Is travel a healthy addiction?

I've been thinking about travel so much lately. I saw a post on Facebook that said travel is a healthy addiction and I 100% agreed with this. However upon reflection, is any addiction healthy?

In my mind, travel is about exploring the World, meeting new people, learning about different cultures and seeing the absolute beauty and contrast there is.

Some people do not understand my desire to travel. Those are usually people who have no travelled much themselves. They see it as a waste of money and taking risks with my life. I see it completely differently.

I want to clear one thing up, I believe there is a big difference between Travelling and going on Holiday. I love both! A holiday for me is usually staying in one place for a week or two. This usually is a nice beach holiday. It's what you need sometimes to completely relax and refresh.

Travelling is different. It's exploring the place you have visited. It's seeing the sights, interacting with the locals and trying new things.

I am very fortunate to be in a position where I can afford to do both. I work hard for my salary and I live within my means. I don't have debts (other than my mortgage) and have surplus income so why not explore the World whilst I don't have other commitments such as children?!

People say every country is dangerous - and this is true! There are some countries that are more dangerous than others though. For example, Turkey has a 'high' terror alert and the UK government advises against travel to certain parts of the country (those boarding Syria) however this doesn't stop my parents travelling there.

Singapore has a 'general' level of terror threats. However, some would say that part of the World could be more prone to terror attacks.

And shockingly, Mexico has a 'low' terror level. And this is probably one of the countries I felt most unsafe in.

Being honest, I've just checked quite a few countries I've visited such as UAE, Indonesia and France and they all have a 'high' terror threat level. Nowadays, a lot of countries sadly have a high threat level, including the UK.

It's not just  the threat terrorism that can be risky in countries though. It's lots of things like crime such as mugging, rape and assault. Also safety on roads, transport and activities (remember the bungee rope snapping in Victoria falls?) and not to mention hygiene of food and toilets etc.

Everywhere has risks. Walking to work I cross lots of roads, I get on packed trains and I go into congested London. If I worried about the 'risks', I'd never get out of bed each day.

The nature of my job is to weigh up the risks vs rewards. The same goes for travel. Yes there is a risk that the plane could crash, I could have my bag snatched or I could fall over whilst hiking but also I could see the most magnificent scenery, I could bump into a local who will teach me to appreciate the simple things in life and I could taste the most incredible foods.

You might not have much to physically show from travel, maybe some beautiful photos or the odd memento (anyone for a fridge magnet?) but it's the stories and experiences that mean so much.

My memory is usually pretty bad but I remember most of my travels so vividly. I remember sitting on the beach in Koh Samui at night when a little girl aged maybe 9, comes up to me and insists on plaiting my hair. Of course she needs the money, maybe her parents are making her go out at night, I'll never know, but seeing how happy she was that someone had actually talked to her instead of shooing her away.

Or paddling in the ocean in Costa Rica when it was pitch black with huge thunder and lightening (which is now insane to think of as I'm petrified of it!) and seeing the poor crab trying to cross the road but it didn't make it to the other side (no that's not a bad joke!).

Also I remember getting up at 3.00am to hike to Sun Gate to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu only to be met with loads of low clouds. But then after thinking we would miss the view, it seemed like someone had blown the clouds away within seconds to show the incredible site.

These memories will never fad. And I hope that one day I can inspire other people to travel. Whether it's my nieces and nephews or if I have children of my own.

I've always loved to travel. I'm at my happiest when I am away. Away from the pressures of daily life, the stress of normality. It's pure bliss to be somewhere else and be truly free.

If me wanting to feel this way for more than a fortnight a year in Europe then forgive me. They say admitting something is the first step; Fine I'm a Travel Addict.

But you know what, I wouldn't change it for the World... Unless you can give me the World that is ;)

Idyllic Lake Garda

We were fortunate enough to visit the beautiful Lake Garda twice last week. First trip, we spent cycling around and exploring the area and the second trip was for swimming.

I loved exploring Lake Garda on the bike. We cycled through the cobbled streets (much to the annoyance of pedestrians), we cycled along the length of the water ways and then through the hilly parts of town.

I often found myself looking around more at the surroundings than concentrating on actually cycling - that isn't good for other cyclist!

The colour of the water is simply mesmerising! The blues, greens and clearness of the water is astounding. I have such a tranquil fascination with water - I could sit and watch it for hours. I find it very calming - always have.

