Better late than never, as they say; this review for Restoran Faro in Belgrade is admittedly long overdue. Our first visit to Restoran Faro in Belgrade happened right after they opened in November 2023, and since then, we've transitioned from first-time guests to loyal lovers and fans. Each visit has been a delightful surprise, with exceptional dishes that continue to impress us and a team that exudes warmth and friendliness. At Faro, customers are treated like family, and this ambiance, combined with culinary excellence, places Faro among the top dining experiences in Belgrade. Fino & Vino have recently added Faro to the Top 25 restaurants in Belgrade, so Faro is loved by all! Every dish served at Faro is faultless, created from the purest and freshest ingredients. A must-try is the slow-cooked lamb shoulder – a labour of love and, quite frankly, the best we've had in the city. It’s super delicious! You also can't skip the half chicken; it will melt in your mouth. Oh, and the freshly baked pita bread, the list goes on. The menu, with its frequent changes, caters to everyone and is sure to satisfy your cravings on any given day. Should you manage to save room for dessert, don’t hesitate to indulge – they perfectly round off the dining experience. The wine list is an adventure within itself, featuring an excellent choice of Serbian wines that offer great value, along with a fine selection from around the world. If wine doesn't take your fancy, the cocktails are world-class, too. As for the setting, the interior and decor provide a comfortable and stunning environment. However, dining outdoors in the garden is a special treat, offering a beautiful space that's perfect for those long, lazy lunches we've grown so fond of. A special shoutout to Mickey for his role in introducing us to Faro and for his continued exceptional customer service, kindness and friendship. And, of course, a heartfelt thank you to the entire Faro team for creating such a warm and inviting space where delicious food, fine wine, and great company converge seamlessly. Thanks to everyone involved for continuing to welcome us and spoil us with each visit.

What’s your travel dream? To visit every county in Ireland, every state in the United States, and every province in Canada. Why not think bigger? How about visiting every country in the world? That’s our goal. Chris Henry invited me to be a guest on   The Art 2 Aging . We gave up our Groundhog Day life in Australia and embarked on a journey that has spanned 92 countries and is now in its eighth year. Our story is one long travel adventure, and I explain how it happened along with some great travel tips on the podcast.

For all our travel experiences, tips on accommodation, dining and experiences exploring Croatia, click here . Zagreb - Seven nights Rijeka - Three nights Rovinj - Two months Pula - Two weeks Plitvice Lakes - Two nights Dubrovnik - Two nights

Join us as we cross the Atlantic for Europe on a two-week cruise with Celebrity Cruises on the Apex - The Western Europe Transatlantic. From Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Rotterdam in the Netherlands (last-minute port change from Amsterdam). Embarking on our 16-day voyage from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on 18 April 2023, we set our sights on Bermuda, charting a course across the Atlantic Ocean and through the storied waters of the English Channel. Throughout our journey, we explored seven countries and ten unique destinations, an experience we're eager to share in detail. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of life aboard the Apex during our two-week Transatlantic cruise, providing valuable insights into our Celebrity experience. Having sailed with Celebrity Cruises eight times prior, our transition to the Edge class ship marked a notable shift in our maritime adventures. Reflecting on our previous Alaskan cruise on Celebrity Eclipse , which left a lasting impression, we found that the larger capacity of the Edge class ships, accommodating nearly 3000 passengers, posed a notable adjustment. Grappling with the full occupancy, we gained valuable perspective on the dynamics of a bustling cruise experience. Our first impressions of the Apex were nothing short of captivating. As seasoned cruisers, we couldn't help but admire the ship's modern elegance—a true floating oasis. The art and sculptures adorning the vessel were remarkable, and the overall design exuded a sense of graceful sophistication. The staterooms, the heart of our temporary maritime abode, impressed us with their exquisite design, ample space, and luxurious comfort. We opted for the Sunset Verandah stateroom, a prudent choice for those seeking a tranquil retreat amid the vast expanse of the ocean. This stateroom features a spacious balcony adorned with two sunbeds and two chairs, offering unobstructed vistas of the panoramic sunset and sunrise from the stern of the ship—a coveted vantage point for indulging in the natural spectacle. Our experience in this stateroom was exceptional. It served as our private oasis, providing a serene space to unwind and immerse ourselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of the open seas. It's evident that while the onboard crew is dedicated and hardworking, the impact of understaffing on Celebrity's ships has been deeply felt, leading to a strain on service levels and the overall well-being of the crew. When a ship operates with inadequate staffing, the ability to deliver expedited service in various areas becomes increasingly