Destination Unknown

Monaco

bertiem — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:00:35 +0000

Monaco is one of my favourite place worldwide. I love the buzz, the scenery, the eateries and he glamor that is Monaco and Monte Carlo. This Mediterranean hot spot has long been the playground for the rich and famous and it isn’t a rare occasion when you see celebrities flaunting their stuff in Monaco.

The yearly Grand Prix also attracts wealthy yacht owners from far and wide and visiting the city when the race is on is one of the most exciting times in the year. The harbor is spectacular and no visit to Monaco is complete without a walk through the “tunnel” and a visit to the harbor to see all the fabulous yachts.

If you are game for a walk up the hill, there is also a great cave and cactus garden to visit up on the hill. You will be able to enjoy spectacular vistas all over the city and the region and it is well worth the walk.

Hong Kong

bertiem — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 04:37:07 +0000

If you ever visited Hong Kong you probably either love or hate that place. I happen to love it because it is the city of bargains. I still remember the original Chinese tea set I picked up in the small back alleys off the busy tourist area. Or the lovely silk blowse I bought for $3 at the market on Hong Kong islands backside.

These are the memories that really matter to me because they steer away from the usual tourist stuff. The older I get, the more I hate following the road everybody else does. I guess you can call me a rebel. But looking outside the obvious has provided me with hundreds of special memories over the years. They are what travel is all about plus he people you meet along the way.

I was lucky enough to reside in a private apartment on Hong Kong island up on the 20 th floor. I had unrestricted vistas over the harbor and spend an hour each night just gazing out at the lights.

If you go up to some of the 5-star hotels you will also be able to nejoy spectacular views. In closing I recommend you go off the beaten track and visit some food markets, clothing markets and nightclubs where you are the ONLY white person. I can promise you this – you will have a ball.

Fidjian Dream

bertiem — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 03:36:34 +0000

If you ever wanted to take a trip to Fidji, then I can highly recommend going there. After the violence of the unrest some years ago, everyday life has settled in again for most Fijians and they continue to do what they do best – being hospitable.

In all my years of travel around the world, Fidji people are by far the most friendly I have ever come across. These guys would give you the last shirt off their back, just to be a great host. They really know how to make you feel welcome. So much so that you never want to leave again – ever!

My partner and I had the immense fortunate top visit the stunning Yasawa islands with their lush green islands flanked by the turquoise green/blue of the ocean. The boat trip from Nandi took around two hours after which we were welcomed on Tavewa island by David’s family.

Can you believe it, they were singling an island song to welcome us and all holiday guests jimed in. It was a picture book welcome scene and one I won’t forget so easily.