We covered about 50 km on the bike which isn't really that far but as the weather was so warm, I wanted to just jump into the water to cool off.

Marco likes to sprint sometimes uphill so he decided to hold back whilst Gianni and I headed off. We decided to pull off the road and hide to heckle him, annoyingly he had his headphones in so it was completely wasted! It was amusing when he stopped ahead and was surprised to see us behind him.

Our second visit to Lake Garda was an opportunity for me to swim. All week I was so excited about swimming but both Gianni and Marco were teasing me saying I couldn't go swimming. The weather wasn't as nice as our first visit, it was overcast but that didn't bother me at all.

Posing time. 

Marco was so annoyed with the fact it wasn't sunny but I honestly didn't mind. It was still warm so it was perfect for swimming!

Strangely the colour of the lake looked so different without the sun shining. It wasn't as vibrant. During the day, the weather improved and the lake regained it's beautiful mesmerising colours.

I swam in a Lake in Antigua but I forgot how different the water feels compared to the sea. It felt so clean. It didn't hurt my eyes and it oddly felt very light. I kelp wondering whether there were any crabs along the bottom of the rocks (I didn't find out the answer!).

Marco is very strict when it comes to eating and swimming. After we ate lunch (a simple sandwich), I was not allowed to swim for three hours! I thought this was incredibly excessive. As a child, we were told not to swim for 30-60 minutes after eating - not three hours!

Marco explained that after you eat, if you expose your body to cold water it can stop the digestion of the food which in turn causes the heart to stop - resulting in death! This is obviously very extreme and doesn't happen every time but he is worried that it'll be ok for 100 times then that one time it happens - it's too late.

I do understand the logic however I tried to research what could happen and there was nothing explaining that could happen. When I looked for articles in Italian however I did find things.

Sadly the day we were there, a man drowned. Marco said it was because he had eaten and been drinking alcohol. It was awful seeing the police searching for his body. I read the articles later and he was a homeless man who had been drinking and shouldn't have swam in the section he did. Either way still very sad.

Waiting the three hours before I could swim was torture. I even changed the clock on my phone to say it was a later time (it didn't work!). The little nap in the sun was nice though.

After the wait, we hired a pedalo and had so much fun. I've never been on one with a slide before so it was great sliding into the lake. We also both dived (dove?) off the boat. Marco was brave (or stupid?) and dive from the top of the slide but I did it just from the side.

I love how much fun we have. People are too boring and serious so often so it's great just being crazy sometimes.

This is the second time I've been to Italy with Marco and both times I have had the most amazing time. I feel totally relaxed and refreshed. We cycle loads and yet I still feel so well rested after our trip.

We're heading back in February for skiing so I'm already looking forward to that trip.

Ciao for now xxx

The city on water - Venice.

We finally made it to Venice! I've been looking forward to visiting Venice since Marco and I started dating. 

We arrived to a very chaotic point where the final car park is. After a long que, we parked up and headed for the water ferry. 

There are no cars at all in Venice. The only way to travel is by water. The transport ranges from public boat (about €7pp) to a water taxi (€60).

On the water taxi. 

Talk about exploiting a captive audience. We got the public boat and was hurded like cattle. It was so busy with people getting on and off the stops.

The water is a beautiful bright green. I wouldn't want to swim in it as you can see it's very polluted but it was still a mesmerising colour. 

On arrival by Grand Canal. 

There are so many beautiful buildings and churches. As soon as we got off the boat, I spotted Harry's Bar. Apparently this is a famous bar that does incredible cocktails overlooking the Grand Canal. 

We took in the sights of beautiful Saint Mark's Basilica. I am so impressed with the glorious colours of the paintings and gold detail. 

We didn't go inside as we didn't have time but I would love to come back and spend more time learning about Venice. 

St. Mark's square is the perfect place to people watch. It's also the perfect place to get robbed. Marco keeps saying rape but meaning robbed. I was petrified when he first said it - bloody langauge barrier. 

Marks square. 

We spent the day strolling the cobbled streets and lots of bridges with Marco, Gianne (Marco's papa), Denis and Selena. It was so special spending the time with them all. 

I kept thinking how much my parents would love it here but there is far too much walking. 

I loved looking at all the gondolas. They are so well made. The lovely bronze statues symbolising different things. 

I was so excited when Denis said we were going on one. It was so relaxing and you see Venice from a different angle (obviously!!). I adored looking up at the buildings and noticing the little things like the shutters on the windows and looking at all the marks from where the water has risen over time. 