challenging, often leading to prolonged wait times and congested dining venues. This can significantly detract from the guest experience, especially in high-traffic areas like restaurants. In such scenarios, dining in specialty restaurants can provide a more conducive environment for savouring your meal and receiving the level of service you expect. These venues typically offer a more intimate and attentive dining experience, mitigating the potential impact of understaffing on the overall enjoyment of your cruise. When dining experiences on a cruise, discovering a hidden gem can elevate your culinary journey to new heights. That hidden gem was Raw on Five , the exquisite Japanese restaurant aboard the Apex. We knew we had stumbled upon something special from walking through its doors. We were repeatedly drawn to Raw on Five, making it our go-to destination for most of our meals. What set this restaurant apart was the exceptional service we received and the consistently outstanding food quality. The culinary creations that graced our plates were a testament to the skill and artistry of the talented chefs behind the scenes. But there's more to this hidden gem than the sumptuous dishes it serves. We discovered that Raw on Five has a secret weapon: a vantage point that offers the most enchanting sunset views. We couldn't end our story about Raw on Five without expressing our heartfelt appreciation to the incredible team. Their dedication and warmth left a lasting impression, and it's safe to say that we miss them dearly. So, if you find yourself aboard the Apex, seeking an unforgettable dining experience, our insider's tip is to make Raw on Five your first choice. From the impeccable service to the astounding food quality and the enchanting sunset views, this Japanese restaurant is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Trust us, it's an experience you won't want to miss. The Fine Cut Steakhouse , another specialty dining venue renowned for its upscale steak and seafood offerings, became our favourite dining spot during our cruise. Boasting exquisite decor and captivating sunset vistas, this establishment truly delivered a five-star dining experience. The impeccable service, complemented by the exceptional quality of the food and wines, left a lasting impression. Our preference for the Main Dining restaurant was the Tuscan Restaurant , which serves authentic southern Italian cuisine, including homemade pasta. We chose it because of the quality of the meals and seating plans. The decor was elegant, and we were always greeted warmly. We enjoyed the atmosphere. Being on the beverage package was disappointing. Each time you asked for something, it seemed unavailable and out of stock, so you were left with a minimal choice. Alternatively, you had the staff running all over the ship to find something equivalent, which was very unfair to the lovely crew. However, without it, we would have also been paying for water, like getting blood from a stone at times. In another turn of events, also due to the staffing shortages, Wayne, my hubby, at one point, walked around Eden multiple times and grabbed all the glasses left on the tables. This mishap turned positive, and we met a wonderful, mature couple who thought he was staff. There was plenty of laughter, and we ordered drinks for them. The Magic Carpet emerges as a unique floating bar in the tranquil evenings aboard the cruise ship. It is elevated an impressive 13 stories above sea level and offers unparalleled views of the vast open ocean. This remarkable platform frequently repositions along the ship's side, offering a truly immersive experience. Weather permitting, passengers can indulge in a drink while perched at the ship's edge, creating a memorable moment that perfectly encapsulates innovative design and a dash of daring adventure. A rich tapestry of entertainment offerings unfolded throughout the expansive eight days at sea, catering to diverse preferences and interests. The ship's schedule brimmed with engaging activities, showcasing preview acts for upcoming performances, elaborate cake displays, and captivating twice-nightly shows. The melodic strains of live music resonated throughout the day, enhancing the onboard ambience. At the same time, interactive sessions such as cocktail demonstrations and wine tastings added a sophisticated flair to the experience. We spent our days enjoying morning coffees in Café Al Bacio, relaxing, having indulgent dining experiences, listening to the talented musicians, and spending time with family. The impressive ly decorated cakes were displayed in the Oceanview Café, which offers buffet-style dining with multiple stations. The menu provides made-to-order breakfast and lunch, with a rotating international menu for dinner. Fear not; the tantalising cakes will indulge your senses, adding a sweet and captivating note to your dining adventure. We were fortunate to have only one questionable day at sea, during which Mother Nature provided peace around the ship as many guests navigated the wild oceans. Fortunately, after crossing the Drake Passage six times recently, we are fast becoming accustomed to such thrilling events. As our transatlantic adventure drew to a close, the allure of booking a back-to-back journey to explore the enchanting Norwegian Fjords over the coming week became increasingly irresistible. Click here as we delve into the seamless transition from one captivating voyage to another, unlocking the hidden gems of the Norwegian Fjords aboard our floating sanctuary.

