Travelling in Tunisia presents an opportunity to experience a rich, diverse history, culture and people.

Crossing the country from east to west you can experience olive groves, the Red Mountains of Temerza, the golden dunes of the Sahara and the beautiful coast of the Mediterranean Sea.

Tunis, the capital of Tunisia with a population of 1.2 million, lies on the coast, and enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.

The city stretches for kilometres along the coast, and in the middle lies the old city (medina) with its obligatory souk (partially covered bazaar) offering leather goods, plastic gadgets of all sorts, tin products, filigree jewellery, carpets, food and tourist souvenirs.

Tunis is the industrial and commercial heart of the country, although industry’s role is decreasing. Presently, textile, carpet weaving, olive oil and food processing, and financial industries dominate, with tourism playing a supporting role.

The French have been influencing Tunisia and Tunis culturally for some time; churches and commercial buildings show French influence in design and appearance.
In the medina the Great-, Aghlabid Ez Zitouna (built in the eight century) Mosques, Dar al Bey Palace, and the Bardo Museum are well worth visiting. These visits could take two to three days pending on interest level. The souk on the other hand requires a full day, especially for those who like to shop for exotic jewellery and carpets.

Tunis has a few synagogues, and there are several large parks on the outskirts. The zoo grounds located in one of the parks also contains the Museum of Modern Art.
The most interesting sight to visit is Carthage, a short drive from Tunis.

A Phoenician princess founded Carthage in the second millennium B C. Phoenicians at the time were the dominant trading power around the Mediterranean Sea. Later, Berber tribes and others occupied the city.

The Roman Empire tried several tied several times to capture this commercially important harbour, and the Roman senator Marcus Portius Cato is known to have concluded each of his frequent speeches at the senate with the following sentence: “And by the way Carthage must be destroyed”.

Finally in 146 B C Roman soldier and navy sailors occupied and destroyed the city. During the Roman occupation of Tunisia many amphitheatres were build some of which are still being used as open air theatres today.

Islam arrived in the seventh century through Ghassanid general Hassan ibn Numan, his army and followers.

From the 12th to 16th centuries Carthage was controlled by Almadiad and Hafis Berber dynasties during which time the city became the richest and greatest in the Arab world with a population of 100 000. In comparison London had a population of 35 000 in 1577.

Carthage enthrals history buffs. You can easily spend at least a full day visiting the different and partially restored ruins, and if you are interested in history, several days.

Tunis offers accommodation at several levels from Bed and Breakfast, to luxury hotels, and everything in between.

Many western hotel chains either managed locally owned hotels, or have their own establishments.

The best months to visit Tunis are September to May.

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Known as the “red city”, Marrakech was the former imperial city. It is located on the foothills of the Atlas mountain chain, and today is a major trading centre with a population of over one million.

Almoraved leader Abu Bakr Ibn Umar founded the city on the plains near the River Transift, and made it the capital of the dynasty.

Now Marrakech is the third largest city of Morocco after Casablanca (the most cosmopolitan) and Rabat (the capital of the country), but it has the largest medina (old city). The modern city was built next to it.

Marrakech offers many sites including the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest in the city, but only Muslims are allowed to visit it.

The median with its souk (bazaar) is the most interesting with its myriad of small shops offering everything imaginable, from artisan soaps, to wrought iron ornaments, to exotic spices, clothing, carpets even hand-made ivory combs.

You can also visit, if you have access to a local guide, a carpet factory in an old building with antique looms, The activity in such factories appears very hectic, yet outside in the medina you would never guess.

The streets are narrow and allow only humans, and four legged beats to navigate. The smells emanating from dwellings are enticing and appealing. Some eateries in the souk serve Moroccan food, but they too small for comfort, and their hygiene, in food preparation and sanitizing cutlery and dishes, is questionable at best.

If you want to buy something in the souk, or anywhere else in Morocco, you must always negotiate. Never pay the price asked at first. Start offering a little less than half of what was quoted and see where you end up. You can also walk away, and see how the merchant reacts. If he wants the sale badly if will try to get you back into the negotiation, offer you a cup of tea, or shall I say, a glass. They drink tea from specially designed glasses, and never from a china cup.

Moroccan shopkeepers are astute and seize any opportunity to sell according to their perception of where the buyer originates. Even if you have a guide you should know that most receive commissions from the sale, and will rarely, if ever, say a word when you decide to buy something.

Djemaa el fna is the central square and comes alive at night with hundreds of food stalls installed daily dawn.

To some, Djmaa el fna is the best dinner spot in Marrakech. Thousands of locals visit the place just to watch barkers of stalls attract customers. The food is safe, but you must dishes that are grilled or fried. Do not eat salads or peeled fruits. Here wise men tell stories, magicians perform their tricks, acrobats and acrobatic troops show of their skills, henna tattoo artists are always at the ready, snake charmers try to attract your attention, and sneaky little monkeys climb all over the place. During the day Djemaa el fna is a simple market place.

As a westerner, you should visit a local upscale hammam. Here you will be lathered with Moroccan black soap, thoroughly scrubbed by experienced attendants and then doused with hot water to dispose of old skin. You will leave the hammam like “new”.

Marrakech offers several levels of accommodation from bed and breakfast operations, which are old retrofitted houses in the medina, to middle class hotels, to luxury where you will be pampered and fed extremely well.

Marrakech is a destination that will fascinate, and occasionally perplex the western tourist, but is well worth a visit.

Once you are in Morocco, also visit Casablanca, Rabat and resort cities on the Atlantic coast.

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Travelling safely requires certain precautions especially when alone or with your family in tow, Once you have decided on your destination and flight reserve your accommodation. The Internet is full of hotel advertising and companies (i.e Expedia any many others) that sell rooms for hotel chains but be aware that there is a charge for their services. Once you have made your room reservation and obtained a confirmation ask the hotel to tell you about the best means of getting there from the airport and how much it costs.

In many European cities public convenient and reasonably priced transportation is available. In Zurich the train station from the airport is just below the airport arrival area. The same is true for London from different airports.

If you are travelling by car ask for the best directions to arrive at the hotel.

