According to Greek mythology, the beautiful island of Mykonos [/ˈmiːkənɒs/] was once the very scene of the mythical battle held between Zeus and the Titans, and so named, in honour of Apollo's grandson, Mykon. Mykonos is located near the sacred island of Delos and the island of Rhenia, which are all encompassed in the group of Greek islands referred to as the Cyclades. Perhaps smaller that one would estimate, the island's population is only about 9,000, and yet, Mykonos attracts thousands upon thousands of visitors each year. And is it any wonder?
To reach Mykonos, one can arrive by sea or by air. But do be warned, you may feel completely overwhelmed with its intoxicating beauty upon arrival. Indeed, your camera will likely become your closest companion, as you take in the mosaic of hues that makes up the Aegean Sea, with colorful boats, scattered about the water's edge, or floating along. And just as inspiring is the rather charming Cycladic architecture that trails up the cliff side and over, awash in pure white and linen-like: fresh, imperfect, and entirely livable. Brightly colored shutters, doors and building tops break up the whites, but perhaps most refreshing, are the potted flowers and plants, that spill over into courtyards, and frame windows and tiny balconies, and often completely unexpected along tiny pathways.
An ever-connecting maze of narrow stonewashed streets created long, long ago to confuse unwanted raiders, and to help protect the city, wind about, but today, create the charming allure of surprise—step through an archway and up the hill, and you may discover the iconic chapel of Panagia Paraportiani [the most photographed church on the island] located in Chora, dating back to the 15th century. Or perhaps you will come across the series of windmills that were first established in the 16th century. For there are a number of museums, hidden piazzas, water wells, lovely little cafés and restaurants, inviting shops, artists [you might discover a beautiful painting to bring home with you] and artisans to discover. Dash about the city in a taxi, or if you prefer, by foot, or take a tour and enjoy the breathtaking views from the sea . . .
As you glide along in the sky, gazing out the window, just before landing, there is a pivotal moment of being lost, lost in the spell of Ireland; the spell of the patchwork of lush and picturesque land—a land that measures from warm, golden yellow hues to indescribably rich shades of jade, malachite, and emerald.
But beyond the land, the wondrous Irish landscape is surrounded by almost architectural, asperous cliffs, offset by soft beaches, kissed by sparkling waters.
The third-largest island in Europe, Ireland is divided between the Republic of Ireland, and Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom. The lush vegetation of this 'Emerald Isle', as it is poetically known, is attributed to the mild but changeable oceanic climate; the land is made up of low-lying mountains surrounding a central plain and several rivers running inland . . .
. . . an escape away from snowy slopes, boots and layers upon layers, to endlessly blue waters and an indescribable golden sky, to Bora Bora, Tahiti . . .
For many, it is the dream—the dream to travel abroad and to walk the very grounds in which were walked upon by great literary artists long ago—their words replaying in our minds and lives today. The dream to breath in the scent of the famously fragrant roses, lovingly kept and carefully maintained . . .
. . . to take tea as was traditionally planned and created, to touch upon the stones that were laid so many years ago and to gaze up to the thatch roof lines of centuries gone by.
The heart of England lies within the very threads of its culture—the language of customs, of beauty, of traditions, of arts. Indeed, the dream does not lie in sights alone, but in scents, tastes, sounds, and feelings of the heart itself—a secret that whispers about, and if we listen, we might just catch on.
And just when most life is asleep for the duration of this winter season, we might see a whole new angle to the respected art of one of the most integral parts of England: English gardens. And in truth, the lines and forms of such spectacular gardens might be most appreciated in their simplicity, draped in alabaster frost.
. . . and so, today we ask you to join us as we set along on foot, imagining a walk in and amongst some of the greatest gardens in the world there ever were . . .
St.Petersburg’s rich history can be found as one strolls up and down every street, and inside every little shop and restaurant; within the grand walls of every awe-inspiring palace, painted in the past, and with every foot that touches upon every stage.
The city is, simply put, brimming with history and sprinkled with endlessly beautiful [and fortuitous] points of culture to take in; and of the endless list of possible places to visit, Peterhof (Petrodvorets), a breathtaking palace also known as the Russian Versailles, The [lavish] Winter Palace, as well as The Winter Canal, and St.Isaac’s Cathedral, are just a few of the must-see sites. Here, tradition is recognized, remembered and celebrated.
And if possible, one must take in a performance or two while visiting, as Russian ballet is known all over the world for exquisite performances, there is luckily, [and nearby] The Hermitage Theatre—just one of the lovely possibilities.
Come away with us, on an adventure in beauty and culture, as we catch a glimpse of the enchanting city of St. Petersburg, Russia . . .
