Since March to June 2025, I’ve travelled to Italy more than ever before, driven partly by business engagements and familiarisation opportunities. What began as a series of scheduled visits has gradually become an evolving lifestyle. Along the way, I’ve ticked off lesser known cities and captured memorable snapshots, but more importantly, I’ve embarked on a deeper journey of exploration, discovery, and relearning. For me, travel has never just been about movement; it’s a form of education, an ongoing study of geography, culture, and the passage of time.

Our journey began in Birmingham, UK, where we boarded our flight to Kos just after 2pm, eager to start an island adventure in the Greek Aegean. After a smooth flight and the excitement of arriving in a new place, we made our way to Mastichari, a charming seaside village on the western coast of Kos. By the time we settled into our cosy apartment around 9pm, the sun was dipping low, casting a warm glow over the village and the shimmering sea beyond.   Despite the late hour, we decided to stretch our legs and explore Mastichari with a quick evening stroll, we passed the local church, a big supermarket and many more local stores. The village was peaceful yet inviting, with a gentle buzz of locals and tourists enjoying the balmy night air. Our walk led us right to the waterfront, where the scent of the sea mingled with the irresistible aroma of fresh cooking. We found ourselves at Akrogiali, a traditional taverna perfectly positioned right in front of a sandy beach and just steps from the ferry port.   Akrogiali turned out to be the perfect place to unwind after our day of travel. The restaurant's relaxed atmosphere, with waves gently lapping the shore just meters away, created a magical dining experience. I watched in surprise as my four-year-old daughter ate her dinner so politely, using her cutlery just right — fork on the left and knife on the right, like a little grown-up! It was a proud parenting moment, made all the more memorable by this new discovery.  We indulged in some of the most delicious seafood pasta we've ever tasted — perfectly al dente spaghetti tossed with fresh, tender seafood, olive oil, garlic, and herbs that seemed to capture the essence of the Aegean Sea. Alongside that, we enjoyed classic Greek gyros, their tender meat wrapped in warm pita with fresh tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki — a comforting and flavorful end to our day.   Sitting there, watching the lights of fishing boats twinkle in the distance and feeling the cool sea breeze, it was clear that Mastichari was the ideal spot to recharge before our early morning ferry to Kalymnos. Luckily for me as well, my daughter who loves dogs of all sizes, revealed for the first time that she was afraid of cats, which gave me a few laughs as we spotted some curious felines on our way back to our apartment. We needed a few hours of restful sleep before waking up bright and early at 7:30 AM the next morning, just in time to catch the first ferry to Kalymnos for our three-hour day trip.   Our brief stay left us with a delicious taste of Kos’s local charm and the promise of more adventures ahead.   If you find yourself passing through Kos with limited time, don’t miss the chance to savour a bite in Mastichari — a small village that perfectly blends seaside tranquility with authentic Greek hospitality.

We caught the 9am ANEM ferry from Mastichari, Kos — a short but scenic 45-minute ride to Pothia, the bustling port town of Kalymnos. After some ticket drama (thank you, handwritten backups!), we stepped off into a world that felt both timeless and quietly buzzing.

Tucked away in the quiet charm of Chiavari , among cobbled paths and the gentle hum of artisan life, I had the rare pleasure of meeting one of Italy’s true creative treasures: Franco Casoni. Known for his extraordinary work in sculpture and his deep connection to wood and tradition, Casoni welcomed us into his workshop. The space felt more like a living museum than a studio.

Alentejo, with its rolling hills, endless vineyards, and rich food culture, proved to be the perfect destination for a March getaway filled with indulgence and luxury. This stunning region of Portugal offers an impeccable blend of world-class gastronomy and boutique accommodations that cater to every desire, ensuring an unforgettable escape.

My winter trip to Vilnius was an unforgettable journey that felt like stepping into a winter wonderland, complete with snow-dusted streets, frosty air, and a warm, inviting charm that only this Baltic city can offer. As the city transformed into a snowy canvas, I eagerly embraced the chance to explore its rich history, unique culinary scene, and vibrant culture.