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Pals in Croatia & Italy 2024
  • Kerrie Palamountain
  • Kerrie Palamountain

Pals in Croatia & Italy 2024

We invite you to join us on our 2024 Croatia & Italy adventure! We begin our journey on 26th April with a big focus on seeing these beautiful countries by bike. Watch this space after 26th April! Read more
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  • Trip start
    April 26, 2024
    Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
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    Encounter Bay to Doha

    April 27, 2024 in Qatar ⋅ ☀️ 30 °C

    As we post our first footprint, it is 1 pm on Saturday in South Australia. We are in transit at the massive Doha airport waiting for our next flight to Zagreb. It is now 6.30 am here.
    Back to the beginning - we travelled from Encounter Bay to Adelaide with Sue & Duncan Tullett. Arrived early, so celebrated the beginning of our European Adventure with a nice McClaren Vale red at the airport hotel!
    The long haul flight to Doha was challenging - 1 hour of sleep for Kerrie and maybe 3 for Roger. However, we are feeling good!
    Next we fly to Zagreb, transit another 4 hours before a short flight to Dubrovnik. Tomorrow we hit the tourist trail with guided walks of the old town and the city walls.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    Dubrovnik coastline. We will be cycling these islands soon!
    3Dubrovnik harbour by nightSue with luggage in tow entering the Old Town where we are staying2At one stage we did a circle trying to find our apartments!11We look pretty chirpy at this stage, however, it didn't last! We all crashed soon after our pizza!

    Doha to Dubrovnik

    April 27, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ☀️ 19 °C

    After a 6 hour flight from Doha to Zagreb, where we transited for 4 hours, we then flew Croatia Airlines to Dubrovnik. Fortunately we got a shuttle bus immediately for the 30 min ride into Dubrovnik as the sun set. Dubrovnik is jaw-droppingly beautiful!
    We dragged our tired bodies and luggage around the Old Town trying to find the Dubrovnik Old Town Apartments. After many steps we found our home for the next 6 nights. Fortunately a lovely young man offered to help lift our bags up the steps - he needs to be knighted!
    A shower and then down a few steps to an alfresco restaurant for some pizza and local wine, then off to bed! We are here and cannot wait to see this stunning place.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    The Dubrovnik half marathon
    222Croatians invested heavily in fortress protection of their city.1Some ruins from a massive earthquake in the 1600's. 70% of the city destroyed.11DVinos Wine Bar3Some Mexican ladies enchanted by Duncan. Duncan quite ecstatic too!4

    Delightful Dubrovnik!

    April 28, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ☀️ 16 °C

    We could not have wished for a better nor more successful first day of our Croatian holiday. The weather was perfect and our 2 X guided tours were superb!
    We started the day with breakfast at a cafe only a few steps down from our accommodation. The Dubrovnik half marathon added to the excitement and festive feel today. Hoards of people running right through the Old Town in blue T Shirts.
    We then enjoyed a guided tour of the Old Town led by a young man named Banko who had lived through the Croatian war. His tales of survival moved us all to silent tears.
    A refreshing gelato was followed by a tour of the Old Town Walls, led by a young woman, Antonio. Another amazing tour.
    After a shower and rest we hit the alleyways for a wine and cheese platter at D'Vinos Wine Bar before heading up another lot of steep steps to Lady Pi Pi restaurant. No bookings allowed, so we lined up and waited for a table. We all enjoyed a seafood platter in a lovely outdoor setting. Worth waiting for!
    It doesn't get any better than this!    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    View from the top of the mountain behind Dubrovnik.
    24A relaxing time on the coastline cruise.Dubrovnik's Old Town Wall1This area was a scene for the Game of Thrones movie14Another delightful setting for our dinner!While eating our gelato this beautiful ship docked following a dinner cruise

