Country No.72 holds an extraordinary place not just on the map but in my heart. Finland is where my Mum was born. Being half-Finnish, my sense of curiosity about my heritage always lingered. It's funny how a sense of belonging can sometimes be found in the very place where our loved ones took their first breaths. It definitely provided some insights into my demeanour and with a new affection and understanding for my Mum. It has been a long time in the making. We have made several attempts to visit, and they just didn't come about, but this time was a success, and it was even more special to have my Mum and Dad by our side. Let's start from the beginning. We arrive in Helsinki, and the first sign we see as we walk off the plane is a typical conversation with a Finn, basically all one-word responses. This is very enlightening, and I am starting to understand my conversational skills already! Riihimäki, Finland Family whisked us away to Riihimäki, where my Mum was born and my family reside; it is only a 40-minute drive, but within 10 minutes of leaving the airport, we were stopping for coffee and cake at the gas station, something the family likes to do, so we took the opportunity to taste our first Pulla (Cardamom bread) from Finland, what we called Coffee bread growing up and loving our visits to Grandma and Grandpas for the delicious treats. We were back on the road, and the first thing we did was visit the supermarket. This is not your typical grocery store, but one where you can buy all your groceries, produce meats, and household needs; it was enormous! Once we were stocked up, we were in the apartment the family kindly offered for us to stay and settle in; it was tucked away from the city centre in peaceful surroundings. The next evening, my Mum's cousins hosted us for a BBQ, which we were very excited about—a home-cooked meal! Johanna, Antti, and their precious children were an absolute treasure, making us feel at home and nourishing us with delicious food and joyous company. We soon became fast friends, and as we were leaving, the kids were just as heartbroken as we were; it was a pleasure to be around such a warm and loving family. The evening was spent going down memory lane, viewing old sepia photographs from Grandpa's side, seeing Mum and the family growing up, and meeting Grandpa's side of the family. It was lovely to put faces to names and meet all the young ones. The region we were in for the evening was named Pöyrynkatu, actually after my Great Grandfather; my Mum's maiden name is Poyry; he was a stone mason and involved with building many structures in the area and putting it on the map; a plaque is still there to honour them. Riihimäki is home to The Finnish Glass Museum, so this was on the sightseeing list for the next day. The museum focuses on glass design and the history of glass, and it has been operating since 1981 in a renovated glassworks. The museum presents the history of glass dating back over 4,000 years and the 300-year history of Finland's glass industry. The collections consist primarily of Finnish household, design, and art glass from the 18th to the 21st century. Wayne was afraid as soon as he heard this was on the agenda, especially with me being in such close proximity to so many glass displays; he couldn't wait to tell everyone how much havoc I would cause with my clumsiness. He was right, of course, and a few minutes in, I tripped over a stand holding a glass sculpture; although I was lucky, it was so significant and stable that we averted a catastrophe! The upper floor of the building is devoted to the history of the Finnish glass industry and products such as bottles, polished crystal and pressed glass. The history of Finnish glass design is divided into sections, including the history of serial manufacturing, art glass, and glass art. Located on the ground floor, the exhibits showcase the fascinating journey of glass and provide a wealth of basic information on glassmaking techniques. From the art of glassblowing to the marvels of mechanical production and the intricate decorating techniques, each display holds a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to be discovered. A deep dive into the history of glassblowing: Glassblowing was invented around 40 BC in Lebanon. This technique permitted mass production and spread into the Roman Empire by ca. 100 AD. Along with the Middle East and Italy, glassmaking concentrated in the Rhine valley near present-day Cologne. Glass also came into wider practical use. The Finnish Glass Museum's collection of Roman glass includes bottles, tumblers and jars from ca. 100-400 AD. Most of the pieces are from either the Middle East or Central Europe. The objects are excavation finds, and a surface with a metallic sheen has formed on them because of corrosion in the ground. The Roman Empire was divided into Eastern Roman Empire, or Byzantium, and the Western Roman Empire in 395. The Western Empire fell in 476, but Byzantium lived on until 1453 when the Turks conquered Constantinople, present-day Istanbul. The heritage of Roman glass was passed on to the Islamic world via Byzantium. The Middle East had a historically strong tradition of glassmaking. The heyday of Islamic glass ended with the Mongol invasions of the 14th century. The Roman heritage spread to Venice in the 14th and 15 centuries through the influence of Byzantine and Islamic glass. After strolling through the endless glass sculptures and pieces, which were very interesting and mesmerising, the clan popped into the hunting museum, and we scouted a place for lunch for us all to enjoy in a local restaurant. Following this, it was coffee, cake and ice cream time at the apartment with the extended family; we all sat around chatting with Mum translating, as some members were only Finnish speaking; we have gotten as far as hi, bye, thank you and cheers, so assistance was fully appreciated. Finns love their ice cream. It comes in large blocks, and you cut it up like a cake and serve it on a platter; they get points for the quality, especially the liquorice flavoured!! We all retired early for the evening as sleep doesn't come easy during Spring and Summer in Finland to be fresh for our next Finnish adventure, which takes us to explore Hämeenlinna, a village nearby. In this part of the world, the concept of darkness takes on a whole new meaning. With the daylight night sky, it felt like the sun was teasing us, refusing to surrender to the darkness entirely.

