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- Celebrity Reflection - Spanish Interlude Transatlantic
Celebrity Reflection - 12 Nights MIAMI, FLORIDA AT SEA AT SEA AT SEA AT SEA AT SEA AT SEA AT SEA TENERIFE, CANARY ISLANDS AT SEA MALAGA, SPAIN CARTAGENA, SPAIN BARCELONA, SPAIN BARCELONA, SPAIN NICE (VILLEFRANCHE), FRANCE FLORENCE/PISA(LIVORNO),ITALY ROME (CIVITAVECCHIA), ITALY Cabin Royal Suite
- Ushuaia - Argentina
Argentina is country number 61 for us, and our first stop, Ushuaia, is an appealing pocket of the world. Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world and the gateway to the Tierra del Fuego National Park, one of the most beautiful spots for outdoor activities. Ushuaia is the end of the world and the gateway to Antarctica. We disembarked our three-month North to the South Pole cruise, checked into an Airbnb in Ushuaia for a week, and were blessed with the most magical views. It was a welcoming gift to be back on land and enjoy some home-cooked meals and our space. Ushuaia has a long and storied history. It was first settled by indigenous tribes over 6,000 years ago. In the 19th century, it became a bustling port town with European and British settlers, whalers, fur hunters, and missionaries. Today, the city has become a significant tourist destination, with a booming tourist industry and a thriving cultural centre. Ushuaia is known for its breathtaking views of the Beagle Channel, the Andes Mountains, and the Tierra del Fuego National Park. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the Beagle Channel, hike in the National Park, and even take a scenic train ride to the nearby glaciers. We were in our element, and it ticked all our boxes! You are surrounded by snow-capped mountains everywhere you look (although they are rapidly melting as the sunshine kissed them all week), the ocean, and beautiful coffee houses for our daily coffee; you must check out Ana & Juana , stunning Airbnbs with views we were constantly in awe of and a culinary adventure—oh, and of course the vino! It is also a haven for adventurous travellers. Ushuaia is home to close-knit national parks, has an abundance of treks so you can hike to your heart's content, has boat cruises to penguin colonies and Beagle Channel, and much more. We love this charming town at the end of the world and enjoyed resetting and recharging, maybe even having a few days off the vino! Okay, we lasted 48 hours! As the month is booked for exploring our new country by air, a new adventure awaits. This time, there will be glaciers, horse riding, mountains, lakes, wine regions, boat and helicopter trips, and, of course, the magnificent wonder of Iguazu Falls. We can't wait to share our next adventure in Latin America. For the weekend, we moved from our Airbnb on the top of the hill to a new Airbnb in the heart , making it easier to explore, enjoy being local, and visit a salon to brighten the hair! The location was perfect. You were in the city's heart, and everything was a hop and a skip away. The views were everywhere. You were enveloped by majestic mountains, two outside balconies perched above the streets, and a little oasis. We kept ourselves busy by getting some steps on; after three months on a ship with a few half-day stops a week, it is refreshing to get out and be more active again. The main shopping street is spotlessly clean, with boutique shops selling various goods and dining establishments. The souvenir stores all have some class, not the tacky ones that line the streets of typical tourist towns. On Friday evening, we booked into a fine-dining restaurant, Karma , which a fellow passenger recommended. Unfortunately, it didn't quite deliver and was very overpriced. $40AUD for eight pieces of tortellini was uncalled for, and the meat dish was mediocre. Still, the wine was delicious, so points for introducing us to the pearls of Argentinean Malbec. We followed this with a visit to the local Ginoteria 'Jeremy Buttons' . We propped ourselves at the bar and enjoyed the staff's energy and impressive selection of gins and high-quality cocktails. Saturday lunch was the highlight: the Patagonian lamb Casimiro Biguá Parrilla & Asador Ushuaia . They slow-baked salted lamb over a wood fire in a room just off the restaurant. We were in our happy place, and we were offered to take some pictures as we were leaving to get up close and personal; as most know, we love our lamb! Sunday was quiet in town. Everyone had a well-deserved rest, so most shops and restaurants were closed. Still, we found a beautiful restaurant, Augusto Ushuaia, serving Pisco Sours (the best!) and a snack. Before our adventure around Argentina begins, we have three weeks to explore the places not to be missed, and our first flight is to El Calafate, home to Glaciers and the Andes! We can't wait to share our new adventures with you all soon. (It has been a jampacked few months of travel - and we are busy trying to catch up).