    Dubrovnik Day 2

    April 29, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ 🌙 18 °C

    Sue & Duncan sorted phone and electrical issues after breakfast. We visited the Franciscan Monastery Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Both fascinating. We met up with Sue & Duncan, had coffee and cake before walking to the Cable Car. Very expensive for a short ride up a mountain, however, the views of Dubrovnik were beautiful.
    We then visited the Fort Imperial - the Empire's Fort where the Homeland War 1991 - 95 was comprehensively documented. Dubrovnik, after 33 years, still carries the physical & emotional scars of that horrific war.
    It was such a beautiful day, Sue thought a cruise along the coastline would be nice - she was quite right! We saw Dubrovnik from the sea and enjoyed relaxing for 45 mins without any steps to climb!
    After freshening up we had dinner at one of the alfresco restaurants before indulging again in gelato from our favourite gelato shop!
    An early night before a very early start tomorrow when we visit Montenegro.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    The beautiful coastline of Montenegro.
    3Taken from Our Lady of the Rocks church.A view of the second small Monastery Island off Parest.The Monastery / graveyard islandThese massive cruise liners detract from the beauty of Montenegro.3When it all gets too much, have a beer!32Nightlife seems to begin around 9 pm in Dubrovnik!4Alfresco dining continues until restaurants close at 11.30 pm.

    Montenegro

    April 30, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    Our 3rd day in Croatia and today we went by bus to the beautiful Montenegro. Delightful weather again - how fortunate we are so far with glorious blue skies!
    We had a fabulous guide & bus driver and boy oh boy did we need them! The traffic was chaotic to say the least and the bus passed oncoming traffic at break neck speeds with centimetres separating opposing vehicles!
    First stop was at Parest where we got a boat transfer to Our Lady of the Rocks island where there is a quaint church filled with priceless treasures. Onto Kotor for a 3 hour stop over. There were a number of cruise liners in and around Kotor so there were people everywhere. We ended up choosing to sit for an hour and enjoy a beer, watching the passing parades of people being led by guides. The only time we touch beer is in Europe! Not sure why, but we love it here!
    It was interesting waiting at border check points at both Croatia & Montenegro. Sometimes traffic line up for many kilometres waiting to pass through, however, today we probably waited only an hour!
    Home to our apartment for showers and a rest. Sue & Duncan went their own way at this stage because they have a very early start again in the morning.
    We went to a restaurant called Trivadoor Brassiere to have dinner and listen to a 2 piece jazz group consisting of piano and double bass (plus vocals). The night was perfect, the food good and the entertainment fabulous. A night we will remember. Sleep in for us tomorrow while Sue & Duncan travel to Bosnia & Mostar for the day.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    1Like stepping back in time
    6Part way to the top of Fort Lovrijenac with the Old Town in the background2Our reward for climbing up to the Fort!22The newer part of Dubrovnik.1Ceremonial dresses hand made centuries ago.2The alleyways are all so interesting.1This is our most frequented alfresco restaurant - Castello. We walk up 64 steps to our apartment!These are some of the 64 steps to our apartment, which is on the right half way upRoger entering our apartment.5Raining in the Old Town - a challenge for alfresco restaurants!

    Dubrovnik - Old Town & New

    May 1, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C

    While Sue & Duncan did another tour, we explored more of the Old Town and went by bus to the new area of Dubrovnik.
    Firstly we visited Fort Lovrijenac and were able to see the Old Town from a different perspective. Of course this meant climbing many stairs, but the effort was worth the glorious views.
    To escape the hoards from cruise boats, we got a bus to the newer area of Dubrovnik and walked along the coast before returning to the Old Town.
    We bought a Dubrovnik 7 day Pass which enables us to visit a number of museums, etc. We went to the House of Marin Drzic (Croatia's equivalent to England's Shakespeare) and then to the Ethnographic Museum which is housed in Dubrovnik's old Granary. A comprehensive display of Croatian costumes and life over many centuries.
    Back to our local alfresco restaurant 'Castello's' down a few steps from our apartment for pizza and a glass of wine before heading back 'home' for a rest!
    Sue & Duncan arrived back at 5 pm. They had a wonderful day touring in a small coach. Their photos are stunning. We joined them for a drink and then had dinner at another, quieter, alfresco restaurant. Thunder then rain! However, that didn't stop us getting our gelato prior to returning to our apartments!    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    Just cannot help capturing these glorious scenes
    1Dubrovnik's Old Town2With our driver and guide Meoh.5Our private tour of the Old Town & New Town of Dubrovnik in a gorgeous electric vehicleA 2 km bridge linking Dubrovnik to Split1The new part of Dubrovnik.On our way back to our apartment - our last night in Dubrovnik.10A cathedral in the Old Town.

