terça-feira, 26 de julho de 2016

Malta - From the Crusades to the base of tourism in the Mediterranean





The contrasts are many on this trip and the arrival to the island of Malta surprises us. The arrival at its port is surely one of the most impressive in the world.


The Maltese cross is the symbol associated to the Order of Malta Knights (Knights Hospitaller). The eight-pointed cross is in the form of four "Vs" joining each other at its apex, leaving the two ends expand symmetrically. Its "design" is based on crosses used since the First Crusade.


When in the mid-sixteenth century the knights were in Malta, the "design" now known as the "Maltese Cross" was associated with the island. The Maltese cross was minted in two thousand coins in old Maltese currency.  Currently Maltese cross is printed since 2008 on the back of the coins of one and two euros.


The impressive bastions of Valletta and the gardens of Upper Tent are a must to visit, such as the interior of St. John's Co-Cathedral, where you can admire a  masterpiece of Caravaggio and visit the inside of the Magistral Palace with its tapestries superb and their cabins.


In the narrow streets of Malta's capital are a number of shops and craftsmen performing works in silver that we can hardly resist as there are true works of art desirable prices.


Passing through typical Maltese village in Cirkewwa can take the public ferry to Gozo, Malta's sister island. The trip takes about thirty minutes and is fully justified. Arriving at the port of Mgarr and continuing towards the Ggantija Temples in Xaghra, have a happy encounter with these monuments of pre-historic culture.



terça-feira, 19 de julho de 2016

Menorca, Spain - An enchanted island hidden in the Mediterranean




Menorca is one of the best kept treasures of the Mediterranean, from the outset by its natural harbor, the second largest in the world after Pearl Harbour.


Menorca is particularly stunning. It is a small island that invites you to discover each part. It is no coincidence that famous personalities chose to build here their holiday homes!


Menorca has a magic that you need to visit to feel it. At each step we discover new havens, but the fascination comes mainly from white sand beaches and the waters of a deep turquoise, surrounded by green vegetation. It's tempting to get into the warm and clear waters and then spend beautiful moments.


Visit to Mahon is recommended as the passage by Fornells, an old fishing village located in a natural harbor with about 4km long and 2km wide. In the old town there are the whitewashed houses and the church dedicated to St. Anthony, built in the year 1650.



At the beginning of the harbor is the tower defense and La Mola which has an ecosystem with great ecological value. Very famous is also its gastronomy, like fish and seafood. The main specialty is the "Caldereta Langosta", which accompanied by a good wine in this idyllic setting, leave memories for a long time...


terça-feira, 12 de julho de 2016

Palma, Majorca, Spain - Warm waters and frantic rhythms




Discovering the islands and volcanoes in the Mediterranean leads us to know special and fascinating sites, and mingle with local people.
The Balearic Islands with its warm waters of a deep blue invite immediately to prolonged baths. 


The island of Palma de Majorca, for its vastness, lets you choose the tranquility of the most isolated places or entertainment venues much frequented. Entertainment options are many and it is important to make a panoramic visit to the island. There are several tours available or alternatively if you choose to make a more independent route by renting a car, which is relatively cheap. In a day you can cross the island and discover its charms, some of which are less known and desirable to explore.
But if the warm water beaches appeal to beautiful baths, the city of Palma invites you to visit the castle of Bellver, at the top of the hill, about 112m sea level, which overlooks the promenade, the port and downtown Palma. Bellver means "Beautiful View" and in fact the name is well suited.


On the main streets there are many points of interest like Paseo Bom, the Gran Hotel, the Grand Theatre and the Rambla with its Typical Flower Market.
We find in Palma the second largest Gothic Cathedral in Spain. With its 750 year history is a remarkable monument.


La Cartuja is a former monastery where you can feel the harmony of Chopin's works that the musician developed when he stayed here in the many winters, to play and compose some of his works.

terça-feira, 5 de julho de 2016

Islands and Volcanoes of the Mediterranean - The serene and magnificent





Behind a trip there is always a motivation! Adrenaline rises when comes the desire to meet new lands, people, cuisine, customs, ways of seeing the world... whatever the reason there are some destinations that evoke emotions and unique wonders.
Travelling the Mediterranean Islands and Volcanoes calls immediately to romanticism and the spectacular beauty of the landscapes as diverse as serene islands surrounded by clear and warm waters; And volcanoes with all the amazing strength of its eruptions, that when they cease leave the landscape destruction and the abundant lava that fertilizes the earth in a strong invitation to flourish and be reborn.