early evening.

View from Shirley Heights - Antigua — View from Shirley Heights – Antigua

Today, Nelson’s Dockyard provides many sites and activities for the modern day visitor to enjoy. It was built back in the early eighteenth century, when the British realised the value of having a dockyard to harbour ships in bad weather and keeping an eye on the French. The dockyard is named after Lord Nelson, who as Captain of the HMS Boreas, was sent to Antigua to enforce British laws in the colonies.

Nelson's Dockyard, Antigua — Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua

Call Maggie today and book your island escape.

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Cyprus is my island

“Cyprus is my island. When the going’s rough I would love to find you Somewhere in a place like that… ” David Bowie once again provides our musical inspiration for our travel destination this week. The lyrics above come from the track “Move On”. Bowie’s first wife Angie was actually born on the island and the couple visited the island many times. The song itself was inspired by his travels to Kenya, Japan and Australia. However judging by the lyrics (1:40) he found Cyrpus the place to escape from the stresses and strains of his popstar lifestyle. Will it be your place to escape?

Move On – David Bowie

Cyprus is located in the Eastern Mediterranean and is less than 5 hours flight from London. Stepping out of the plane at either Paphos or Larnaca airports you will have been transported to the crossroads of 3 continents. Europe, Africa and Asia. Cyprus has been inhabited since the 10^th century BC and boasts a rich cultural history due to its geographical position.

Situated at the crossroads of three continents – as a result, its cuisine is a mixture and refinement of a variety of Southern European, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian influences. “Meze” is the most traditional meal on the island, though exactly what you will be served will depend on the preferences of the chef in charge. Consisting of up to 30 hot and cold dishes. They will give a good idea of the rich variety of Cypriot foods.

When not eating and drinking, Cyprus provides you with so much choice. The default option for many is one of the wonderful beaches on the island. The number 1 beach destination is Nissi Beach, a particular favourite of younger travellers. The beach of white sand has shallow crystal clear water and a wide selection of watersports are on offer. In the evening you can head into Ayia Napa, famous for its night life.

Ayia Napa - Dimitris Vetsikas — Ayia Napa

Fancy somewhere more family friendly then head to Coral Bay. Cliffs protect the beach and ensure that the water remains calm. The beach is also popular for those who like snorkelling and diving. Want somewhere a bit more grown up then head for Blue Lagoon Beach. You won’t find many facilities here but you will find a beautiful location to relax and unwind and maybe understand why David Bowie wrote “Cyprus is my island”.

Kykkos Monastery - Dimitris Vetsikas — Kykkos Monastery

If you want a day away from the beach then head up to Kykkos Monastery. It dates back to the 11^th century and is located 1318 meters up on the on the North West face of Troodos Mountains. There is a museum at the centre of the monastery that contains many artefacts relating to the pre-Christian history of the island. The monastery produces Zivania spirit and other alcoholic drinks. That in itself must be a reason to visit.

Tomb of the Kings - Paphos - Dimitris Vetsikas — Tomb of the Kings – Paphos

One of the most important archaeological sites on the island are the famous ‘Tombs of the Kings’. The tombs for high ranking officials rather than Kings have been carved out of solid rock and date back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. They are similar to tombs found in Alexandria, Egypt. The tombs can be found in The Archaeological Park of Kato Pafos alongside a number of other important sites from the 4^th century BC to the Middle Ages.

Call Maggie to get away from it all on the island of Cyprus.

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I Imagine the Country

The song has its origins in the summer of 1989 just prior to the collapse of communism. At a local festival Dežo Ursiny sang John Lennon’s Imagine. This was followed by a Slovak version written by Ivan Štrpka. The Slovak version became “Predstavujem Si Krajinu” (I imagine the country). At the time it symbolised living in a country free of Soviet influence.

Predstavujem Si Krajinu – I Imagine the Country

Slovakia is sometimes forgotten as a tourist destination. For nearly 1000 years it did not have much control over its own destiny. Even during the period of the First Slovak Republic 1939 – 1945 it was a client state of Nazi Germany. Around the year 1000 it became part of the Kingdom of Hungary and today over 9% of the population state their mother tongue is Hungarian.

Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia, stands on the banks of the Danube and as such borders both Hungary and Vienna. Bratislava markets itself as a 72 hour city as that’s the average length of time tourists spend in the city. In those 72 hours there are plenty to keep you occupied.

Bratislava Castle, Slovakia - Peter Tóth — Bratislava Castle, Slovakia

Due to its geographical position and history a good starting point is Bratislava castle. Not only does it house the Museum of History but affords tremendous views across the city. Down in the town, the Michael’s Gate which is the only preserved gate of the city fortification system dates back to the 14^th century gives you a great view back across the Old Town and the castle. The tower at the gate houses the Museum of Arms.

