After 2022 and 2023 were filled with travels far and wide, we returned to our cherished Belgrade for a much-needed respite. Soon enough, we found ourselves ascending into the skies once again, this time heading towards Venice, Italy, to join friends on their family vacation. First, we stopped in The Fat City Bologna to sample the infamous cuisine. Eager to always explore new places and create fresh memories, we spent two nights in this vibrant city. Bologna, with its population surpassing one million, is affectionately known by three intriguing nicknames: "the Fat City" for its sumptuous and hearty cuisine, "the Red City" due to the ubiquitous Spanish-style red-tiled roofs that paint a striking cityscape, and "the Learned City," proud home of the oldest university in the world. After a short and very early flight from Belgrade, we arrived in Bologna and were quickly delivered by our trusty Welcome Pickups app to our hotel in the heart of the old town. We find Welcome Pickups to be a great service for airport transfers. Arriving early, the day was ours; we deposited our luggage and hit the pavement to explore; clearly, first up, when in Italy, you have to enjoy the coffee culture, so we popped into a local cafe called Vyta, which soon became our local for the next few days! The city's charm unfolded further as we explored the majestic porticoes that grace the city streets—each an avenue covered with arches, extending over 40 kilometres throughout Bologna. These porticoes, adorned with intricate designs and vibrant street art, created a stunning visual symphony that added to the city's unique character. These architectural marvels not only offered shelter from the sun and rain but also served as a canvas for artists, blending historical grandeur with contemporary creativity. Venturing under these expansive archways, it felt like walking through a living museum, each turn presenting a new facet of Bologna's architectural splendour. The contrast between the ancient buildings and the modern expressions of street art encapsulated the city's ability to honour its past while embracing the present. Indeed, Bologna's porticoes are not just pathways; they are the arteries of the city, pulsating with life, art, and history. Unfortunately, hubby was suffering from a sore knee; being 60+ is catching up! So we took it easy and scouted for the closest cocktail bar and settled in for a Campari Spritz, allowing us to research an authentic Italian lunch. Bologna is world-famous for its cuisine. It's where the famous tagliatelle al ragu (Spaghetti bolognese), 'Bologney' (Bologna sausage), mortadella, Parmigiano reggiano, parma ham and Balsamico Modena comes from. Fortunately, we spotted a perfect place across the road! Sitting on the terrace beneath The University of Bologna, founded in 1088 and the oldest university in the world, devouring local wines and sampling the region's favourites and specialty pasta was simply divine! We did squeeze in a little self-care, too, we found the most fantastic barber shop in Bologna! This place, Parrucchieri Spettiniamoci , was an absolute gem. As we strolled in, we were welcomed with open arms, and trust me, as spontaneous walk-ins with no appointment, that warm reception was everything! The cutting and styling skills were next-level, and talk about efficiency! This barber was like a ninja with those scissors, giving both my hubby and me some cutting-edge transformations. We strutted out of there feeling like a million bucks, with an extra spring in our step. We loved being back amongst the Italian culture, coffee, people, food, vino and relaxed vibes, so day two was spent dining and wining our way around, with a little exploring along the way. We even managed to squeeze in some shopping, when in Italy, you can’t pass on the fashion; they have the most effortless and beautiful style.

