Turn any corner in Rome and you come across something impressive – either for its beauty or simply the fact it was constructed hundreds, if not thousands, of years ago. Very few man-made sights earn a “wow” from me, but this city is overloaded with incredible things to…

Last Sunday, as we explored Monterosso after travelling along the Cinque Terre from Riomaggiore, we stumbled across a beautiful piece of flower art. I really do mean stumbled across – I very nearly trod on it. This mosaic of petals was on the footpath. The flowers continued along…

In its entirety, the walk connecting the five Cinque Terre villages would be spectacular. 12km of rugged cliffs along the coast, olive groves, over-burdened lemon trees, grape vines and beautiful Italian summer weather. It wouldn’t be an easy walk, but it would be special. Unfortunately, the trail between…

The population of Riomaggiore is about 1700, but that will swell in coming weeks. The Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s top destinations. Visiting such a place has its pros and cons. Sometime’s it’s not great to visit a place everyone else is also visiting. Any more into peak…

Gorgeous. Stunning. Spectacular. Unique. With a decent thesaurus you’ll find 15 like words to describe the Italy’s postcard: The Cinque Terre. Five little villages clinging to the coast of the Italian Riviera. Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso are so similar, yet so different. Each a wonderful town to…

After the pace and size of Montreal, Quebec City is a welcome break. Although if I complained about the use of French in Montreal at all, it was nothing to what I’m facing here. The people of Quebec consider themselves Quebecers first and Canadian second. They are extremely proud…

My last day in Montreal and two things left on Lucie’s List: Saint Joseph’s Oratory and the Botanical Gardens. I leave my luggage with one of the Via Rail porters (they will store it and put it on the train for me), say goodbye to Lucie and head…