The Cunard Queen Anne's 2026 World Voyage cruise has officially begun, with embarkation from Cunard’s historic home port of Southampton. A journey of 110 days awaits aboard the elegant Queen Anne, carrying us across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas, before returning to Southampton at the end of April. Along the way, we will linger overnight in iconic ports including Cape Town, Singapore, Hong Kong, Sydney, and Los Angeles, with the unforgettable passage again through the Panama Canal woven into the adventure. The World Voyage on Cunards's Queen Anne  visits 30 different ports, and 21 different countries. Cunard Queen Anne's 2026 World Voyage Embarkation day unfolded with impressive ease. Even our Sri Lankan visa, approved just 30 minutes before boarding, slipped perfectly into place. ( Tip: Apply direct on the official Sri Lankan ETA site ). Relief washed over us as the final box was ticked, and we stepped forward knowing the journey was truly underway. Within 20 minutes we were aboard the stunning Queen Anne, champagne flutes in hand in the Commodore Lounge, having wisely secured the premium beverage package to keep us refreshed for the months ahead. It felt like a ceremonial toast to the voyage itself. The Queen Anne is only two years old, the ship is a masterpiece of design. Spacious, light-filled, and endlessly inviting, she offers countless corners to lose yourself in over the coming months. With 22 bars on board, variety will never be an issue. Our home is on Deck 8, our cabin, complete with a glorious balcony that frames the sea like a living painting. The shower is impressively indulgent, the king-size bed dressed in linens worthy of royalty. It did not take long before this cabin felt like home, our sanctuary for the next four months. Anticipation built as we prepared for our very first dinner on board, only to be surprised by fireworks lighting up the sky. We stepped onto the balcony to watch the spectacle unfold, a dazzling and heartfelt welcome that set the tone for what lies ahead. Cunard Queen Anne's 2026 World Voyage Our welcome dinner followed at Sir Samuels Steakhouse on Deck 10, a specialty restaurant overlooking the pool, gazing aft as the ship slipped away from shore. The crew welcomed us like old friends, and the meal was nothing short of exceptional. Contentment settled in quickly. This was exactly where we were meant to be. Our following evening was at Aji Wa, the most incredible Japanese restaurant at sea, no detail has been left unturned, the sake selection is broad and the food was exquisite, we already know this will fast become a favourite dining experience for us. Hands down the most authentic Japanese cuisine at sea we have ever experienced. The first few days were dedicated to finding our rhythm at sea, though the Bay of Biscay had plans of its own. Five-metre waves sent the ship rocking and rolling as we made our way toward Madeira, a lively reminder that this grand journey had well and truly begun.

Balloon Adventures Emirates It was a unique desert experience. Balloon Adventures Emirates - Dubai To float over the desert at sunrise in a hot air balloon with a Falcon demonstration while flying is a once-in-a-lifetime experience; it was mind-blowing. We left bright and early, picked up at the hotel and were delivered to the desert to embark on our flight. The crew takes care of everything, and you must hop into the basket and fly away! You feel you are in the middle of the desert (even though it is 40 minutes from Dubai); the dunes and the beautiful sunrise surround you. Balloon Adventures Emirates - Dubai The weather was perfect. As you float in the sky with a couple of other balloons, the pictures you will capture will surprise you! Sometimes you need to pinch yourself. Partway through the flight, the baby Falcon takes off around the balloon and lands back on the basket. I was lucky enough for him to land directly in front of me; it was incredible. The landing is quite a surprise, and I will leave this for you to experience, but exhilarating! Balloon Adventures Emirates - Dubai We then jumped on the bus for the desert drive of a lifetime; thank you to our bus driver, an expert at handling the bus in the desert. The morning ended with a quick desert ride in a vintage Land Rover to experience breakfast with the crew in an authentic environment. Thank you to the team, especially Richard (our pilot) and Marie (Falcon handler), for this opportunity. It is very well coordinated, and there is no waiting around; I recommend this to anyone who wants to experience something unique in Dubai.