Bratislava houses the largest war memorial in Central Europe. It rises over 50 metres and dominates the city skyline. It is the burial ground of 6845 soldiers of the Soviet army who died during the liberation of Bratislava in World War II.

St Elizabeth’s Church (The Blue Church) - Hans Hansen — St Elizabeth’s Church (The Blue Church)

On a religious note, don’t miss out on a visit the 15^th Century St Marin’s Cathedral, the Art Nouveau style St Elizabeth’s Church, also known as the blue church and cubist style synagogue built between 1923 and 1926.

You will be spoilt for choice with a wide range of restaurants, cafes and bars and for those of you with a sweet tooth, patisseries something they do so well in Central Europe. Whilst in the city look out for the amazing sculptures.

Sculpture, Bratislava - Sebastian Mies — Sculpture, Bratislava

Call Maggie today and book your trip to the 72 hour city.

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Cheira a Lisboa

“Cheira bem, já tem sol, Cheira a lua, cheira a Lisboa” which translates as “Smells good, it’s sunny, smells like the moon, smells like Lisbon”. The song by Belgium born Wendy Nazaré and French singer Pep’s, is about the delights of Lisbon as well as referring to historical events such as the Great Earthquake of 1755 that almost completely destroyed the city and the surrounding area. The accompanying video was filmed on location in Lisbon with the most famous historical sites as its backdrop.

Wendy Nazaré and Pep’s – Lisboa

Despite a history of earthquakes, Lisbon has always been an important city through the ages. The Romans, the Berbers, the Moors and then Reconquista knights have all taken a interest in Lisbon due to its position of the River Targus. The Torre de Belém is the most iconic building in the region, dominating the entrance to Lisboa harbour on the north bank of the river. Originally built in the 16th century and subsequently improved over the years, it would have been the last part of the country that sailors who sailed west to discover and visit the new world across the Atlantic Ocean would have seen.

Torre de Belém - Julius Silver — Torre de Belém

An absolute must when visiting Lisbon is a ride on the trams. There are two types of tram, the historic “Remodelado” trams or the modern Siemens “Articulado” trams. In fact the best way to get to the Torre de Belém is by the modern No 15 tram. However you must travel on the historic No 28 tram that will work its way up the steep, cobbled roads and into the old Alfama district. The Alfama district is one of the top destinations for tourists in Lisbon. It is the oldest part of the city dating back to the time of the Moors. It survived the 1755 earthquake as its built on dense bedrock. Up here you will step back in time. Wander through its narrow streets, tiny squares, visit it’s churches and wonder about the history that has taken place inside those whitewashed houses. In the evening you will find many great restaurants to eat in or out and you will are bound to hear Fado music, dates back to the 1820s.

Tram - Lisbon - Walkerssk — Tram – Lisbon

There are many more places to visit in Lisbon and now it’s off the UK quarantine list, it makes a great destination for a short break or the starting point for a tour of the country. Don’t miss out on visiting the solid looking and imposing Santa Maria Maior de Lisboa, known locally as simply the Sé. Finally you must not miss out on the Pasteis de Nata, deliciously soft, sweet, custard tarts, that are a cult in Lisbon.

Pasteis de Nata - Portuguese Custard Tart -CarolinaP — Pasteis de Nata – Portuguese Custard Tart

Maggie is currently booking short stay and long stay trips to Lisbon, so she is up to date with what’s available. Contact her today.

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Rīga, mana Rīga, tevi mīlu es

“Riga, my Riga, I love you”, is a popular Latvian song written based upon the poetry of Aleksandrs Čaks, a famous Latvian poet. Čaks was born in Riga and much of his poetry was written about the wonderful city of Riga and its people. There is a street named after him. Arturs Maskats composed the music to accompany the lyrics in 1982. Maskats is an outstanding composer and has composed many pieces including several performed by the Latvian National Opera company.

Riga, my Riga, I love you / Rīga, mana Rīga, tevi mīlu

Riga stands at the centre of the Baltic States, Estonia to the north and Lithuanian to the south. Both are easily reached from Riga. Hire a car and get to Tallin the capital of Estonia in 4 hours and Kaunas the capital of Lithuania is 3 hours, 30 minutes away. Currently UK citizens can freely travel to and return from the Baltic States.

Riga, Latvia, Germans Alenins — Riga, Latvia

Besides being the largest of the Baltic capitala it is a very beautiful city full of gothic and medieval architecture. Unlike other European capitals that are heaving with tourists in the summer months, Riga is full of Latvians. Not being on the top ten list of most city break fans even pre-Covid it was a good option and now its even better.

For travellers on a budget staying and eating out in Riga represents great value for money. Prices are in line with destinations in Poland, Hungary and Romania. Restaurant prices are about half of those in most UK cities.