In many Middle Eastern and East European countries the arrival lounge of international airports are full of taxi drivers who will literally pull you towards their cars, then drive you in a circuitous route to charge exorbitant amounts. It is best to tell how much you will pay before you get into the taxi and also ask whether the driver will charge you for the luggage. If you know the cost in advance, it will help you negotiate.

In some cases the driver may say that the meter indicates the cost. Do not fall for this age-old trick. The meter may be, and often, is rigged, or the driver will drive several times around the block.

Needless to say, toy should have enough local currency to avoid complications.

When booking a city sightseeing tour, ask whether they pick you up, and if they are, will the bus arrive punctually as promised. In third world countries punctuality is as rare as hen’s teeth.

The front desk clerk, or the concierge, can be of help here.
Do not flaunt your jewellery, especially in third world countries, and dress modestly. More importantly, wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

Watch for unmarked contractions holes and avoid dark streets with little traffic.

If you are an avid photographer and have two or more cameras, carry them in a discreet carry on luggage. Always watch who approaches you in buses and/or subways. Often there are women with children who try to distract you and accomplices pick your pockets. When travelling in subways stand in rows between two doors. Sometimes pickpockets enter the car, pick your pocket, and before the train leaves the platform they exit. Never keep all your funds in one bag or pocket. Take extra care with travel documents.

In some countries there are tourism police on busy sites and who speak several languages. They can provide useful tips and warn you about pending possibilities of pick pocketing or scoundrels who pretend to help you, but in reality to filch.

In several Middle Eastern cities a friendly local approaches tourists with the claim to provide valuable information about the city or a particular restaurant or club where servers urge you in no uncertain terms to order a bottle of expensive wine at an outrageous price.

Other tricks are also widely practised.
If you decide to rent a car, make absolutely sure to inspect the car before signing. Often there may be dents on the vehicle when you return the car to the company will bill you as though you are responsible. “Expert” thieves in countries with high tourist traffic often rob rental cars.

Park in supervised lots. A colleague’s rental car was broken into twice in one day in southern France, and rental companies outside Italy will not rent a car if you are planning to travel to that country. In fact they ask specifically before signing the contract.

If you use a credit card, auto rental insurance is provided so there is no need for another one.

In the U S A, car rental companies charge extra if you leave the state in which you rent the car.

In third world countries driving at night on high ways requires special attention.

Often trucks without lighting and signs are parked on the highway and several cars are known to drive into them with fatal consequences.

Nightclubs are particularly dangerous places especially for young and inexperienced males. Drinks may be spiked, or “friendly” females join you, unbidden, and ask for very expensive drinks which may be intentionally spilled to force you to order yet another one.

Paying by credit card in hotels and restaurants requires special care. Do not let anyone disappear with your card to a back office. Always ensure that the card is swipes in front of you. New cards now have a pin number for added financial security.

As a final point do not exchange money on the street with “freelancers”. They offer you lucrative rates, but may give you fake paper currency or denominations that have been taken out of circulation.

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The valley of the lower reaches of the mighty Loire River is a veritable garden of wines.
Loire, a lush green valley, was at one time, playground to courtiers, French nobility, kings ad queens.
Many aristocrats built chateaux to entertain their friends and concubines. Many of these lavishly built chateaux are today museums, and/or hotels or alternately wineries.
Although Loire is France’s largest river, it cannot be used for navigation. It is shallow and there are too many islands in it. This lovely region produces a wide range of wines – red, rose, white, dry, off dry, sweet, and sparkling.
Some go well with simple fare, others are just for quaffing, yet others are worth of gastronomic meals and a few lend themselves beautifully to desserts.
The personality and character of Loire wines change with geology, and geography.
Nowhere is the saying “wine is liquid geography” as true as here.
The river runs through the chalky hills of the Paris basin and “old rocks” of the Massif Armoricain.(Massif is a topographical feature of a mountain mass generally formed of rocks more rigid and older than those surrounding it. Massifs range in size from a few, to hundreds of square kilometres), Loire has four distinct sub-regions: Touraine, Saumur, Anjou and Sancerre.
It is amazing how a substantial variety and styles in Touraine, Saumur, and Anjou derive from two grape varieties – chenin Blanc and cabernet franc.
The chenin blanc is known as pineau d’Anjou.
In Sancerre, sauvignon blanc reigns supreme, but one must not forget the delicious muscadet wines grown close to the Atlantic Ocean. Chardonnay is found everywhere, and there is a substantial acreage of gamay, malbec, and pinot noir.
Touraine is home to appellations Vouvray, Montlouis, Chinon, Bourgeuil, Amboise, Azay-le-Rideau, Coteaux du Loire and Jasnieres.
Wines range from dry to off-dry, rose and light reds, and the soil yellow tuffeau to argillaceous chalk.
Saumur has long been noted for its sparkling wines produced by the methode champenoise, but sold at less than half the cost of champagne. Saumur sparkling wines are light, soft, fruity, and fun to enjoy. They don’t cellar well, so drink them within a year or two of vintage.
Veuve Amiot brand is particularly famous and recommended.
Anjou here the terroir consists mainly of cretaceous chalk, clay, and schist. The best reds come from cabernet franc, roses cabernet sauvignon, gamay and cot.
The wines of Savennieres, Coteaux de l’Aubance, Coteaux de Layon, Bonnezaux, Quarts de Chaume and Coteaux de la Loire are particularly appreciated by connoisseurs.
Bonnezaux and Quart de Chaume enjoy elevated status for their sweet wines made from chanin blanc and which trend to be perfumy, and long-lived.
Muscadet is found just below, in gardens east of the city of Nantes. Chenin blanc and cabernet franc are replaced by muscadet and other grapes. Here Muscadet de Sevre et Maine, Muscadet de Coteaux de la Loire, and Muscadet Cotes de Grand Lieu stand out.
Here the granitic soil yields outstanding dry wines that go best with steamed mussels or light seafood.
Muscadet sur Lie is another unique specialty since the wine is kept on its lees for at least six months, but most winemakers keep it for one year, and then bottled. Sur lie wines must be consumed shortly after bottling and possess a yeasty aroma akin to freshly baked bread.
Sancerre contains 2500 hectares of vineyards planted to sauvignon blanc and pinot noir (25 per cent). This sub-region has three soil types; stony limestone with little soil, flinty (silex), and clay limestone (argilocalcaire), each of which gives a different taste to the wine.
Most Sancerre is made in stainless steel tanks, but a few top class are barrel fermented and barrel aged briefly. Sancerre wines display a typical sauvignon blanc grassiness, gooseberry and grapefruit aromas.
Red and rose Sancerre made from pinot noir are light and fruity, but must be enjoyed shortly after bottling, and ideally with food.
Loire wines represent excellent value, are versatile and deserve the attention than they receive.