Our week in Tokyo, Japan, began at The Lively Hotel in Minato City, a trendy and vibrant home base for exploring the endless layers of this iconic metropolis. Landing in the capital felt like a homecoming, especially as our first visit to Tokyo was just shy of two decades ago, a memory that quickly inspired some nostalgic adventures and meaningful discoveries. The Lively Hotel  is a group of lifestyle hotels in Japan, perfect for travellers who work online; they offer an excellent work area, fast Wi-Fi, and free drinks throughout the day. The culinary journey started strong as we ventured to Nishiazabu Shirukuya , a Teppanyaki restaurant we stumbled upon via Google. If you are a fan of succulent and tender beef, then Teppanyaki is for you. It's also fun cooking it over your very own hot grill! Tokyo’s food scene never disappoints, and this experience set the tone for what would become a week of indulgence. Later, we explored Tokyo’s famed cocktail culture at  Bar Amber , followed by  Tokyo Confidential , an award-winning Kiwi-owned bar where a touch of home added to the charm. We soon became regulars at Tokyo Confidential, the team were an absolute delight, loads of fun and of course excellent at their craft. Tokyo Confidential also has a fabulous terrace overlooking the Tokyo skyline. One of the highlights of our trip involved a heartfelt walk down memory lane. On our first visit 20 years ago in 2005, we had dined at a cosy yakitori restaurant, long before smartphones could guide us anywhere. Determined to revisit this cherished spot, we dusted off an old photo, deciphering a snippet of the name 'Yakitori Gan-chan'  and the restaurant's exterior, which barely hinted at its identity. Miraculously, we tracked it down just around the corner from our hotel! The real magic? The owners were still running the place after all these years. Sharing photos of them from two decades ago was an emotional moment for everyone, with a fellow patron stepping in to help translate the sentiments. It felt like time had stood still; the same hot stones cooked the delicious yakitori, and the sake was as welcoming as ever. The evening was a celebration, not just of the food, but of enduring memories and the incredible joys of aging well. Walking home, we stumbled upon the glittering Tokyo Tower , its sparkling lights casting a warm, nostalgic glow over the city. It was one of those understated moments that reminded us just how captivating Tokyo’s skyline can be at night. Of course, mornings were exquisitely caffeinated with visits to Streamer Coffee Company , a gem near our hotel that soon became a favourite. Their perfectly brewed coffee, paired with cinnamon buns, was practically impossible to resist and fueled many of our wanders around Tokyo. For dinner later in the week, we switched gears to Korean cuisine at Korean Bistro, a buzzing spot where potato pancakes, Korean Fried Chicken (aka KFC), and rounds of Soju created an unforgettable sensory feast. We spent our days getting lost in this wonderful city; it truly is the cleanest in the world. There is no need for the 3-second rule in Japan!  Wandering aimlessly led us to a range of discoveries, including beautiful city-wide installations by Naotaro Moriyama ; these colourful creations added magic to every corner we explored. Naotaro Moriyama Night-time karaoke adventures brought more surprises; we found ourselves (well, Wayne and our new friends) belting out ABBA classics and trying daring eats (like scorpion from the Tequila!) at Home Base , a karaoke bar, alongside welcoming new friends and a fantastic crew. The Scorpion Tasting A food adventure like ours wouldn’t be complete without trying Okonomiyaki at Yocchan , a small but bustling spot serving savoury Japanese pancakes. Limited seating made the place feel wonderfully intimate, another signature trait of Tokyo's local dining establishments. Finally, no visit to Tokyo is complete without diving into Ginza, the city’s high-end shopping paradise. Naturally, we stood at the famous zebra crossing and spent the day exploring everything the district had to offer. The cherry on top of our Ginza adventure was dinner at Sushi Kiyoshi Ginza , an esteemed Edomae sushi restaurant. Led by a chef with over 25 years of experience, the attention to detail here was astonishing. From carefully sourced seafood procured directly from fishermen to expertly blended rice varieties, every bite was a masterpiece. The experience challenged our taste buds but rewarded us with a deeper appreciation for the artistry of sushi dining; fresh ginger and sake came in handy as we ventured outside of our culinary comfort zones. As our week in Tokyo came to a close, we reflected on how the city had welcomed us back so warmly. This whirlwind week was the perfect way to kick off our adventures across Japan. From here, we’ll travel through Sapporo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nagasaki, and Okinawa before we make our way to Seoul. Until then, thank you, Tokyo, for once again stealing a piece of our hearts! Date visited: 3 February 2024

