Sardinia, Enchanted Island
Sardinia: A most fascinating and remarkable island. With its rich history, food, nature, stunning beaches, delightful people, etc., Sardinia enchants the visitor. One need only visit with an open mind.
It’s a rather chilly and rainy morning at the end of July in Paris. It’s something I wouldn’t have expected; after all, summer’s in full swing. Mother Nature begs to differ, however. I suppose continued negligence of proper care of our surroundings has its repercussions. I’m wholly unprepared having just landed at Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport on the overnight from JFK. I’m in a t-shirt and shorts while other Parisians we encounter in the terminal have the benefit of knowing, and are dressed more suitably. Thankfully I’ve just a mere couple hours to bear the frigid temps; I’m here on a brief layover, en route to my final destination, the island of Sardinia.
From North America, as of this accounting, there are no direct flights to the island. A few European gateways, such as Paris, and of course major cities on Italy’s mainland, offer straightforward connections to either Olbia in the north, or Cagliari, its capital, in the south. Today, I’m headed to Cagliari where our journey begins. As aforementioned, it’s its capital, and is also its largest city.
Touch down’s at Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG), which is roughly a 15 min taxi ride into town. These are easily accessible outside the terminal and are a flat 25 Euros (as of this writing) to most of the central area. Tip: If you happen to be staying within the Marina area, hop on the efficient REG train service to the main train terminal in town. It’s quite fast, roughly 5 mins, and of course at a fraction of the cost.
So, here we are in Cagliari, the jumping off point for our exploration of the island. It’s a vibrant metropolis with a rich history spanning centuries and an enthusiastic people eager to welcome visitors. The charming B&B, Eleventh Fl. Suites run by its proprietress, the delightful Roberta, is where I’ve chosen to spend the next several days as we find our footing here in the south and explore the region before making our way up north. With a population of under 200k and a relatively contained center, it’s quite easily manageable. Getting around on foot is easy (if quite a bit hilly in parts, so be mindful), and most points of interest arevwithin relative close proximity.
Cagliari is significant in Italian history, having once been the seat of the Kingdom of Sardinia-Piedmont, serving as its capital for almost 500 years. Elements of this regal past can still be seen today in the city’s hilltop old quarter which is referred to as the Quartiere Castello (or Castello Quarter). In fact, this is where I’d recommend kicking things off. Ascend to the Castello quarter by taking the steps at the portal of the formidable Bastion Saint Remy (named after Baron San Remy, the first Viceroy of Piedmont). You’re then emptied into a grand open plaza where you can take in impressive almost 360 degree views of greater Cagliari below.
From there, make your way to one of the most important structures in the Castello, within the Piazza Palazzo, the 13th century Cathedral of Santa Maria di Castello, or simply the Cagliari Cathedral. Within the piazza you may also visit the Palazzo Regio, and the modest though impressive Palazzo di Citta. Finally, round out the afternoon by making your way to the nearby 2nd Century Amfiteatro Romano di Cagliari. It’s unique in its construction - parts of it were carved from the hillside where it’s located and the rest of it from limestone. Also, visitors are once again treated to delightful views of the sea from here.
Lots of excursions are possible from Cagliari. Be sure to catch the adorable pink flamingos at Parco Naturale Molentargius Saline, take some time out for some R&R at the pleasurable city beach at Poetto, and further afield, Spiaggia Su Giudeu, plus, experience the ruins at the ancient 8th Century BC city of Nora.
Sardinia, though the second largest island in the Mediterranean, is fairly manageable to explore. Renting a car is highly recommended and is quite straightforward. From Cagliari, we made our way up north to the glitzy Costa Smeralda though making pitstops along the way. Cala Ganone on the island’s east coast is an easy detour en route. Stop by for lunch and a leisure afternoon or, better yet, spend the night should time permit. The waterfront property of Hotel Cala Luna is perfectly situated, offering spectacular views of the sea. From there, the city of Olbia is a relatively short drive away. Here we camped out for our exploration of the northern part of the island. Olbia is easily accessible to Porto Cervo, Palau, La Maddalena, etc., to name a few points of interest. Island hop sailing tours are also possible via multiple tour operators from the town of Palau for instance. This region has a lot of beautiful islands to explore, so make it a point to include on your itinerary. And if you don’t particularly care for a full package tour, then popping over to Palau and taking a ferry (operators run a frequent schedule) to the island of La Maddalena is highly recommended. The journey is smooth and pleasant; plus the island (as with most things in Sardinia) is a stunner.
Switching gears to the west coast, located to the northwest of the island, roughly about a two hour drive from Olbia, is the unique and charming mediaeval city of Alghero. Unique in the sense that due to its geography and historical context (having once been under the Aragonese crown) Catalan is recognized as a minority language and some of its residents still speak it today. The cobblestoned old town, marina, and impressive fortifications of the old fort are sights not to be missed.
Overall, a most fascinating and remarkable island. With its rich history, food, nature, stunning beaches, delightful people, etc., Sardinia enchants the visitor. One need only visit with an open mind.