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Modern hotels emphasise efficiency, almost sterile looks. Lobbies are tall, walls may be halfway up covered with marble, the ground wall-to-wall carpets, and modern furniture that looks appealing but never comfortable.
Everything in modern hotels is designed with labour-reduction in mind. Lobbies are laid out in a symmetrical fashion, and exude a coolness and lack warmth and friendliness.
The front office is tucked in a corner almost invisible, is dominated by computers and impersonal, almost mechanical service. You arrive, and are greeted politely. In most cases, the registration form is filled out with information provided when reserving the room. You may have to complete it, and the clerk will ask you for your credit card to make an imprint. If you do not have a credit card you must pay in advance and room service may be advised to deliver food and beverage for cash only.
You are than given a cardkey to open the door of your room. The card is electronically activated for the intended length of your stay. If you decide to stay longer you must inform the front desk, or you will be “locked out”.
The rooms may be well designed, with plenty of light, amenities and a comfortable bed. Of course there is a TV set, Internet cable, and in house movies are available upon request.
Most also offer a well-stocked mini bar at horrendous prices.
You are just a number, and you can even check out from your room on the TV screen.
No one will thank you for your patronage, and ask you to return or whether everything was to your complete satisfaction.
Yes there may be a card questionnaire but who knows whether or not it ever gets to the general manager, and if does, what management will do. Some hotels follow it up most do not.
Old palace hotels exude warmth and they are inviting they possess a soul. People are friendly but never familiar. They genuinely care about your well being and will address you by your name.
The design evolved over the life of the establishment, may or may not be symmetrical and efficient, but is inviting. You can sit down in one of the comfortable chairs or sofas, or order a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Here you feel comfortable can meet people; even conduct quiet conversations with your friends or companions.
The lighting is subdued; the walls may be decorated with old paintings of the founder and his/her family.
Palace hotels reflect local culture; carry on traditions, and display creations of native artists long gone. The furniture may reflect local flavour made from materials indigenous to the region and by craftsmen who are proud of their work. As a guest, you feel comfortable in an environment created by reflecting the peculiarities of the region, and savour the culture of the people.
Palace hotels provide personal service. Servers remember your preferences once you have stayed there for one day, and will provide everything as you order or like. You sense warmth, and recognition of your individuality.
There are many such hotels all over the world catering to people who appreciate elevated levels of personal service and which modern hotels cannot. They are too big; staff is hired without the benefit of lengthy interviews and the benefit of thorough training.
All you have to do to experience a palace hotels or “old” establishment is to check into one and see how you will be greeted, and served. You will certainly find the unhurried, comfortable environment friendly and satisfying.
And when you check out the front office clerk will thank you for your patronage, ask whether everything was to your full satisfaction, and express the hope of your return visit.

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While most serious wine drinkers know about Oporto, a.k.a Porto, few are aware of the charms the greater municipal government with a population of over 1.7 million.
Located at he mouth of the Douro River, the city is virtually one with Vilanova de Gaia, connected to one another by several bridges, one of which was designed by Eiffel, the famous architect and creator of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Port shippers have established their blending facilities, bottling lines and warehouses here because of somewhat cooler air.
Oporto has daily (four times) luxury train connections with Lisbon, the capital of Portugal; there are several flights too.
The luxury train is comfortable, fast, and glides over the rails at high speed while you enjoy the scenery.
Oporto is compact and hilly. Downtown, the streets are narrow and lined with old, colourful houses.
Traffic in these labyrinthine quarters can be trying at the best of times, but around 11 a m when delivery trucks deliver goods to retailers, the traffic literally stops for up to half an hour at a time.
Walking downtown is recommended to visit many of the churches. The Cathedral, Clergymen Church and Tower, Carmo Church, Lapa Church, Cedofeita Church are absolute musts to appreciate the devotion of the overwhelmingly Catholic population.
The plazas are always full of people and there are many bakeries that also serve espresso. Portuguese seem to love pastries and sweets of all sorts.
The modern subway connects Oporto with Vila Nova de Gaia in the south where many of the old and well-established port shippers like Calem, Croft, Sandeman Ramos Pinto, Warre operate sidewalk cafes. Here you can enjoy the slow-flowing mighty Douro River’s beauty and the traffic on it.
Port shippers are always eager and proud to serve their precious vinous creations, and also offer cellar tours.
Several shippers have their old flat and wide rabalo boats on display in the river, emblazoned with their names on the sails. They were used to transport one-year old wines in barrels from the interior to warehouses before railroads and highways were built.
You can visit most of the cellars to see old, huge, upright barrels and hear the story of port wine. At the end of the tour, you may be given a few samples of different port wine styles and urged to buy a bottle or two at the adjacent boutique.
The Port Wine Museum is in Oporto on the shores of the Douro, and those interested in the history of the wine should pay a visit to this highly interesting museum, which surprisingly does not serve any type of wine.
The main thoroughfare of Porto is Miguel Bombarda lined with several art galleries, and many intense parties are held when new exhibits open.
Palacio Bolsa (the stock exchange) was designed in neo-Moorish architectural style, and definitely worth a visit is the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Moors occupied large parts of Portugal and Spain for several centuries and influenced local architecture to the extent that it is still noticeable in toady’s modern buildings.
Romans significantly expanded the city in the fourth century on the foundations of Celtic and proto-Celtic remnants of citadels.
Moors invaded the area in 711 and were defeated in 868. In the approximately century-and-a-half of their “stay” Moors influenced architecture, agriculture, city planning, and culinary evolution.
If you are looking for an interesting and relaxing day, book a Douro River cruise, which travels upriver.
Here you can marvel at the terraced vineyards while sipping a glass of wine derived from fruit grown on these soils. Such a cruise is highly recommended, even if you do not drink wine, and may even result in you getting to appreciate wine.
Accommodation in Oporto is available, but like everywhere else in Europe, quite expensive. Book ahead and make sure the hotel has parking facilities. Alternately, you can seek accommodation in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Casa Aleixo (Rua de Estacao 216) is one restaurant you can safely visit and try their fish and seafood specialties.
You can also try Douro’s famous tripes, and fresh grilled sardines when wash it down with white vino verde.
The best time to travel is spring and autumn to escape the infernal heat and humidity in summer.
For more information about accommodation and restaurants
e-mail info@portugalvirtual.pt