Two days in Malta, a short jaunt across from Bari in Italy to continue our pilgrimage of paying respects to our fallen heroes and family members who lost their lives during the world war. We arrived in Malta and were blessed with an early check of 11am into our Airbnb , boasting they have the most stunning harbour views and spot on; the views were unbeatable! Malta truly resonates with a piece of heaven on earth. It is a tranquil island boasting sandstone architecture and cobblestone stairs to the doorsteps of homes, all nestled amongst the crystal-clear aqua waters of the Mediterranean. You are constantly in awe of your surroundings, and no one can take a questionable photo being delivered such magical visionary views. Malta is a playground for enthusiasts of crystal-clear aqua waters, ancient architecture, UNESCO World Heritage sites, stunning panoramic landscapes, and open caves with idyllic coastlines and watering holes. First up, we jumped an Uber to the CWGC Pieta Military Cemetery to visit my Dad's Great Uncle, Private William Hubert Long, who sadly lost his battle at the raw age of 20 to Typhoid during WWI only after miraculously surviving being shot in the face during the conflict in Gallipoli, unfortunately in those days there was no intravenous feeding resulting in Typhoid. More than 1,300 Commonwealth casualties buried at Pieta Military Cemetery are casualties of World War One, making it the most significant number of WW1 graves on the island. 882 of the burials here, nearly 60% of the total number of casualties, died in 1915 having been wounded or contracted sickness at Gallipoli and evacuated to Malta. As well as a large number of British war dead, a large ANZAC contingent at Pieta, with more than 230 burials of New Zealand and Australian casualties. We arrived at the cemetery unbeknown to us; it was a public holiday in Malta, so everything was closed. After some busy online research, a combination code to the lock is available on a website, but there is no information on such a website. Fortunately, there was an email and phone of a contact to which we reached out for the details. We were also assisted by a few locals driving by who kindly stopped to help us out and make calls to obtain the code. He later shared that he lost his father during WWII, so he understood why we needed to pay respects. The code was received, and we entered the cemetery, which was also well-maintained for all those laid to rest. We all walk through hunting down Private William. Fortunately, they were all by date, so we found him quickly enough. We are grateful we had the opportunity to visit Private William with Mum & Dad, as we are the first family members to do so. He has been lying there to rest since 1915, for over 100 years; we polished up his headstone and thanked him for his service. We later learned William's mother, my great-grandmother, not only lost her 20-year-old brother during WWI but Edwin during WWII, who we visited in Bari, was her 21-year-old son, something challenging to comprehend and difficult to understand her significant losses. Following our visit to pay respects, we were fortunate, especially on holiday, to locate a lovely little grocery shop where we could purchase all the essentials to head back to our stunning Airbnb and take advantage of such tranquil views. With only two nights, we spent most of the time relaxing and intently watching the marine activity and the impressive superyachts mooring. It was the perfect location to enjoy the harbour views and be blessed to watch the sunsets. We had front-row seats to the firing of the canon blast twice a day; we like to call them the Siestas alarms, the first at noon and the last at 4pm. It was also fun to watch the gondolas ferry everyone across to Valletta for only €2 each and explore Senglea, our beautiful neighbourhood; it also has a lovely perspective overlooking Valletta. Malta, you are also on our list for an extended stay. There is so much to explore; you need a few weeks to explore, take a breather, and relax genuinely. This is our third visit, and you are capturing our hearts. We visited Valetta on a cruise in 2018 and 2014. The people of Malta are incredibly kind and gentle; we can't wait to see more of you.

We couldn’t visit Puglia without experiencing Trani, the Pearl of Puglia, a small coastal fishing village. We put on our research hats and found Trani was only 30 minutes away from Bari by train. It was easy to book online using our trusty Trainline app, and with trains leaving every 30 minutes, the wait was minimal; we were there by lunch. Trani has a sophisticated feel. The marina is where you can promenade and watch the white yachts and fishing boats in the harbour. At the same time, the historic centre, with its medieval churches, glossy limestone streets, the historic Jewish quarter, and faded yet charming palazzi, is a beautiful area to explore. The cathedral, pale against the deep-blue sea, is the town's most arresting sight. During transit, we made sure to google our way to the perfect restaurant for a slow lunch and hit the jackpot! Gallo Restaurant was where you were welcomed with positive and warm energy upon arriving. We were fortunate to secure a table of four without a booking. The wine list was epic, and the service was impeccable, working seamlessly together. Primarily, it is a seafood restaurant, with all the local catches of the day on display for selection. All the dishes we experienced, from the appetiser to the first course, main course, and desserts, were divine. You can’t go wrong! Inside the restaurant, the stone interior transports you to another era. Sit at the front and enjoy the beautiful views of the Adriatic and the local fisherman lifestyle. After a long, lazy lunch, the rain had decided to join us, but it slowed enough for us to take the streets and explore the quaint village. We wandered around the water's edge to visit the Trani Cathedral overlooking the Adriatic. This dramatic seafront cathedral is dedicated to St Nicholas the Pilgrim, a Greek Christian who wandered through Puglia crying ' Kyrie eleison' ('Lord, have mercy'). First thought to be a simpleton, he was posthumously revered after several miracles attributed to him occurred. Construction of the cathedral started in 1097 on the site of a Byzantine church and was completed in the 13th century. Although this teaser only provided a small sample of the Puglia region, it was ample enough to make it on the travel list for those who want to discover and unwrap the area more extensively.