Amsterdam in the Netherlands, you don't deserve to wait 17 years between visits! With only two days in Amsterdam, we were ready to explore the cobblestone canal-lined streets and capture the city's beautiful essence. Arriving on a Sunday, as tourists bid farewell, allowed us to explore Amsterdam at our own pace. Early morning strolls along the picturesque canals that Amsterdam is only too well known for, expertly maneuvering around the bustling cyclists; the bike is a limb. Bicycles are not just a means of transportation here; they are an intricate part of the local culture. Thankfully, I avoided having to do this, as I am sure Amsterdam would have come to a standstill. Bikes piled up everywhere, with me, of course, causing chaos! Our first day was spent reconnecting with dear friends from Australia, whom we met on a recent South American cruise. We shared a beautiful afternoon, enjoying the company of friends in the heart of Amsterdam. Thank you for the beautiful memories, Chris and Gab; we love you guys! Wayne even enjoyed a cycle, following cocktails by the canal! Don't worry; he arrived unscathed with a massive smile! To indulge our senses further, we treated ourselves to a magical slow lunch at Brasserie Ambassade , overlooking the canal. The restaurant exudes warmth and hospitality, making us feel like family from the moment we stepped in. The exceptional and affordable food and wine selection created a truly memorable dining experience. We were also blessed to receive a window table to soak up the views we are all too familiar with and love in Amsterdam. Don't let the abundance of dining choices overwhelm you in Amsterdam. With countless options fit for royalty, fixed-price lunch menus simplify decision-making. At Brasserie Ambassade, you can savour exquisite cuisine while leisurely exploring their impressive collection of premium wines. Amsterdam's serene energy and ideal pace of life make it a perfect place to unwind and appreciate the small pleasures. Hospitality is second nature here, as you'll encounter warm and generous people from various walks of life, indeed a mixed bag of cultures. The city's cultural diversity creates a captivating blend of experiences. Be sure to take a canal cruise. It is the most relaxing way to truly appreciate Amsterdam's architectural splendour while navigating and squeezing your way through the canals. For just €13, you can enjoy an hour of sightseeing with Stromma Cruises , gliding through the waterways and soaking in the breathtaking views. Amsterdam, you left an indelible mark on our hearts. We eagerly anticipate returning to explore more of your unique charm and create new memories. Until then, we bid you farewell with gratitude for the special moments shared.

