Corfu, Greece…the Favorite Vacation Destination for an Empress

8 May 20233 May 2025

Overlooking the Mandraki Harbor in Corfu, the old fort displayed evidence of Venetian influence with images of winged lions resting on its fortification.

Kerkyra, more commonly known to tourists as Corfu, is located just off the mainland of Greece, between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Corfu Town is a popular port with a strong Venetian influence as exhibited in its architecture.

Throughout the maze of streets in the Old Town, there were several streetside cafes.

One of the more interesting areas of Corfu Town was Liston. Because it had once been occupied by the French, the country’s influence on Corfu was visible in its architecture. Fashioned after the Rue de Rivoli, it was a replica of one of Paris’ most famous streets. The French ruled here from 1797 to 1814 (with a brief rule by the Ottoman in between), and then later the British from 1814 to 1864.

In the early days when the Venetians ruled Corfu, only the noble and aristocrats were permitted to walk among the arcades.

Through the alleyways I caught a glimpse of the beautiful flowers cascading from archways and apartment balconies.

The Church of Agios Spyridon was located a few blocks behind the Liston. Built in the 16^th century, it displays ceiling murals designed by Panagiotis Doxaras.

I love the Greek tradition of placing candles in the sand outside of the church.

There are many shops scattered among the streetside restaurants that offer local delicacies. One of the shops provided samples of kumquats and kumquat liquor. Kumquats are a fruit that comes from a tree. They are small, about the size of an olive and resemble the orange in both appearance and taste.

It was time for us to board the bus headed to the Achilleion Palace. Sailboats anchored off the scenic coast as we made our way south during our drive.

The Achillion Palace was built for Empress Elisabeth in 1890 as a second home and retreat from her native Austria. It was later acquired by German Kaiser William II in 1898 after she was assassinated. The palace is now a museum displaying the belongings of both the Empress and Kaiser.

Throughout the mansion there were statues and paintings of Achilles. Achilles was a mighty warrior and Greek hero of the Trojan War. He was killed when a poisoned arrow was shot through his heel, the only vulnerable part of his body.

Another statue on the grounds of the mansion showed Achilles reaching towards his ankle in pain after having been shot. Today we know the tender area behind our foot as the “Achilles Tendon”.

In keeping with the Achilles theme throughout the mansion, the mural inside titled “The Triumph of Achilles” depicted Achilles’ defeat over Hector during the Trojan War. Achilles was riding a chariot dragging Hector behind.

Empress Elisabeth had a tragic life. A year after the death of her son, she decided to build a summer home on the island of Corfu. She grew to love the Greek culture and language and the Achillion Palace was her favorite place with its panoramic view of the island.

Elisabeth’s love of Greek mythology was evident in the entryway of her palace with statues depicting fairies and fauns.

Once I had completed the tour of the Achillion Palace, I took a moment to have a drink at the Nova Bella Vista, a Mediterranean café. It was the perfect opportunity to take in the coast.

We had a short bus ride to the town of Paleokastritsa on the east side of the island where we would visit a monastery, have a group lunch and then hang out at the beach if there is enough time.

The Monastery of the Virgin Mary, also known as Panagia Paleokastritsa, is of Byzantine origin and was first built in 1228. It was a short uphill climb from the beautiful bay of Paleokastritsa. The current structure was from the 18th century and provided stunning views of the coastline.

Even today, there are Greek Orthodox Monks who reside here to hold mass and provide assistance to the local residents. They offer tours of the monastery and grounds and are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding their home.

There are several resident cats who will take the time to play with you during your visit to the monastery. They live here permanently and are cared for by the monks.

As we approached the church, we were reminded that only those dressed appropriately (shoulders and knees must be covered) were permitted to enter. They also requested that we provide a small monetary donation.

Leaving the village of Lakones towards the bay, I was rewarded with a magnificent view of Paleokastritsa and the fir trees.

The crystal blue waters and rock formations below can be explored by kayak. There is a small beach here for those that have brought the proper attire, but soon we would board the bus to head back to the ship.

The bay of Paleokastritsa from the beach was full of craggy rocks. There were several restaurants across the street to enjoy a light lunch and there were a variety of menu items for sale. I did not want to leave the beautiful blue sky and blue sea, the friendly locals and the relaxed atmosphere. I can see why this island is perfect for an Empress.

Have you visited the island of Corfu? Where did you go and what was your favorite activity? I would be happy to hear about your adventures in Corfu if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit and wishing you Many Happy Travels!

…dragging Hector behind…

Have you had the opportunity to visit the island of Corfu? What was your favorite part of your visit? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my amazing visit to Corfu and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Old Venetian Fortress
Corfu, 491 00 Greece

Admission Fee: 6 Euros per person and 3 Euros for seniors
Hours: Open daily from 8AM to 8PM
Amenities: restaurant (expensive), restrooms, ice cream and refreshments
Scenic Views: The views of Corfu Town and the Ionian Sea are spectacular from the fort.
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The entrance is located in front of the Liston near the Explanade. The climb to the top to see the lighthouse is steep. The walking paths are a bit slippery, so wear appropriate walking shoes. When the cruise ship is in port, the fort can be quite busy and with only one restroom, the lines can be long. The attraction is not handicap accessible.

Church of Agios Spyridon
Platytyra, Corfu, 49100
Telephone: +30 26610 39912

Admission Fee: No charge, but a small donation is much appreciated
Hours: Open daily from 7AM to 8PM
Length of the Tour: 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Wear appropriate dress which requires the shoulders and knees to be covered.

Achilleion (Achillion) Palace
Telephone: +30 26610 56245

Admission Fee: 10 Euros per person
Hours: Open daily from 8AM to 9PM
Amenities: restaurant nearby, audio guides, gardens, souvenir stalls, restrooms,
Scenic Views: The views of Corfu Town from the gardens is beautiful.
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Have your passport/identification ready for renting the audio guide. When the cruise ship is in port, the palace can be quite busy and they have priority over individual entries, so go early in the day or late afternoon to escape the crowds.

The Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as Panagia Paleokastritsa
Kavos, Greece

Admission Fee: No fee, but be prepared to make a small contribution
Hours: Open daily from 8AM to 9PM
Amenities: restaurant with stunning oceanside views. udio guides, gardens, souvenir stalls, restrooms,
Scenic Views: Beautiful view of the Paleokastritsa up the climb and the restaurant also has amazing views
Length of the Tour: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The walk up the hill to the monastery is quite steep. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water if the temperature is warm. There is a monk available to answer any questions you may have.

Where to Stay:

MarBella Corfu
Agios Ioannis Peristeron
49084 Corfu, Greece
Telephone: +30 26610 711836

Where to Eat:

Cafe Liston
Kerkiras 10
Kerkiras, 491 00 Greece
Telephone: +30 2661 045528

What to Eat:

Baklava is layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts, spices and sweetened with honey
Greek Salad
Greek Wine from Santorini is unique as the grapes are grown in volcanic ash
Gyros
Lamb
Local Olives
Mashed Fava Beans (Fava me Koukia)
Moussaka is an eggplant or potato based pie with meat and cheese
Pomegranates
Saganaki is a phyllo pastry stuffed with cheese and covered in honey
Souvlaki are meat kabobs made from lamb, beef or chicken
Spanikopita is a phyllo pastry filled with spinach, cheese, and sometimes onion
Tomato Fritters made with tomatoes and onion, they are spiced either with oregano and peppermint then deep-fried
Tzatziki is a yogurt based sauce with bits of garlic, onion, cucumbers, olive oil and lemon. Pita bread is usually served with this dish for dipping.

What to Read:

The Rough Magic by Mary Stewart
The Raven Witch of Corfu by Effrosyni Moschoudi
The Holiday by Erica James
Stars of Fortune by Nora Roberts
Invincible Summer by Alice Adams
The Venetian House by Mary Nickson

Photo Guide for Corfu, Greece

Old Town Corfu (Kerkyra)
St. George’s Church in Kerkyra
Achilleion Palace
Palaiokastritsa and the Monastery
The Gorge at Agni Bay
Cape Drastis
Vlacherna Monastery (near Mouse Island)
Canal d’Amour
Sunset at Loggas Beach
Porto Timoni Beach

Restaurants and Raki

17 April 20233 May 2025

Wearing ourselves out in the sun and saltwater, we were excited to enjoy another day of lunch on the property. We couldn’t pass up an opportunity for their fabulous cheese pizza with its perfectly grilled crust and tasty blend of cheeses and fresh, juicy watermelon.

We had a full afternoon packed with sightseeing and wanted to explore some of the chic oceanside restaurants in the Turkbuku village of Bodrum. Our first stop was the Macakizi Hotel for happy hour. This boutique hotel, with a name that means intelligence and beauty, has a lively bar and seaside seating.

We ordered small plates and shared a couple of bottles of Chardonnay soaking up the views of the nearby islands. We reminisced about our time in Istanbul and Bodrum, the fabulous food we had eaten so far and our local trip to the supermarket.

This fabulous bar and restaurant draws celebrities from all over the world with its authentic Turkish comfort food. Macakizi has its own private beach and a yacht available for hire to island hop along the coast. With its smart interior and sleek interior design, the hotel was placed on The Conde Nast Gold List in 2021.

The scenery around Maki 29 Beach was laidback and oozing with solitude. Wooden boats were tied up to the dock while large sailboats and catamarans were anchored out in the cove. We found gravel stairways surrounded with colorful gardens where we took some fun photos and posed for silly pictures. The sun was beginning to set, so the dusk lighting made for some amazing memories.

It was time for us to find a restaurant for dinner and we all agreed we wanted to try the local seafood at a location along the water. We happened to find Onikon Beach and Restaurant that had plenty of seating for our party of six. Looking over the menu, we had so many questions and the staff was incredibly helpful.

They brought out plates of their specialty fish and we decided on the sea bass and bream. We also ordered chicken kebabs, vegetables with hummus and saved room for katmer which is a folded pie pastry.

After dinner, we strolled towards the shops for a final time and found some last minute souvenirs at a cute boutique called Le Kabbak. We met the owner of the store who was kind to offer us seats outside. She suggested that we try Raki, one of Turkey’s signature drinks. None of us had heard of it so she began to pour small amounts into shot glasses and encouraged us to try it. It reminded me of Greece’s Oozo with its licorice taste. We each had a couple of drinks and enjoyed talking with her for awhile. We had only one more day to explore Bodrum so we decided to leave and would arrive early the next morning. Cheers to Bodrum!

What to See and What to Do:

Shopping in Turkbuku
Check out the local restaurants

Where to Stay:

Macakizi
Göltürkbükü, Narçiçe?i Sokak,
48400 Göltürkbükü Bodrum/Bodrum/Mu?la, Turkey
Telephone: +90 252 311 2400

Where to Eat:

Macakizi
Göltürkbükü, Narçiçe?i Sokak
48400 Göltürkbükü Bodrum/Bodrum/Mu?la, Turkey
Telephone: +90 252 311 2400

Onikon Beach and Restaurant
Konac?k, Mercan Sk. 57/A D:1
48470 Bodrum/Mu?la, Turkey
Telephone: +90 252 377 60 03

What to Eat:

Fruit: pomegranates, figs, peaches
Kumpir: potato with toppings
Lokmasi: deep-fried dough drenched in honey syrup
Peynirli borek: similar to Greek spanikopita
Sebzeli doner: meat, potato and vegetable skewers
Simit: bread that is between a bagel and pretzel

Where to Shop:

Le Kabbak
Dereköy, Gümü?lük Yolu No:3
48960 Bodrum/Mu?la, Turkey
Telephone: +90 252 394 33 99

What to Read:

Turkey Street: Jack and Liam move to Bodrum, by Jack Scott
Turkish Reflections: A Biography of Place, by Mary Lee Settle
I Am Pilgrim, by Terry Hayes
Bodrum, Ancient Halicarnassus, by Oguz Alpozen

Photo Guide for Bodrum:

Akvaryum Koyu (Aquarium Cove)
Bardakci Cove – great snorkeling location
Bitez Bay – Take the nature walk along the coastline
Bodrum Beach
Bodrum Windmills – great hike; nice quiet place to visit
Castle of Saint Peter – remains of the mausoleum of Mausolus
Gumusluk Harbor – gorgeous setting and amazing lighting at night
Turgutreis Red Lighthouse – awesome place for the sunset
Yalikavak Marina – luxury yachts, restaurants and shopping

Leaving Istanbul for Bodrum

10 April 20233 May 2025

Our flight departed from Istanbul early in the morning, arriving in Bodrum at 10:30. After collecting our luggage, we waited for the bus to take us to Salim’s house along the coast where we would spend several days before sailing the Greek Islands.