- Exploring Banff in a day - Canada
We couldn't visit Canmore and the Canadian Rockies without seeing Banff, so we booked the 'Explore Banff' sightseeing tour with Pursuit Banff Jasper Collection , which turned out to be an excellent day trip. With car hire being so expensive in the region at $500+ a day, we opted for a tour that included transfers to make life easier; we were picked up and delivered back to Canmore, where we were staying in our magical Airbnb . An early start to the day, where we were to meet at a local hotel to wait for our transfer at 7.30 am; fortunately, it was only an 8-minute walk from our accommodation. First up was a quick stop to take in the gorgeous Bow Falls, where we popped off the bus and had 20 minutes to enjoy the falls, being up close and personal with them, and for picture opportunities. There was also a telephone booth where a bear had left his mark, with huge claw prints on display. Bow Falls was followed by a gondola flight to the top of Sulphur Mountain summit; the views were something else! You have 360-degree views over the Banff region and a birds-eye view over six Canadian Rockies mountain ranges; they are endless. The journey was less than 10 mins to the top where you could find some cosy, quiet spots for breathtaking pics and to avoid the crowds. We were fortunate to be there at 9 am, so crowds were limited. As we left one hour later, the queues were filling up quickly! Tip: If you need your coffee fix, be sure to do this at the cafe on top of the mountain, you will be disappointed in the Starbucks; the coffee was hardly worthy of a trash can. Note to self, stick by my principles and avoid supporting such coffee brands in the future! After spending one hour soaking up the heavenly views, we were back down to Banff to take in a few sites, including the Cascade of Time Garden, which is also the home of the Parks Canada Administration. This historical building is perched up at the top of Banff, overlooking the township and surrounding mountainscapes. It is a postcard view over Banff. Before boarding the bus, we were all treated to a coffee/tea and biscuit from the company. We then stopped at The Elk + Avenue Hotel for a quick lunch, it was buffet style and hosted in the conference room, very uninviting, and beverages were an additional cost; water was available only. The food was average, with a basic salad with a meat patty. The room was windowless at the back of the hotel; we did stay in this hotel when we arrived in Banff for one night and were also treated with views from our room of the air conditioners on the rooftop, which is not the view you are hoping for in Banff at AUD$500 per night. After about 35 minutes, we were transported off to Lake Minnewanka, about a 30-minute drive from Banff. The largest glacier lake in the region for a relaxing panoramic 1-hour interpretive cruise. More breathtaking mountains and emerald-green water, surrounded by forested slopes and rocky shorelines with waterfalls. Fun fact: The group of Pando trees (also known as the trembling giant or trembling aspen) on the lake are one living organism; they are believed to have one massive underground root system. Therefore they support each other, and if one feels down, they all chip in to help stay healthy. Part of the tree bark is also known to have natural SPF and pain relief qualities. We were keeping a watchful eye out for wildlife all day; unfortunately, no bears, but we did score some elks and a long-horned mountain goat! Following the cruise, we were back on the bus and delivered back to our home destinations. The buses throughout the day were very modern, clean and comfortable. Our bus driver and tour guides, Andrew and Muireann, were a pleasure to spend the day with and very informative in helping us enjoy the beauty of Banff.
- Six Months in South East Asia
#SouthEastAsia snapshot Value for money - Great Security - Average People - Very Friendly Travel - Easy Length - Six months When - April - September Transfers - Taxis Accommodation - Airbnb and hotels #HongKong #Cambodia #Indonesia #Malaysia #Maldives #Philippines #Thailand #Vietnam
- 15 Months in Thailand
Value for money - Average Security - Very Safe People - Friendly Travel - Easy Length - 15 Months When - Starting July Transfers - Navigo Accommodation - Airbnb and Hotels Tipping - We rounded up or 10% For all our travel experiences, tips on accommodation, dining and experiences exploring Thailand click here . Extended stays in: #Bangkok #ChiangMai Koh Samui Pattaya #Phuket Top bars in Koh Samui . Top beach clubs in Koh Samui .