Anatolian Balloons What do the tourist brochures not tell you? Here are tips to get the most out of your balloon flight in Cappadocia, Turkey. Ballooning in Cappadocia Ballooning in Cappadocia So, what traps should you avoid when taking that bucket list balloon flight in Cappadocia? Firstly, it's an Instagrammer's heaven, so don't expect the reality to live up to the hype. So here is what we learned from our experience. This is overtourism at its finest. Just over 160 balloons fly each day, with an average capacity of 20 people, which is 3,000+ people per day. So here are our tips to make the most of your ballooning experience in Cappadocia. Flexibility is key. Be prepared for balloon flights to be subject to the weather. During our two-week stay in Cappadocia, there were only three days when ballooning could take place. The cheapest will be the worst; it's a simple fact: a balloon holding 20+ people will mean you won't be standing in a spot that isn't behind another person. It's a sunk cost just getting to Cappadocia, so don't skimp on the balloon; anything more significant than an eight-person balloon means you risk experiencing a balloon flight while looking at the back of someone's head. We got talked out of an eight-person flight and ended up with a twelve-person flight. This means three people in a one-square-metre area. Unfortunately, we had an overweight man who took up half of that space, so I got to chat with the pilot (with no view) for the flight while having a heavily overweight man's body pressed against me. Safety is lacking. Be prepared for the world's shortest safety briefing. Most people were not in the proper landing position, and a single gust of wind would have broken several bones. People walk around the balloons, guide ropes, and vans, rushing to ferry guests to drop points without understanding the risks involved. We've flown in Dubai (excellent) and Australia (unique), both completely different experiences that captured the magic of ballooning and will get you hooked on this travel experience. We even had one 'influencer' ask the pilot to set the balloon down mid-flight to take photos. Yes, we are serious, whilst we were flying at 1,000 feet! Ballooning in Cappadocia Ballooning in Cappadocia Ballooning in Cappadocia Now, don't get me wrong. Ballooning in Cappadocia is a bucket list activity. Go in with your eyes open. Anything over eight people in a balloon will disappoint. Spend the extra euros and have a truly magical experience (we paid € 120 for each). Even better, take the personal balloon that hosts two people. You will be guaranteed the flight you were hoping for. The smaller balloons can go right down into the canyon, allowing you to touch the rock formations, put your camera away for a while, and be in the moment. Enjoy the sensory overload and wonder of Mother Nature. It truly is a magnificent landscape. The post-flight balloon experience is a non-event. Be very careful to find out what it means. Based on the certificates handed out, the one parent company owns most balloon companies, and the champagne breakfast is a cheap bottle of non-alcoholic grape juice. Kudos to our pilot from Anatolian Balloons. He was incredible and provided the best experience possible. He was very experienced and could even land the balloon on the trailer. To the couple that selected the balloon flight for two, Sally and I envy you; next time, that will be our choice! With the above tips, you will create new travel memories, and Cappadocia will be a highlight. It is a magical town. Ballooning in Cappadocia Be sure to rise early at sunrise to capture the essence of ballooning over Cappadocia. Watching 100 balloons floating through the town was indeed an experience. We stayed at Sato Cave Hotel , which has a beautiful rooftop terrace to enjoy the views. Ballooning in Cappadocia