The bus was half full with tourists and residents visiting their second homes. Looking out the window, my eyes were taking in all of the beautiful resorts along the coast. Colorful flowers decorated the rural route where we entered tunnels with exquisite carvings which led to small, populated towns.

Passing by coves, we saw large yachts, small sailboats and the occasional fishing vessel. Occasionally, a community of homes appeared as quaint villages along the Aegean Sea and within forty minutes we had arrived at the entrance to our resort community.

At the secured entrance, we waited for our driver to take us to the house and help us unload our luggage. On our short drive to the house, we decided we would first have lunch and the attendant suggested the cafe where we could order the best pizza in town. We could see the cove where we would be staying and noticed the crystal clear waters, bathing areas and restaurants with outdoor seating.

Our accommodations were conveniently located within walking distance to the beach, pier, restaurants and shopping. The summer home of Salim was two story and surrounded by delicate flowers, large enough to accommodate the six of us.

We immediately unpacked our belongings, grabbed our swimsuits and walked down the hill to the pier where we found the restaurant to enjoy lunch. The stroll in itself was full of jaw-dropping views where whitewashed guesthouses were covered with vibrant blooms. Sitting along the waterfront, we ate fresh watermelon and made-to-order pizzas.

We swam for a couple of hours until it was time to meet up with Salim to discuss dinner plans. We decided to stay in, ordering takeout from a nearby food stall. From Turkish köfte (meatballs) to kebabs, we selected a wide variety of local dishes to sample.

After dinner, we strolled down to the swimming area as the light began to dim. Checking out the sailboats that had arrived to anchor off the shore, we eagerly waited for the sun to set.

We posed for photos, listened to Bruno Mars tunes and fought off sleep in fear of missing out. With what energy we had left, we stopped by the pool and shared bottle of wine before turning in. On the short walk home, we all agreed that we could have never imagined the beauty of Bodrum and reminisced about Ramadan in Istanbul until we just couldn’t stay awake much longer.

Have you had the wonderful opportunity to visit Bodrum, Turkey? Which places did you visit or restaurants did you enjoy? I would love to hear about your recommendations if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my Girl’s Trip to Turkey and wishing you many Happy Travels!

The Turkish Flag

Beautiful Flowers in Bodrum

The Evil Eye – This circular symbol keeps evil thoughts from harming you

Enjoying the Sunset in Bodrum

Catamarans and sailboats in the Bodrum Harbor

A Key West Sunset on Mallory Square

3 November 201919 September 2024

My friends and I met up together on Duval Street agreeing to watch the sunset at Mallory Square. Knowing it would be crowded, we decided to leave a couple of hours before dusk to find the perfect location. The square was already starting to fill up as entertainers played the steel drums, walked on stilts and performed magic tricks. We found a front row seat to enjoy the main attraction, sipping on rum punches and mai tais.

A sunset cruise would have been another great option for watching the sun setting over Sunset Key.

From our location, we could capture great sunsets as sailboats and catamarans provided the perfect addition to our photos.

The sailboats seemed so small as the sun was slipping past the horizon.

Even the birds could not stay away from this beautiful scene.

With so many great photos and minutes before the sun would eventually disappear, we decided to leave the square before the crowd decided to do the same. First stop, Irish Kevin’s.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Mallory Square in Key West? Do you have a favorite place to watch the sunset? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for checking out my photos of the Key West sunset and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Mallory Square for the Sunset

Where to Stay:

Heron House
512 Simonton Street
Key West, FL 33040
Telephone: 305 294 9227

Where to Eat:

Sunset Tiki Bar – Located on the Marina
The Galleon Resort
617 Front Street
Key West, FL 33040
Phone: 305 295 0207

What to Eat:

Ceviche
Conch Fritters
Crab Cakes
Grouper
Lobster
Mahi Mahi
Shrimp

What to Read:

To Have and Have Not, by Ernest Hemingway
Key West, Tequila, a Pinch of Salt and a Quirky Slice of America, by Jon Breakfield
Gumbo Limbo, by Tom Corcoran
Florida Keys Volume 1: A History of the Pioneers, by John Viele

Photo Guide to Key West:

Casa Marina Key West
Charming Houses and Front Porches
Ernest Hemingway Museum
Fort Zachary Taylor
Hens and Roosters
Higgs Beach
The Kapok Tree
Key West Lighthouse
Key West Mural
La Concha Hotel
Marilyn Monroe at Tropic Cinema
Mile Marker 0
Mural at Waterfront Brewery
The Old Pier Behind Casa Marina
Rainbow Walkways at 801 Bourbon Bar
San Carlos Institute
Smathers Beach
Southernmost Beach Cafe
Southernmost House
Southernmost Point Bouy
Sunset at Mallory Square
The Strand

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Walking Tour

26 March 201817 September 2024

A gorgeous scene awaited us as our cruise ship docked in the port of St. Maarten, the Dutch side of the island. We were met with an overcast sky and light rain, but by the time we finished breakfast, we had a beautiful day ahead of us.

St. Maarten is a working port, so there are container ships and cargo within reach. A short distance from the dock, signs leading into downtown Philipsburg pointed us in the direction of shops and restaurants. We estimated that the one mile walk would take us about thirty minutes into the center of town.