- Weekend in Victoria - Vancouver Island
Victoria, British Columbia - Three nights Victoria is the perfect pocket-sized city to stroll around and immerse yourself in for a few days. Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and has recently been voted Canada's best small city , and we have to agree. We arrived on a short 30-minute seaplane flight from Vancouver . Alternatively, you can catch a ferry, but if you are short on time, we recommend the seaplane experience. This charming and colourful city sits on the southern end of Vancouver Island, is full of beautiful parklands, is known for outdoor activities, and is surrounded by coastline. The city's British colonial past shows its Victorian architecture, gardens and layout. The city is bursting with fresh flowers and exudes a genuine warmth from all the people. We felt very welcomed and loved exploring and enjoying the laidback nature. You are spoilt with the fresh farm-to-table dining options, and we enjoyed a very slow lunch with exceptional cocktails and service at The Courtney Room . We loved all the wildlife as we roamed around the immaculate gardens. One morning we came across a turtle sunbaking, a heron nesting, a wild deer strolling along the pathway, and squirrels playing in the park. Later in the day, we saw a sea lion and otter playing around, hoping to be fed by a nearby restaurant, and caught a glimpse of a seal as we arrived across the harbour on our water taxi! Special moments! We loved exploring Fisherman's Wharf Park, a pleasant stroll from the centre of Victoria, a quaint floating pier of food outlets and floating homes. Be sure to catch one of the cute water taxis home from Victoria Harbour Ferry ; you'll be smiling for days . If you are lucky, you will even see seals on your way back. Victoria is home to Canada's oldest Chinatown and the second oldest in North America after San Francisco. You will love roaming around all the little alleyways full of lanterns. We found a lovely Airbnb near Chinatown ; it was the perfect location. We even found a cosy neighbourhood coffee shop called Bean Around The World . The cafe was full of locals sharing stories, and the coffee was in 8oz cups and was delicious. In most coffee shops in Canada, the smallest cup is 10-12oz! We also had the most wonderful experience buying groceries on our first night. If you're staying near Chinatown, visit the local package-free grocery shop, Zero Waste Emporium . You bring your own containers to self-serve while minimising your impact on the environment, something unique; I genuinely hope this store grows in popularity. Don't worry ; they offer free recycled containers for those new to the concept. The ability to gain the benefits of buying in bulk without wastage is a concept that needs to be taken worldwide. Victoria is just such a pretty little town that we could have easily stayed longer if time permitted.
- Carderos Restaurant - Vancouver
Cardero's Restaurant - One visit Cardero's built over the water with simply breathtaking views of the harbour, mountains and the marina with food to match in the heart of Vancouver. This restaurant is very popular during the lunchtime rush, so coming a little later will give you a better experience. While busy, we enjoyed the service. The team still took the time to chat, handle our queries about wines, and move us to a window table when one became available—spot-on service. The food was hearty, and we decided to share the battered fish and chips, a specialty main dish, which was delicious and tender without being too strong (so perfect for those seafood novices like Wayne). Whether you are inside or out, the views are breathtaking, and the decor fits in with the style of the building. Pricing is standard for Vancouver, based on the size of the meals you are best to share. The wine list was extensive, and we enjoyed a beautiful Monterey Pinot Noir with a 3.8 rating on Vivino.
- Seaplane to Vancouver Island
Harbour Air - Four flights The best commute from Vancouver to Vancouver Island is by seaplane. Flying was the perfect transportation for our mid-week getaway to Victoria (Captial of British Columbia). When researching ways to visit Victoria on Vancouver Island, we decided to take a seaplane over the ferry to maximise our time whilst making the most of the opportunity to take in the scenery, as it is not only a direct flight to Victoria but a scenic flight too. Harbour Air has the most efficient check-in and boarding process. Located in the heart of the city, so easily accessible, only a five-min walk from our hotel. You need to be there 30-minute prior; after a quick check-in, you can relax in the beautiful lounge, enjoying a beverage of your choice. You can even purchase a glass of champagne. The take-off was incredibly smooth, and we noticed the regular commuters carried air buds to reduce the noise, although we were not bothered by the noise. Magical scenery over the 35-minute flight, definitely ticking off another bucket list item for Wayne. It has been a month of them since we arrived in Canada. Harbour Air has a very flexible booking process, whereby if you need to make any changes, you can do this up to four hours online before your flight with no charges assuming you have booked a flex fare. The flight was smooth and simply just fun, with plenty of smiles from even the seasoned commuters. If you want to save time, we recommend booking your flight with Harbour Air. You will not be disappointed.