After the timeless allure of Bruges in Belgium as part of our enriching two-week Western Europe Transatlantic voyage aboard the esteemed Celebrity Apex, we were reunited with our dear friends in Rotterdam in the Netherlands. This day is hard to put into words. We were not even sure it was going to happen. We were communicating and trying to make it work, but as life happens, the universe was on our side to reunite us after 17 years apart in Rotterdam. Martine, a cherished friend I met in 1999 in Melbourne, had a family weekend away in Amsterdam, just as we happened to be in Rotterdam, her hometown. Despite the time constraints and logistical challenges, Martine and her family raced back to Rotterdam, managing to spend an hour together before our ship set sail. Truly, it was an hour to be cherished. Martine and I met when she was backpacking in Melbourne in 1999. We joined Medibank the same day and quickly became friends; you couldn't keep us apart. She finally had to return home after living in Melbourne for an extended period; it was a sad day, and we were inseparable. She even moved in with me for a short period. But we stayed in touch, and she had plans to return as my maid of honour for my first wedding, so we were reunited in 2002; then, in 2006, Wayne and I visited her in Rotterdam. Over the years, we've stayed in touch, fostering our connection despite the physical distance. An unfortunate accident five years ago thwarted our plans to reunite in Paris for my 40th birthday, making this long-awaited reunion in Rotterdam all the more magical. We had a beautiful hour meeting her little ones, who are now, of course, teenagers and six feet tall (Holland is the land of the giants) and reminiscing on the old times and how easy it was to pick up where we left off, like no time had passed, the epitome of true friendship. Wayne had so much fun reconnecting with Marcel (M's hubby) by staying up all night playing board games and knocking on random doors in Amsterdam, which were clubs, of course). After an hour filled with tears, laughter, and seventeen years of catching up, we bid our friends farewell and embarked on our voyage towards Norway. This unforgettable reunion has taught us a valuable lesson—the importance of nurturing friendships and cherishing our time together. It has also sparked our determination not to let such precious catch-ups become few and far between. As a result, we are already busy planning a future getaway in Rotterdam, ensuring that our friendship continues to thrive. Sailing out of Rotterdam, the breathtaking views and the unique sight of oil rigs accenting a glorious sunset filled us with overwhelming excitement. Finally, reuniting with one of our oldest friends reminded us of the immeasurable joy and fulfilment of companionship. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the universe for orchestrating this reunion and to Martine and her beautiful family for cutting their weekend getaway short to find us again.

Embark on a transformative adventure with us in May 2023 as we set sail on a remarkable seven-night cruise aboard the Apex by Celebrity Cruises, navigating the awe-inspiring Norwegian fjords . Following an enriching 16-day voyage on the Western Europe Transatlantic route from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Rotterdam, we seamlessly transitioned into a captivating back-to-back cruise, commencing in Rotterdam and culminating in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Norwegian Fjords with Celebrity Cruises Join us as we step into a world of unparalleled natural wonders and cultural treasures, where every moment unfolds as a testament to the extraordinary experiences that await in the heart of the Norwegian fjords. Our journey through the Norwegian fjords allowed us to immerse ourselves in the captivating beauty of four distinct destinations, each offering a unique tapestry of experiences waiting to be unravelled. Our journey through the Norwegian fjords was a revelation. It captured our hearts and opened our eyes to the unparalleled beauty of this pristine landscape. We were sold in Norway. Having cruised the stunning New Zealand sounds and the breathtaking Chilean Fjords  multiple times, we were taken aback by the grandeur of the Norwegian Fjords, which truly stand in a league of their own. The sheer scale and drama of the scenery went beyond what any camera could capture. Navigating Norway's inner channels, we were met with mountains cascading and overlapping in a picturesque display that left us in awe. Click on the designated tile below to explore our memorable encounters at each destination. Life onboard Celebrity Apex We had sailed with Celebrity Cruises nine times before, so we were no strangers to Celebrity. See our Crossing the Atlantic with Celebrity Cruises blog for more about our transition to the Edge class ship. Regrettably, our plans to secure the coveted Sunset