For bespoke itineraries to Sardinia, do not hesitate to get in touch. We’re happy to help.
Down By The Brighton & Hove Seaside
The charming seaside resort town of Brighton - or more aptly, Brighton and Hove, having expanded to incorporate the nearby Hove into the larger area in the late ‘90s, sits just outside London, at around 50 miles or so. Read on for more.
The charming seaside resort town of Brighton - or more aptly, Brighton and Hove, having expanded to incorporate the nearby Hove into the larger area in the late ‘90s, sits just outside London at around 50 or so miles south. It’s an easy day trip via reliable rail services or, better yet, pack the suitcase, head down, and stay a while.
Accommodations are plentiful offering a good variety and at decent price ranges. Several line the main promenade along Kings Road, on the seafront, offering spectacular views of the (English) Channel. The iconic The Grand Brighton maintains a rich history having opened its doors in the mid-nineteenth century, and played host to many dignitaries over the centuries. Architectural elements such as the exposed grand staircase with the flush of light via the domed skylight, especially from the vantage point of higher floors, is really quite beautiful.
Enjoy a casual stroll along the promenade or pop by one of the many eateries for some fish and chips (certainly don’t miss an opportunity to sample local fruits of the sea here - being on the coast, it isn’t surprising that the catch oftentimes is quite fresh).
Carrying on, If you’re a thrill seeker then you wouldn’t need to venture too far to get an adrenalin fix. Soar to more than 500 ft. high above the city and sea, on the Brighton i360, just mere steps away.
Back on ground, make your way to the charming corridor, the Lanes, where you’ll find lots cafes, shops, restaurants, etc. It’s easy to spend a bit of time here - I returned multiple times for some very tasty meals. And finally, just off the Lanes, checkout the unique looking Royal Pavilion built for King George IV - you can’t miss the distinctive architectural style once you’re in the area. Within the same grounds you may also visit the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery.
Overall quite charming and very easily accessible from London, so make it a stop on your visit to the area.
For assistance planning bespoke trips to the UK or other destinations, do not hesitate to get in touch. We’re happy to be of service.
Enjoying the afternoon at New Steine Gardens
Lebanon, A Brief Memo.
From vibrant Beirut - historically referred to as the Paris of the Middle East - to the Beqaa Valley, it’s a place steeped in centuries of history, with a culturally dense fabric. It’s endlessly fascinating.
This is Lebanon - a nation on the shores of the eastern Mediterranean. It borders Israel to the south, and Syria to its east and north. The bustling metropolis of Beirut - affectionately termed the Paris of the Middle East - is its capital and is centrally located. The city envelops visitors in its warmth while stupendously assaulting the taste buds (truly, rarely does one have a bad meal here).
Farther afield, excursions to the Beqaa Valley—visiting the ruins at Baalbek and Anjar; passing time in Byblos, and indulging in some truly tasty vintages at Ksara, were all remarkable experiences.
Undeniably, the historical context is complex, and the cultural fabric rich. To be sure, trying challenges continue - it was humbling to broaden our learnings, and the people - stalwarts of resiliency - were excellent teachers.
Make it a pin 📌 on your next visit to the area.
Beautiful Bosnia & Herzegovina
Sarajevo, a bustling capital filled with enthusiasm, hope, and promise.
Bosnia & Herzegovina is a Balkan state situated just east of the Adriatic Coast. It borders Croatia to its west and north, and Montenegro and Serbia to its south and east respectively. It’s a beautiful nation with lush landscapes and truly hypnotic beauty owning to its varied terrain, alluring vegetation, and rich produce.
Start your trip in the fairytale-like town of Mostar with its imposing Stari Most (or Old Brigde), and, further afield be sure to visit neighboring points of interest such as the divine Sufi monastery of Blagaj Tekke.From there make your way north towards the capital Sarajevo. En route, a stop at the impressive underground complex that is Tito’s Bunker is highly recommended.
Sarajevo is a gem of a capital. Savor its rich culture and stupendously delicious cuisine. Plus, scale to higher heights ascending to the top of the Trebevic mountain range. There you can take in breathtaking sights of the city, and also chart a course along the old bobsledding tracks from the 1984 Olympics.
To be sure its had a tortured past and one can still see signs of this across the nation. It’s fair to say though that it’s charging towards a vibrant frontier and its populace is showcasing this beautifully to the world.
Make it a pin 📌 on your next visit to the area.
Seductive Sicily
Quattro Canti or Piazza Vigliena - A Baroque square in Palermo, Sicily.
Rounding out our Mediterranean island feature series, we’ve saved, in my opinion, the best for last. The largest of the islands and I would say, the jewel of the Mediterranean, Sicily.
Sicily certainly has a certain kind of allure. An island steeped in centuries of history, its cultural tapestry is rich, owing to various influences across the region - the Greeks, Romans, Normans, Arabs; the list carries on. This amalgamation of influences creates a beautiful harmony in its existence today.
