Welcome to São Vicente, one of the beautiful islands of Cape Verde in the Atlantic Ocean, between the islands of Santo Antão and Santa Luzia, about 640km off the western African coast. The chief city, Mindelo, on the northwest shore, is Cape Verde’s most important port. We docked in Porto Grande Bay, also Mindelo Bay, a natural harbour. The island, with a population of around 80,000, is a blend of African, European, and Brazilian heritages. It gained independence from the Portuguese in 1975. Immediately upon arrival, we were impressed with the majestic and unique views. They even have a mountain shaped like a face, which, of course, is referred to as Face Mountain. We had a jampacked day of activities on the Island Discover excursion, with 6.50 hours of new sights ahead of us to celebrate our 82nd country. The morning kicked off with a 75-minute, easy hike from Mato Ingles into a picturesque arid valley, which beat the midday heat and jump-started our hearts. After our hike, we returned to the bus to watch some farmers in action. Small farms were scattered about, growing hand-farmed crops such as corn, potatoes, and beans. We congratulate the farmers on their dedication and hard work. Next up was a visit to a turtle rescue centre, but not before we were treated to the talent of our guide, a local artist who played a few tunes for us and led us in a sing-along. This was followed by a stop at Praia Grande Beach, where we saw recent evidence of hatched turtles escaping to begin their lives at sea. We all sampled the local liquor, pontche, made with sugarcane molasses and rogue, the national liqueur of Cape Verde. After another picturesque coastal drive, those who wished were swimming in Catfish Bay, also known as Baja das Gatas, a lagoon formed by volcanic activity in centuries past. We opted to hide from the sweltering heat and sun to retain our white hue. A lunch spread was next at a local restaurant, where the lovely team cooked us all a local feast; the food was deliciously full of flavours of the Cape Verde Islands overlooking the pristine bay. Fun fact: tuna is €4-6kg. The grande finale was Monte Verde, the highest point in São Vicente, reaching 774m, offering the most spellbound sweeping views as we ascended the rock-made road from the 60s. The views were spectacular. After such a fabulous day exploring Cape Verde, our cups were full. We definitely walked away feeling we understood the culture and the local vibe; it goes without saying the majestic waters and views left us all appreciating the beauty of the island.

We're beyond excited to share that our travel story is featured on Forbes ! A heartfelt thank you to Gary Stoller for beautifully capturing our incredible travel journey through 92 countries over the past eight years. Travelling has been the best decision for us—it’s helped us slow down, reduce stress, and strengthen our marriage, all while having loads of fun and creating wonderful friendships across the globe. Explore the magic the world has to offer with us through our story; check out our feature on Forbes!

As the vibrant capital of Spain, Madrid is a city that captures the essence of Spanish culture, art, and architecture. This cosmopolitan city is known for its elegant boulevards with over 3 million city inhabitants, and it's a playground for art lovers and architectural enthusiasts. Though our visit was brief—a quick two-night stop as part of a more extensive trip to San Sebastian —it was packed with unforgettable experiences that left us yearning to return. We checked into the charming Hotel Regina , a boutique gem with a superb central location. It proved to be the perfect base for exploring the city's bustling streets and historic squares before the midday sun intensified. We had a warm welcome on arrival from our room amidst the midsummer heat soaring to 40 degrees; he was likely feeling the swelter even more beneath his costume. Madrid's culinary scene is as diverse as it is impressive. Our first evening involved venturing to Bloved , where we indulged in the famed Jamón ibérico. Priced at €33 for 100g, this exquisite Iberian ham lived up to its reputation and price, offering a taste of luxury derived from black pigs raised on a diet of acorns in Spain's dehesa landscapes. Exploring the city's vibrant rooftop bar scene was high on our agenda. Each venue offered a unique view of Madrid's sprawling cityscape and a tempting array of cocktails and nibbles, making each stop an experience. We loved the opulent rooftop bar La Terraza at The Principal Madrid . Our adventure continued as we dipped our toes into the world of Spanish wines. The bold and robust flavours proved a bit overwhelming at first, but the sparkling delight of Cava quickly won us over. Determined to experience some of the best local cuisine, we dined at Leña Madrid. Las brasas x Dani García is  renowned for its exceptional steak offerings. The restaurant's ambience, marked by plush furniture and dim lighting, set the mood for an evening of culinary excellence. We were particularly impressed by their homegrown Kobe beef—it was a gastronomic highlight not to be missed. Each moment in Madrid seemed to reveal yet another architectural masterpiece, from grandiose boulevards to intricately sculpted monuments. The city's rich history was palpable, enveloping us in a tapestry of artistic and structural beauty that begged for more time to explore fully. While two days in Madrid only scratched the surface, they left us with lasting impressions and a list of reasons to return. This city is not just a stopover; it's a destination rich with history, culture, and culinary treasures waiting to be fully explored. So, until next time, Madrid, when we can dive deeper into your vibrant spirit and uncover more of your hidden gems.