Verandah stateroom, reminiscent of our transatlantic voyage, fell through. In light of this, we opted for an AquaClass room — a practical choice informed by our past cruise experiences, where partaking in specialty dining establishments was a highlight of our journey. By selecting the AquaClass accommodation, we strategically avoided incurring extra expenses while gaining exclusive entry to Blu, the dedicated restaurant reserved for guests of this class. This allowed us to experience the innovative design of the "infinite veranda." While we found the room comfortable, the balcony style left us somewhat confined. Although the infinite veranda concept is promising in theory, it is characterised by a more enclosed setup that restricts the ability to fully enjoy outdoor seating. We discovered that the window frame, positioned in our eyeline, slightly detracted from the immersive views we had hoped to savour from the comfort of our stateroom. This aspect proved frustrating, given our desire to relax and soak up the breathtaking scenery of the Norwegian fjords. We longed for the unrestricted pleasure of sitting on a traditional balcony, allowing nature's beauty to envelop us. Norwegian Fjords with Celebrity Cruises Our first evening provided a memorable start to our seafaring adventure. Departing from Rotterdam, we were pleasantly surprised to receive a complimentary bottle of champagne and fresh, delectable strawberries, setting the tone for a night of indulgence. As we floated out into the waters, we were treated to a stunning display of a unique interplay between a magnificent sunset and a mystical fog drifting gently over the water, enveloping the oil rigs that dotted the seascape around us. It was a sight to behold and left an indelible impression on our hearts and minds. This experience reminds us of the importance of cherishing the little moments of indulgence and taking in the beauty around us. It also serves as a testament to the level of service and attention to detail offered by the Celebrity Apex crew, who went above and beyond to make us feel special and pampered. Norwegian Fjords with Celebrity Cruises After our awe-inspiring departure, we were promptly ushered into Blu, the esteemed restaurant designated for Aquaclass patrons. Here, we savoured a leisurely dinner characterised by attentive service, a notable uptick in culinary excellence compared to the main dining venues, and an inviting, elegant ambience that set the stage for an exceptional dining experience. Embracing the opportunity, we delved into the evening with complete immersion by partaking in three courses. We promised ourselves we would make a show in this segment, and it did not disappoint. Crystalize, a captivating show that graced the theatre's stage, was a symphony of artistry, seamlessly blending vocals, choreography, light, laser projections, music, dance, and breathtaking aerial acrobatics. As the curtains unveiled this multi-sensory spectacle, the theatre came alive with an inspiring and visually stunning display that left us in awe. The carefully orchestrated fusion of elements in Crystalize was a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and creative ingenuity that went into its creation. Each movement, sound, and visual effect served a purpose, weaving together to transport the audience on a journey of wonder and emotion. Norwegian Fjords with Celebrity Cruises Norwegian Fjords with Celebrity Cruises We maintained our dining experience at Blu, complemented by our visits to Raw on Five to satisfy our craving for Japanese cuisine. The menu offerings at Blu left a lasting impression, showcasing a thoughtful selection of dishes. Despite the ship nearing capacity, the tranquil dining atmosphere in Blu provided a welcome retreat, allowing us to savour our meals in a relaxed setting. As our 23-day Transatlantic and bucket-list Norwegian cruise approached its conclusion, we took a moment to bid a fond farewell to our dedicated crew members, expressing gratitude for the thoughtful gifts they bestowed upon us as mementos of our journey. Special thanks were extended to Alexander and Lea Anne from Raw on Five , whose exceptional service and attention to detail enhanced our cruising experience. They left an enduring imprint on our memories. Undoubtedly, we wholeheartedly endorse embarking on a Norwegian Fjords cruise; we can't sing the praises of a Norwegian Fjords cruise loud enough! We loved it so much that we're gearing up for another adventure cruising around Northern Europe this July and August. The rugged beauty of the Norwegian Fjords is genuinely something to behold. It's a feast for the senses, from majestic cliffs plunging into crystal clear waters to picturesque villages nestled in the valleys. And let's not forget the unparalleled charm of Northern Europe, with its rich history, vibrant cultures, and mouthwatering cuisine awaiting us around every corner.