    Last day in Dubrovnik

    May 2, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C

    A slower start to our last day in Dubrovnik. After breakfast, Duncan & Roger visited the Maritime Museum while Sue & I browsed the shops. Sue bought a lovely Adriatic sea coral necklace & earrings. We met up with the boys and enjoyed some pastries from the bakery for lunch.
    We decided to do a bus tour of Dubrovnik and hired a quirky electric vehicle & driver (Meoh) for 1.5 hours (100 euros). We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and hearing more about life in Croatia from Meoh.
    We celebrated our lovely week in Croatia with a shared pizza and wine at an alfresco bar near the sea.
    Dinner was at the local restaurant 'Castello's'. Duncan enjoyed black risotto and the rest of us had lasagne & salad. Of course we finished our meal with gelato!
    Tomorrow we leave Dubrovnik and board the Harmonia - a boat that will be our home for the next week as we ride a number of islands between here and Split.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    3Packed and ready to leave the Old Town.
    8Here's Sue & Duncan negotiating the 64 steps with luggage!1Sue with 2 handsome waiters from Castello's restaurant.On the public bus en route to Gruz Harbour.Sue & Duncan checking in their luggage onboard the Harmonia.1Dubrovnik's marina14Enjoying the marina!The boat Harmonia - home for the next week.Our first meal on the Harmonia - 28 riders.4Main course, delicious!4Dessert - also delicious!

    Old Town Dubrovnik to boat Harmonia

    May 3, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ☁️ 15 °C

    Today we begin the second stage of our Croatian holiday. Firstly we packed our cases again (with difficulty) then had our last breakfast in the Old Town. We were concerned about getting our cases down the 64 steps, however, we found it much easier than dragging them up the stairs! Caught a bus to the Ferry Port and took our luggage on board.
    Embarkation is scheduled for 2.30 pm so we walked around the inlet and found a nice bar/restaurant on the marina where we enjoyed .. yes, correct, some wine and cheese, together with possibly the best bread we've ever eaten. Yum!
    Back to Harmonia to unpack our luggage in our cabin before a 3 pm briefing and nibbles. The crew offered a 3 hour tour of the Old Town, which we declined. Instead we found another bar/restaurant where we sat and chatted before returning to the Harmonia in time for a 7.30 dinner and briefing for tomorrow's ride. The 3 course meal was delicious! Starting to meet the other people on board. Lots of Americans. Everyone we've met are interesting and lovely folk around our age, some much younger!    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    2Morning briefing for our first day of biking in Croatia. Eddy is one of our 2 guides - excellent!
    1Village of Sipanska Luca.4Sipanska Luca baySipanska LucaVillage of Sudurad2Sailing from island of Sipan to island of MljetIsland of Mljet1Roman ruins at Polace2Old monastery on island in National Park of Mljet

    Dubrovnik - Sipan - Mljet

    May 4, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ⛅ 15 °C

    At 0700 the Harmonia sailed for the island of Sipan. We had breakfast before Eddy, one of our two guides, briefed us about the activities for the day. Eddy is an excellent, very personable guide. On arrival at Sudurad bikes were disembarked and we all went on a short ride to the village Sipanski Luca just to become acquainted with our bikes.
    Back on deck we sailed for the island of Mljet.
    2 courses were served for lunch and then we had a siesta time before disembarking at Mljet. We visited some Roman ruins at Polace before riding in the Mljet National Park along the edge of the lake system that finally ended in the ocean. A very picturesque ride.
    Another delicious 3 course dinner before showers and bed! Our first day couldn't have been better, however, we hear that tomorrow is much more challenging!    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    Our 2 guides, Eddy & Marco. Eddy is very skilled
    About to enter the port of Trstenik.A view of Trstenik from the Harmonia6At the summit of the climb, about to fly downhill!Leaving Orebic and heading for Korcula.The Old Town of KorculaThe Old Town of Korcula.1On Korcula at the Pizzeria.3A gorgeous alfresco restaurant in Korcula.1About to moor at beautiful Korcula.