There were plenty of fish being fed the disgarded galato cones from children.  

You can see so many people in love in Venice. Plenty of couple strolling hand in hand, stopping for the perfect picture to capture the moment. 

It was the families I enjoyed watching the most. The children were so excited with some of the simplest things. Making beautiful memories for their futures. 

Obviously there is an abundance of bridges here. Some little going between water ways and others much grander. 

Ponte dell'Accademia was one of my favourites. It's one of only four bridges which spans the grand canal. It originates back in 1854 but it was demolished and replaced in 1933.

Stunning bridge. 

It was a really long day simply walking around and taking in the sights. We stopped at an incredible seafood restaurant called Dalla Clara. 

I was so overwhelmed (as I have been a few times this holiday) with how much choice there was. In the end everyone else ordered for us all to eat. 

I discovered I love clams!! I ate so many of them. I also really enjoyed the risotto which had lots of different seafood (called  risotto ai frutti di mare). I also discovered I can't eat the poor little baby octopus. Seeing everyone behead them and eat their little legs was too much. 

Yummy dinner. 

Hopefully next time we will be able to spend a few days in Venice. The hotels look incredible. So quaint and personable. 

It's so difficult to choose a favourite place I've visited. Each city has so many special sights. 

Perhaps I need to go back and view them all again... 

Beautiful Vernoa

Today we were supposed to head back to Lake Garda so I could go swimming. 

All day yesterday, when we were cycling I said how I really wanted to swim in the beautiful turquoise waters. Marco and Gianne kept teasing me about letting me go swimming. 

We had a great day cycling along the lake. It was mainly flat which helped me recovery from the previous day. 

Unfortunately we didn't go back to Lake Garda today, so instead we got the train to Vernoa. 

When we were waiting at Vicenza train station, the stunning Venice Orient Express pulled into the station. 

 

I was curious to see how much a trip would be. For a trip from London - Paris - Vernoa which is two days and one night aboard costs £2,210pp. I think we'll save that trip for when we win the lottery. 

As soon as we arrived in the centre of Vernoa - I loved it!!

The cobbled streets which lead to the Verona Arena which is a Roman amphitheatre in Piazza Bra in Verona was simply stunning. 

 

The Opera is shown in the Arena. I would love to experience the opera there. Perhaps next time we visit, I can. 

We strolled along until we got to a very busy street and huge archway. I wasn't sure what it was and then Marco said it's where Romeo promised Juliet his eternal love (look how that worked out!).

It was actually very beautiful and it's quite sweet to see so many couples taking in the romance of the courtyard. 

Yesterday when we were cycling, I saw a gate with all the padlocks on it. I did exactly what my father would do, I was reading the names and mocking. I made up stories like "this one is having an affair with his assistant" and "that one dresses up in his wife's clothes" and "this couple are divorced". I did my typical "bad humor". 

Marco was being all soppy and wanted to put a padlock with our names and the date we started dating. I did initially say "REALLY?!?" but then I thought it was kind of sweet so we did. 

We then walked to the river and both made a wish on the key then threw it into the river. I do hope a little fishy doesn't swallow the key. 

After all the romance, it was time to wander the cobble streets in search of gelato. The ice cream here is so good - so many flavours. 

I love so much when we just walk around and take the sights in. There's something so calming about Italy. 

Although it's very hot and busy, it just feels so relaxing walking around and trying to not worry about the World. 

Tomorrow we're off to Venice and I can't wait to see how beautiful it is. 

Ciao for now xxx

Cycling in the Alps

Today we headed to The Valsugana Valley which is a quaint and peaceful holiday resort along the upper section of the pristine Brenta river to cycle (clearly copied from Google!)

It took about an hour to drive there but it was well worth it. 

We parked up outside a lovely little church and after carefully getting the bikes off, it was time to go. 

There were so many cyclist out and about. It ranged from the granny with her basket bike to the elites with their very expensive carbon fibre bikes. 

I was finding it difficult to keep up initially but typical me, I wouldn't say anything. 

I always find that the first 10-15 miles are the hardest. I just want to give up but afterwards I begin to love it. 

There were a lot of slight inclined then decents. I like pushing myself but my legs don't like it. 

I found my seat so painful today!! I think my front bottom hates me!! I'm pretty sure if it could talk, it would call me the C word. 

