Colorful Burano Island is home to the famous hand made Venetian laces. Its enchanting little streets, with canals and brightly colored buildings, have not been in travelers’ lists for long, but little by little people have started to avoid packed San Marco during peak hours to enjoy other Venetian sites, like Burano, during the day. Burano is a wonderful half-day tour and the island is… Read more »
Category: Things to Do
Even if you are in town for just a few days and your focus is the enchanting Old Town, do yourself a favor and spend some time lazing and bathing at this beach. Banje is very close to the famous Ploce Gate, so if staying in the region there is no excuse not to try it, weather allowing. From the beach you have nice views… Read more »
We often wonder how it is possible that someone would go to Dubrovnik and miss a boat day to the Elaphiti Islands. It was one of our best experiences in Croatia, so rent a boat and get ready for a wonderful day. Leave early and stop at some small coves for some fun swimming in Croatia’s amazing seas, with pristine waters in breathtaking shades of… Read more »
After you get used to the names of all countries that now occupy the Balcans, why not see for yourself what they have to offer? Montenegro is a lovely small gem located nearby. You can rent a car and drive yourself, but note that passport control can be a nuisance, or you can hire a private or semi-private tour for convenience. The highlights of our… Read more »
You could easily walk past without noticing the elusive entrance to the Franciscan Church and Monastery. Located in Placa, the main street in Old Town the monastery entrance is accessed via Pile Gate. We do recommend you find it, as the interiors are simply marvelous. A visit to this Dominican monastery will be full of history and culture, and the cathedral holds a treasured piece… Read more »
This pebble beach in Babin Kuk draws little similarity to the more famous namesake in Rio de Janeiro. One of the largest in Lapad peninsula, this Copacabana is a small beach, yet a good option if you are staying in the region and willing to vary from your hotel’s own private beach, bearing in mind that almost all Lapad’s coastline is privately owned. The surrounding… Read more »
Mostly frequented by locals, Fokos beach is away from the crowds and does not have beach clubs or bars. In fact, the beach has no formal infrastructure, and there are no fancy seats, sunbeds or parasols in sight. Bring your own towels, chairs and bottled water. There is, however, a lovely small tavern, where you can have a simple and delicious lunch. We had some… Read more »
Located in Panormos beach this is one of our preferred beach clubs in Mykonos. It is remarkably beautiful, with a beach décor and rustic comforts difficult to find elsewhere. The beach is gorgeous and you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas to comfortably enjoy a relaxing day by the stunning, calm and pristine waters. Service is very good and the staff welcoming and helpful, regardless of… Read more »
No one would blame you for travelling to Mykonos to enjoy nothing but the sun, sea and sand amidst such magnificent scenery, but do consider having a half day cultural program in your schedule. After all, you are in Greece, the home of Mythology and a country whose rich history is part of the culture, of which Greeks are most proud. There is no need… Read more »
Agios Ioannis is a quiet beach in the south of the island which attracts less people than the usually crowded and more famous nearby spots. It is situated in the southwestern part of the island, an area somewhat sheltered from the typical meltemi gusts, quite practical on windy days. It is a good place if you want to get away from it all and just… Read more »
Ftelia is a very quiet beach, as is usual in the northern part of the island. This spot, where you could get away from the hustle and bustle of the beaches in the south, has no formal visitor infrastructure, so take anything you may need: equipment, snacks and drinks. A more comfortable option is Alemagou, a laid back yet tasteful boho bar and restaurant on… Read more »
A boat day trip to unspoiled Rhenia will make you wonder whether you shall gaze upon such magnificent varied hues of blue ever again. A boat trip is the perfect way to experience the most amazing shades, from the dark deep water tones to the transparent colors near the shore. The island is uninhabited and sheltered from the typical strong northern meltemi winds. There are… Read more »
If you want to experience a less hectic side of Cartagena, head across the old city to trendy Getsemani neighborhood, a diverse area with rich cultural heritage and a favorite hangout for locals. We walked around during the day taking in the welcoming smiles of some of the locals and enjoying the eclectic street art. Calle de la Sierpe was originally home to the 2010… Read more »
We love Cartagena’s art scene and some of our favorites are NH Galeria Nohra Haime, Museo de Arte Moderno and Teatro Adolfo. Cartagena’s light-filled NH Galeria Nohra Haime showcases contemporary artists from Colombia and modern pieces include renowned pop artist Nadín Ospina’s pre-Columbian-style Bart Simpson statue. The intimate Museo de Arte Moderno has an impressive collection of paintings and works by sculptor Enrique Grau. Teatro Adolfo… Read more »
The extensive, pedestrian-friendly walls that surround the old city were built in response to Francis Drake’s siege of Cartagena in 1586. The best way to explore the iconic landmark is by foot, enjoying the warm sea breeze as you enjoy views of the picturesque streets. Dawn is a good time to explore the Murallas and assure the best possible pictures of your trip. Someone suggested… Read more »
When the temperatures rise, and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean become even more alluring, try to skip the hectic city beaches and take a day trip to a nearby island. We highly recommend a private tailor-made boat trip, where you can discuss your needs and preferences with your skipper and sit back as your sail to a perfect beach getaway. We suggest idyllic Rosario… Read more »
In Getsemani, the Centro Cultural Ciudad Movil, a grassroots cultural center, attracts locals for salsa dancing and live Afro-Colombian rhythms. The vibe can get a little hippie, but if you want to experience authentic Colombian and Caribbean beats, this is the place to go. The Plaza Santa Trindad is the epicenter of the night in the district. Go Salsa dancing at La Havana or Quiebra Canto,… Read more »
Only 20 minutes away by car you will find Convento de Santa Cruz de la Popa, standing 150 meters high on a hilltop, the highest point of Cartagena. Visit for the views alone, which overlook Cartagena as a whole and not just the old city, or go inside the convent to see the artifacts and learn about the history of the area. On your way… Read more »
You have probably already heard about the El Rastro flea market that happens on Sundays in the old-fashioned neighborhood of La Latina. It is actually a great traditional Sunday program, especially if extended with tapas and beers at one of the many bars on La Latina’s bygone cobbled sloped streets. They can get extremely crowded, with locals and visitors alike, but we still find flea markets… Read more »
When strolling around the beautiful Retiro Park in Madrid, take the opportunity to visit “Palacio de Cristal”. The iron and glass building used to be a greenhouse, with tropical plants coming from the Spanish colonies, notably the Philippines. Nowadays, it is used mainly for exhibitions curated by the renowned Reina Sofia Museum, so check the program beforehand. Whilst there, take a few moments to admire… Read more »