    Mljet - Trstenik - Orebic - Korcula

    May 5, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ☀️ 17 °C

    We woke to calm seas and blue skies and eager to start riding. The Harmonia departed Mljet at 0800 and set sail for a peninsula barely attached to the mainland. We started riding at Trstenik and spent the next 3 or so hours riding 25 km. An exciting ride where we rode up a mountain and then had a long, fast (up to 58 km/hr) descent to Orebic.
    We then boarded the Harmonia and sailed across to the island of Korcula, navigating for 1 hour. Lunch on board and then we walked around the bay for an invigorating swim in the Adriatic sea which is crystal clear
    Korcula is often referred to as a mini Dubrovnik. We were given a guided tour of the fortified old town. Once again we were blown away with the beauty of the Old Town.
    We found a lovely pizzeria on the water's edge and enjoyed pizza and greek salads and red wine. Of course we couldn't pass by the gelato bar without indulging!
    Tomorrow is the toughest & longest day of the tour. Hope we can make it!!    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    The sea is perfectly clear.The Old Town of Korcula.Beautiful coastlineSmokvica - our lunch stopSmokvica5Priscapac Beach where we watched a few of the group swimRubbish washed up on the beachThe Harmonia is the 3rd boat across.3Riding through beautiful vineyards

    Korcula to Vela Luca

    May 6, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ⛅ 15 °C

    Today was the most challenging ride of the trip according to the Guides. We set off on the island of Korcula around 0900 in perfect conditions. It was uphill for about 10 km, with a stop to take some final photos of the beautiful Old Town of Korcula.
    Most of the group had lunch at a winery at Smokvica, however the Tulletts and ourselves packed our own lunch and saved 60 euros per couple. So far this holiday has been far more expensive than we anticipated, but we do not regret one dollar!
    After lunch we rode to Priscapac Beach where a few of the group went swimming. Because we still had 20 Km to ride, we decided not to swim there. The distressing aspect of this glorious coastline was the huge amount of waste washed up on the beach. We had one more stop at Blato and one more climb before a big descent into Vela Luca, once again reaching 57 km/hr on occasions. Huge fun. Today we rode 60 km.
    The group is becoming much more cohesive as the tour progresses which creates a lovely, very happy environment.
    Tomorrow the forecast is for 25 knot winds and we have 3 hours of navigating to the next island of Vis.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    Arriving in HvarApproaching HvarThe Old Town of HvarThe harbour of Stari Grad, where we are moored tonightVelo Grablje - a village we passed on our morning ride12At the summit of our morning ride we stopped for a break at Vidikovac.Stari GradWe visited Gelsa on our afternoon ride.En route back to the boat - beauty around every bend!

    Korcula to Hvar

    May 7, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    The plan was to visit the island of Vis today (apparently very beautiful), however the sea was too rough so the Captain set sail for the island of Hvar instead.
    Another beautiful place which was originally settled by the Venicians. We rode to Stari Grad, from one side of the island to the other. The Harmonia followed. We enjoyed a pizza lunch before returning to the boat and preparing for our afternoon ride. We basically did a circle tour of the island through a number of gorgeous small villages. We returned to the boat around 5.30 pm having clocked up 50 KMS in total. Fabulous riding with a couple of big ascents followed by fast descents.
    Another wonderful day, once again with perfect riding weather.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    The village of Milna3Who knows where - a stop along the way!At the Olive Museum1Antonio cycling into Postira1In the village of Dol. Antonio, Carla, Sue, Duncan, Roger, KerrieOverlooking DolOur of nowhere a newly married couple appeared in Dol!The Hrapocusa torte3A steep descent into Postira at the end of today's ride.

    Hvar to the island of Brac

    May 8, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ☁️ 20 °C

    We set sail at 0700 and landed on the island of Brac around 0845. We began our first and only ride for the day at 0915 from the port of Milna and ending at the port of Postira.
    However, along the way we all stopped at a family olive grove where they have processed olive oil for 3 generations. It is still producing olive oil, however, they have a museum and serve delicious bread, olive oil and jams.
    Back to the boat for lunch and then Carla, Antonio (a couple of doctors from Brazil), Sue, Duncan and us took ourselves off for a ride to a village called 'Dol'. It was a short uphill ride. We explored the old village and then went to an Inn that served a famous torte called Hrapocusa. This cake originates from the village of Dol. It was delicious - like nothing we have ever eaten.
    Back to the boat and then off for a swim at a beach near where the boat was moored.
    Dinner was a 4 course 'Captains Meal'.
    The Captain was the guest of honour. A presentation was made to one of our guides, Marko who is getting married this weekend and expecting a baby in 8 weeks.
    Another magnificent day in beautiful surroundings with great company. Doesn't get any better than this.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    11We bought Island Hopping Bike Jerseys.Entering SplitA beach bar in Split - very lively!The Old Town of SplitSplitThe Old Town is housed within the Dioclesian PalaceRoman soldiers!Split Bell TowerOld Town2Sailing into Split