Join us as we embark on a new 110-day cruise around South America from Miami to Miami. We joined the beautiful Marina ship with Oceania Cruises on 18 December and disembarked in Miami on 6 April. Over 110 days, we explored three continents, 17 countries, and 51 destinations, including a few bucket list destinations: Amazon, Panama Canal, and Antarctica. We look forward to sharing our four months at sea, but first, we share our first few days at sea and our Oceania experience from Miami to the Caribbean. It was our first time sailing with Oceania Cruises, and from the moment we embarked to the very last day of our 110 days, Oceania were exceptional. The crew was and is an absolute delight. The level of care and service was limitless, the energy and friendly nature of all the staff were infectious, and we quickly became friends and family. We also have left with many new friendships from our sailing, both crew and guests, which we treasure and look forward to finding each other again on our travels. The food is divine, and after four months, we still missed out on some dishes we were hoping to try. (If you recall our last three-month cruise with Hurtigruten, they repeated the same menu for two days in the suite restaurant with only three options, and then this would repeat the following week for three months; this was very disappointing), and it was refreshing to be on a ship with outstanding dining. Marina has four specialty dining restaurants (all-inclusive), and each restaurant prepares a distinctive set of dishes based on its culinary expertise. From classic French fare at Jacques to vibrant Asian cuisine at Red Ginger or Toscana, where Tuscan cuisine evolved from rich family traditions, mothers and grandmothers of Oceania's own Italian culinary staff recipes, and, of course, a favourite steakhouse at Polo Grill, all restaurants are world-class. The Grand Dining Room and a terrace cafe (buffet restaurant) serve continental cuisine. A fantastic selection of worldly cuisines changes daily, approximately on a two-week cycle. You are spoilt for choice. There are two private dining venues, Privee and La Reserve (both at additional cost). Privee is an opulent, intimate dining venue that transforms dinner between Polo Grill and Toscana into a luxurious affair. At La Reserve, you can enjoy a unique dining menu that creates distinctive pairing dinners. You also have Baristas with illy coffee (included in your cruise fare) for your morning coffee fix and afternoon tea in Horizons to treat yourself to tea and scones. Red Ginger - Asian (Specialty Restaurant) Toscana - Italian (Specialty Restaurant) Jacques - French (Specialty Restaurant) Polo Grill - Steakhouse (Specialty Restaurant) The Grand Dining Room - Continental and International cuisine (Lunch - sea days and dinner) Afternoon Tea in Horizons Marina, the ship, was built in 2011 and has a capacity of 1250 passengers and 800 crew. We found the ship spacious; you could always find a quiet, relaxing spot. The staterooms are spacious, too, and it was a treat to have a bathtub in the room. The beds are heavenly and have ample storage; you pop your suitcases under the bed, so there is no clutter. We spent much time in our balcony room and didn't feel claustrophobic. We loved the cruise over Christmas and New Year; it was a lovely way to celebrate and see all the decorations sprinkled around the ship. We were also impressed with Oceania's beautiful Christmas gifts: a gorgeous handmade wooden chopping board and a card.