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European wine tours

Europe produces some of the best wines in the world. France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Portugal are just a few of the wine producing countries that have centuries of experience in growing grapes and have long established vineyards, many of which can be visited both as an independent visitor or as part of an organised tour. There are even vineyard touring holidays which include travel to several countries in order to learn the different methods of growing and harvesting grapes, as well as the methods used in wine production.

Many tours included guided tours around the most prestigious estates such as First Growths of Bordeaux in France and the Super Tuscans such as Sassacaia in Italy. Holidays include luxury accommodation as well as first class cuisine and offer the visitor long lasting memories of wine tasting by candlelight in a 12th century cellar, strolling through a world class vineyard with a famous wine producer and staying at a Classified Growth chateau as exclusive guests in 5 star accommodation. They may be the first to taste a new vintage Bordeaux and sample older vintages, accompanied by cellar masters and chateau owners. Groups are usually limited to a small number, often around only 12 people. A typical wine tour holiday will consist of 5 nights stay in a chateau, with visits to the chateau`s wine cellar as well as to 5 local vineyards. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals and private chateau dinners in the company of the best wine experts. Other Bordeaux tours include stays in 4 star hotels, visiting the best wine growing estates in the region and dining in the finest restaurants. There are specialist tours such as the Bordeaux Wine Harvest which occurs around the last few days in September each year and includes a first hand experience of the harvest, VIP wine tasting sessions in Grand Cru Class estates with private chateau meals and a library of fine wines. One day tours are also available for those staying in the area who wish to learn more about the art of wine making. Trips can include being met at the airport, taken to the Medoc region, taking in the chateaux en route, enjoying an excellent lunch in one of the local estates, followed by a wine tasting session. Similar tours and holidays are also available in the Loire Valley, Burgundy region and Provence and Southern Rhone. The Champagne region is only a 90 minute drive from Paris, making it an ideal day trip from the capital. A 6 day, 5 night Bordeaux tour which is custom made costs around £2,500 per
person. Day trips cost from £700 per person.

Tuscany is perhaps the most famous of Italy`s wine producing regions and a popular location for holidays. Wine tours are available on a daily basis, to include collection from hotels, with small groups of around 8-10 people. Alternatively there are tours lasting several days which include environmentally friendly accommodation in local farms, with the finest local cuisine. Historical and technical wine growing facts are learnt, as well as wine and olive oil tastings, while meals are served with two or three different wines. Wine tasting courses last 2 hours, after which visitors are able to recognise wines from the region. Visitors can rent elegant apartments at the farms for short or long stay bookings. Weekend breaks of 3 nights stay start at around £560 for 4 star hotel accommodation including all meals but do not include flights or transfers to and from airports. Many tours include the opportunity to take local cookery courses or to enjoy the on site facilities such as sp as, saunas, swimming pools and relaxing massages.

Spain offers many wine tasting tours including many in the Rioja region. A 4 night and 5 day tour starts at around £800 per person and includes accommodation, meals and tours. Travel to the region in September and the visitor can enjoy the annual September Wine Festival at the end of the month. Some tours include a visit to the Dinastia Vivanco Museum which offers a historical and cultural tour of the history of local wine growing. There are also optional guided walking tours, taking in the local cities and their famous sites, as well as trips to the stunning Cantabrian Mountains. Alternatively, the visitor can opt for an extended trip, staying in different luxury hotels and chateaux each night, sampling the finest local wines and cuisine. There are several travel deals available throughout the year to a choice of countries in Europe, to suit all tastes and budgets.

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Catalonia and beautiful Barcelona stand out for many reasons. Barcelona has excellent gallery of Picasson originals. There is a replica of one of Christopher Columbus’ original vessels riding on the dock, and many more unique sits.
Barcelona, the second largest city of Spain, the capital of Catalonia with the biggest cosmopolitan port, is stylish, classy, historic and modern at he the same time and inhabited by friendly people who go out of their way to help tourists.
Hamilcar Barca, Carthaginian, and father of Hannibal, in the third century B C, founded the city. About 15 B.C., Romans established a military base and since then the city has been growing. Today 1.7 million call Barcelona home.
It is a global city of finance, commerce, media, entertainment, arts and international trade and tourist destiati0n for millions of sun-hungry north Europeans. When you land in the second largest airport of the country, you can immediately see how many tourists fly in to travel to Mediterranean coastal cities, and also to visit the many sites. One of the most interesting and unique is the Sagrada Familia designed by Antoni Gaudi, that started in 1882 and is planned for completions in 2026.
The Museum of Contemporary Art, the Museums of Miro, -Picasso; Maritime are highly recommended. For those who like parks, Barcelona offers 68, the largest of which is Monjuic, and the most famous Guell, also designed by Antoni Gaudi, the famous architect born and bred in the city.
It offers many beaches for those who like to swim in seawater.
Barcelona’s industries are varied and contribute to Spain’s G D P ( Gross domestic product) i.e. textiles, chemicals, motors, pharmaceuticals, electronics, printing, publishing, IT and telecommunications.
Anyone interested in food must visit the market La Rambla – to shop or hang out. It is worth a visit on your way to the ancient city, but be mindful of many questionable characters innocently standing at the corners. They are ready to snatch your purse, or worse.
In the old town, the oldest Roman ruins can be visited, and you can still admire the Barcelona of Middle Ages. Here, painters try to capture cathedrals on their canvasses and concentrate on the task rather than talking to curious tourists in an attempt to sell them one of their finished paintings.
When you Are tired you can choose one of the several tapa eateries and also order a copita ( specially designed sherry glass) or a glass of cava (Spain’s sparkling wine produced using the Methode Champenoise).
Air Transat flies from Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver to Barcelona or British Airways to London and transfer, or Air France to Paris and then to Barcelona.
For more information log on to
spain.info.ca/tourspain