    Split - out last day

    May 9, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ 🌙 20 °C

    We sailed from the island of Brac to the second largest city in Croatia, Split, where we finish our bike boat trip.
    Rough seas again this morning. We did a short final ride around Split and up to a lookout. One final fast downhill which we enjoyed.
    Lunch was delicious and there were farewells from the crew and Guides. Have to say it was quite an emotional time saying goodbye. Started packing our cabin, showered, then we had an excellent guided tour of the Split Old Town. We had dinner at a restaurant with Carla and Antonio, before returning to finish packing.
    2 weeks of our 8 week holiday are now finished. We could not have wished for a better 2 weeks. It has been fabulous. 3 nights in Split coming up.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    3The Wedding Celebration - out of this world!
    4Our last breakfast on the Harmonia2The younger set from the USA - fun, fun, fun!2Our cabin on the Harmonia. It was much messier than this during our stay!This restaurant is down stairs from our apartment.Beautiful Split2These mosaic tiles from Roman times were only uncovered 2 years ago.The Old Town which is housed within the Dioclesian Palace in Split3The Bell Tower in the Old Town square. Every night there is live music in the squareSplit at nightThe Dioclesian Palace at night

    Disembark Harmonia - Split

    May 10, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ☀️ 18 °C

    It never ceases to amaze us how quickly you can become attached to people in such a short time, but we did this week on the Harmonia. The 28 cyclists all got on so well that the farewell this morning was quite emotional.
    We disembarked the Harmonia after breakfast and made our way to the Old Town of Split and to our accommodation. Roger bought a new pair of shoes and we went to 3 x pharmacies to get antihistamine in nasal spray - most people smoke in Croatia and our noses are suffering with the cigarette smoke. No luck getting the spray unfortunately.
    We met up with Sue & Duncan and a NZ couple from the Harmonia, Janet & Will and enjoyed a relaxed lunch at a bar/restaurant on the waterfront. We then had a siesta for an hour before meeting up with the 2 couples for dinner. En route, through the centre of the Old Town, we came across a wedding celebration. The music and joy of the occasion was infectious!
    We had dinner at a traditional Croatian restaurant called Fife. The meals were delicious. Maggie & Sean from the Harmonia joined us.
    We celebrated our amazing 2 weeks with Sue & Duncan with gelato and hugs. It has been wonderful. They fly to Rome tomorrow to spend 3 weeks in Italy with their life long friends, Shirl & Greg. Tomorrow we meet up with Rosemary & Neville from Dubai and will spend the next 2 days with them.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    Taken from the Bell Tower in the Old Town.
    SplitSplit taken from the Bell Tower in the Old TownJust another interesting walkway in the Old TownKeep wandering in the Old Town and you discover more and more alleyways2We found this lovely cafe in the Old Town4Rosemary taught how to discern true gelato from the many shops that sell it7Dining at Dvor - divine!The Palace Walls & Bell Tower3Lunch at a pizzeria in the Old TownSplit Cathedral

    Saturday in Split

    May 11, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ⛅ 21 °C

    Today heralds the beginning of a new chapter in our European adventure! We took our washing to a laundry and for 10 euros got a basket of washing done, dried and folded beautifully!
    We then climbed the Bell Tower, visited the Treasury and the Cathedral, all in the Old Town which is encapsulated within the Palace of the Emporer Dioclesian.
    We then met our friends, Rosemary & Neville, who flew in from Dubai late last night. We had a long lunch with them at a little Pizzeria very near our Apartment in the Old Town.
    Neville had researched where to eat tonight and chose a fabulous restaurant overlooking the sea - a 2 star Michelin restaurant. The food and wine was as expected - superb.
    Tomorrow we are doing a private tour (10 hours) of Plitvice NP with Rosemary & Neville.
    The weather continues to be perfect 24-25. Very blessed    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    With Rosemary & Neville at Plitvice NP.
    Plitvice NP1Plitvice NP - lower levelPlitvice NP - lower levelCrystal clear water at Plitvice NPUpper level - Plitvice NPUpper level - Plitvice NPUpper level - Plitvice NPUpper level - Plitvice NP5Roger & Neville had to have one of these vanilla slices. The biggest we've ever seen!Upper level - Plitvice NP