Weymouth & Southampton, UK Following our visit to the shores of Ireland a s part of our two-week Western Europe Transatlantic voyage on Celebrity Apex, we sailed the English Channel coast to visit Portland, Weymouth and Southampton in the UK. Weymouth, Dorset - UK When visiting a seaside fishing village in the UK, one simply cannot miss out on sampling Fish 'n' Chips. That's precisely what we did as soon as we arrived in Weymouth, a charming and picturesque fishing village in Dorset. The warm and friendly vibes of this place instantly made us feel at home, with the impending Coronation it was a great time to be in the UK to see the fanfare that goes on during the lead-up. Weymouth is known for its beautiful sandy beach adorned with colourful huts and a picturesque harbour surrounded by inviting English pubs, each with its own unique name. It was an absolute pleasure to have Mum and Dad by our sides as we travelled from North America to Europe, experienced all these new places together, and created memories. We chose to dine at the Old Rooms Inn , conveniently located by the harbour. We savoured every bite of the fresh fish and chips, accompanied by the obligatory side of peas. Our appetites were truly satisfied! After our delicious meal, we strolled towards the beach, battling the windy weather. But once we set foot on that beach and felt the precious sand tingling on our faces, we had to admit that our friends from the UK were right – they do have white sandy beaches, too! We even stumbled upon an old-fashioned newsagent, a rare sight these days, where we indulged in some magazines to complete the beach experience. Our time in Weymouth was too short, but we couldn't leave without witnessing the young ones trying their luck with crab fishing. It was a delightful activity, with children lowering their bait on a string and small net into the water, hoping to catch a crab. If you have more time in Weymouth, consider visiting the Portland Castle, a UNESCO fort, the D-Day Centre and the WWII Museum. Unfortunately, we missed the D-Day Centre as it closes early. As our ship sailed away from Weymouth, we were bid farewell by soldiers with a thunderous canon salute – a truly memorable departure from this charming village. Only a bite-sized taste of this region, but full of charm, great food, and views, and we know there are lots more to experience and enjoy. Weymouth, you are a little UK favourite. Southampton, HAMPSHIRE - UK Our next stop was Southampton, a bustling port city that holds a deep connection to WWII, having served as a staging area for the D-Day attack. This vibrant city is filled with history, endless shopping opportunities, great restaurants, and superb pubs. As our ship docked close to the heart of Southampton, we took the morning to catch up on work and then set off to explore the old city. Southhampton is also where my Mum sailed from when she was only four years old with her family from Finland to migrate to Australia; visiting the same port together was a memorable experience. Walking around Southampton, we couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity. The beautiful pubs, cobblestone streets, and scattered old buildings and churches reminded us of our time living in London. And the accents surrounding us added to the comforting ambience. We wanted to experience the city in a way we knew best for lunch. That's when we stumbled upon a fine-dining Chinese restaurant in a stunning old bank building. With Peking Duck as their signature dish, we knew we were in for a treat. And to complement the meal, we couldn't resist ordering our favourite cocktail, an Espresso Martini. The ambience, decor, food, cocktails, and service were exceptional – a true delight for the senses. After the satisfying lunch, we decided to freshen our hairstyles with a trim at a local barbershop. The barbers, who were from Lebanon and shared our passion for travel, made the experience even more enjoyable. And at just £15 each, we walked out feeling delighted with our new look. As we made our way back to the ship, we couldn't resist stopping by a cosy inn for a refreshing G&T. In fact, one drink just wasn't enough – we ended up having two. We enjoyed chatting with the inn's team and listening to their stories. As evening fell, we embarked on the ship again, sailing past the Isle of Wight over dinner as we headed down the English Channel toward France. Southampton had left us with fond memories of historical charm, culinary delights, and heartwarming encounters along the way. Weymouth and Southampton offered us a taste of the UK's rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. We can't wait to explore more of what this country has to offer in the future.

