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Europe 2024
  • R and R Travels
  • Robin Braithwaite
  • R and R Travels
  • Robin Braithwaite

Europe 2024

Malta, Crete, Athens and the Ionian Islands via Tokyo and London Leggi altro
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  • Europe 2024
    The "goat track" from Agios Nikitas village to Milos Beach
    From the goat track back to the villageFrom the goat track back to the villageLooking South onto Milos BeachOne of the goats on the trackThe "goat track" from Agios Nikitas village to Milos BeachCloser to the beachHalfway downNo sooner did we arrive than clouds followed.Crystal clear waterCrystal clear waterCrystal clear waterCrystal clear waterBusy being retiredAlso busy being retiredA few others had made the trek and a good few by boat from Agios NikitasThe Northern end of the beachIn her element, still busy being retired.

    Agios Nikitas - Milos Beach

    23 settembre 2024, Grecia ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    The hike from Agios Nikitas to Milos Beach is a short but moderately challenging trek over a hill that separates the two beaches. The trail begins at the southern end of Agios Nikitas, near the main beach. It's about 1 kilometer long and typically takes 20-30 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level.

    The path starts with a steep ascent up a dirt track, which can be quite demanding, especially in the heat of the day. As you climb, you'll pass through olive groves and Mediterranean scrubland, with the terrain becoming rockier as you gain elevation.

    At the crest of the hill, you're rewarded with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the coastline in both directions. You can see Agios Nikitas village behind you and get your first glimpse of Milos Beach ahead. The descent to Milos Beach is steeper and can be slippery, especially in dry conditions, so proper footwear is recommended.

    Milos Beach itself is a pristine stretch of white pebbles and sand, bordered by clear turquoise waters. The beach is undeveloped, with no facilities, which contributes to its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The effort of the hike often means the beach is less crowded than more accessible spots, offering a sense of seclusion. The return journey follows the same path, with the steep climb back up the hill providing a good workout. It is possible to travel by boat from Agios Nikitas to Milos and retrun, but that’s not much fun.

    This hike offers a perfect combination of exercise, natural beauty, and the reward of a secluded beach, making it a popular activity for visitors to Agios Nikitas.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​    Leggi altro

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  • Europe 2024
    Porto Katsiki Beach
    Porto Katsiki BeachPorto Katsiki BeachPorto Katsiki BeachPorto Katsiki BeachPorto Katsiki BeachPorto Katsiki BeachPorto Katsiki BeachPorto Katsiki BeachTough life on Porto Katsiki BeachEgremni Beach from the high roadEgremni Beach from the high roadEgremni Beach from the high roadTaverna OasisTaverna OasisTaverna OasisTaverna OasisTaverna OasisTaverna Oasis

    Paralia Porto Katsiki

    24 settembre 2024, Grecia ⋅ ☁️ 23 °C

    Porto Katsiki Beach is one of the most renowned and picturesque beaches on the Greek island of Lefkada. Known for its striking beauty, this beach features dramatic white cliffs that contrast beautifully with the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. The beach's name translates to "Port of the Goat," possibly referring to its historic use by local goatherds.

    Accessing Porto Katsiki requires some effort, which adds to its allure. Visitors typically park at the top of the cliff and descend a long staircase (approximately 80-100 steps) to reach the beach below. The journey down offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the vast sea beyond.

    The beach itself is a mixture of white pebbles and sand, creating a dazzling effect when combined with the clear blue water. It's an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and photography. Due to its popularity, Porto Katsiki can get crowded during peak summer months, so arriving early is recommended for those seeking a quieter experience.    Leggi altro

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  • Europe 2024
    Lovely house Rosé
    Amazing salad. Blue cheese, figs, apricots, walnuts, tomato ...Seafood Saganaki. One of the best dishes on the trip.

    Dinner at Maistros

    24 settembre 2024, Grecia ⋅ 🌙 23 °C

    Maistros is a well-known restaurant located in Agios Nikitas on the Greek island of Lefkada. Maistros has gained a reputation as one of the area's top dining establishments.

    The restaurant takes its name from the "Maistros" wind, a northwesterly wind common in the Ionian Sea region. This name reflects the restaurant's connection to its coastal environment and the local maritime culture.

    We had a “Taste of Summer” salad and a Seafood Saganaki that were both amongst the best food we’ve had on the trip so far.    Leggi altro

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  • Europe 2024
    Robin in her most comfortable pose.
    Paralia KathismaParalia KathismaParalia KathismaParalia Kathisma

    Paralia Kathisma

    25 settembre 2024, Grecia ⋅ ☀️ 23 °C

    Paralia (Beach) Kathisma is very much like both Paralia Porto Katsiki and Paralia Mylos (Milos), except that is accessible easily by car.

    As a result it is adorned with beach bars, rows and rows of beach beds and plenty of touts.

    Like the other beaches, the water is crystal clear, lapping onto a pebble and sand beach.

    We spent a lazy morning and finally succumbed to hiring chairs.    Leggi altro

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  • Europe 2024
    Nydri
    Looking out towards Skorpios IslandGreece mainlamdIn the Port of NydriViews of GreeceViews of GreeceViews of GreeceViews of Greece

    A quick trip to Nydri

    27 settembre 2024, Grecia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    Nydri is a coastal town located on the eastern shore of Lefkada. The town faces a bay dotted with small islands, including Skorpios, once owned by shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis.