    Plitvice NP

    May 12, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ☀️ 19 °C

    We met Rosemary & Neville and our guide for the day at 0800. Mario is a 31 year old history graduate, born in Bosnia but now living in Split. A marvellous guide! Only 4 of us in an 8 seater van.
    2.5 hours later we began our 10 km hike to both the lower and upper levels of the National Park. We were transported along the way in a road train and a boat. The park is huge and very beautiful. Crystal clear water.
    On the way home we bought some drinks and the biggest vanilla slice we have seen. Roger & Neville had no trouble devouring them!
    Arrived back in Split at 7.30 pm. Showered and then had dinner at a restaurant very near the stairs to our apartment. Just about to leave the restaurant when John & Christina from the Harmonia walked by! We were so pleased to see each other! We also saw Janet & Will this morning (also from the Harmonia). They were en route to the shuttle bus
    We leave lovely Split tomorrow and fly to Rome.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    3
    Rosemary waving from their promenade apartment.Split airport1House & Colosseum Apartment - before we emptied our cases!Kitchenette in our apartment

    Split to Rome

    May 13, 2024 in Croatia ⋅ ☁️ 20 °C

    It seems to be getting harder and harder to pack our cases each time we have to move to other accommodation! We are not buying any souvenirs either! Time to cull our luggage (packed too much) and post some things back home!
    So with bulging bags, we left our Old Town accommodation (Palace In Rooms) and went to meet Rosemary & Neville on the Promenade for brunch. Enjoyed a scrumptious meal before saying farewell to these 2 delightful people.
    We got an early shuttle bus to the Split Airport and waited 3 hours for our flight to Rome. All good - we caught up with emails, etc.
    Split has been wonderful. Live music everywhere. The video of the 4 singers was filmed in an area of the Old Town we stumbled upon! They sing for tips only.
    A quick flight to Rome. We decided to get the train into Roma Termini - 30 euros for both of us. We then walked about 1.5 km to our accommodation. Thankfully it was downhill!
    Our apartment is nice. Has a kitchenette. Up stairs of course! We showered and then went a few doors down to a restaurant where we had ... Pizza and Hummus and red wine.
    We met a delightful couple from Istanbul who follow tennis tournaments. They assisted us with the menu which was only in Italian! We asked the waiter if they had an English menu and he said NO & walked away! Anyway, a lovely meal with this young Turkish couple. We ended up hugging goodbye!    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    Monument to Vittorio Emanuele 11
    The Dome - St Peters BasilicaThe Vatican Palace6No description needed!35The Pieta -sculpture of Mary holding Jesus by Michelangelo (done when he was 23 years old!)7A much needed Aperol Spritz after 3 hrs in Vatican City!Everywhere in Rome there are ancient ruins being excavatedRuins very near to our accommodation in RomaInside the Basilica Church

    Vatican City & Roma

    May 14, 2024 in Vatican City ⋅ ☀️ 17 °C

    Come to Rome and there are must-see attractions. Vatican City was our first guided tour, lasting 3 hours. Included was the Vatican Palace, Sistine Chapel & the Basilica Church.
    Our tour included a breakfast - no doubt the most expensive breakfast we will ever eat!
    Opulence, indescribable beauty & art, thousands of people and being herded through by Vatican staff sums up our experience.
    We then did a round of Rome on the Hop on Hop Off bus - a great way to see the city.
    Back to the apartment via a little market in our street to buy food for dinner.
    We then walked about 1.5 km to the nearest post office to send home clothes we no longer need and Kerrie's CPAP which is just too cumbersome to travel with.
    Home to cook veal schnitzels and salad - a nice change from pizza!!    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    Colosseum - built in first century AD over 8 years
    3The Roman Forum & view of Roma3The Colosseum underground where gladiators, animals & those awaiting execution waited their turn!1Close up of Colosseum underground9Just to prove we were there!!Excavated ruins metres below today's soil levelsThe PantheonWhile we ate our gelato, we prople watched3A beautiful Cathedral near the Pantheon - much more spectacular inside.Motor bikes and scooters are crazy here. Ridden by all ages tooThey look so right on the streets of Roma!

    Colosseum, Roman Forum & Pantheon.