The dock led us through a shopping area where taxis and tour guide drivers waited to take passengers on excursions throughout the island. Continuing through the commercialized center, we decided to walk into Philipsburg for the day to take in the scenery.

Soon we reached a number of leisure boats anchored in the shallow end of Great Bay Beach. Thick, full palm trees hung over the beach and provided shade along the boardwalk. Strolling along Voorstraat (Front Street) we would soon be arriving into the outskirts of town.

Before reaching the beach, we made a stop at Chez Delphine located on Old Street to try a couple of freshly handmade fruit drinks. I ordered the local Guavaberry while Dave selected the Mango with Pineapple drink, which were fresh and fabulous (but a little pricey…$20 for 2).

We found outdoor seating on a perfectly combed, white sanded beach located across the restaurant. It was the perfect setting for us to enjoy our drinks and relax before entering town.

Strolling along the beach, we came upon two piers, so we walked out, looking back to enjoy the view of the Great Bay Beach and the surrounding area. We learned that we could have taken unlimited rides on the water taxi from the ship for seven dollars. Chair and umbrella rentals were also available for a small fee.

Enjoying the view from the pier, we nearly missed a turtle down below in the beautiful clear Caribbean waters and we took a few moments to watch it swim out into the ocean.

We decided to leave the beach behind and to start exploring the town’s center. Noticing Wathey Square (De Ruyterplein) and the 18th-century courthouse, we enjoyed the West Indian architecture with its delicate gingerbread fretwork.

One of the biggest attractions and the best place for souvenirs was the Guavaberry Island Folk Liqueur. We decided to find a store to purchase a few bottles to take home and also found spices and sugar cane. The store clerk informed us that they export the Old Man Brand to Florida, but we wanted to take some home to share with family and friends.

We were wrapping up the end of our walking tour and began our return back towards the shopping area.

Sint Maarten was the last port on our cruise and we would be staying in San Juan for a couple of days to rest and explore before our flight. We agreed that this was one of the cleanest ports on our itinerary. We enjoyed the small town feel with the option to relax at the beach. The weather cleared up just as we had expected and the temperature ended up in the mid 80’s. Just another beautiful day in paradise!

Working on cruise ships, I was often asked which port of call was my favorite. It was always such a difficult question to answer because each island/port has something different to offer and depending on my mood for that day, I may prefer one over the other for various reasons. Some of the reasons include, the food, the beaches, the locals and the nightlife, just to mention a few. Do you have a favorite port of call? Why? I would love to hear about it in the comments section below! Many thanks for joining me on my tour of Sint Maarten and wishing you Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Chez Delphine
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
Telephone: 721 522 2313

I loved the guavaberry smoothie that I tried here! Yum!

Pirates in Paradise
69 C Front Street / Beach Side
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, 00001 Netherland Antilles
Telephone: 721 999 9999

More delicious frozen cocktails to enjoy inside of the sports bar or the beach bar.

Where to Stay:

Oyster Bay Beach Resort
10 Emerald Merit Road
Sint Maarten
Telephone: 866 978 0212

UPDATE: Oyster Bay Beach Resort was devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017. The resort will be reopening in June of 2018.

Where to Eat:

Ocean Lounge
45 Boardwalk
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
Telephone: 721 542 1572

The Ocean Lounge is located in the Holland House Beach Hotel offering a spectacular ocean view. We ordered the Tuna Tataki to start and the Red Snapper with jasmine rice.

L’Escargot Restaurant
96 Front Street
Philipsburg, St. Maartin
Netherlands Antilles
Telephone: 721 542 2483

On a return trip, and with a new boyfriend David, we took the advice of our concierge and made reservations at L’Escargot for French cuisine. We each placed an order for Les Escargots de Bourgogne (snails in butter), while I decided upon the Surf and Turf (lobster and filet mignon), while David was completely satisfied with the La Langouste Thermidor. Of course we shared, and I am still dreaming about the lobster with crabmeat baked in the shell, served with white wine, mushrooms and cheese. It doesn’t get any better than this….oh yes it does, Edith Piaf was playing in the background. Ahhhh…sublime!

What to Eat:

Callaloo – a soup made with fresh greens, onions and okra as well as pork
Codfish Fritters
Conch and Dumplings
Crabmeat-Stuffed Shells (Crab Backs)
Guavaberry Liquer
Johnny Cakes – similar to pancakes but made with cornmeal
Locri – a dish of rice, chicken and a variety of vegetables
St. Maartan Spareribs
Whelk soup – a soup made from saltwater mollusks that are smaller than conch. Usually stewed in coconut milk, additional seasonings are added to give it a unique taste.

What to Read:

Gone Bamboo, by Anthony Bourdain
St. Maarten, by Jaron Summers
The Marigot Run, by John Ballern
Island in the Sun, by Alec Waugh

Photo Guide for Sint Maarten

Anse Marcel Viewpoint
Cupecoy Beach
Fort St. Louis
Friar’s Bay Beach
Happy Bay Beach
Maho Beach
Mullet Bay Beach
Phillipsburg
Pic Paradis
Trou de David (David’s Hole)

Chez Delphine

St. Martin of Tours Roman Catholic Church

Sint Maarten Water Taxi

The Port of Sint Maarten

Ships at Sint Maarten

Beach in Sint Maarten

Water Pad in Sint Maarten

Sea Turtle from the Pier

St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, Downtown Walking Tour

19 March 20184 January 2025

At dawn, I caught my first glimpse of the beautiful island of St. Thomas with its sailboats and yachts in the harbor. A softness settled over the tranquil Caribbean Sea as the cruise ship approached the dock. The morning chill would soon be replaced by the heat of the sun rewarding us with another tropical day in paradise. Nestled in the cove of Charlotte Amalie, the ship had soon docked at Havensight, only a mile’s walk east of town.