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Modern cruise ships are virtual floating hotels designed by specialized “ship architects”, and built in Finland or Italy. These two countries developed expertise and have the skilled labour to construct using even the most sophisticated designs.
Today’s cruise passengers expect exquisite food, and in most cases they are served expertly prepared specialties.
There are many cruise companies with a range of itineraries. Most sail from Florida, some from California or Vancouver.
In Europe, Barcelona, Genoa, Marseille, Venice and Piraeus are major cruise ports equipped to supply even the most demanding chefs.
Short cruises sailing from Florida to Caribbean destinations and Mexico buy everything before sailing fro a number of reasons; consistency of quality, availability, service, reliability and cost.
Mediterranean cruises of 14 days or longer loads whatever foodstuffs they can before sailing, and fresh produce or fish at certain ports.
A cruise ship with 1000 passers would have anywhere between 1000 – 1100 people to serve three, and sometimes even five meals a day including crew and entertainers.
While around the turn of the century most ships had one or two dinging rooms. Today’s cruise vessels often give a choice between dining room, Italian restaurant, sushi counter, or bistro.
Since cruise ships are “high density” utmost attention must be paid to hygiene in purchasing, preparation and service. Chefs are very meticulous about this aspect.
In Florida federal agencies in charge of monitoring cruise ship cleanliness conduct inspections and publish their findings that can found on-line by anyone interested. The outbreak of a contagious disease can ruin a cruise company.
Everything is produced on the boat, from bread to pastries and everything in between. Chefs are generally European-trained, cooks from many countries accomplish the preparation, plating and serving waiters.
Most cruise ships serve five to six meals a day starting with breakfast, followed by 10 o’clock snack, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and midnight buffet.
Some passengers gain weight due to excessive consumption and little exercise.
Luxury cruise ships offer high quality food; small portions, exquisite and attentive service, and will even cater to special requests like kosher food, vegetarian diet, or even authentic caviar instead of a complete meal.
Inexpensive cruises offer large quantities of food, but of passable or low quality
The daily average consumption of a 1000 passenger and 1000-crew luxury cruise ship is approximately:
Fish and shellfish 385 Kg.
Caviar 2.5 Kg
Eggs 2300
Butter 90 kg.
Milk 345 litres
Flour 250 kg.
Sugar 54 Kg.
Cream 115 litres
Salads 100 Kg.
Mayonnaise 40 litres
Fruit 900 Kg.
Vegetables 900 Kg.
Potatoes 225 Kg.
Pasta 70 Kg.
Beef 225 Kg
Chicken 380 Kg
Veal 70 Kg.
Pork 170 Kg
Lamb 70 Kg
The logistics of calculating daily requirements of each cruise ship is complicated as many factors must be taken into account starting with teh number of passengers, their age, dietary demands, weather conditions and routing.
Experiences chefs manage to keep costs in line; those who fail to do so pay a high price.

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Of all South American wine producing countries, Chile and Argentina stand out. The former is famous for quality, while the latter for quantity. Yet this phenomenon is rapidly changing.
Spanish conquistadors introduced grape growing and wine making for religious purposes. This quickly developed to an industry given the favourable terroir in both countries.
In the shadow of the Andes Mountains where most of the wineries of Argentina are located, grapes grow in remarkably suitable natural conditions that exist nowhere else in the world. The high-altitude, almost desert like climate with hot days and cool nights, plus pure air, soil and water combine to yield extraordinary wines.
The soils are naturally rich requiring few enhancements other than organic material. Hand harvesting of grapes is almost universally employed due to an abundance of labour and vineyard layout, not to speak of concern for quality. This was not always the case. Only a few decades ago, Argentine wineries were more concerned about quantity than quality, but recent political and economic changes forced most winery owners and mangers to focus on quality. All understood that if they want to increase export, quality must be their first concern, since Argentines now consume also less wine but demand quality.
They are willing to pay for quality, which is the case in almost all wine-consuming countries, except China and Russia.
Suitable Argentine land is still relatively inexpensive and many Chileans, Europeans, particularly the French and Americans invested considerable capital planting vineyards and establishing wineries.
The following red grapes are preferred; malbec (Argentina’s signature red grape variety), mourvedre, touriga nacional, tempranillo, cabernet sauvignon, sangiovese, freisa, croatina, bonarda, barbera, dolcetto, syrah, and even pinot noir and cabernet franc.
For white wines, growers prefer: chardonnay, semillon, viognier, pinot blanc, torrontes, and a few experimental varieties.
Argentine winemakers blend to achieve depth of flavour and have few restrictions to end up with satisfactory results. European winemakers do not enjoy such privileges and for this reason as well as for fiscal inwested in New World wine producing countries such as Argentina, Australia, South Africa, Chile, the U S A, New Zealand and Canada.
Mendoza is the largest viticultural region with many sub-regions, climates and soils. Here, altitude of vineyards plays a great role. Winemakers determined that grapes grown at 1500 metres taste completely different than those at 1800. As the altitude changes the sunrays ripen grapes differently, i.e. at higher altitudes the skins of grapes become thicker and darker due to the intensity of the sunrays.
In Alta de Rio in the west, vineyards are planted at 1000 metres above sea level; Uca Valley is even on higher altitudes, as is Tupungato.
The most modern wineriwes are Zuccardi, Finca Flichman, Norton, Lurton Brothers, Clos de Los Siete, Belbo, Finca El Retiro, Chakana, Carlos Pulenta, Platero, Bodegas catena Zapata.
The following wines are highly recommended and available from time to time in Vintages releases throughout the year:
Malbec Reserva, 2004, Bodegas Norton
Cabernet Sauvignon, 2000, Weinert
Syrah, 2004, Finca El retiro
Cabernet Sauvignon, 2004, Bodegas Catena Zapata
Viognier Alamos, 2006, Bodegas Catena Zapata
Torrontes, 2006, Susana Belbo
Torrontes, 2006, Familia Zuccardi

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This weekend we were in Bergen and trying to take some photographs. It was raining cats and dogs and the wind was troubling too. I did my best holding the umbrella and camera and standing up for the wind while taking pictures.