Embark on a remarkable journey with us as we sail across the high seas from the historic city of Lisbon to the picturesque vineyards of Cape Town. Our voyage aboard the Seven Seas Splendor with Regent Seven Seas Cruises traces an exquisite route that introduces us to a tapestry of cultures, from the aromatic allure of Morocco's Tajines to the joyous spirit of children in some of the world's most remote communities. Our vessel, the Seven Seas Splendor, is a testament to nautical artistry. Her sleek design, from bow to stern, encapsulates luxury and comfort. The ship's ideal capacity made our voyage particularly exceptional. It balanced spaciousness with intimacy, hosting 746 guests with attentive service from 548 crew members. Every detail on Regent Seven Seas Cruises is finely curated to enhance the travel experience. The Splendor is perfectly designed to ensure guests never feel crowded, allowing each individual to savour their journey as though on their private vessel. With three specialty restaurants offering exquisite dining options and a selection of bars featuring live music, the ship offers many choices catered to every taste. Our all-inclusive experience onboard the Splendor was transformative. The convenience of an all-inclusive lifestyle where one needs not worry about the little things, like taking out a key card, adds luxury to the cruise that we quickly grew to adore. A highlight of our cruise experience was the extraordinary treatment we received when our laundry was returned—not merely clean but presented in beautiful boxes enveloped in tissue paper—a touch of elegance that did not go unnoticed. Above all, the crew of the Seven Seas Splendor amplified our journey to new heights. Skilled and passionate, each member showcased why they are the best in their field, turning exceptional service into art. This cruise from Lisbon to Cape Town is not just a journey across the ocean; it's an exploration of varied landscapes, cultures, and the human spirit. As we sailed from the bustling bazaars of Morocco to the tranquil wineries in Cape Town, what stood out were the universal warmth and smiles of the people we met—memories that will remain with us long after our splendid voyage.

Sailing into Cape Town on the divine Regent Seven Seas Splendor was a surreal experience. This destination has been on our travel wishlist for nearly two decades. As we arrived, the much-anticipated cityscape, spoken of so highly by others, was nothing short of enchanting. We were greeted by Cape Town's iconic landmarks—Table Mountain, Devil's Peak, and Lion's Head—which majestically overlook the city and its breathtaking coastline, marking our long-awaited arrival in South Africa. Cape Town lies atop a granite foundation, home to 6 million people, and is noteworthy for Afrikaans, the youngest language globally, established in 1925. The society predominantly follows Christian beliefs. Our guide shared some striking statistics about the unemployment rate, standing at 35% overall, with a staggering 75% among those aged 19-25 and 50% for those under 50. Furthermore, 80% of the population are 'Black African', and only 13% of the land is owned by Black Africans. Our exploration began with a visit to Table Mountain. We were picked up from the quayside and taken to the lower cable car station, where we ascended to the mountain's flat summit. Although a sheet of mist obscured our view, it lent an enchantingly eerie atmosphere as we roamed the peak. Table Mountain's highest point is 1,085m. It is part of an ancient glacial valley and the world's oldest mountain range, at 500-600 million years old. Thus, it offers a unique vantage point over the city. Subsequently, we embarked on a scenic drive along the Atlantic Coast through the trendy beach neighbourhoods of Camps Bay and Sea Point. A stop at a local beach allowed us to marvel at the ocean's mighty waves crashing near the shore. Our city tour then took us past the hillside Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, distinguished by its vibrant homes and cobblestone streets, once known as the Malay Quarter and boasting the title of the oldest surviving neighbourhood. The Bo-Kaap's history traces back to the 1760s when Dutch colonists rented out "huurhuisjes" (rental houses) to enslaved people brought from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Africa. The decision to paint their houses bright colours once they could own them marked their freedom from slavery's shackles. Passing the life-size Nelson Mandela statue at Cape Town's city hall was poignant. Unveiled in 2018, it stands where Mandela delivered his 1990 speech shortly after his release from 27 years of imprisonment for his efforts to dismantle apartheid. Our guide shared a nostalgic story, pointing out that the ocean used to reach farther into the city over 50 years ago, evidenced by his mother's tales of swimming in areas now occupied by streets. This initial taste of Cape Town left us eager for the coming weeks, especially our impending visit to the renowned wine region of Stellenbosch. We looked forward to immersing ourselves further in the wonders of this dynamic city.