The Balkan region generally includes 11 countries: Albania , Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia , Kosovo, Montenegro , Macedonia , Romania, Serbia , Slovenia , and parts of Greece and Turkiye . There is no universal agreement on which countries are definitively part of the Balkans; some definitions include additional territories or countries. Exploring the Balkans The Balkans have always held a special allure for us. It’s fascinating to realise that there’s no universal agreement on which countries definitively belong to the region, some definitions include additional territories or countries. This intriguing mix of ambiguity, history, and shared culture draws travellers in and keeps them hooked. For us, this only added to the mystery and charm of exploring the Balkans, making it feel like a destination with limitless possibilities. What is undeniable is the richness and diversity of this part of Europe. During our travels, we’ve been lucky enough to visit several Balkan countries, each welcoming us with its distinct personality and spirit. Let us show you what makes this region so captivating. The Balkans are a melting pot, a meeting place between East and West where ancient Ottoman influences collide with Austro-Hungarian traditions, and the scars of history are paired with immense natural beauty. As we ventured through this region, we were amazed by lush mountain ranges, sparkling coastlines, centuries-old fortresses, and cities bursting with life and tradition. What ties these countries together, despite their differences, is their shared resilience and warmth, qualities you’ll feel instantly when travelling here. Croatia We kicked off our Balkan adventure in Croatia, and it didn’t take long to understand why it’s one of the region’s most iconic destinations. Stretching along the Adriatic coastline, Croatia is a dream for anyone who loves history paired with stunning natural beauty. Dubrovnik immediately wowed us with its walled cityscape, and Plitvice Lakes National Park offered scenery we couldn’t stop photographing. Add the fresh seafood and the hospitality of locals, and we knew this was a country we’d want to return to someday. Montenegro Montenegro feels like a hidden treasure tucked between mountains and coastline. The Bay of Kotor was one of the most jaw-dropping sights during our journey, with towering peaks cascading into dazzlingly blue waters. The country is compact, but we loved its variety, from medieval towns to quiet coves and untamed mountains. There’s so much packed into such a small area that Montenegro felt like something new around every corner. Albania Albania surprised and delighted us. Because it doesn’t always make it onto travellers’ radars, we loved feeling like we’d stumbled onto something rare. Its coastal towns, such as Saranda, offered untouched, serene beaches. In contrast, inland cities such as Berat, with its Ottoman-style old town, gave us glimpses into a fascinating history. And the food? Fresh, vibrant, and unforgettable. MACEDONIA Our time in Macedonia was filled with unexpected moments, like sitting by the shimmering waters of Lake Ohrid and watching the day quietly fade away. Skopje, the capital, charmed us with its unique blend of statues, historic landmarks, and lively cafes. We also fell in love with the food here—a hearty blend of Turkish and Balkan flavours that warmed our hearts as much as it pleased our taste buds. Turkiye As we entered Turkiye, we felt we were stepping onto a bridge between continents. Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkiye offers an extraordinary blend of history, architecture, and culture that awakens us to awe. Istanbul enchanted us with its bustling streets, iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, and lively bazaars that engaged all our senses. Beyond Istanbul, we marvelled at the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia and relaxed along the pristine beaches of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Whether sipping Turkish tea above the ruins of ancient Troy or walking through the streets of historic cities like Edirne, an essential connection to the Balkans, we felt Turkiye's layered beauty and profound connection to the region. Serbia Conversely, Serbia felt rugged yet charming, full of contrasts that sparked our curiosity. Belgrade quickly became one of our favourite stops, its vibrant nightlife blends seamlessly with historic landmarks like Kalemegdan Fortress. But it wasn’t just the capital that stuck with us. Rolling hills and sacred monasteries outside the cities painted Serbia as a place of quiet beauty and deep history. Slovenia Slovenia, a jewel nestled in the heart of Europe, invites travellers to explore its stunning landscapes and charming towns through a series of captivating blogs. From the breathtaking alpine vistas of Kranjska Gora, the perfect gateway to Slovenia’s natural beauty, to the serene waters and fairytale ambience of Lake Bled, each destination offers its unique allure. The tranquil Julian Alps surround Bohinj, a peaceful retreat that promises unforgettable views and quiet moments. Meanwhile, the historic town of Škofja Loka enchants visitors with its rich tradition and creative spirit, just a short trip from the vibrant capital city of Ljubljana. Concluding the journey in Ljubljana, which beautifully blends picturesque charm with heartfelt celebration, makes Slovenia a truly unforgettable destination. Enjoy each country in-depth below.