Bryggen (Norwegian for the Wharf), also known as Tyskebryggen (the German Wharf) is a series of Hanseatic commercial buildings lining the eastern side of the fjord coming into Bergen, Norway. Bryggen has since 1979 been on the UNESCO list for World Cultural Heritage sites. The name has the same origin as the Flemish city of Brugge.

The city of Bergen was founded in 1070. In 1360 a Kontor of the Hanseatic League was established there, and as the town developed into an important trading centre, the wharfs were improved. The administrative buildings of Bryggen housed clerks from many areas, especially Germany. The warehouses were filled with goods, particularly fish from northern Norway, and cereal from Europe.

Throughout history, Bergen has experienced many fires, since, traditionally, most houses were made from wood. This was also the case for Bryggen, and as of today, around a quarter dates back to the time after 1702, when the older wharfside warehouses and administrative buildings burned down. The rest predominantly consists of younger structures, although there are some stone cellars that date back to the 15th century.

Parts of Bryggen were destroyed in a fire in 1955. This area was used for the construction of Bryggen museum containing archeological remains, plus some old-style wooden houses, these being the six leftmost houses on the panoramic picture below. Controversially, a brick hotel was also raised on the premises, which is seen behind these six houses.

Today, Bryggen houses tourist, souvenir, and gift shops, in addition to restaurants, pubs and museums.

source: In English wiki In Norwegian wiki

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This, the third largest city of Canada on the Pacific Ocean, is one of the prettiest and most liveable in the land. Year after year, international organizations produce lists based on a number of criteria and often rank it best or second, and occasionally third in the world.

The area around Burrard Inlet was inhabited by aboriginal tribes as early as 9000 years ago, European sailors appeared on the shores of British Columbia in the 17th century, but the city got a boost in population in 1858 with gold rushes – Caribou and Fraser. Both attracted as many as 25,000 adventurers from California and elsewhere, but it was the arrival of transcontinental railway from the east coast of Canada in 1887 that helped to increase the population.
Today, Vancouver is the largest and most important commercial centre on British Columbia with a population of approximately 600,000, and Greater Vancouver Area accommodates well over two million people.
Vancouver city centre id south of Burrard Inlet, and connected to North Vancouver by a bridge. Stanley Park is in the south; a 1000-acre (400 hectares) park cradles ocean beaches and centuries old trees.
You are likely to be fascinated by the many attractions that display ancient history, natural phenomena, science and nature. You can learn a great deal about aboriginal art and artefacts at the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver Museum, and Maritime Museum.
Science World at Telus World of Science, located in the geodesic dome, delights everyone with its hands-on experiments, demonstrations and screened shows in the unique Omnimax theatre on site. The Vancouver Aquarium is home to over 70,000 creatures, including whales and sharks.
Robinson Street in the heart of downtown leads in fashion stores and is famous for, potential star spotting and street-side dining.
The International Buddhist temple offers traditional ceremonies and Chinese arts. Here you can admire the palatial architecture and soak in the serenity the temple presents.
In Vancouver you can buy authentic aboriginal art from artists and workmen who created them including soft moccasins, exquisite jewellery, hand-carved ceremonial masks, and learn the story of totem poles.
Vancouver is home to many people from all over the world, and offers tourists opportunities to sample their cuisines i.e C- Restaurant, an excellent seafood restaurant, Cioppino’s for Italian specialties, and Vij’s for Indian food. Tojo’s owner, a Japanese restaurant, invented the California roll, which actually popularized sushi in North American. Authentic ethnic cuisines form China, Thailand and many other countries compete for guests who appreciate delights regardless of their origin.
You want to visit a spa, just asks the concierge at your hotel.
If you like to shop, browse Chinatown, visit Little India, pay a visit to the Golden Village in Richmond, and for mementos wonder into Gastown, Granville Island or Robson Street.
There is no shortage of hotels, inns, guesthouses and affordable accommodations in this beautiful city with many parks and gardens.
The skyline of Vancouver is dominated with hundreds of high-rise buildings due to the far sight of city planners who wanted to preserve the beautiful environment and keep the city compact.
Europeans flying to Vancouver should stay in Toronto or Montreal at least for a few days to acclimatize.
Asian visitors will be able to adapt quickly.

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Tucked in the sotherwestern corner of the U S A, Santa Fe is called the “artists” city in the country. It was the centre of Pueblo Indian life in the 11th century and consists of many villages. Located high in the mountains (2134 metres above sea level), the winters are cold with some snow, and summers relatively warm.
Spaniards formally founded Santa Fe (Santa Fe means holy faith) in 1608 and made it the capital of their captured region in 1610. It is now the capital of the state of New Mexico. The town is laid out around the Central plaza with streets radiating from it.
It is a small city with a population of 85000, still with a Spanish aura but more importantly, Pueblo Indian architecture that still dominates many of the buildings.
Pueblo Indian artists still display their artwork in front of the main building of arts and crafts. The building and the daily display of artwork by local artists are a tourist attraction and meeting point of local collectors.
In the 1930’s Santa Fe became the Mecca for artists, wooed by the diffuse light of the region ad mild climate. It is now the second largest art market in the U S A.
Georgia O’Keefe was attracted to Santa Fe where she created many of her paintings on her ranch just outside of the city.
Santa Fe has many churches including the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (1869).
Museums abound and a short sojourn will not allow sufficient time to visit them all, but any visitor should spend a few hours in the New Mexico Museum of Art, Gallery of Native American Indians, Georgia O’Keefe Museum, and Institute of American Arts Museum. If you have more time, plan to visit the History Museum, and Santa Fe’s Performing Arts Centre that dates back to 1931.
Once a week on Saturdays the farmers market opens at 7 a m where you can shop for Velarde apple cider, south-western chutney, spicy grainy mustard, pesto focaccia and goat cheese.
When you start feeling tired, many intimate cafes and small restaurants beckon. Some offer mainstream American staples, but there are many others that specialize in local specialties that many tourists with culinary interest should try.
The city offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels all the way to cozy bed and breakfast operations.
Sunset in Santa Fe is spectacular and La Fonda offers the best sunset views.

