Kiwis winter in Adelaide

Markets – Beach walks – Almond Blossom Festival – Wine – Galwa – Port Elliot – Cycleways Markets are HOT in Adelaide and practically mainstream We are in Adelaide for a winter holiday, but before heading off to our base in Port Willunga, South of Adelaide, we shop up for goodies at the Adelaide Central Market.   Two days later we are at the prize winning Saturday Willunga... [Read more]

St Kilda by Tram

Melbourne is one of the cities in the world that still has a fabulous tram service and we decide a tram trip is in order – to St Kilda and the seaside.  We arrange to meet Liz’s 82 year old mum under the clock tower at Flinders St Station. It proves to be an excellent central place to meet – there are lots of interesting alleyways of shops to explore, great buskers by the Clock Tower... [Read more]

Bathing Japanese Style in Melbourne

While in Melbourne Liz and I are staying with our friend Ruth, and its her birthday. We decide to invite her to join us at The Japanese Bath House for an afternoon of pampering. It’s a great winter thing to do, and I really miss not having a bath at home – the idea of passing a gentle afternoon with friends soaking in a hot bath and sauna sounds like a treat for her and us. [Read more]  Read More →

Window Shopping in North Melbourne

Old is chic – old buildings left to rot on the outside and funky done up inside. We are off on a browsing, eating and window shopping trip in North Melbourne’s funky suburb of Fitzroy. Johnson Street and Brunswick Street here we come! [Read more]  Read More →

North Melbourne – the Search for Good Coffee

Coffee shops are ubiquitous these days in most cities of the world – most make OK expresso, but I am on the search for the ones that have risen to the top in Melbourne for providing the best coffee and service. [Read more]  Read More →

Entering the Monastery – great accommodation in religious houses in Italy

Cost and character I was in Europe for a few months and the idea of staying in a monastery guest house had a fascinating spiritual aura about it. And not just because the budget. In fact the cost had little to do with the desire. It was more about authentic character and immersion in history, as well as the wish to be a momentary part of a long tradition, even going into the chapel to experience the... [Read more]

Kulana Artist Retreat in Hawaii for Sale

Cristina writes of news of Kulana Artist Sanctuary in Hawaii: You know how you can make one decision that takes on a life of its own & whirlpools you towards all kinds of future galaxies? Well, that’s what’s happening at Kulana these days! Between Cristina’s movie adventures, & 3+ year resident organic food grower Carl’s move to the mainland, & our newest long-term visitor... [Read more]

Solo travellers – join a small group tour

Sometimes we want to travel but are intimidated by being by ourselves.  We want company, but don’t want to be on a bus load of couples travelling around Europe.  We want to explore out of the way places, but are nervous going on our own. The good news is there are a lots of companies out there who are ready to meet  your need. Many of them are offering tours especially focused on the needs... [Read more]