Join us as we embark on a new 110-day cruise around South America from Miami to Miami. We joined the beautiful Marina ship with Oceania Cruises on 18 December and disembarked in Miami on 6 April. Over 110 days, we explored three continents, 17 countries, and 51 destinations, including a few bucket list destinations: the Amazon, the Panama Canal, and Antarctica. We look forward to sharing our four months at sea, but first, we share our first few days at sea and our Oceania experience from Miami to the Caribbean. It was our first time sailing with Oceania Cruises, and from the moment we embarked to the very last day of our 110 days, Oceania were exceptional. The crew was and is an absolute delight. The level of care and service was limitless, and the energy and friendly nature of all the staff were infectious. We quickly became friends and family. We also left with many new friendships from our sailing, both crew and guests, which we treasure and look forward to finding each other again on our travels. The food is divine, and after four months, we still missed out on some dishes we were hoping to try. (If you recall our last three-month cruise with Hurtigruten, they repeated the same menu for two days in the suite restaurant with only three options, which would repeat the following week for three months; this was very disappointing.) It was refreshing to be on a ship with outstanding dining. Marina has four specialty dining restaurants (all-inclusive), and each restaurant prepares a distinctive set of dishes based on its culinary expertise. From classic French fare at Jacques to vibrant Asian cuisine at Red Ginger or Toscana, where Tuscan cuisine evolved from rich family traditions, mothers and grandmothers of Oceania's own Italian culinary staff recipes, and, of course, a favourite steakhouse at Polo Grill, all restaurants are world-class. The Grand Dining Room and a terrace cafe (buffet restaurant) serve continental cuisine. A fantastic selection of worldly cuisines changes daily, approximately on a two-week cycle. You are spoilt for choice. There are two private dining venues, Privee and La Reserve (both at additional cost). Privee is an opulent, intimate dining venue that transforms dinner between Polo Grill and Toscana into a luxurious affair. At La Reserve, you can enjoy a unique dining menu that creates distinctive pairing dinners. You also have Baristas with Illy coffee (included in your cruise fare) for your morning coffee fix and afternoon tea in Horizons to treat yourself to tea and scones. Red Ginger - Asian (Specialty Restaurant) Toscana - Italian (Specialty Restaurant) Jacques - French (Specialty Restaurant) Polo Grill - Steakhouse (Specialty Restaurant) The Grand Dining Room - Continental and International cuisine (Lunch - sea days and dinner) Afternoon Tea in Horizons Marina, the ship, was built in 2011 and has a capacity of 1250 passengers and 800 crew. We found the ship spacious; you could always find a quiet, relaxing spot. The staterooms are spacious, too, and it was a treat to have a bathtub in the room. The beds are heavenly and have ample storage; you pop your suitcases under the bed, so there is no clutter. We spent much time in our balcony room and didn't feel claustrophobic. Oceania Cruises Marina We loved the cruise over Christmas and New Year; it was a lovely way to celebrate and see all the decorations sprinkled around the ship. We were also impressed with Oceania's beautiful Christmas gifts: a gorgeous handmade wooden chopping board and a card.