Trattoria Pizzeria Toscana - Six Visits We enjoyed dining at Trattoria Pizzeria Toscana, a gem that's become a staple for anyone craving authentic Italian fare. From the moment hubby and I stepped into this quaint restaurant, located at 98/4 North Pattaya Beach Road, we were enveloped by an atmosphere that blends rustic Italian charm with the relaxed beach vibe of Pattaya. The menu was a delightful journey through Italy, offering everything from perfectly charred pizzas to the most succulent meats and perfectly al dente pasta. Moreover, their selection of Thai dishes hinted at a harmonious blend of cultures, catering to many tastes. What truly set Trattoria Pizzeria Toscana apart for us was not just the quality of the food but also the warmth with which it was served. The service here is something worth writing home about—attentive, personalised, and always with a smile. It's the service that turns a meal into a dining experience. And for dessert? A slice of their heavenly tiramisu was the cherry on top of a delightful dining experience. All our dining experiences over the years at Trattoria Pizzeria Toscana have been memorable. It is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic Italian experience with a touch of Thai hospitality.

Flamingoes, sand dunes, desert, and moonscapes—welcome to Namibia, country no. 89 on our journey! Arriving in Walvis Bay, or Whale Bay, if translated to Afrikaans, felt like stepping into a new hemisphere; the contrast between our previous West African destinations and here was stark and breathtaking. Today, we embarked on a half-day tour called "Treasures of the Namib Desert" on the Splendor with Regent Seven Seas . Our lovely guide, Arthur, greeted us with his off-road vehicle, ready to lead us through the beautiful, desolate Namib Desert. Our first unexpected surprise was witnessing a flamboyance of beautiful greater and lesser flamingoes. A sea of pink, these majestic birds were feeding just after we left the port. It is home to the largest seal population on Africa's west coast, with 250,000 seals culled annually due to the dense numbers, as there are no natural predators to manage the overpopulation. A large seal can consume up to 25 kg of fish daily, impacting the food chain and posing challenges to the fishing industry. To manage the breeding, they try to identify the frisky older males on the beaches. The culled seals are utilised in various ways: their Omega-rich oils and leather are used for products like belts and bags, while the meat is processed into a smoky sausage. Soon after our Flamingo viewing, we exited Walvis Bay and drove past the impressive dunes toward Namib Naukluft Park. We stopped at a viewpoint to marvel at the 350-million-year-old Moonscape. The vastness and nothingness left us all in awe. After capturing the impressive natural views, we continued past Goanikontes, where Arthur narrated fascinating insights about the lichen plants. Next, we found ourselves bumping and bouncing down the riverbed. This river has only had the pleasure of free-flowing water three times in recorded history: in 1927, 2010, and, more recently, in 2020. Our journey took us over the Dolerite ridge, where we laid eyes on the well-protected 350-year-old Welwitschia plant, which grows just 1 cm every 10 years. Returning to Goanikontes, we enjoyed a refreshing stop at a local campground called Goanikontes Oasis, where live scorpions were on display. Revitalised with drinks and snacks, we set out on a mission to collect a Namibian flag as a souvenir for our fellow passengers. Thanks to Arthur's connections, we managed a quick tour through the beautiful town of Swakopmund. Formerly a German colonial town, Swakopmund's streets boast impressive old colonial buildings. We were all gifted a flag as a perfect memento. Our final experience was a drive along the Skeleton Coast on the dune belt road. The road's name comes from the whale and seal bones littering the beaches and shipwrecks. To our left, the desert stood with its stunning golden sand dunes, while the deep blue Atlantic Ocean stretched to our right. We journeyed along a packed salt road that wove a narrow path between these contrasting landscapes. This 500 km coastal road is often referred to as "the end of the earth!" Afrikaans language tips: Baie dankie – The pronunciation is similar to saying "buy a donkey", which translates to "thank you very much". Lekker – Pronounced "lacquer" but has nothing to do with furniture polish. It actually means "good" and is a common phrase used to express enjoyment or approval. Fun Facts: Walvis Bay means "Whale Bay" in Afrikaans. Sailors found Walvis Bay a good place to catch whales in the 1700s. The Namib River has only flowed freely thrice in recorded history (1927, 2010, and 2020). Namibia's population: 4.2 million (excluding illegals). 