Hamilton, Bermuda It was time to return to Europe after 12 months of incredible adventures. Here is a little summary to remind ourselves of the year we just experienced; it goes by so fast, you need to pinch yourself it happened: Seven months at sea wasn't quite long enough, so we crossed the Atlantic by ship to return to Europe for the remainder of 2023. This time was extra special as my parents were cruising with us to spend a few months travelling together; after four years between catchups, it was a great way to make up for lost time and a trip we treasure dearly. Thank you, Mum and Dad! We were to embark on a 22-day back-to-back cruise. The first segment would involve crossing the Atlantic and visiting Bermuda, Ireland, the UK, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. It would then be followed by a majestic 7-day cruise through the Norwegian Fjords—another bucket list item! As part of our two-week Western Europe Transatlantic voyage on Celebrity Apex, we had the weather gods on our side. Our first port after two days at sea, as we left Florida in our rearview mirror, was another port that is hit or miss on a cruise; the weather is the dictator, whether you dock or not. Welcome to Country No.70, our first destination on our Transatlantic crossing to Europe. After two days sailing from Fort Lauderdale, we arrived in Bermuda's cosmopolitan capital, Hamilton. Bermuda, we have been told, is one of those stops on the crossing that is like winning the weather lottery, and we were in luck. Upon disembarking the ship, you are immersed in crystal-clear turquoise waters boasting abundant tropical and local fish life; you are mesmerised by the sea life activity and the beautiful display of colours from all the different species. As we were docked at the Royal Navy Dockyard, you were deposited directly in the harbour surrounded by various vessels providing a marine parade as you wandered around. As we disembarked, we were all mesmerised by the blue fish swimming in the crystal blue waters. Sailing Into Bermuda We continued our stroll around the charming and colourful seaside capital, full of history and beautiful architecture. Sailing Into Bermuda The main attraction was the clock tower, which housed a great selection of souvenir boutiques for avid cruise shoppers. Here is a fun fact about the clock tower: It has twin towers that rise 100 feet overhead; one displays the current time, while the other tells the day's high tide. We enjoyed capturing the village's essence, and with more time, you would definitely explore and enjoy the pristine beaches nearby. As we sailed away later in the afternoon, you were spoiled with million-dollar views and homes to match. Bermuda is worth an extended stay, as it captures and experiences all the goodness, local culture, and excellent culinary scene.

Düsseldorf is a city in western Germany known for its fashion industry and art scene. It's divided by the Rhine River, with its Altstadt (Old Town) on the east bank and modern commercial areas to the west. In the Altstadt, St. Lambertus Church and Schlossturm (Castle Tower) date to the 13th century. Streets such as Königsallee and Schadowstrasse are lined with boutique shops.

A week of snow, sun, wine and food, enough said (ok, I'll be honest, I still need to complete this blog). However, look at the incredible photographs from the weekend.

Funky Guest House & Adventures - One visit Horse riding in Albania is the best horse ride we have experienced. The morning starts with being picked up from the hotel in Përmet and then a beautiful 4x4 drive through the mountains towards Lengarica Canyon, which stretches across a length of 4 – 5 km, with a height of up to 150m. The Canyon is just past the Benjë thermal baths in the Fir of Hotova National Park. Providing you with a taste of the exciting adventure you are about to experience. About 30 minutes from Përmet, you are mesmerised by the endless views and where the horses are tacked up and ready. Upon arrival, you get fitted with a safety hat and feed the horses bread as a special thank you for the ride ahead. Seeing the horses in a natural environment with endless meadows to spend their days was lovely. The horses were incredible, all extremely friendly and well-behaved. They were Albanian mountain horses, perfect in the rocky mountain terrain. We opted for Intermediate riding, and the ride course they chose was ideal; it needed experience, which made it more exciting, and the horses were incredible with some of the tricky situations they needed to get through. You also ride through streams and along the edge of the Canyon. The ride took you through the mountains for over 2 hours; the views were breathtaking! We stopped halfway through to enjoy a break and were surprised with mulled wine and a snack; the holiday was on a landing at the peak of the Canyon; it was another world! The guides, Avenir and Olsi, were so much fun and knowledgeable; they ensured you were safe at all times but also could have some fun; we enjoyed trotting and galloping to music while we took in the landscapes. They both made this a great day. Upon arriving back, we experienced riding through a flock of sheep and goats with their shepherd, which was a perfect end to the most magical ride. Highly recommend the riding experience; there is no better way to enjoy the Albanian landscape on the back of a horse; you will be talking about it for months. Thank you so much to Avenir and Olsi for this lifetime memory opportunity. A great surprise is Avenir captures the complete experience and sends you pictures and videos for your memories.

Value for money - Average Security - Average People - Friendly, especially when trying to at least speak in their language Travel - Train Length - Three Months When - Late December to Early March Transfers - Taxis Accommodation - Airbnb and Boutique hotels #Germany #France #Switzerland #Austria #Italy