Soon after the ship was tied up and the gangway set out on the dock, I grabbed my belongings and set off towards the village of Charlotte Amalie. The large shopping plaza, located between Post Office and Market squares, offers duty-free liquor, European imports and souvenirs for passengers and crew. Convenient for passengers who prefer to remain close to the harbor, I prefer to shop in town where prices are discounted at a higher rate.

After passing the market at the port, the start of my walk was hardly picturesque with older, industrial buildings lining the roadway. Yet within minutes, approaching Yacht Haven Grande, I explored several upscale shops and restaurants. Luxury cabin cruisers were docked along this popular plaza, ten minutes from the center of town.

The wooden boardwalk soon evolved into a concrete stretch of walkway passing the picturesque cove. With extraordinary views of the nearby islands, sailboats and working boats anchored nearby. One of sixty-eight islands that comprise the US Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is the largest of the four islands that are inhabited.

The sun burned off the last of the morning fog and the view stretched out for miles. A cool breeze masked the 95 degree heat as the walkway narrowed and curved towards the oceanfront village of Charlotte Amalie.

Before the US Virgin Islands were sold to the US, the islands were settled by the Danes in the 17^th century. The final stretch of my walk into town was the Legislature Building on the left and the Virgin Islands Museum. The beautiful museum, originally the 17^th century Fort Christian, is the island’s oldest building in continuous use. Converted into a jail, a church town hall, courthouse and governor’s residence, this museum displays the history of St. Thomas from the Stone Age to present.

Approaching the charming center of Charlotte Amalie, I immediately noticed the second story restaurant, Bumpa’s, with a spectacular view of the cove. Ordering a drink, I found the perfect 2-seater table to take in the picturesque view and map out my tour of the town. The cobalt waters and small boats bobbing along the bay tempted me to stay for the view, but I was excited to explore and learn more about the island’s history.

Stepping out of the restaurant, I found Dronningens Gade (Main Street) where numerous shops stood along the alleyway. Store attendants were standing outside offering discounted rates on jewelry and promised the best deals on the island.

After losing my way for a few minutes, I eventually reached a set of stairs that led me to Hotel 1829. Built as a residence for a French Sea Captain, this former home is now a hotel. Walking towards the entrance, I learned that there was a wedding taking place inside and it was closed for the private event.

Directional signs pointed me towards the scenic attractions I had planned to visit. Looking out into the ocean, I noticed a small clearing in the trees that framed the port of St. Thomas and its beautiful harbor. A set of steps, known as the 99 Steps, continued up the hill. Similar to the stairs I had seen in San Juan, these were also made from the stone ballasts once used to balance the load of old sailing ships.

The island is rich with pirate history so I was excited to visit Blackbeard’s Castle. Originally built by the Danes in 1679, the property, which is now a hotel, was a supposed location where Blackbeard would hang out on occasion.

The Skytsborg Tower sits on five acres, referred to as “The Williamsburg of the Caribbean”. Built in the 17th century this amazing stone structure by the Danes, offers a spectacular view of the harbor.

Making my descent back into town, I stopped to admire “The Three Rebel Queens of the Virgin Islands Fountain”. Unveiled in 2005, this beautiful monument created by Richard Hallier, commemorates the Fireburn Revolt. The Labor Riot, led by Queen Mary, Queen Agnes and Queen Mathilda, started out as a peaceful protest on the island of St. Croix due to small wages and difficult work conditions. Rumors began to circulate within the group that a laborer had been killed in police custody which led to the rioters looting the town and setting fire to the buildings and plantations. The three women were imprisoned as a result of the destruction and are represented in the sculpture carrying a lantern, torch and harvesting tool.

Continuing down the walkway towards town was the Crown House, a vibrant yellow colorful house with purple shutters came into view. This beautiful structure was built in the mid 1800s as the home of the island’s governor, Peter von Scholten. Designed in the style of West Indian architecture, it is currently a private residence.

In the heat of the day, the stroll back to the ship brought me to the Yacht Haven Grande once again. I took a seat on the patio at The Fat Turtle, facing the yachts and enjoyed a drink before checking out Paradise Point.

I decided to ride the cable car to the top of Paradise Point to have a couple of drinks and enjoy the view of the harbor. Although I had the option to take a taxi to the top, I paid the $21 for the St. Thomas Skyride. Boarding the gondola, the weather was just as perfect as the view. I could see the cruise ships and yachts docked in their assigned slips and all of the anchored boats and sailboats dotting the harbor. There were islands as far as the eye could see.

At Paradise Point, there was a shop that sold treasures from a sunken ship that was recently discovered. I had an interesting conversation with one of the divers and checked out the artifacts. I was hoping to take the 1/4-mile trail for views of St. Croix, but the trail was closed due to the previous week’s weather. Instead, I took a seat at Bailey’s Bushwacker overlooking the harbor and placed my order for the local Bushwacker and Key Lime drink. The Bushwacker is made up of 1 oz of the following: Pusser’s Rum (suggested), Vodka, Kahlua, Bailey’s Irish Cream, Amaretto, Frangelico and Crème de Cacao. That’s a lot of alcohol in this tiny, but yummy drink topped with whipped cream and a cherry on top, After a couple of Bushwackers, it was time to call it a day.

Do you have a favorite Caribbean port? I would love to hear about your preferred island and what activities or attractions you prefer. Just leave a comment below! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Blackbeard’s Castle aka Skytsborg Tower:
Lille Taarne Gade
Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Telephone: 340 776 1234

If you would like to check out the attractions in Charlotte Amalie, download the Self Guided Downtown Historic Tour and Charlotte Amalie Map from www.virginislandsthisweek.com.

September 6, 2017 Update: This site is CLOSED due to the destruction of Hurricane Irma. A re-opening date is not available at this time.

Villa Notman in Kongens Quarter: next door to Blackbeard’s Castle

September 6, 2017 Update: This site is CLOSED at due to the destruction of Hurricane Irma. A re-opening date is not available at this time.

