Montenegro

Categories: Europe · Montenegro · TravelTags: · · · 1 Comment

Since I had such an impressionable experience on my trip to Dubrovnik in the spring, it was an easy decision to head back to the Adriatic. Montenegro, or the “Black Mountain” is part of the Balkans and adjacent to Croatia. I keep hearing about this tiny and young (having declared its independence in 2006) country as having its moment — although I did not feel that the place had been as spoilt (as yet). Montenegro‘s coastline crams in some of Europe’s most spectacular seaside scenery. With just a population of 600,000 people, Montenegro has a meandering coastline that leads to…

Vielen Dank, Wien

Categories: Accommodations · Architecture · Austria · Europe · Food · Travel · ViennaTags: · · ·

“Thank you very much, Vienna“ It was a short visit, but sweet, as they say, to what many refer to as “The City of Dreams” (because it was home to the world’s first psycho-analyst Sigmund Freud). There is no shortage of excellent eateries and coffee houses in Vienna. Cafe Museum is a traditional Viennese cafe that opened in 1899 and designed by the famous Adolf Loos. It is also here that the famous Thonet chairs can be found. Erich was named the best restaurant in Vienna by Time Out Magazine. Located in a subterranean bar-restaurant, they serve breakfast, lunch and…

Vienna

Categories: Art · Austria · Europe · Travel · ViennaTags: · · · ·

Fifteen years have past since I last visited the majestic city of Vienna. There are plenty of reasons to fall for this Imperial city – as it charms from the first time and simply intensifies each time I come back. Consistently ranked as offering one of the highest quality of life in the world, Vienna entices with magnificent architecture, museums, fabulous eateries — all in a very walkable environment. Museums Quartier is Vienna’s art complex that is home to several renowned museums, including Leopold Museum (with its numerous works by Schiele and Klimt, momok, Az W Architekturzentrum Wien (Architecture museum),…

Cheerio

Categories: Accommodations · England · Europe · Food · London · TravelTags: · ·

Or goodbye, as they say. Another whirlwind of a break, in London this time, for a long weekend. Back to the trusty Michelin Guide for restaurants to try out. A Michelin Bib Gourmand rated casual spot is Polpetto, serving Italian fare. A neighbourhood restaurant serving British dishes is Hereford Road. Located in a converted butcher’s shop, this restaurant serves first rate tasty dishes. I would have not gone for Taiwanese food while in London, but obtaining a Bib Gourmand rating made me want to try out Bao. And I am glad I did! A friend who lives in London recommended…

Hvala Vam

Categories: Accommodations · Croatia · Dubrovnik · Europe · Food · TravelTags: · · · 1 Comment

“Thank you” in Croatian. Goodbye to the magnificent city of Dubrovnik, proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lunch at LAJK Restaurant was very pleasant serving good family style local food. Not to mention the nice view of a church down the street. Located right at the foot of the Jesuit stairs is Konoba Kolosseum, serving both local and international food. The first Michelin Plate restaurant I tried was Restoran Dubrovnik. Located on a rooftop with a very polished service, the dishes were delightful. They serve both tasting and ala carte menus. The best meal I had was at another Michelin…

Dubrovnik

Categories: Croatia · Dubrovnik · Europe · TravelTags: · · ·

The loveliest old city in Croatia, many say, is Dubrovnik. Located in south of the country fronting the Adriatic Sea and in the middle of the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is a place that is medieval, mythical and occasionally, magical. The walled-off Old City has parts which date from the 11th century. If it weren’t for the hundreds of other tourists like me, wandering the Old City’s steep cobblestoned streets would feel like time travel. Although this country has existed as Croatia for only 28  years, more than two million tourists descended on Dubrovnik last year. That is undoubtedly helped along by…

Venice

Categories: Europe · Italy · Travel · VeniceTags: · · ·

Ciao Venice! I can’t believe that my last time to this enchanting city was in 2003 – fifteen years ago! I must admit that part of my hesitation to return to Venice is the several news accounts of daunting crowds of tourists outnumbering locals by two to one. I keep reminding myself that one is never more than a bridge or alley away to a more quiet campi (square) or neighbourhood. Venice continues to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world.                                …

Torna a Roma

Categories: Europe · Italy · Rome · TravelTags: · · · 1 Comment

“Back to Rome” after three years – I have returned to the former seat of power of the Roman Empire. This city is overflowing with iconic sights and architectural treasures that earn its name of the Eternal City. I am stopping by for a few days on my way to my main destination in Italy. It is never a chore to be in this living theatre.