Discovering History and Heart in Bari, Puglia—It was time to continue our European travels and meet back up with Mum and Dad, following our last adventure together in Prague , leaving a memorable segment to the end of our trip. We planned to visit Bari in Italy and Valetta in Malta to pay our respects to family members, our fallen heroes who tragically lost their lives in their early 20s in WWI and WWII. The first stop is Bari, where a War Memorial Cemetery is located for all those who lost their lives from 1939 to 1945; also the place my Great Uncle (my Dad's Uncle) was stationed with the RAF for some time upon returning from a mission. At the young age of 20, Sergeant Edwin Emberson, when returning from operations on the night of 15/16th April 1944, Wellington HE344 collided in mid-air with No. 104 Squadron Wellington LP146 when circling the Foggia Main aerodrome, and HE344 crashed two miles to the west of the drome. All crew members were killed, including all five RAF crew aboard LP146. We spent the morning at the cemetery paying our respects, and this has been on my Dad's Wishlist for years, too many to count, so to have the opportunity to visit the grave finally was a special moment, and together with family. The CWGC Bari War Cemetery is a memorial resting place for all these brave people. It is tucked out in the farmland. It is very peaceful and immaculately maintained, and it is comforting to know that our fallen heroes are not forgotten. The remaining days in Bari were spent exploring the city, with a day trip to the stunning small local coastal fishing village of Trani. We stayed in the heart of it in a beautiful apartment called II Pallazzetto on the main pedestrian street, designed as Italians know best—beautiful! You walked in and were super impressed with the spaciousness, modern and clean design, high ceilings, and quality of furnishings and all fittings. The location was tranquil, too. Bari is a large coastal city with a thriving port and a historical and modern centre. It is the capital of the Puglia region of Southern Italy. The attractive old town, Bari Vecchia, dates from the 12th century. Bari is the second most important town after Naples in southern Italy and the capital of Puglia. It is on the southeastern coast just above Italy's 'heel'. Bari Vecchia is only a ten-minute walk. We enjoyed getting lost amongst the cobblestone alleys and watching the locals who live amongst them go about their day, from selling fresh homemade pasta (Orecchiette, a pasta typical of Apulia, a region of Southern Italy. Their name comes from their shape, which resembles a small ear, bread and catch of the day from the nearby Adriatic). Restaurants are abundant in Bari, so you really need to research, bypass the tourist spots, and find the places the locals frequent. We were disappointed with a few options, mainly due to service and food quality, such as R45 and DROP, and only on the last day did we win the lottery at L'Argenteria . We also found an excellent coffee shop across from the II Pallazzetto apartments. Be sure to sample their delicious coffee, called Caffe Cognetti . We were grateful our last meal at L'Argenteria left us with a positive impression of the food and service in Bari. While some were overrated and underdelivered, L'Argenteria's food, cocktails, and warm service were spot on. Bari is the gateway to the quaint coastal villages of the Puglia region of Italy . When we find our way back, we will focus on exploring the smaller villages and avoiding the large city of Bari, which is home to 300,000.

As you step into Gallo restaurant in Trani, Puglia, you are instantly greeted by beaming smiles and positive energy. Now, I know what you're thinking—how on earth did we score a table for four without a booking? Well, that's the magic of Gallo, a place so beloved by locals that finding a spot, even on a nonchalant Monday lunch, is like stumbling upon the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Lesson learned: next time, we're booking ahead! The wine list at Gallo is nothing short of epic. Four pages of champagne, half bottles for all wines, and an impressive lineup of Italian wines from every region imaginable. And the best part? It's all fantastic value! Trust me, deciding on wine here is more challenging than choosing your favourite dessert. The service at Gallo is impeccable—it's like a well-rehearsed symphony, with each team member seamlessly in tune with the other. Their knowledge of wines and local cuisine is like having your own personal culinary encyclopedia but with a charming Italian twist. They're kind and helpful and make you feel like you're part of their gastronomic family. Now, onto the main event: the food. Gallo is a seafood paradise, showcasing the local catches of the day as if they were precious jewels on display. Every dish we savoured, from the appetizers to the divine desserts, was a symphony of flavours. It's the kind of place where you can close your eyes, point at the menu, and still end up with a masterpiece on your plate. As if all that weren't enough, the restaurant's ambience is like stepping into a time machine, whisking you away to another era with its stone interior and charming, rustic charm. Or, if you prefer, you can sit at the front and soak in the breathtaking views of the Adriatic, feeling like a part of the local fisherman lifestyle for a moment. It's the kind of setting that makes you want to linger, savouring every moment and every morsel. Our time at Gallo was, without a doubt, the pinnacle of our dining experiences during our stay in Puglia. In fact, we were so smitten that we wished we had more time to dine there again. To the incredible team at Gallo, we offer a heartfelt thank-you for an unforgettable culinary journey. Your warmth, expertise, and passion for what you do made our visit a treasured memory.