St. Thomas Skyride:
9617 Estate Thomas
St. Thomas, VI 00802
Phone: 340 774 9809

Admission Fee: $21 for Adults, $10.50 for children 12 and under; children under the age of 5 are FREE.
Hours: Open Monday from 9AM to 4PM, on Tuesday from 9AM to 5PM and on Wednesdays from 9AM to 9PM. Hours may vary depending on when ships are docked in the port of St. Thomas.
Amenities: Restaurant, Tram, Shopping Deck, Sundeck, Dining Room, Patio, Harbor Terrace, The Nest, a reception room for events.
Scenic View: Breathtaking views of St. Thomas’ Harbor from Paradise Point
Length of Visit: 1 to 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: You can also drive or hail a taxi to the top of Paradise Point.

Where to Stay:

Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham – St. Thomas
6080 Estate Smith Bay
St. Thomas, 00802, US Virgin Islands
Telephone: 340 775 8300

Where to Eat:

Bumpa’s
38-A Waterfront Hwy
Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

The Fat Turtle is now permanently closed
Yacht Haven Grande
St. Thomas, USVI 00802
Phone: 340 714 3566

What to Eat:

Bull Foot Soup – also known as cow heel soup, it is made from the heel of a cow, vegetables and local spices
Conch
Fungi – Polenta made from ground cornmeal, Caribbean-style
Johnny Cakes – snack made from flour, butter and sugar
Kallaloo Soup – similar to gumbo, this soup is made from fish, greens, onion, okra and local spices
Lobster
Pate – similar to empanadas; dough filled with chicken, fish or beef
Roti – flatbread wraps filled with meat or vegetables

What to Read:

Caribbean: A Novel, by James Michener
Right Place, Wrong Time by Judith Arnold
Land of Love and Drowning: a novel, by Tiphanie Yanique

Photo Guide for St. Thomas

St. Thomas Ride Paradise for spectacular views of Charlotte Amalie
Megan’s Bay for pristine beaches
99 steps
Government House
Coki Beach for corals and amazing underwater life
Secret Harbour for squid, turtles and barracuda
Drake’s Bench for panoramic views
Brewer’s Beach Bay for viewing airplanes
Blackbeard’s Castle

The St. Thomas Harbor

The Yachts in St. Thomas

A View of the Ship from Town

The Islands Surrounding St. Thomas

Panoramic View of Charlotte Amalie and the St. Thomas Harbor

The exciting view of St. Thomas from Paradise Point

The cable cars on the St. Thomas Skyview Ride

The Carnival Liberty as seen from Paradise Point

The Port of St. Thomas

Drinks at Bumpa’s

And the Drive In Between: East Coast Driving (Massachusetts)

29 December 201716 September 2024

When my friend Dave asked me to join him on a trip to his childhood home, I was so excited to meet his family and to see where he had grown up outside of Boston. Our first day, we would hang out in Boston and Salem and then we had also made plans for a trip to Portland, Maine to meet up with his childhood friend, Alan.

We arrived early in the morning, loaded up the rental car and began our journey heading north. The scenic coastline was dotted with historical buildings, beautifully built of stone and brick. Reminiscent of a Norman Rockwell painting, we stopped on several occasions to take photographs and enjoy the scenery.

Stained glass windows, colorful siding and delicate roof tiles added so much character to our drive. We played a game trying to guess the year in which each year they had been built based on their architecture. From churches and chapels, we were completely entertained and amusing ourselves over the next couple of hours.

The further north we drove, the natural beauty of the coastal rock formations popped up along the Atlantic. The occasional inlet would appear filled with yachts and sailboats and I wished we had more time to hang out or at least stop for lunch, but we decided that we would stop at Kelly’s Roast Beef in Saugus for their infamous roast beef and lobster rolls and I couldn’t wait.

I loved seeing all of the old signs in Saugus, like the Hilltop Steakhouse which had been opened by local businessman, Frank Giuffrida in 1961. The restaurant was a popular spot from the 60s through the 90s expanding to 1500 seats. I learned that it had recently closed and thought of all of the patrons the restaurant must have served over the years. It also made me think of how hungry I was and couldn’t wait to order some lobster….are we close to Kelly’s?

It was such a great day driving the coast. Do you enjoy road trips? What is your favorite activity when you travel? I would love to hear about your travels if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Thank you for reading about my drive around the NE coast and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and Do:

Take a Coastal Drive!

Where to Stay:

Red Roof Inn Plus+ Boston-Logan
920 Broadway, I-93 North to Rt. 1
Saugus, MA 01906
Telephone: 888 665 1356

Where to Eat:

Kelly’s Roast Beef
410 Revere Beach Blvd.
Revere, MA 02151
Phone: 781 284 9129

What to Eat:

- Boston Baked Beans
- Cape Cod Potato Chips
- Clam Chowder
- Fluffernutters – a sandwich with peanut butter and marshmallow fluff….amazing!
- Fresh Seafood
- Fried Clams
- Grilled Blueberry Muffins
- Hoodsie Cups – baby cups of ice cream
- Lobster Rolls, of course
- Seared Scallops

What to Read:

Mystic River, by Dennis Lehane
Sacred, by Dennis Lehane
The Handmaid’s Tale, by Margaret Atwood

Photo Guide for Boston:

Acorn Street
The Amazing Coast
Boston Athenaeum
Boston Common
Boston Public Library
Café Susu
Fan Pier Park
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Louisburg Square
Marshall Street & Union Oyster House
Old Signs Along Saugus
Public Garden Foot Bridge
Rouvalis Flowers

Charming Portland, Maine

8 December 201716 September 2024

Approaching the historic city of Portland, I arrived from the south crossing Casco Bay Bridge. By way of 1A, I reached DiMillo’s on the Water for lunch. I was excited for fresh seafood and a waterfront view.

I ordered the Jumbo Shrimp and Wedge Salad as starters. There were so many amazing options on the menu, so I chose the Lobster Roll sandwich with a side of cole slaw. Absolutely amazing!