    May 15, 2024 in Italy ⋅ ☀️ 20 °C

    Rome is certainly growing on us. Although it doesn't have the charm of Croatia, it makes up with history oozing everywhere!
    So this morning we walked 400 metres from our accommodation to the Colosseum. Had some breakfast at a cafe close by and then met the other 4 participants of our small group guided tour led by a lovely Italian lady called Raffaella.
    We had a really good look at the Colosseum and Roman Forum over 3 hours. Not as crowded as the Vatican yesterday, but still no shortage of people!
    Lunch was an Aperol Spritz and some bread, cheese and tomato. We bought some chicken schnitzel from our local little market for dinner tonight - attempting to save some euros whenever we can without compromising our holiday.
    After a short rest we walked 1.5 km to the Pantheon (a very large Cathedral). It was impressive, however, nowhere near as spectacular as the Cathedral we visited for free near the Pantheon. There are 900 churches in Roma!
    We got a gelato en route to our apartment and sat on a seat outside and just watched the passing parade of people, limousines, motor bikes and scooters, all beeping their horns in the narrow street. Could have sat there for hours - it was fascinating!
    Home early for a shower, rest, happy hour and quiet night before our last day in Roma tomorrow.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    2Fountain in Piazza Barberini
    Roman walls2Smart cars everywhere in Roma!2Traffic fascinates us in Roma!Parking in Roma is a challenge!4An Aperol Spritz refreshing after the tours!1Trevi Fountain1Plenty of Cannabis shops in Europe!2Daniela and her little shop we frequent.3Al42 Pasta restaurant with owner Masimo3Trevi Fountain - a few people were there to admire it!!

    Capuchin Crypt, Catacombs & Trevi Fount.

    May 15, 2024 in Italy ⋅ ⛅ 27 °C

    Our last day & night in Roma was fabulous.
    Having said that, we got ripped off by a taxi driver. We needed to go 2 km and he charged 15 euro cash!
    Our guided tour was firstly of the Capuchin Crypt where there are bones of 3,700 bodies of Capuchin Priors from 1500's to 1870. Quite eerie.
    We were then bussed to the biggest of the 60 catacombs (tombs underneath Rome) where half a million bodies were entombed before Christianity became the religion of Rome. Walking through these narrow, dark and deep tombs was also quite confronting, however, we felt like we were transported back a few hundred years which was an incredible experience.
    We then found our way to the Trevi Fountain, together with a few hundred other people. Still, it is impressive.
    To finish our time in Roma, we ate at a hugely popular pasta restaurant down the road from our apartment. It opens at 7 pm and we had to wait in line for 40 mins to gain entry. Masimo, the owner since 2016 was the closest Italian to Basil in Fawlty Towers that we have come across. His restaurant is so popular, people are happy to wait for ages to get a table He waves his arms, yells and directs customers, but he is so much fun to watch!
    Tomorrow, Naples for 3 nights.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    2Finally aboard fast train to Napoli! Now for breakfast.
    6One of Napoli's streetsDefinitely our most salubrious accommodation this trip!Our lounge area - obviously we haven't seen much of Napoli yet!1Our bathroomMay as well see the bedroom too!This shrine is across the narrow street from our apartment.A view of our area

    Roma to Napoli

    May 17, 2024 in Italy ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C

    We arrived at Roma Termini in good time for our train trip to Napoli, scheduled to depart at 1020. The departure board at 1010 didn't give any indication of the platform we needed to go to! This is with hundreds of people all wanting help but having no one to ask! We finally got onboard and settled in for a very fast train trip (300 km/hr) to Napoli.
    A taxi from Napoli Centrale to our very luxurious accommodation in a very shabby part of Naples!
    We were early so left our bags and went for a coffee at a very, very delicious looking patisserie not far from here. We will return!
    We found a supermarket and decided to buy food for tonight rather than go out. We've been warned twice since we arrived that we need to be very careful in Napoli. Pick pockets rife apparently. This area doesn't give us good vibes to be honest.
    Today has been our most unproductive day since we began this journey 3 weeks ago. My (Kerrie's) knee is painful so a rest afternoon has been good. No stairs here, thankfully!
    Tomorrow we get back in the tourist saddle and train to Ercolano where we are doing an archaeological guided tour of the ruin of Herculaneum.    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    1Herculaneum - built 600 - 700 years BC
    4Artwork beautifully preserved by the mud from Mount VesuviusBuildings preserved since 79 AD when Mt Vesuvius eruptedRoman mosaicsAmazing Roman mosaicsThe mosaic floor tiles are incredibly detailedHerculaneum was buried under metres of mud. New buildings on topCity maybe 600 - 700 years old. Uncovered 17554On the train to Ercolano we were serenaded by bongos and a violin