Just off the Strait of Messina, the island lies to the west of southern Italy’s boot - its toe to be more precise, while the vibrant cities of Taormina, Catania, Siracusa, etc. (destinations not to be missed), straddle the deep blues of the Ionian. Further up to the northwest, sits its capital and commercial hub, Palermo, a bustling metropolis with plenty of reminders and nods to its regal past (do plan to check out some of its well kept palazzos), and further afield charming towns such as Cefalu, Trapani and Erice, all hugging the Tyrrhenian.
Your options are almost boundless here. There’s so much to see and do - you’ll need multiple trips. It’s a place I’ve visited a number of times and still yet to cover it all. As one might expect, you’ll eat (and drink) very well here. Naturally, given its island status, all manner of seafood feature as star of the cuisine though myriad other choices are present as well. The local wines are also a treat; there’s something for just about every palate.
Having visited the island a number of times (even pre-the White Lotus craze - all in good jest), we’ve covered a good swath. For bespoke itineraries to Sicily, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Cruising Through Cyprus
The 9th Century Greek Orthodox Church of St. Lazarus, Larnaca.
Continuing our series on Mediterranean island features, today we spotlight one that may not immediately come to mind, the beautiful island nation of Cyprus.
Owning to its eastern Mediterranean location, just off the coasts of Lebanon, Syria, and Turkey, it holds an advantageous position of having temperate year-round weather, so one may visit a good chunk of the year and still bask in favorable temps (this feature is from the Fall, Oct.)
It’s a unique island in that a good swath of the central south-west, the Republic of Cyprus, is Greek-speaking, while the north-eastern area, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, is Turkish speaking. The capital, Nicosia (or Lefkosia), sits at the center of both regions and it is possible for one to cross to the other, on foot (just make sure your passport’s handy).
Traversing the island is quite straightforward and easy via the impressive interconnected highways and we also found each town to have its distinct characteristic. In addition, the history and culture is rich - Paphos Archeological Park is must see, amongst others.
Overall, a delightful time. Make it a pin on your next visit to the area.
A Corsican Affair
The utterly charming city of Bonifacio in south Corsica.
As we enthusiastically usher in the spring equinox here in the Northern Hemisphere—the change in season with warming temps, rows of fields all abloom, lazy afternoons on park lawns and, eventually, sizzling beach vibes, excitement’s in the air. Over the next series of posts, we’ll thus be featuring some of our favorite Mediterranean islands to further inspire your next vacation destination.
First up: Corsica (featured). What a marvelous place. From chic Bonifacio in its southernmost tip (a mere 13 or so miles from the north of Sardinia) to the capital, Ajaccio (the birthplace of the notorious Napoleon Bonaparte), and the northern city of Bastia, this island, though relatively smaller in comparison to some of the others, packs a punch.
Simply put, it’s a stunningly beautiful island with a fascinating range of terrain and vegetation. Outdoorsy types and those with a penchant for hiking/trekking will enjoy its abundance of wilderness and on the other hand if you’d rather opt for some R&R, the coastline offers excellent beaches where one can while away the afternoon.
If food and drink’s more of your inclination, it produces an impressive array of tasty wines, and an addictive aperitif, Cap Corse (which I desperately went in search of post my return to NY). The cuisine’s a mix of heavily influenced Italian and French staples - given its history - though it certainly boasts its own Corsican specialities. In addition to beauty and nourishment, we also found the people to be courteous and welcoming.
Make it a pin on your next visit to the area.
Georgia’s Gastronomic Delight
The mouthwatering cuisine Georgia. Most of the restaurants featured are in Tbilisi.
A great meal is a divine experience. Very few things compare to mouthwatering, satisfying nourishment. Thus, I love a good dish. I was excited to visit Georgia—but if truth be told, I was anxious about the food (because I was simply ignorant about the cuisine and had preconceived notions). I was quite wrong.
One of my lasting impressions of our time there remain the meals. Just wow—rich in flavor and quite veggie forward. I most enjoyed the Pkhalis, a starter melange, akin to a meze. Oftentimes these were so thoroughly satisfying that there was little room left by the time we got to the main course. The corn bread basket (GF friendly) was also another menu item that reduced us to gluttony. The food (and as one may imagine, the wine) certainly shines through amongst several other charming qualities. Give it a whirl, it’s certainly worth it.
Charming Cartagena
The vibrant city of Cartagena, Colombia.
Rimming the northwestern coast of the South American continent, and straddling the Caribbean Sea, Cartagena, for centuries, served as a key export trading post. Visitors will immediately notice evidence of this in the well preserved San Felipe de Barajas Fort and the impressive barriers of the walls encircling the old town.
The populace are warm and inviting, the food, with heavy Afro-Caribbean influences simply mouthwatering (it’s truly hard to have a terrible meal here), the barrios fascinating, particularly the bohemian and Afrocentric neighborhood of Getsemaní, and the further afield Rosario islands a beach lovers paradise (though fair warning beware of the sometimes turbulent seas!)
It’s been a trip in the making for many years. Glad to have finally checked it out. I look forward to visiting again. Make it a destination or certainly add as a pitstop on a Colombian/South American trip. For tips or help planning your upcoming getaway, do get in touch; be happy to assist.