Bendigo Ernest Hotel has finally put Bendigo on the map for luxury accommodation. Bendigo has always had its unique charm and hidden wonders, but it was missing that touch of luxury that makes your adventure truly unforgettable. Well, not anymore! The Bendigo Ernest Hotel has come to the rescue and put this incredible town on the map for luxury accommodation. This extraordinary haven of comfort and luxury has been calling my name since it popped up on my radar in 2022, so when the chance finally came to swing by during our Aussie adventure, we didn't think twice. It exceeded all our expectations! In fact, we found ourselves returning not once, not twice, but thrice during the month back in our hometown of Bendigo. Talk about love at first stay! After we arrived in Melbourne, Australia, we made our way to the heart of Bendigo in a short 90-minute drive on a dual-lane freeway. The warm embrace of this divine sanctuary welcomed us, a surprise welcome home goodies from my beautiful family. It was like stepping into a tranquil oasis, with park views and leafy green trees swaying outside our window. The Bendigo Ernest Hotel oozes class and sophistication. Nestled within the walls of Bendigo's oldest bank, dating back to 1864, it's nestled in the beating heart of the original   gold rush town . It's a hop, skip, and jump from the city's top-notch eateries, which are world-class, and the famed Bendigo Art Gallery. And those ten individually styled suites? Each one's a masterpiece, decked with Aussie art, plush bedding, and designer touches that make for a stay unlike any other. We went room-hopping and even had the opportunity to cosy up in suites 1, 4, and 9 – all pure bliss, but 4 and 9 stole our hearts. The underground cellar houses an exquisite and alluring bar, lit with soft lighting that creates a sense of comfort, relaxation, and the perfect Martini. Its intimate ambience sets the stage for a sophisticated escape. Let's not overlook the anticipation building for Terrae , the upcoming fine dining restaurant scheduled to debut in Autumn 2024. Mark your calendars, folks! The prospect of indulging in exquisite cuisine while sipping wine in such a meticulously crafted setting is part of life's finer moments. But wait, it gets even better. Picture yourself basking in the glorious Bendigo sun from the courtyard, soaking in the city's charm and the serene sounds of Rosalind Park. And the icing on the cake? Free, secure parking on site – a rare treat in the heart of a bustling town. The service! The delightful Ella and her team are nothing short of beautiful souls. They embrace all guests with warmth and ensure that every moment of your stay is filled with joy and comfort. Their hospitality has us returning time and time again, each visit leaving us with cherished memories to hold close to our hearts. So, if you find yourself yearning for a touch of luxury and a dash of heritage charm in Bendigo, look no further than the Bendigo Ernest Hotel. It's not just a place to rest your head – it's the perfect country getaway, an experience that will weave its way into your fondest travel tales, leaving you with a longing to return time and time again. Bendigo Insider tips When visiting Bendigo, not only will you find exceptional accommodation, but you can also immerse yourself in the culinary wonders the city has to offer. For a memorable dining experience, we recommend visiting MS Batterhams or The Dispensary , where you can savour the finest flavours and textures that Bendigo has to offer. Afterwards, indulge in handcrafted cocktails at Victoria Lane Speakeasy , an experience that perfectly complements exquisite cuisine. If you need a morning caffeine fix, a short stroll will lead you to Pogo Espresso for an expertly brewed coffee, while Harvest Food and Wine invite you to savour their freshly made croissants. You are also spoilt with City Wine Shop , directly across from Hotel Ernest for an afternoon tipple. This vibrant slice of Bendigo's soul promises an unforgettable culinary journey that will undoubtedly leave you yearning for more. Discovering the local culinary scene not only enriches your travel experience but also provides a glimpse into the heart of Bendigo's culture and community. These unique dining establishments capture the essence of the city's vibrant culinary soul, leaving a lasting impression that will draw you back time and time again.