Tony DiMillo first opened his restaurant, Anthony’s in 1954 because of his love for seafood. Located on Fore Street in Old Port, Tony’s business flourished, bringing in business from both locals and visitors alike. Anthony’s continued to grow, moving to Center Street, and by the late 70’s, he purchased and reinvented the Long Wharf transforming it into “DiMillo’s Marina”. With 120 slips, boaters had the opportunity to dock and enjoy a fresh seafood meal with a spectacular view. The current restaurant opened in 1982 as “DiMillo’s Floating Restaurant” as the only one of its kind along the Upper East Coast, accommodating over 600 guests. DiMillo’s legacy lives on as his family continues to create an exceptional dining experience with incredible views of Portland’s Harbor.

Although I could have stayed here all afternoon looking out into the bay, I had planned to walk off my lunch and explore the Old Port. With its cobblestone streets, I found myself lost in time visiting the specialty shops and boutiques.

My curiosity brought me to the holy donut to try a Maine-style donut. Founded in 2010, Leigh Kellis uses a northern Maine recipe to create her amazing donuts. Her special ingredient is riced potatoes which provide “added flavor, texture and consistency” to her 24 different flavors of donuts, including gluten-free selections. I couldn’t resist ordering the Dark Chocolate Sea Salt and Maple Bacon flavors which were incredibly moist and absolutely delicious.

I was completely mistaken when I thought the Thirsty Pig was just another craft brewery and excited at the endless possibilities of pairing specialty hot dogs with local beers. From the BBQ Bahn Mi to the Viking, there is not a combination they haven’t created.

Luxurious yachts docked along the waterways are registered from multiple states along the east coast. What a wonderful way to spend the afternoon than to tie up in Portland and explore the interesting port.

I would have never guessed that Portland was a cruise ship stop and it was such a wonderful surprise to see the Grandeur of the Seas docked in town for the day.

Approaching the end of my walk, I came upon an amazing artistic installation designed by Andy Rosen, a South Portland artist. Titled, “Unpack”, the display was created from fake fur, PVC pipe, foam, and aluminum piping. According to Rosen’s website, “The work imagines a pack of once domesticated dogs turned wild and abandoned on a pier waiting for their “masters” to return.”

And so, it was time for me to make my return back to Boston to prepare for a morning of meetings. I was happy that I took the time to visit the beautiful, artistic port town of Portland to explore its lighthouses, enjoy its deliciously fresh seafood and to experience its charm.

Have you visited Portland, Maine? I would love to hear about your visit and the things that you experienced here if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Portland and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Holy Donut
177 Commercial Street
Portland, ME 04101
Telephone: 207 331 5655

The Thirsty Pig
37 Exchange Street
Portland, ME 04101
Telephone: 207 773 2469

Where to Stay:

Inn at St. John Portland In-Town
939 Congress Street
Portland, ME 04102
Telephone: 800 636 9127

Where to Eat:

DiMillos
25 Long Wharf
Portland, ME 04101
Telephone: 207 772 2216

What to Eat:

Seafood, especially lobster!

What to Read:

Delirium, by Lauren Oliver
Persuader, by Lee Child
Shelter in Place, by Nora Roberts
The Singing Trees, by Boo Walker
The Probability of Miracles, by Wendy Wunder

Photo Guide for Portland:

Boda Thai Kitchen
Casco Bay and the Portland Head Lighthouse
Crown Jewel
Drifter’s Wife
Eventide Oyster Company
Portland Head Lighthouse
The Press Hotel

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, Portland, Maine

1 December 201716 September 2024

There is only a ten minute drive between the Portland Head Lighthouse to the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse in Portland. As we travel the coast into the South Side of Portland, the views are spectacular with sailboats in the cove surrounded by million dollar mansions.

The lighthouse was completed in 1897 and is one of 49 caisson-style lighthouses in the United States that visitors can walk to. It protects sailors from the dangerous ledge as they enter the Casco Bay and Portland Harbor, located at the end of the 950-foot breakwater.

Built by Thomas Dyer, the lighthouse measures 77 feet in height and was an integral part of protecting Portland’s growing harbor in the 1800s. It was lit by William A. Lane on May 24, 1897. The breakwater was added in 1951, built of 50, 000 tons of local granite.

The lighthouse was transferred to private ownership under the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act of 1996 and a trust was formed in 1998 to maintain Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse and manage future restoration projects.

While visitors can walk along the breakwater for a closer view of Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, guided tours begin after the Memorial Day weekend on Tuesdays and Thursdays and limited Saturdays from 11:30AM to 1:30PM as the weather allows. The cost is $5 per person. Private tours are also available for up to 12 people with a fee of $150.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse? Did you take the guided tour? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my wonderful visit to Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse
2 Fort Road
South Portland, ME 04106
Telephone: 866 570 5703

Admission: Free
Hours: Open daily 365 days a year from sunrise to sunset
Amenities: Guided tours, beach nearby,
Length of Your Tour: 1 – 2 hours to visit
Tips for Your Visit: There is a beach and fort next to the lighthouse. There is a small fee to enter the lighthouse and call ahead to schedule a tour. Check the tide as it is best to visit during low tide. Small parking area on the community college’s campus.

Where to Stay:

Inn at St. John Portland In-Town
939 Congress Street
Portland, ME 04102
Telephone: 800 636 9127

Where to Eat:

DiMillos
25 Long Wharf
Portland, ME 04101
Telephone: 207 772 2216

What to Eat:

Seafood, especially lobster!

What to Read:

Delirium, by Lauren Oliver
Persuader, by Lee Child
Shelter in Place, by Nora Roberts
The Singing Trees, by Boo Walker
The Probability of Miracles, by Wendy Wunder

Photo Guide for Portland:

Boda Thai Kitchen
Casco Bay and the Portland Head Lighthouse
Crown Jewel
Drifter’s Wife
Eventide Oyster Company
Portland Head Lighthouse
The Press Hotel

Salem, Massachusetts: A City Bewitched

17 November 201716 September 2024

My visit to Salem took me back to high school when we studied the Salem Witch Trials in American History class. I remembered the terrifying stories about how a group of young women were accused of dabbling in witchcraft and later sentenced to death. What started out as a night of fortune telling ended up in the execution of twenty innocent lives. I imagined the fear that must have spread through the community and the mounting distrust among friends and family.