Istanbul, a city that never ceases to captivate us. Every visit feels like peeling back the layers of an intricate story. Its energy, its people, its history, it all comes together to create an intoxicating charm we just can’t resist. So, what better place to kickstart our four-month adventure across Asia and back home to Australia than this city of contrasts? Istanbul once again stole a piece of our hearts during our brief yet unforgettable four-night visit. For this visit, we chose to stay in Beyoglu, a lively yet elegant neighbourhood just a stone’s throw from Taksim and Galata Tower. Our base was The Soul Istanbul , a boutique hotel that truly lived up to its name. From the stylish interiors to the attentive staff, everything about this place reflected the vibrant soul of Istanbul, Turkiye. Its location made it easy to explore the nearby streets on foot, soaking in the essence of this fascinating city. Istanbul is a paradise for food lovers, and this trip was no exception. Every meal seemed to bring us closer to the culture, with flavours as dynamic and delightful as the city itself. For our first dinner, we returned to the Michelin-recommended  Cuma Restaurant , a quaint and cosy spot only five minutes from the hotel. This place offers modern takes on traditional Turkish cuisine. The dishes were fresh and flavourful, a perfect introduction to the culinary adventures that awaited. The next day, we enjoyed a memorable lunch at Mayko Lokanta , a hidden gem just around the corner from our hotel. This intimate eatery felt more like dining in a Turkish home than a restaurant. The food was exquisite, full of traditional flavours cooked with heart, and the warm, inviting ambience made it one of the highlights of our trip. This trip, we promised ourselves we'd balance our love of food with a little sightseeing, and Istanbul’s rich history didn’t disappoint. Exploring on foot was a true joy. Walking through its vibrant streets, crossing the iconic Galata Bridge is always a highlight. We watched in fascination as fishermen meticulously prepared their lines, hoping to catch the day's bounty. Venturing further into the Sultanahmet district, the historical heartbeat of Istanbul and immersed in its bustling atmosphere, rich history, and intricate architecture. Istanbul’s energy is palpable, and there’s something incredibly special about experiencing it at street level. We continued our stroll to the Fatih district, part of the historic old peninsula of Istanbul, and visited the stunning Süleymaniye Mosque , an iconic masterpiece that left us in awe. The Süleymaniye Mosque is an Ottoman imperial mosque located on the Third Hill of Istanbul, Turkey, and one of the largest Ottoman-era mosques in the city. The grandeur of the mosque was humbling, and the views of the city from its surrounding gardens were an unexpected bonus. Süleymaniye Mosque Süleymaniye Mosque For dinner, we returned to Sarnıç Restaurant , a fascinating 1,500-year-old cistern in the heart of Istanbul, and a place that holds special meaning for us. We celebrated our wedding anniversary there a few years ago, where we fell in love with the flavours of Anatolian cuisine and the stunning surroundings, all accompanied by live music whilst dining. We made sure to fill our final day indulging in more wonderful and delicious Turkish food, we honestly can't get enough, and our favourite Turkish Chamlija wines. Lunch at Tershane Karaköy offered breathtaking views of the Bosphorus, making it the perfect spot to indulge in Turkish cuisine one last time before winding down our trip. Tershane Karaköy No trip to Istanbul is complete without a stop at Flekk , our favourite cocktail bar in the city. Its vibrant and inviting atmosphere, paired with a unique and expertly crafted drinks menu, made for the perfect start to the evening. After cocktails, we ventured to 47 Tapas Meze (sadly now closed), a small tapas restaurant with an irresistible menu that combined Turkish and Spanish flavours. This delightful fusion had us savouring every bite. On our way back to the hotel, a sudden rain shower forced us to duck into a charming alleyway bar called La Fee . This hidden gem, with its dim lighting and cosy vibe, felt like the perfect little discovery to toast to our next adventure and bid farewell to Istanbul. As always, Istanbul delivered an unforgettable mix of food, culture, and warm hospitality. It’s a city that never stops revealing itself, and no matter how many times we visit, it feels like there’s always more to discover. For now, we leave Istanbul with full hearts (and stomachs), knowing it won’t be long until we’re back again, ready to uncover more of its countless layers. Until next time, Istanbul! Date visited: 26 Jan 2024