Let us share one of our treasured finds, Victoria Lane Speakeasy, from our recent visit to Bendigo, Central Victoria. Upon arrival in Melbourne, we escaped into the heart of Bendigo to spend our first few weeks with family. As you know, we are seasoned in the art of discovering the most charming watering holes during our travels. And lo and behold, in our latest escapade, we stumbled upon a secret trove known as Victoria Lane Speakeasy . Prepare to be transported to another era, where cocktails take centre stage, and secrets are whispered amidst the flickering candlelight. First, let me introduce you to Isaac, the master of libations. With a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous grin, Isaac will guide you on a cocktail journey unlike any other. As we sipped our handcrafted concoctions, each expertly paired with a tale of the bar's theme, we found ourselves enchanted and eager to uncover more. But fear not, for I shall not spoil the secrets that lie within. Let's keep the mystery alive! Every drink at Victoria Lane Speakeasy was thoughtfully crafted with a daring twist that extends beyond the boundaries of comfort. Classics were reinvented, tantalising our taste buds with unexpected flavours and delightful surprises. Isaac's artistry truly shone through, showcasing his mastery and passion for the world of mixology. Click here for a sneak peek of Isaac's creations. But it wasn't just the drinks that transported us; the ambience genuinely set this speakeasy apart. As we stepped into Victoria Lane, it was as if we had been whisked away to a hidden corner of New York City. The dimly lit space, vintage decor, and jazz melodies hanging in the air effortlessly created an authentic speakeasy atmosphere. It was a haven of sophistication and class, where time seemed to slow down, and worries melted away with each sip. A bar is not just a place to drink but to connect and forge new friendships. And that's precisely what Victoria Lane Speakeasy offers. The clientele, like us, were drawn to this hidden gem, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. The friendly team behind the bar welcomed us with open arms, making us feel like old friends from the moment we walked through the door. Conversations flowed, laughter filled the air, and before long, we found ourselves leaving with a handful of new friends. We want to extend our deepest gratitude to Isaac for sharing his art, warmth, and kindness with us. You, my dear friend, made our stay in Bendigo truly one of a kind. Your passion, skill, and ability to create an unforgettable experience will forever be etched in our hearts. Not only is Isaac a wizard in the art of mixology, but he's also the local oracle when it comes to unearthing the hidden gems of Bendigo. From the perfect brew at Pogo Espresso that jumpstarts your day to the exquisite fine dining at MS Batterhams , The Dispensary and The Woodhouse Bar & Grill that leave you in a blissful food coma. Harvest Food and Wine for deli delights, fresh bakery items and fine wines. I must confess, we were utterly impressed by Isaac's picks, each one a treasure trove of culinary delights waiting to be discovered. Isaac's got the inside scoop on all things delicious in Bendigo. So, if you find yourself wandering the cobblestone streets of Bendigo, make your way to Victoria Lane Speakeasy . Step through the hidden doorway, leave the hustle and bustle behind, and immerse yourself in an era of glamour and nostalgia. Allow Isaac and his team to whisk you away on a cocktail adventure where boundaries are pushed, secrets are shared selectively, and friendships are forged over the clinking of glasses.

Returning to Prague after 17 years between visits, we were delighted by the transformation we witnessed; you have come a long way. Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic, is gracefully divided by the Vltava River. Aptly nicknamed "the City of a Hundred Spires," it is famed for its picturesque Old Town Square, a vibrant hub showcasing colourful baroque structures, stunning Gothic churches, and the intricate medieval Astronomical Clock that performs a captivating show hourly. Not to be missed is the pedestrian-friendly Charles Bridge, adorned with statues of revered Catholic saints, offering a timeless connection between Prague's historic quarters. Despite the busy tourist scene, we found pockets of peace and tranquillity around every corner. When it came to gastronomy, Prague truly exceeded our expectations. The city boasts a world-class culinary scene, complete with delectable wines and cocktails that are sure to impress. Our Airbnb  was magical; we were welcomed by a beautifully renovated apartment that exuded charm and tranquillity. The space was generously sized, allowing sunlight to stream in, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. From our vantage point, we enjoyed serene views of a peaceful courtyard adorned with a lush tree teeming with vibrant green leaves and lively birdlife. The location was ideal, nestled in the city's heart and just a stone's throw away from the main square, ensuring convenience and a sense of being at the centre of all the action. Our first day was to enjoy the culinary delights of the city. After kindly being accepted into La Degustation , we were settled in for five courses accompanied by a delicious local Chardonnay. After being spoilt with effortless