There are several daily flights from major American cities to Santa Fe, but driving offs the best of New Mexico’ landscape.

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The custom of tipping can often be a dilemma, and confusing for travellers.
Many first-time travellers tip they are not supposed to, and do not, when they should. This can be embarrassing to say the least.
In some countries, tipping is an integral part of the hotel bill, while in others; gratuities form an important part of their income. Yet, in some countries, tipping is regarded as an insult.
Knowing when and how to tip can be an important asset to any traveller. Often, upon receiving a tip, the maitre d’hotel of a fully booked restaurant suddenly finds a table with an excellent view. In fact, tip stands for “to insure promptness” and often seasoned travellers, pending circumstances; tip before any service is rendered.
Here are some general guidelines:
Australia – tipping as a rule is not expected, but a small token of appreciation is always welcome.
Canada – servers, bartenders, bellhops, hairdressers, taxi drivers expect a trip anywhere from 8 – 10 per cent of the total excluding taxes.
China – due to the influence of western customs, tipping is becoming a way of life. In tourist
cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Wuxi, and Xian servers, boat- and taxi drivers expect a tip.
New Zealand – service employees, except bartenders, in both hotels and restaurants expect a tip, but not taxi drivers.
Egypt – tips are expected, particularly from tourists everywhere, even for the smallest service rendered. Have small change to reward boat-, taxi- and bus drivers, guides, servers, bartenders, and chamber maids. Even if a little child leads you to a restaurant he will expect a tip.
Mexico – all service employees eagerly anticipate tips, in fact they depend on tips.
Taxi drivers are happy with five per cent of the total fare as a token of appreciation.
Japan tipping is not expected.
Fiji tipping is not expected, but tourists somehow encourage servers to solicit tips discreetly by strategically placing boxes in hotel lobbies and/or restaurants.
United Kingdom most restaurants include a gratuity in their prices advertised on menus. If you were particularly happy about an attentive server, consider a small amount.
France – in restaurants and hotels, 15 per cent gratuity is customarily included in the advertised price. You mat consider rounding up the bill, or go a little beyond if you were very pleased.
Taxi drivers expect at least 10 per cent of the fare as tip.
Italy – here restaurants charge a “cover” (coperto) and include 15 per cent service charge in their prices. Servers always appreciate a little extra, particularly from tourist.
Spain – all bills include service charges, but you can round out a restaurant bill. Tourist guides also expect to be tipped.
Scandinavia – in Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Iceland, all service prices advertised include a charge. Yet, service employees appreciate five to eight per cent of the bill as extra appreciation of their efforts.
Germany – all service prices include a charge, but employees appreciate rounding up a bill. Taxi drivers expect five per cent of the total fare and also charge extra for luggage per piece above one.
Tourist guides like a token of appreciation.
Austria – Same as in Germany.
Greece – all service employees expect a tip from 10 – 15 per cent of the total, even if the invoice presented includes a gratuity.
Taxi drivers, guides, and chambermaids eagerly await fro tips particularly in large cities, but not on Aegean islands and the countryside.
U.S.A – all service employees expect to be tipped, particularly servers, as they are paid minimum wage. In some states service employees are paid “tip-minimum wage” as authorities know that customers tip if they are happy, and tip even when they are not just to satisfy appearances.
In some restaurants, management includes a 10 – 15 per cent service charge for groups of more than six if the server agrees. In some establishments service is exemplary, but in most, friendly, yet less than professional.

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Built on 117 islands, Venice has 150 canals, 400 bridges, and exists since 811 A D. The first inhabitants of these islands were Euganei and Venti in the 6th century BC, then came the Romans in the 3rd century B C. By 89 B C the population of the region were granted Roman citizenship. By 421 A D, attempts were made to cerate a city, but Romans weakened by their incessant conquests failed to stop invading Goths in many European regions northern Africa, and Asia.
Over the next few centuries, gradually bridges and the water between them were converted to canals. These canals are the main arteries of the city today. The city has no vehicular traffic except for boats, called vaporeti. They are the buses of Venice, and municipally operated.
The city was incorporated in 811 and by 828 he merchants were influential and wealth enough to transport the bones of San Marco from Alexandria in Egypt to Venice for the consecration of the basilica San Marco on the main piazza. Venice was a city-state with excellent trade connections to the Middle East via Constantinople, later named Istanbul, Alexandria and Jerusalem. Merchants grew rich by trading precious spices, glassware, and manufactured good from the Orient to European states.
They arranged the sale of ships and supplies to the first Crusaders in 1095 AD. The doges (rulers) of Venice were powerful due to the strategic of city’s location, and wealth of the citizens.