We stopped for some breakfast at a little bar about 10km in. I hadn't eaten so I was starving but by the time the food came, I felt sick.

We stopped at some beautiful places for some photos. I love this one just before a quick incline. 

I can't count how many bugs flew into my face and nearly my mouth. I really need to ensure I breathe through my nose. 

The path was mainly no cars so that made a big difference with speed and the conditions of the road. 

The path followed the beautiful Brenta River along. I love watching water so much. I find it incredibly peaceful. 

The river had people kayaking and white water rafting down it. I think we may go rafting with Marco's friends which will be fun. 

I remember going rafting for the first time in Costa Rica and it was scary but so exhilarating. 

As we were cycling, there was a father with his daughter in one of the pull alongs attached to the back of the bike. He was going down hill and the poor little girl (maybe aged 4-5) was holding on for dear life and her face was a picture. I couldn't help but laugh - bless her. 

We started going up a tough climb and as Marco does, he sped off. He challenged me to a race and although I know I never could beat him, I had to try.  

He let me start a little ahead and we went up this incline which was about 15%. Obviously he won but I really enjoyed pushing myself. 

We stopped at Borgo Valsugana for some lunch. The pastas looked amazing - so fresh. But I opted for something sweet. We shared a chocolate torte and apple strudel. 

Marco's father, Gianne, had a glass of red wine. It was really big! There's no way I could cycle after having wine. 

On the way back there was a man and a women cycling together. I liked her cycle top as it was strapless but it was still a proper cycle top. 

For some reason she decided she had to beat us. She kept speeding up, then we'd get to a point and we would over take. You could see how exhausted she was getting - very silly!

Overall we only did about 65km but it felt so much further. It's the first time I've been on the bike since the prudential ride 100.

Tomorrow we're off to Lake Garda to cycle some more. Hopefully it'll be a bit more flat. 

Here's a picture of us wizzing along. 

And here's a picture of Marco and Gianne fast asleep - bless. 

The Travel Bugs Back

I’ve always joked about having the ‘Travel Bug’ but I seriously do.

I am so spoilt but I miss that I haven’t travelled as much this year. Granted, I’ve travelled a lot more than some people, and of course I’m so grateful, but it’s never enough.

I started the year off celebrating in Abu Dhabi. Then in April I had my great trip to Kuala Lumpur, Bali and Singapore. I really enjoyed that trip. I desperately needed some time to myself and it was perfect! I didn’t feel lonely at all. I spoke to the staff and a few other people enjoying their holidays but that was enough. 

Enjoying KL Tower. 

Sometimes when I’ve travelled alone before, I’ve felt pretty lonely. I think it really depends how I feel in myself (if that makes sense). I’m finally in a very secure, loving relationship and so I felt comfortable being on my own for a bit as I knew I’d be returning to Marco.

Whilst walking to work this morning, a song came on that reminded me so much of Las Vegas. I was literally walking through a chilly London and then I was instantly taken back to the pool club next to my hotel in Las Vegas, laying on a day bed whilst sipping strawberry daiquiris and chatting to the hostess, Samantha, about what it’s like living and working in Las Vegas.

Rather tipsy after six of these. 

It’s amazing how our senses can remind us of a specific moment in time. I have so many things that make me think of my travels. Seeing the stars in a pitch black sky, reminds me of midnight skinny dipping in the sea in Caye Caulker, Belize. The smell of the petrol, reminds me of the huge boats in Halong Bay, Vietnam. The taste of Prosecco, reminds me of fishing in Italy and catching so many trout.

Exploring Halong Bay on the kayaks. 

We caught lots of trout. I said sorry to every one of them. 

I am loving visiting Italy and exploring where Marco grew up. Our first trip was wonderful. I have never felt so relaxed and at peace on holiday before. Although we were always doing something, whether it was visiting Marco’s family or going for a bike ride, I still felt so rested. It was probably the regular two hour naps in the afternoon which helped!

Beautiful Vicenza city after the proposal. 

I am really looking forward to visiting Venice. From the pictures, it looks so stunning. I adore the architecture of the buildings and I can’t wait for my Daddy to visit as I know he’ll love it all too. I would love to go on a gondola ride, I know it’s a little cheesy but it’s a tradition in Venice so I’d like to experience it.

I usually snap away on my iphone but I’ve decided to take my good camera with us as I want to ensure I get some beautiful shots to share with everyone.