- Airbnb - Dalyan
Villa Apollon Panorama - Four nights Villa Apollon Panorama is an Airbnb located about a 20-minute walk from Dalyan, Mugla region, Turkey, in a remote location nestled amongst the mountains. This stay is excellent for large groups, considering the six bedrooms spread out over three floors and those wishing to chill out at the pool or explore the region. Perfect for summer, you'll mainly hang outside, as the main lounge room would not accommodate everyone simultaneously. Don't miss listening to the call to prayer bouncing its way through the mountains. The beautiful mountains surround you, and you are only a short 10-minute drive from Iztuzu beach, otherwise known as Turtle Beach, where the sea turtles nest each year and worth a visit to support DEKAMER , the turtle rehabilitation centre. The kitchen is small, so it's more suitable for those that intend to eat out or use the BBQ - which Wayne took advantage of a couple of nights. We were very impressed with the BBQ and made sure we used it for a few nights. Fantastic butchers in town, so be sure to stock up on your favourite meats. We found this neat little charcoal kit from Migros, which was super easy. Some minor issues with the shower design can easily be fixed with a strip to stop the water from leaking into the bathroom. There is plenty of hot water and towels; the only issue is a lack of privacy, which will resolve once the garden is more established as this is a new property. The wifi requires the router to be placed outside, and you'll be able to work then or download your favourite Netflix series, which is not ideal for digital nomads due to the slow connection. We do recommend having a local sim card for backup. As it was the start of the season, the house needed a good deep clean, which would not be an issue in the high season due to turnover. We even walked into town, a gentle 20-minute stroll through the quiet village life. Murat, your host, is very friendly and welcoming; he will make sure your stay is comfortable and responsive.
- Six months in Turkiye
Over six months, we had the privilege of exploring Türkiye; we embarked on a captivating journey through the remarkable country , delving into a diverse array of destinations that offered unique insights and experiences. Our journey through this fascinating country immersed us in its rich culture, history, and traditions. Our travels took us through the mesmerizing rhythm of Istanbul , where we indulged in the city's vibrancy and hidden gems for a generous six weeks. We then ventured to the serene island of Adalar for a restorative brief night's stay, followed by a contemplative two-night interlude in Bursa, allowing us to savour its tranquillity. In the heart of Cappadocia , we were captivated for two incredible weeks, immersing ourselves in the region's ancient allure and otherworldly landscapes. Ballooning and horse rides were the highlight, in addition to the culinary delights. A meandering pause in Feke and Keyseri provided a meaningful contrast, offering a glimpse into a more intimate side of Türkiye. Feke stole a piece of us, and we didn't want to leave. Our odyssey continued with a week in the dynamic capital of Ankara, followed by a spellbinding exploration of Alacati and Cesme , where we revelled in the local hospitality for four enchanting nights. The quaint charms of Sigacik and the serene allure of Kusadasi beckoned to us for a week each, offering intangible moments of peace and reflection. The sun-kissed shores of Bodrum in the Mugla region then unfolded before us, casting a spell that held us captive for an evocative three weeks. Gumusluk was paradise. A fleeting but unforgettable brush with Akyaka and Marmaris provided a glimpse of their distinct character. At the same time, we luxuriated for indulgent days in Dalyan , Gocek , and Fethiye, relishing in the timeless beauty of each locale. In a thoughtful denouement, our sojourn concluded with an evocative encounter with Antalya, offering two days filled with history, incredible dining and natural marvels. Reflecting on our travels, when it comes to security, Türkiye's got your back. You can wander around Istanbul and other parts of the country with a sense of ease and freedom. Safety is high on the list here, so you can focus on embracing every moment of your adventure. Oh, the people! I've got to tell you, the locals are friendly as can be. Their warm hospitality will make you feel right at home, and you'll walk away with stories of heartwarming encounters that'll stay with you long after your trip. Although deliberate, the unhurried pace of travel allowed us to savour each moment and fully absorb the manifold experiences that awaited us. Türkiye's all about that slow and steady pace. Embrace it, my friend! Take your time and soak in every bit of the culture and scenery. It's not just about ticking off places on your list—it's about living those moments to the fullest. Now, let's chat about accommodations. You've got options! Whether you're into the local Airbnb scene or the comfort of a hotel, Türkiye's got you covered. Each offers a unique experience, so pick what suits your vibe and budget. When it comes to getting around, you've got taxis and private cars (shoutout to Tranigo !) at your service. Taxis are convenient, but be ready for potentially long wait times. You do have Uber as an option, too. On the flip side, private cars can offer a more reliable and comfortable ride. Whichever way you choose, remember to factor in those wait times. Timing is everything, and in Türkiye, October-December and March-May are prime months for your adventure. The weather's just right, and you'll avoid the big tourist crowds, allowing you to savour the beauty of Türkiye in a more laid-back atmosphere. Last but not least, tipping etiquette! While it's not expected, a little token of around 10% will make the locals' day. It's a small gesture that goes a long way, showing your appreciation for excellent service and spreading some good vibes along the way. So, there you have it! With these insights in your back pocket, you're all set to embark on an unforgettable journey through Türkiye, filled with amazing experiences, heartwarming encounters, and memories that'll last a lifetime. Safe travels, and we hope you feel the same way we do about Türkiye. For more details on our favourite dining establishments and accommodation in Türkiye , click here .