Well what is there to do in Riga? First stop would be the St Peter’s Church. The church dates back to 1209 and has undergone various transformations over the years. The most recent due to damage caused by artillery fire in 1941. Head up to the viewing platform to experience superb views across the rooftops.

Like many towns and cities across Eastern Europe, Riga has reminders of its time under the influence of the Soviet Union. A trip to the Latvia Academy of Sciences, a mini Empire State building, head up to the 17th floor of this 1950’s building for an alternative outlook on the city.

Maybe we have too much of an interest in the macabre. Head off to the “Corner House”, the former headquarters of the KGB which is very emotional. Not a fun way to spend a day, certainly sobering and puts into perspective Latvia’s recent history.

Baltic Sea Riga Latvia Edgars Koronevskis — Baltic Sea Riga Latvia

On a happier note, there are plenty of back streets, markets, restaurants etc to visit to keep you busy but if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle then visit Ķīpsala Beach right in the centre of Riga on the River Daugava. A little further afield there are several beaches within easy reach of Riga. With 500km of coastline there is bound to be a beach to suit you.

We will be back to the Baltic State in the future, but in the meantime call Maggie today and start planning your Baltic Adventure.

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Nostalgia de Milan

Giovanni D’Anzi is the writer of the song that bares the title “Nostalgia de Milan”. He was born in Milan in 1906 and wrote many songs relating to Milan. He is most famous for this song ” O mia bela Madonina“. Written in 1934 as a counter to the songs of the Napolean immigrants and their songs like ” O sole mio ” which told of the wonders of their home town. The Madonina is the golden statue on top of the spire of the Milan Cathedral which can be seen from all parts of the city.

Nostalgia de Milan – Giovanni D’Anzi

The Cathedral in Milan took nearly 600 hundred years to complete. Work started in 1386 and was deemed completed in 1965. The cathedral took nearly six centuries to complete: construction began in 1386, and the final details were completed in 1965. It is the largest church in Italy, the second largest in Europe, the largest being St Peter’s in the Vatican City.

Milan Cathredral - Madonnina Photo: Eric Delgrange — Milan Cathedral – Madonnina

Mark Twain wrote these words about the Cathedral when he visited in 1867: “What a wonder it is! So grand, so solemn, so vast! And yet so delicate, so airy, so graceful!” I wonder what you will think. In fact he dedicated chapter 18 of Innocents Abroad to the Cathedral, which includes descriptions and historical details. You can read it here.

There is plenty else to see and do in Milan and a long weekend or mid-week break is not enough to do it justice. One trip that you are advised to book well in advance is that to see “The Last Supper” by Leonarno Di Vinci” which is one of the most recognisable painitngs in the world.

The Last Supper - Leonardo Di Vinci — The Last Supper – Leonardo Di Vinci

As a traveller you pass through a wide variety of transport hubs. However few are grander than the Central Station. It is the largest railway station by volume in Europe. From here there are high speed links to Turin, Venice and south to Rome and Naples which makes Milan a great travel base.

Finished in 1931, the building which has no definitive architectural style has been described as one of the most beautiful stations in the world. Again see for yourself. It certainly is impressive.

What a lot of visitors to Milan are not aware of is the canal network. Originally the canals were built to connect the city with the local area and the marble for the Cathedral was brought in via the canal network.

The Navigli - Milan — The Navigli – Milan

Although part of the canal system was covered in the city centre there is plenty of canal side activities to engage in. You can cycle or walk the tow paths during the day and by night you can enjoy the nightlife, with a wide variety of restaurants and bars to choose from.

There are plenty more highlights of your trip to Milan including the La Scala de Milan – one of the most famous opera houses in the world, La Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade next to the Cathedral and the Sforza Castle which houses the main museums.

Book your short break to Milan, call Maggie today for more.

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I would walk 500 miles

There cannot be a more evocative song from the modern era that transports you to Scotland. As Craig and Charlie Reid sing “I would walk 500 miles” you are instantly taken to the land of castles, whisky, glen, bens and lochs.

Starting and ending at Inverness Castle the North 500, is a 516 mile route that takes in some of the more remote parts of Northern Scotland. The route works its way along the west coast to Applecross and then northwards towards the towns of Torridon and Ullapool. From there, you’ll embark on a drive to some of the most northerly coastal points of mainland Scotland, including Caithness. From John o’ Groats you head south through Dingwall back to Inverness.

The North 500

How could you not be tempted to drive the North 500 yourself? In fact you could even cycle or walk the route. If driving allow yourself the best part of a week and you are advised to book your accommodation in advance particularly during the summer season. This is where Maggie can help you out. She will help you find those less popular little gems along the route and suggest stopping off points to make the most of your journey.

Ackegill Tower

Not only will you find superb accommodation but fantastic scenery, exquisite beaches, fine food and the best distilleries in the world.