but delightful dishes, we gently nudged the waiter for the best cocktail bars in Prague and left with a healthy list. Mid-afternoon was spent strolling along the river, navigating to the obligatory tourist site, the Charles Bridge. We then started on the exclusive cocktail list and set our sights on one called Black Angels (No photos allowed); upon entering and descending the old wooden stairs, we found ourselves in a prohibition 1920s-themed bar, precisely what we had been hoping for and one that reminded us of our old haunts in Melbourne such as Polly and The Alchemist. The cocktails were spot on, and we spent the evening sampling many and meeting many new friends, locals and from abroad. We followed this with a nightcap in an exclusive private club tucked away in a cave underground; it was a fun first night in Prague; we even met a fellow Aussie! On our last day in Prague, we eagerly ventured through the charming cobblestone streets, accompanied by Mum and Dad, determined to visit all the must-see attractions and absorb the stunning architectural wonders surrounding us. As afternoon approached, we sought a serene setting to indulge in a leisurely lunch. Our choice fell upon Marina Ristorante , a delightful establishment offering delectable Italian cuisine. With a table perfectly positioned by the river, we relished the front-row views of the iconic Charles Bridge and the vibrant activity that thrived on the water, particularly on this lively Friday afternoon. The menu tempted us with an array of options, but we unanimously opted for the steaks, and they exceeded our expectations. The high-quality beef steaks were perfectly cooked to temperature, and these juicy cuts were a sensory delight, leaving us completely satisfied. Following lunch, we couldn't resist the allure of a horse-drawn carriage ride through the bustling Friday crowds of Prague. Not only did it provide a respite from the chaotic energy on the ground, but it also afforded us a unique perspective on the city's stunning sights. As the carriage rolled along the shiny cobblestoned streets of the city square, the gentle sound of the horse's hooves created a beautiful melody that complemented the beauty of our surroundings. It was a truly insightful and memorable experience that allowed us to appreciate Prague's charm and culture in a way that only a horse-drawn carriage ride could offer. Following our enjoyable horse-drawn carriage ride, we settled into a cosy bar called Danielas by Barock , which we had picked out during the ride. It also turned out to be a stunning restaurant, and we lucked out with the best seat in the house for some prime people-watching. It was as if the universe had saved that table just for us! As we bid adieu to Prague, we clinked glasses and savoured the flavours of a couple of delightful cocktails, toasting the unforgettable memories we made in this captivating city. It was the perfect finale to our Prague escapade! Don't be afraid to step away from the main square and be surprised by the hidden little gems you will be spoilt with. The city is a Michelin guide heaven for foodies, and we are already planning our next trip for a culinary trek through the city. Prague, you have won us over and shown us how to escape from the hoards of travellers alike and still enjoy the magic of this historical wonder in just three days! Let's talk about our previous trip to Prague back in 2007 . Back then, the stag parties were quite the scene. Unfortunately, this is still prevalent and lingers, but we've noticed a remarkable transformation! The gastronomy scene has stepped up, offering more refined and diverse food options. It's exciting to see the shift towards cocktail bars, a thriving café culture, and a renewed focus on the city's stunning architecture, history, and leisurely people-watching. We've seen a brilliant evolution unfold in Prague, with slow, indulgent lunches and relaxed moments becoming an integral part of the city's vibe. It's like the city has embraced a more sophisticated and nuanced approach to hospitality, creating a more enriching experience for locals and visitors. Let's take a little trip down memory lane; here is a collection of photos from Prague in 2007, our first trip:

Welcome to the Capital of Finland; Helsinki is one of the world's most charming and captivating cities. This vibrant capital city is known for its impressive architecture, cultural landmarks, inspiring design, and cutting-edge gastronomy. But what makes Helsinki stand out is its unique urban energy and natural beauty blend. Following our one night in Turku , we arrived safely and comfortably in Helsinki on the ever-efficient VR train. Sunday afternoon was spent checking into the perfect Airbnb in Helsinki , an absolute gem. Nestled in the trendy design district, it offered a taste of local life and a front-row seat to the city's vibrant energy. We were utterly blown away by the beautiful architecture surrounding us and the waterside just a stone's throw away. The apartment was comfortable, spacious, recently renovated, and sprinkled with that unique Finnish sense of humour. Talk about finding the perfect home away from home! With limited time in Helsinki, we embraced the spirit of wanderlust and explored this captivating city on foot. Monday was our day to unwrap Helsinki, lose ourselves in its streets and stumble upon hidden treasures. As we