There are so many places in Italy I’m looking forward to visiting. Being with a native helps so much too! But although I’m looking forward to exploring Italy, there are still lots of other places I’d like to visit.

I’m desperate to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. I would love to do a sailing tour around Croatia. I’d love to explore Australia. I’m desperate to go back to Africa and see more wonderful wildlife. And I truly hope I get to go snorkelling in beautiful Maldives.

Marco doesn’t quite understand my passion for travel. I can understand where he is coming from as he spends his holidays going back home to visit family. It must be difficult balancing things.

We’re looking to go on a cruise to the Caribbean next year. That should be a lovely experience as I haven’t been on a cruise before (the sailing boat in The Galapagos Islands doesn’t count!). I love the sandy shores of the Caribbean. The snorkelling will be amazing. And even better, I get to experience all of this with amore mio.

Sailing The Galapagos Islands. 

For now I’ll be dreaming of these new adventures. Oh and looking forward to Italy in 5 days’ time!!

Ciao.

Lo amo I'Italia

Wow what a holiday!! I honestly can’t believe how incredible our visit to Italy was. I think it’s always so different visiting a country with someone whom is a ‘local’.

I felt the same when I visited Rio. It makes like so much easier when someone speaks the language and knows where to go (and where not to go!).

We flew into Treviso airport and was greeted by Marco’s father. I was so nervous to meet him but right away I felt at ease with him. I’ve never met such a genuine man with a pure heart (well other than my Marco of course!).

We were kindly lent a very sexy car by Marco’s nonna to use for the week. This made life so much easier to get around.

We went to Jesolo on Thursday night with some of Marco’s friends. It was lovely strolling along in the heat. We went to a cool bar called Capannina Beach for a few cocktails and a bit of dancing.

It was so relaxing spending the day on the beach. The weather was incredible and the sea breeze was lovely.

There were so many incredible places we visited on our trip. Italy truly is a stunning country with incredible architecture. Many buildings were designed by Palladio and it’s no wonder Vicenza is on the World Heritage List.

One of my favourite places we visited was Villa Valmarana Ai Nani(http://www.villavalmarana.com/en/) We were cycling with Marco’s father and we stopped here. Its own by a family member and the villa had been used for a wedding the previous day. Of course this got me rather excited!

I guess whilst on the subject on weddings and marriage, I should share details of our happy moment. Marco drove us to the incredible look out point by Monte Berico (http://www.monteberico.it/) the views over Vicenza at sunset were breath-taking.

The back drop of the stunning church was the most romantic place for Marco to propose to me. It wasn’t too busy so it felt like it was just the two of us sharing our special moment.

Afterwards we went to an incredible restaurant in the mountains for dinner with Marco’s lovely friends. It was the perfect way to celebrate our engagement.

I loved how things looked so different from day to night time. We visited Basilica Palladiana (http://www.visitpalladio.com/en/node/376/basilica-palladiana.html) during the day first. I loved looking up at the magnificent clock tower. Then when we returned at night, it looked even more unbelievable.

Teatro Olimpico (http://www.olimpicovicenza.it/) was so inspiring to see. How the grand illusion of the long street is painted is simply mind blowing. I could love to see a performance there one day (Hint Hint Marco!).

Although it was very hot, I really enjoyed how much cycling we did. I was pretty nervous thinking we would be cycling 100km each day but we went our three times and steadily increased the distance. The longest we did was 72km and I have to admit, I was pretty tired. I’m completely blaming the heat!

Marco found it amusing to take me on these climbs and say it wasn’t too far when it fact it was 2-4 km of climb at 15% + gradient. I am not trained for those sorts of climbs. Let’s just say on the last ‘climb’ there were a few choice words shared with amore mio.

Italy has a completely different atmosphere than London/Essex. Everyone is very family/friends orientated. They genuinely care for each other and you can witness this is simple ever day interaction.

I am so grateful for how welcoming Marco’s friends and family were. This was a big trip for us and it honestly couldn’t have gone better.

I can’t wait for my family to come and visit Vicenza and see how stunning it is. I know my Dad will love looking at all the buildings, Mum will love the cobbled streets (plus the shopping) and Tammey will simply love everything!!

I can’t wait to return in August and visit more of Italy. I know we’re heading to Venice and Lake Garda which I’m so excited for. 

It looks as though Italy will be my second home - And I couldn't be happier!!