    The landscape around Nydri features clear waters and a backdrop of green hills. The town's main beach is pebbly, typical of many Greek islands. Nydri's waterfront is lined with restaurants and cafes, catering to both locals and tourists.

    Nydri is accessible by road, about 15 minutes drive from Lefkada town.    Leggi altro

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  • Europe 2024
    Vasiliki Harbour
    Very enjoyable Iced LatteVasiliki HarbourVasiliki HarbourVasiliki HarbourVasiliki HarbourVasiliki HarbourDreaming about a bareboat charter around the Ionian Islands. Nice Bavaria 36.Car rally in progressCar rally in progress. Fiat 128Waterfront dining in VasilikiAbout to demolish a GyrosThe best Gyros in Pita we've hadHard at work

    Vasiliki

    28 settembre 2024, Grecia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    Vasiliki, located on Lefkada's southern coast, is a 40-minute drive from Lefkada town. The village is known for its windsurfing conditions, particularly in the afternoons when thermal winds create ideal conditions for the sport. It is also one of the ferry ports on the island with a direct service to Fiskardo.

    The main beach is a long stretch of pebbles with clear water suitable for swimming. Water sports options include windsurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing.

    Vasiliki's harbor forms the center of the village. The waterfront features tavernas and cafes serving local cuisine. The area maintains a traditional Greek atmosphere, with fishing still playing a role in the local economy.

    The village is surrounded by mountains, providing a scenic backdrop to the bay. Mornings are typically calm, with wind and water sports activity increasing in the afternoon.    Leggi altro

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  • Europe 2024
    Another gorgeous sunset on the Islands. Lefkada this time.
    Pre-dinner drinks at ThymariLovely outdoor dining area for the summer monthsFish SoupScallops with Cauliflower 2 waysSpaghetti with shrimpOne of the many laneways in Old TownOur local bakeryMore of the selectionCouldn't resist this Banoffee dessertOr this Baklava

    Dinner at Thymari

    28 settembre 2024, Grecia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    Thymari is a taverna located in the heart of Lefkada town. Situated on a narrow cobblestone street, it offers an authentic Greek dining experience away from the main tourist thoroughfares.

    The taverna specializes in local Lefkadian cuisine, with a menu that changes daily based on available fresh ingredients. Dishes often feature locally sourced seafood, meats, and vegetables. The restaurant is known for its grilled octopus, traditional Greek salad, and homemade tzatziki.

    Thymari's interior is simple and rustic, with wooden tables and chairs. During warmer months, additional seating spills out onto the street, allowing diners to enjoy their meals al fresco while observing local life.

    The menu features classic mediterranean dishes with a modern twist. Although expensive by Ionian Island standards, it is well worth a visit.    Leggi altro

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  • Europe 2024
    Charilaos Trikoupis Rio - Antirrio BridgeWildfire on the way to AthensThe busy port of RafinaRafina

    Lefkada to Rafina

    30 settembre 2024, Grecia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    Up early and headed out for the 400km drive to Athens airport to drop the car and get a shuttle to our accommodation in Rafina.

    The route on Google Maps had a warning about wild fires along the way. We mulled it over and decided to take the short route.

    We saw the fires from the road and water bombing helicopters working as we went past.

    An uneventful drive.    Leggi altro

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  • Europe 2024
    Robin, Mark and Ross
    Stanhope Hotel near Gloucester Road tubeAmazing 100 day tomatoesCambio De TercioCambio De TercioCambio De Tercio

    Dinner with Mark

    1 ottobre 2024, Inghilterra ⋅ ☁️ 13 °C

    We arrived into London (LHR) around noon and went straight to our Hotel at Hatton Cross. It was raining and a miserable 13 C.

    We had planned to venture to the V&A Museum however we just got a quick lunch and waited till we needed to head out to Gloucester Road tube.

    A quick drink at the Stanhope Arms and a walk to Cambio De Tercio on Old Brompton Road where have had an excellent Spanish meal and wine with Robin's dear friend Mark Thornton.    Leggi altro

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  • Europe 2024
    Freshly cooked noodles at the Cathay Lounge

    Haneda Airport

    3 ottobre 2024, Giappone ⋅ ☁️ 24 °C

    We had a long layover in Tokyo.

    We had planned to exit immigration and head into the Ginza for lunch, look around a bit and return to have a shower at the lounge before our 7:30pm flight.

    Haneda had other thoughts about that. There were over 1000 people in the immigration hall and the que stretched back into the walkway between gates. After a quick assessment of the lines we decided to spend the day airside and went back through security and on to the Sakura Lounge.

    The Sakura lounge is pretty busy as it services about 5 flights out of Haneda in the morning. Food options are not the best so we headed to the Cathay Lounge which we had almost to ourselves. 10am being the only Cathay departure until 4pm.

    Having had an issue securing a shower last year we went back to the Sakura lounge early and booked our spots, had our showers and prepared for the overnight flight to Sydney.    Leggi altro

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  • Europe 2024
    Tubular vortex from the engine nacelle strakes

    JL51

    4 ottobre 2024, Tasman Sea ⋅ ☁️ 13 °C

    An uneventful flight had us touching down right on schedule to a brisk (for us) Friday morning, glad to be home again.

    So ends a fabulous trip through Malta, Crete and Greece.

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    Fine del viaggio
    4 ottobre 2024