Extend your 500 mile drive with a visit inland or to the islands. After all if Craig and Charlie can “walk 500 more” then you can “drive 500 more.

Call Maggie today and start planning you trip round Scotland’s Route 66.

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Adieu les tours de La Rochelle

“Farewell to the towers of La Rochelle” sang “Les Binuchards” a French “rock festif” group based in Gémozac about an hours drive south of La Rochelle about a sailor setting out on a voyage. The towers of La Rochelle refer to the three towers that formed part of the towns historic fortifications. The Saint Nicolas and Chaîne towers were also used as prisons and the Lanterne tower was used to disarm boats before they came into port and served as a lighthouse.

Adieu les tours de La Rochelle – Les Binuchards

Of the 84 million people who visit France each year almost 1 in 7 of them are British, making France is the second most popular destination for British tourists. With more than twice the land area and approximately the same population it never seems as crowded. The question is where to go, there is so much choice.

If you like to combine the sun and sand with a bit of history and military history in particular then La Rochelle on the French west coast could be just the destination for you. If you have been following the Sky TV series “Das Boot” based on the German novel and film about U-boats during the Battle of the Atlantic you will know that many of them sailed from La Rochelle.

La Rochelle’s history is strongly linked to the sea. Originally a small fishing village it grew and became so significant that the English fought and lost Battle of La Rochelle in 1372 which three months later led to the French conquering the town and saw the beginning of the end of English control of Aquitaine.

La Rochelle Towers - Chris Bromley — La Rochelle Towers – Chris Bromley

The pens for the U boats were constructed in secret at night and could hold 13 submarines. Some of the most important missions set sail from here. Unfortunately they are not open to the public as they are used by the French navy. The U-boat complexes in St. Nazaire, Lorient and Bordeaux are open to the public.

Despite being heavily used by the Germans during the Second World War, the city itself suffered very little damage and was the last city in France to be liberated from the Germans.

La Rochelle - Karlo Kolumno — La Rochelle – Karlo Kolumno

For us it means that the “Vieux Port” (“Old Harbour”), and the old town are well preserved, with it’s churches, market square and passageways.

In town you can also visit the Bunker of La Rochelle built to protect the submarine commanders from bombs and learn about what life was like for the citizens of La Rochelle from 1939 to 1945.

Île de Ré - Christoph Maurer — Île de Ré – Christoph Maurer

For the beach you can have a choice of the beautiful Ile de Ré or the small resort at Chatetlaillon Plage, a short distance south of La Rochelle.

Getting to La Rochelle couldn’t be easier from London, 7 hours by high speed trains or 5 flights a week are just a couple of your options, contact Maggie today for more.

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Granada

“Granada, tierra soñada por mí” or in English “Granada, land of dreams for me” wrote the Mexican composer Agustín Lara in 1932. From the 1940s onwards he became well known in Spain and in 1965, the Franco gave him a house in Granada in appreciation of his songs with Spanish themes. Granada, Seville and Madrid amongst them.

Granada Luciano Pavarotti

The number one destination in Granada has the be the magnificent Alhambra which was declared a World Hertiage site by UNESCO in 1984. The Alhambra stands on a small plateau and is visible for miles around. It’s orgins date back to the 11th century and the time of the Moorish dominance in the region. In the 13th century it became a royal palace. It wasn’t until 1492 that the Moors were expelled from the region and it became home to Queen Isabela I and King Ferdinand II.

Alhambra, Granada - Copyright Pablo Valerio — Alhambra, Granada

There are essentially 10 main structures within the Alhambra. The Royal sector, the Court of Myrtles, the Hall of Ambassadors, Court and Fountain of the Lions, the Hall of the Abencerrajes and Generalife are the most famous and the average visitor will spend at least 4 hours there, many spend the whole day. Normally you would have to book days in advance but due to the current situation it is possible to book a visit for 48 hours in advance. At the time of writing there are tickets available on everyday through the summer.

The Partal, Alhambra - Copyright Frank Nürnberger — The Partal, Alhambra

There is plenty more to see and do in Granada. Notable stops on your itinerary should include: Alcaiceria – the last remaining section of the Moorish, Grand Bazaar, Sacromonte – view houses built into the rock face and in the evening visit a traditional flaminco show, Carrera del Darro – this street follows the course of the Darro river and was the line of the old city walls. Granada is also an important university city and it offers plenty of entertainment in the evenings and for the young at heart.

Today we would just like to finish off with this version of Granada by Bruce Welch’s Shadows. Originally from an EP entitled “Los Shadows” recorded in Barcelona in 1963 the track was never played live until the version below.

Granada – Bruce Welch’s Shadows

To book your Granada escape contact Maggie today. Ask Maggie about staying in the Parador de Granada. A 4 star hotel within the old convent of the Alhambra.

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