    Napoli - Ercolana (Herculaneum)

    May 18, 2024 in Italy ⋅ ☁️ 23 °C

    Back one the tourist trail today with the knee in a brace and antiinflammatories onboard!
    We've done it again - fallen in love! This time with Napoli! We came here a little anxious of being pick pocketed, etc, however, within 24 hours, we just love the place and the people.
    How would we describe Napoli? Many ghetto type high rise buildings - needing repair, washing hanging from most windows, chaotic traffic, many single room small flats where people live, ladies sitting behind small windows facing alleyways, huge numbers of small businesses crammed packed, rubbish and cigarette butts everywhere, people happy & friendly and they seem to be enjoying a subsistence form of life. Roger says there is one rule in Napoli - 'there are no rules!'
    We got a train to Ercolano and on board the packed train there was live music with bongos and a violin with backing. It was fabulous!
    However, the train didn't stop at Ercolano as scheduled and we ended up getting off about 15 mins down the track! We were booked for an archeological guided tour at 1030 too. What to do? Just jump on another train heading back the way we wanted to go and hope for the best!
    We got to the Herculaneum with a few minutes to spare. The guided tour was good, however, the strong accent of the guide made it quite difficult (again). Still, the town of Herculaneum, buried in 79AD by mud from Mount Vesuvius has been excavated intact. We loved it all even though it rained and we got cold and wet.
    Back to Napoli by train ... To be continued!!    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    5We were cold and damp - coffee & pastries needed!
    5Capriccio - Pasticceria & Ciaccolateria 19171Roger's Heaven!2A typical Napolise street1The pizzeria filmed in Eat, Pray, Love4We ate at a pizzeria across the road - delicious!1Dessert, of course! Keto here I come as soon as I land!NepoliRubbish collection is an issue in Nepoli1No road rules here - cars park wherever they like!3The Herculaneum

    Napoli ... Continued!

    May 18, 2024 in Italy ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C

    We found our way to our favourite Patisserie near our apartment and enjoyed the best latte we've had since leaving home and the most delicious fruit pastries.
    Home for a siesta and shower and then off to have pizza at the famous pizzeria, featured in Eat, Pray, Love. We lined up for maybe 40 mins only to find we were in the wrong line to dine in! Off we went across the road to a pizzeria restaurant and enjoyed a delicious meal there.
    We feel quite safe here now in Napoli and the people are just beautiful, simple-living, subsistence workers. Tomorrow we do a 3 hr guided walk and then possibly the Hop on Hop off bus. We would like to stay here longer and soak up more of this culture, but Amalfi is calling the day after tomorrow!    Read more

  • Kerrie PalamountainPals in Croatia & Italy 2024Traveler
    Maschio Angiono
    Napoli harbour2Napoli from the Hop on Hop off bus line Blue21Castel Dell'Ovo2In the middle of traffic chaos a wedding party stops for photos!Guglia dell'Immacolata monument1People just seem happy to risk their lives to perform!

    Napoli

    May 19, 2024 in Italy ⋅ ☁️ 23 °C

    Today we had booked a 3 hour walking tour of Napoli, however, no English guide turned up! We hope to retrieve our 78 euro!!
    We then got a Hop on Hop Off bus ticket for the red and blue lines. The tours were excellent and gave us an opportunity to see more of Napoli. Once again, we just laughed at the traffic! There are, apparently, very few road accidents - it amazes us! Cars and scooter / motor bikes weave in and out of traffic, travel on the wrong side of the road at times and just seem to make it all work!
    We are so glad we made the decision not to drive in Europe!
    Back to our apartment early for another siesta and to rest the knee. We are in again, but couldn't resist one more visit to our favourite patisserie for a small wee daintee and drink!We leave here tomorrow for Amalfi via the ferry.
    We are getting close to our friends, Sue & Duncan and Shirl & Greg, however, we sort of pass like ships in the night sadly.    Read more

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