The accusations and devastating deaths during these trials continue to have a large influence in the city of Salem, Massachusetts. Several locations commemorate the events that draw curious visitors to Salem each year, especially during the Halloween holiday.

A number of museums document the historical aspect of the Witch Trials of 1692. Locals agree that these events are much more down-played today than twenty to thirty years ago when the trials were more prominent here.

The city’s identity is strongly reflected in the history of the witch trials. Neighborhoods have names such as Witchcraft Heights where the school mascot is the Witch and police cruisers even display the symbol of the witch on a broom on the side of their vehicles. During the Halloween season, Salem’s influx of visitors nearly doubles when witches and warlocks gather together in celebration of Hallow’s Eve.

Despite all of the superstition and witchcraft, I found Salem to be a city with so much more to offer than its past. In addition to its beautiful harbors and parks, the city is home to some of the finest restaurants in the state and quite a few landmarks that are worth a visit.

My friend, Dave and I were visiting his uncle during our trip to Salem, Massachusetts and since he grew up in Boston, he knew the area quite well. We started out in the early morning at Salem Willows Park.

Dave had visited here with his middle school class and vividly remembered the witch displays that had been set up close to the harbor. He was surprised that the historical events of the witch trials which once took center stage in Salem, seemed to be more down-played than when he was growing up in Chelsea.

Opening in the 1880’s, Salem Willows was a popular recreational area for the locals with a pavilion, an arcade and a number of businesses that lined up along its perimeter. There were several restaurants and entertainment venues that included a pool hall, bowling alley, and a shooting gallery.

The park is named for its beautiful white willow trees that were planted here in 1801. I imagined that they would provide perfect shade in the hot summer sun and a lovely location for a picnic.

By the 1920’s the Charleshurst Ballroom sponsored big band headliners such as Count Basie and Louis Armstrong. Entertainment continued in the ballroom over the next 20 years and amusement park rides were added to amuse the children.

During our visit, we learned that the Salem Willows had its own signature sandwich, the Salem Willows Chop Suey Sandwich. Made popular in the 1930’s, it can still be found today at nearby Salem Lowe Restaurant. Chop suey is a meat, such as beef, chicken, pork or seafood combined with vegetables to include cabbage, bean sprouts, and celery. Thickened with starch, the meat and vegetables are put on a bun making this the infamous Salem Willows Chop Suey Sandwich.

We completed our visit to Salem Willows. walking along the harbor. Passing the Clam Shack, we enjoyed the smell of the Atlantic Ocean and feeling the cool breeze of the autumn air.

With the whole day ahead of us to explore, we took the five minute drive from Salem Willows Park to the House of the Seven Gables. Salem native Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote about this family home which was owned by his cousin Susannah Ingersoll, who had lived here during the Salem Witch Trials of 1692.

The guided tour provided a lovely historical account of the home as it was owned by three generations of Turners and later the Ingersoll family. The guide also offered information about the 20^th century restoration and how the new features corresponded with the home in Hawthorne’s book.

We enjoyed strolling the property’s gardens and learning about the Counting House where spices from the West Indies were imported to the United States’ eastern seaboard.

Leaving Salem and driving back to Boston, I noticed the Bewitched statue out of the corner of my eye and tried to take a quick photo. Dave explained that the television show was filmed here in Salem on several occasions during one of its later seasons.

I began to think about how the time difference has changed so much to what Americans will find acceptable or even tolerate today. While 300 years ago even the mention of witchcraft was once punishable by death, it has become accepted and even celebrated in society today. Salem makes no excuses for what happened during the city’s witch hunt, but it is quite clear that it has thoughtfully paid tribute to the innocent victims and has made peace to the wrongfully accused. For a town with a name that comes from the Hebrew word shalom meaning peace, Salem has come a long way.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Salem? I would love for you to share your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading my post about Salem and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Salem Willows Park
167 Fort Avenue
Salem, MA 01970
Telephone: 978 741 4600

Admission: Free
Hours: Memorial Day to Labor Day 10AM to 11PM

The House of the Seven Gables
115 Derby Street
Salem, MA 01970
Telephone: 978 744 0991

Admission: Adults $12.50, Students (5 – 12) $7.50, Seniors $11.50
Hours: 10AM to 5PM

Where to Stay:

The Hotel Marblehead
264 Pleasant Street
Marblehead, MA 01945
Telephone: 781 639 9999

Where to Eat:

Clam Shack
98 Restaurant Row
Salem, MA 01970
Telephone: 978 741 2526

I was dying to try a lobster roll but knew I had to have something with clams, so I ordered the clam chowder which was spectacular and you can’t beat the price of seafood in the northeast!

“Where witches fly and clams fry”

Salem Lowe Restaurant
197 Fort Avenue
Salem, MA 01970

Order the locally famous Salem Willows Chop Suey Sandwich

What to Eat:

Boston Baked Beans
Cape Cod Potato Chips
Chop Suey Sandwich at Salem Lowe Restaurant
Clam Chowder
Fluffernutters – sandwiches made of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff
Fried Clams
Griddled Blueberry Muffins
Hoodsie Cups – cups of vanilla ice cream with a paper lid
Lobster Rolls
Necco Wafers
Roast Beef Sandwiches at Kelly’s Roast Beef

What to Read:

Death of an Empire, by Robert Booth
A Patriot Lad of Old Salem, by Russell Gordon Carter
Suzanneh Morrow, by Megan Chance
I, Tituba, Black Witch of Salem, by Maryse Conde
The House of the Seven Gables, Nathaniel Hawthorne
The Crucible, by Arthur Miller

Photo Guide for Salem, Massachusetts:

The Samantha Statue/Bewitched Statue
The House of the Seven Gables
The Witch House on Essex Street
Historic Salem Homes in the McIntire District
The Ropes Mansion (used in the movie Hocus Pocus)
The Salem Harbor
The Salem Willows