After an extraordinary month spent travelling through Georgia's beautiful landscapes, culture, and culinary delights, we capped off our adventure with one final standout experience: a stay at the stunning  Stamba Hotel  back in Tbilisi . This design hotel has been on our must-visit list for years, and we’re thrilled to say that it exceeded all of our expectations. In fact, it left such a lasting impression that we’d rank it among the best hotels we’ve stayed at during our 8 years of travelling the globe. Stamba Hotel - Tbilisi Stamba Hotel is in a league of its own when it comes to aesthetics. The moment we walked in, we were struck by its unrivalled design, a perfect marriage of industrial chic with eclectic elegance. Housed in a former Soviet-era printing press, the hotel has transformed its history into an architectural artwork, complete with exposed concrete walls, lush greenery, vintage-style furniture, and unique design elements at every turn. The vibe is an effortlessly cool fusion of modern comfort and historic charm. Our room was equally impressive: spacious, luxurious, and filled with thoughtful touches. From plush furnishings to floor-to-ceiling windows that let in ample natural light, the living space was a sanctuary for relaxation. The delicious bathtub to soak in the centre of the room, surrounded by an endless selection of books, you could have easily been bathing in a library. We couldn’t stop marvelling at the aesthetic details that make every corner of Stamba Hotel so bold and inspiring. To kick off our stay in Tbilisi, we ventured over to  Lolita  for a cozy lunch, which is also part of the Stamba. This hip eatery was the perfect place to start our farewell to Georgia, with its lively atmosphere, satisfying pizza, well-crafted cocktails, and funky decor that matched the vibrant energy of the capital city. Dining at the Stamba Hotel’s renowned restaurant Café Stamba later that evening was an absolute treat. The menu is a showcase for Georgian cuisine with innovative twists, and every dish was made with fresh, carefully sourced ingredients. The flavours were an ode to the culinary richness we had found throughout the country. The restaurant's atmosphere was buzzing yet sophisticated, and we couldn’t have asked for a better way to celebrate the final night of our journey. It wouldn’t have been a proper farewell without dive-bombing into Tbilisi’s stylish nightlife scene. Luckily, we didn’t even have to leave the hotel; Café Stamba was the place to be. From artful cocktails to the seamless blend of leather, brass, and old-world opulence in the bar's design, it was our happy hour dream come true. Sipping on creative cocktails while soaking up the easy-going vibe was the perfect way to reflect on the adventures we’d had over the past month. On our last day, we couldn’t resist strolling through the streets of Tbilisi to bid the city farewell. Its blend of ancient history and modern creativity is utterly captivating. The intricate balconies, cobblestone streets, and artistic flourishes left us enchanted during every step of our walk. We squeezed in a final lunch at the lovely Brasserie Buvette by ARTHOUSE restaurant to savour our last Georgian wine, accompanied by delicious food. It was bittersweet leaving a place that had become so special to us over the course of a month, but we couldn’t have asked for a better send-off. Our stay at Stamba Hotel was truly one for the books. It’s not just a hotel, it’s an experience, one that sums up everything we loved about Georgia: bold design, rich cultural history, warm hospitality, and an undeniable sense of creativity. As seasoned travellers, we don’t make the “best hotel we’ve ever been to” claim lightly, but Stamba truly deserves the title. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable adventure. If Georgia is calling your name, and trust us, it absolutely should, we can’t recommend Stamba Hotel enough as the perfect place to unwind, indulge, and reflect on all the beauty this special country has to offer. Date visited: 26 Nov 2023

Nestled just outside Tbilisi, Mukhrani in Georgia, offers a peaceful escape filled with authentic Georgian charm and history. After a long drive through snowy landscapes , arriving in this small historical village felt like stepping into a different world. Our stay at Hameau Mukhrani, a stunning accommodation blending rustic elegance with comfort, set the tone for a few days of relaxation and discovery. Our first afternoon in Mukhrani was all about unwinding. We enjoyed a long, lazy lunch featuring our new favourite Georgian wine from Chateau Mukhrani . The wine’s rich flavours paired perfectly with Khachapuri, a traditional Georgian cheese-filled bread that quickly became a highlight of our trip. The village itself invited exploration. Walking through the narrow streets, we admired the authentic atmosphere: a raw butcher’s shop with fresh cuts, quaint churches with simple yet beautiful architecture, the Mukhrani Castle and traditional