By 1171 Venice had established districts for minorities who settled there and for trades people, like boat builders, glass blowers, boat owners and traders.
The major setback occurred in 1348 – 49 when the city was hit by the plague, which decimated the population by half.
The 14th century saw many skirmishes between city-states of Italy namely Genoa, Pisa, Florence, and Siena. By 1380 Venice was strong enough militarily to defeat Genoa in naval battle of epic proportions.
The importance of Venice’s started to fade, after the fall of Constantinople in 1453 the Ottoman Turks,
Trade was more controlled by the Ottoman Empire and developed through the Balkans. Trieste further north and east became an important trading port for many goods exported from Austria, Hungary, and Switzerland.
By 1846 a rail link was established between the rest of Italy and the city.
Today the city has an aging population of approximately 60 000 versus 300 000 in the 16th century, when the glass manufacturers of Murano and Torcello were producing large quantities of ornamental glassware.
The city is gradually and inexorably sinking into the lagune, but regardless, it has a charm no other city can equal.
Venice has a huge number of churches, the most spectacular of which is the Basilica San Marco at the Piazza San Marco. Today the Piazza id lined with ambulant traders of souvenirs, imitation fashion-handbags, scarves and post cards.
Santa Maria della Salute, a beautiful nut small church, was built in 1630 by Longhena to fulfil a vow after the epidemic plague a few centuries earlier on.
Today, Venice exists through tourism, the giant refinery on the mainland, and the airport.
It is expensive to live in the city, because everything must be distributed manually and/or by boats, and merchants are masters of cheating tourists incapable of figuring how their minds work and the worth of merchandise they offer.
Regardless, this city was declared by the UN World Heritage Site, is well worth a visit, to see the beautiful buildings lining the canals, ride the vaporeti, walk the narrow and crowded streets, the churches, mouth blown ornamental glassware in shops, the Basilica San Marco, the Doge’s Palace located next to it and Piazza San Marco, considered a masterpiece of piazza design by architects past and present.
For those interested, Harry’s Bar, a hangout of Hemingway, offers expensive but expertly mixed and presented drinks. Even Trudeau paid a visit during one of the G 7 meetings he attended in the city. Practically all famous and not-so-famous people who visit Venice drop in at Harry’s to have a drink and look at the autographed pictured of the rich and famous who had a drink before them.
The famous gondolas still transport people, but mostly tourists on sightseeing tours. Venice is a charming city for those who enjoy history, imagination in architecture, city planning, music, museums, jewellery design and churches.
Although “tourist” Venice is expensive, small off-the-beaten-track restaurants offer fine meals at reasonable cost, and small hotels offer affordable and quiet accommodation albeit a few hundred meters from the city centre. If you want to have reasonably priced accommodation try a few hotels in Mestre only 10 minutes away from Venice on the mainland.
Visit Venice before it loses more of its population and becomes even more expensive, I remember paying $ 9.00 for a cup of cappuccino at a café in the Piazza San Marco, in 2002.

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The Niagara Peninsula wits its warm summers has long been the fruit basket of the country.
The region covered with apple and pear orchards as well as thousands of hectares of stone fruits was once a prime producer of canned fruits. Today, with the large population of Toronto bent on fresh fruit, the canning industry has disappeared. Instead of canning two new industries started – gastronomy and winery visits.
Niagara falls has always been popular with honeymooners and tourists, but now Niagara-on-the-Lake, the most historic town and the first capital of the province, abounds with fine hotels, restaurants, entertainment Shaw festival), and Icewine Festival in January, and wineries.
The Niagara Parkway between Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls offers an excellent opportunity to visit many wineries and taste their wines.
Niagara-on-the-Lake is nice, clean, small town with beautiful, well-maintained Victorian houses.
Some have been converted to bed and breakfast operations.
While on 20 years ago most restaurants in this little town would have been considered eateries, today the situation is completely different.
Gastronomically oriented people can visit Peller’s estate Winery, and after a visit, enjoy an excellent gourmet meal enhanced by the winery’s super premium wines.
If you want to spend a leisurely week in Niagara-on-the-Lake check in at Pillar and Post or Queen’s Landing. In both the rooms are well appointed. The surroundings of Queen`s Landing is inviting and the dining room serves fine food graciously. The property overlooks the Lake. Be sure to ask for a room with a lake view.
Once you are comfortably settled, you can take a leisurely drive on the Niagara Parkway to visit Lailey Vineyards, Innissikillin, Merrynissen, and Reif all wineries with fine products.
You can dine at Hillebrand`s Café on Highway 55 a few kilometres from Niagara-on-the-Lake in the hamlet of Virgil and enjoy this winery’s fine wines.
The following day a visit to the Niagara Bench is highly recommend visiting Chateau des Charmes, and Maleta wineries and driving to Vineland Estates for a leisurely lunch.
Vineland Estates winery offers the most beautiful views of the Lake, Toronto’s sky view, and the region’s vineyards
The exquisite food, friendly service and enjoyable atmosphere are bonus. The chef here uses the freshest local produce, the best extra virgin olive oil for his salads, bakes his own breads, and imaginative dishes that can compete with the best anywhere.
After lunch, visit Henry of Pelham winery, taste their wines and buy some of the best cream cheeses that the winery imports from Quebec.
Stoney Ridge and Peninsula Ridge, 30 Bench, and Angel’s Gate are four other wineries in the area everyone should visit to sample exquisite samples of Niagara wines.
On the 20 Restaurant in Jordan, that is owned and operated by Cave Spring Cellars excels in the production of rieslings, robust chardonnays, and delightful pinot noirs. Indian Summer Riesling is a specialty and much sought after for those who like sweet wines.
The restaurant serves find, imaginative food, the ingredients of which, to the extend possible, sourced in the peninsula.
Your gourmet tour or getaway weekend will be memorable I can guarantee it.

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Travellers spend untold hours to investigate routes, make reservations, check the reputation of restaurants at their destination, have their cars inspected, and even make reservations at gourmet restaurants but rarely think of buying travel insurance.
While travelling, you can become ill, or get involves in an accident, or fall and break an arm or leg, or even be robbed or attacked.
A hospital stay in the U S A or any western industrialized European country involves huge bills and a lot of paper work. Without wisely purchased travel insurance you may have to pay thousands to regain your health or be transported comfortably to your country of residence.
Ontario, and many other jurisdictions in Canada and other countries with widespread government provided health care pay minimal amounts for stays outside the country. The same is true in most European countries.
A Canadian had to be operated on for appendicitis in Florida. After five days the bill was in excess of $ 33,000.00, the government insurance agency paid less then ten per cent of the total. The rest had to be borne by the patient.
Had he had purchased travel insurance; he would have been covered for the total of the invoice presented pending on the deductible if there was one.
The situation becomes more difficult and complicated in faraway destinations, when travellers experience unexpected health problems or get involved in life-threatening accidents. Insurance covers flights to return home, and even for family members to visit patients in hospitals.
Before you embark on a private or group travel, always think of buying insurance, particularly if you are vulnerable, i.e elderly, traveling with children, and simply travelling on your own.

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