navigated the winding streets, we were pleasantly surprised by the stunning scenery that hugged the water's edge. Funky beach clubs with breathtaking views and sun lounges beckoned to us, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the hustle and bustle of the city. We couldn't help but imagine how incredible it would be to experience a boat cruise here, especially with Helsinki sitting on a peninsula in the Gulf of Finland, the surrounding islands weaving a picturesque backdrop. All these beautiful surprises will need to wait; we will be back! By the time our feet had given up, our hungry bellies demanded attention. We sourced a local restaurant to enjoy the day we know best, and we found a foodie paradise at Ravintola Vinkkeli . We were delighted, too; being a weekday, we discovered that most restaurants offered three-course lunches for business-savvy folks. An insider tip—these business lunch menus were absolute value for money. It was the perfect spot, right at the design district's corner. We enjoyed our post-lunch champagne by the streetside, immersing ourselves in the local vibe and striking up conversations with friendly Finns who were also savouring a slow Monday lunch. The energetic and kind team made us feel right at home, and we were grateful for their warmest welcome. Although our time in this incredible country was limited to eight days, we barely scratched the surface of all it had to offer. I felt a sense of pride and honour, even though I had only experienced a taste of my heritage that I am proud to be part of. A very special thank you to all the family members for your welcoming hospitality and generosity; we loved meeting you all and counting down the days until our return to Finland. There's so much more to discover and share with all of you!

We parted ways with the family on Saturday morning following our time in Riihimäki and took an early train to Turku. With only eight days in Finland, we needed to experience more of this beautiful country before our final three nights in Helsinki. Turku is a city on the southwest coast of Finland and straddles the Aura River. Dating from the 13th century, and known for Turku Castle, a medieval fortress with a history museum perched at the river mouth. Turku is the oldest city in Finland and is known for being the gateway to the west, the Archipelagos and Stockholm. Our selling point was the restaurants that line the cobbled riverside streets; you are spoilt for choice. We booked a business-class train trip to Turku using the trusty Trainline app . The trip was only about two hours, the coach was beautiful, and you even got free coffee, so we settled in and soaked up the passing luscious green countryside views as we arrived at our new destination. The train quality was first-class. The seats were spacious, and the high-quality fittings were clean. European trains, especially those from Finland, are in a world of their own. We were ready to relax and explore after checking in to a lovely hotel in the square, the Scandic Hamburger Börs . Our day was spent savouring the views and local rooftops and relishing the fact that the sun was shining and it was 20 degrees in Finland. We were fortunate to stay in the square, which has two stunning rooftop bars on our doorstep. Walo Rooftop Bar was the perfect setting to soak up the new atmosphere. We followed this with a nibble and vino by the market square at Wine Bar Axel W, making sure we made the most of the beaming sunshine and enjoyed the locals' buzz for the weekend. Late afternoon, we strolled the tree-lined river boulevard and enjoyed delicious cocktails at Liberty or Death , a cocktail bar mirroring the likes of Melbourne gems (it saddens us to see this bar has now closed 12 months on). The energy surrounding us was infectious, and enjoying watching the local life spend Saturday afternoons having picnics in the sun with friends by the water's side. It did feel like a rarity to enjoy an array of high-quality bespoke cocktails with the sun rays filtering through on the terrace overlooking the river instead of a dark-lit bar. Turku was winning us over; it was the place you wish you could extend your stay. Sunday morning, we took the opportunity to explore by foot and capture the essence of Turku as we retraced our steps by the river and beyond. We were surprised as we strolled for only ten minutes, and we felt we had left the city with nature and a walking platform we stumbled upon, returning us to the city's heart. We always stop for coffee as we begin our lazy strolls around a city, and we were delighted when we came across a quaint foodie's pop-up festival in the park to provide the locals and alike everything they need as Spring was settling in with a stunning backdrop of the church. As you wander the cities of Finland, colourful tulips surround you, scattered around each village or city. The tulips provide a bright burst of energy for all to enjoy and are always a vision of delight. We love that the garden beds are untouched and growing healthy, which is the respect they deserve. In the early afternoon, we were in our own private booth on the train to Helsinki, ordering lunch online, which was to be delivered ten minutes later to our seats. Again, we were super impressed with the train travel. Europe, you know how to make life easy; we realised how much we have missed the ease of train travel.