Georgian homes that seemed untouched by time. The lively sounds of young lads playing sports after school as we wandered through the high school, which was surrounded by memorials and interesting arenas, all added to the village’s unique character. After a night of restful sleep, a hearty breakfast prepared us for another day of discovery. A visit to a local hairdresser not only gave us new styles but also new friends; the hairdresser's daughter translated for us, allowing us to exchange travel stories and connect more deeply with Georgian culture. The pinnacle of our visit was undoubtedly Chateau Mukhrani , a picturesque estate known for its wine and stunning grounds. Dodging the rain, we navigated the back streets of the village, armed with doggy treats to keep our furry companions happy during our stroll. We discovered a hidden entrance to the chateau as we slipped through the gate and were greeted by friendly cows grazing nearby, adding to the pastoral charm. Our exploration led us to L'Orangerie, a restaurant within the chateau that seemed more accustomed to hosting events than everyday visitors. Nevertheless, we were welcomed in. Surrounded by elegance, we delighted in more exquisite Georgian cuisine and wine, adding another memorable chapter to our journey. Mukhrani’s charm lies in its simplicity and authenticity, far removed from the tourist trails. The village offers a glimpse into traditional Georgian life, from its architecture to its local businesses and community spirit. Whether wandering the quiet streets, enjoying local cuisine, or connecting with residents, every moment felt genuine and enriching. If you plan a visit, consider staying at Hameau Mukhrani for a comfortable base, and don’t miss the chance to taste wines from Chateau Mukhrani . Take time to explore the village on foot, and be open to the small surprises that make Mukhrani special. Date visited: 24 Nov 2023

The snow only fell for that one day, but caused havoc on the roads in and out of the mountains, so with our impending departure, we were monitoring the road closures. The highway was opened back up the night before we were due to leave our beautiful Airbnb mountain oasis , and trucks were still forbidden to travel due to risk and safety; the roads were very icy, needed widening, and to be cleared of more snow. If we hadn't made the run on our scheduled day, more snow was coming, and our little hire car with summer tyres and no chains would have presented challenges in getting it back to the capital and down the snowy terrain. Our friendly hosts came to farewell us and, I am sure, wished us lots of luck in Georgian, as we descended the mountain in our little hire car. We managed to get the car from the drive and onto the now one-way road, praying we wouldn’t meet oncoming traffic as we made our way to the main road. As we passed our wild horses, we quickly stopped and left the last feed we had prepared, nourishing them until the grass reappeared from the snow. Arriving at the main road, we were happy to see it was relatively clear; snow had been grated from this section, and the trucks were still waiting to be permitted back. We accelerated out on the road and started our three-hour trek along the icy, slippery and slushy highway. Although the views were spectacular, all eyes were on the road, and we made our way to safety. Wayne expertly navigated the road as we battled the ice on the highway and through the traffic. The Georgian way still existed, and they would still pass in these conditions on risky terrain, and at times, we only had one lane for us all! The tunnels we entered were pitch black, although it was the middle of the day. The higher we went, the blizzard started, and the visibility was limited. Still, we crawled up the mountain slowly, and as we reached the ski resort town of Gudauri, where we had stayed a few weeks before, it was now covered in snow, and a whole new village opened up! We attempted to take a break for a coffee and go, but after attempting to park and nearly becoming stuck, we hurried back out to the road and continued our journey. The trucks were all laid up on the other side of the ski village, miles and miles of semis just waiting to continue their deliveries. After seeing the hundreds of trucks with full loads from all nearby countries, you quickly understand the impact of a few days of delays on the supply and demand chain as they were waiting to cross the border to Russia. As we descended, the skies cleared, the snow became scarce, and we were back dealing with the Georgian droves of horses, sheep and cattle, which was a blessing after the torturous icy roads. We could relax again! In the final hour or so, we continued to our next destination, a cosy little historical village called Mukhrani, located on the outskirts of Tbilisi , where we relaxed for a few nights. Date: 23 November 2023