2nd largest port is Walvis Bay on Africa's west coast. 2nd highest road deaths in Africa No.1 crime is corruption If you are caught poaching wildlife, you are sent straight to prison Other notable facts include Bushman's salt and pepper, significant oil discoveries in Lüderitz, marble and granite, green hydrogen, and it even snows in southern Namibia. This half-day tour was an unforgettable adventure through some of Namibia's most captivating landscapes and natural wonders!

St. Maarten | St Lucia We arrived in the Caribbean two days after leaving Miami on our 110-day cruise , sailing southbound to South America in preparation for our circumnavigation aboard the beautiful Marina with Oceania Cruises. Let's talk about the Caribbean islands we visited, where we got our little taste of paradise. St. Maarten and Saint Lucia. Day four - Philipsburg, St. Maarten Welcome to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. After two days sailing from Miami, we arrived at our first destination, Philipsburg, and made our way to the Amazon for Christmas and New Year. Seven years ago, we first visited St. Maarten, an island the Netherlands and France share. We spent our time on the French half on our first visit, so we enjoyed the Dutch half this time. After the Spanish abandoned their fort in 1648, a few Dutch and French soldiers hid on the island and decided to share it; soon after, both countries signed a formal agreement to split the island. After a quick water taxi to the centre, we were hunting for decent wifi, so we bar-hopped until we found a great connection. We also had a small shopping list of essentials, so we took this time to prepare ourselves for the next few months at sea. The island vibe was in full swing, swarming with cruise passengers from the four ships docked and the sweltering heat. The beach was filling up fast, and everyone enjoyed the hot weather! We decided we preferred the French side as it offered more quality dining establishments, was further from the port, and was more peaceful. Day five - Castries, St. Lucia This morning, we arrived in the tropical gem Saint Lucia, a small Caribbean island 27 miles long and 24 miles wide, located north of Barbados. We were docked in Castries, where we could wander off the ship to explore the nearby town and enjoy the local vibe. We visited St Lucia in 2015 and fondly recalled finding a local cafe overlooking the square, so we searched to find it. Afterwards, we strolled the streets, saying hello to all the vibrant and friendly locals and discovering St Lucia was home to a few Nobel prize winners. We discovered a familiar balcony cafe, although we soon realised it was different. We were previously docked on another part of the island; we later determined the restaurant we were looking for was another island entirely. We settled in all the same and enjoyed one of the most delicious coffees; we had to stay for two. We loved feeling part of the local life and watching everyone go about their day, the best way to immerse yourself into a new destination. After we were caffeinated, we took to the streets and enjoyed visiting the local market; everyone was super friendly and exuded the island's chilled-out vibe. Once we had reached our limit with the heat, we snuck back to the ship for lunch and then were spoilt with a golden hour sail-away, capturing the tropical gem of an island in the sunset. Thank you, St Lucia, for welcoming us back. Join us for our next chapter, 'Brazil', as we embrace and explore the Amazon over Christmas and New Year with Oceania Cruises on our 110-day voyage around South America.