Sato Cave Hotel - Two weeks Sato Cave boutique hotel is perfect for your stay in Cappadocia—It is the ultimate luxury, authentic, but modern cave hotel at excellent value. You feel an instant sense of calmness each time you enter this divine hotel. We originally booked for three nights but ended up staying two weeks. It was a magical location to work for those who needed to while travelling. We were fortunate to stay in rooms 2, 3, and 5, and they were all pure luxury. They were cosy, with heavenly linen and beds that guaranteed a peaceful and tranquil sleep each night. Room 5 is a must if you want to treat yourself to magical valley views whilst soaking in a bathtub. We loved that the rooms had no TVs, making the most of this unique and beautiful destination. The location is excellent in the heart of Goreme, and it is easy to walk everywhere. You are perched upon the rise and high enough for views over the valley, ideal for watching the incredible morning balloon flights. The breakfast is mindblowing, with a full Turkish spread that is delicious. We loved that there was no wastage, as all uneaten food was cleaned and distributed to those less fortunate in the community. The lovely team is more than happy to prepare fresh fruit accompanied by yoghurt to start your day for those who are a little more health-conscious. Hunker, Ahmet, and the lovely team made you feel at home and very welcoming, full of smiles and positive energy each day. A special thank you for taking care of us for two weeks, organising our horse riding and ballooning, and making our lives so easy so we could experience the true essence of beautiful Kapadokya.

Anatolian Balloons What do the tourist brochures not tell you? Here are tips to get the most out of your balloon flight in Cappadocia, Turkey. So, what traps should you avoid when taking that bucket list balloon flight in Cappadocia? Firstly, it's Instagrammer's heaven, so don't expect the reality to live up to the hype. So here is what we learned from our experience. This is overtourism at its finest. Just over 160 balloons fly each day, with an average capacity of 20 people—that's 3,000+ people per day. So here are our tips to make the most of your ballooning experience in Cappadocia. Flexibility is key. Be prepared that balloon flights are subject to the weather. Out of our two-week stay in Cappadocia, there were only three days when ballooning could occur. The cheapest will be the worst; it's a simple factor: a balloon holding 20+ people will mean you won't be standing in a spot in the balloon that is not behind another person. It's a sunk cost just getting to Cappadocia, so don't skimp on the balloon; anything more significant than an eight-person balloon means you risk experiencing a balloon flight while looking at the back of someone's head. We got talked out of an eight-person flight and got a twelve-person flight. This means three people in a one square metre area. Unfortunately, we had an overweight man who took up half of that space, so I got to chat with the pilot (with no view) for the flight while having a heavily overweight man's body pressed against me. Safety is lacking. Be prepared for the world's shortest safety briefing. Most people were not in the correct landing position, and one gust of wind would have broken several bones. People walk around the balloons, guide ropes, and vans rushing to ferry guests to drop points without understanding the risks involved. We've flown in Dubai (excellent) and Australia (unique), both completely different experiences that captured the magic of ballooning and will get you hooked on this travel experience. We even had one 'influencer' ask the pilot to set the balloon down to take photos during mid-flight. Yes, we are serious, whilst we were flying at 1,000 feet! Now, don't get me wrong. Ballooning in Cappadocia is a bucket list activity. Go in with your eyes open. Anything over eight people in a balloon will disappoint. Spend the extra euros and have a truly magical experience (we paid € 120 for each). Even better, take the personal balloon that hosts two people. You will be guaranteed the flight you were hoping for. The smaller balloons can go right down into the canyon, allowing you to touch the rock formations, put your camera away for a while, and be in the moment. Enjoy the sensory overload and wonder of Mother Nature. It truly is a magnificent landscape. The post-flight balloon experience is a non-event. Be very careful to find out what it means. Based on the certificates handed out, the one parent company owns most balloon companies, and the champagne breakfast is a cheap bottle of non-alcoholic grape juice. Kudos to our pilot from Anatolian Balloons. He was incredible and provided the best experience possible. He was very experienced and could even land the balloon on the trailer. To the couple that selected the balloon flight for two, Sally and I envy you; next time, that will be our choice! With the above tips, you will create new travel memories, and Cappadocia will be a highlight. It is a magical town. Be sure to rise early at sunrise to capture the essence of ballooning over Cappadocia. Watching 100 balloons floating through the town was indeed an experience. We stayed at Sato Cave Hotel , which has a beautiful rooftop terrace to enjoy the views.

Ushuaia, Argentina Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica , deserves more time exploring its many charms. Ushuaia holds a special place in our hearts. After sailing from the North to the South Pole for over 93 days, we finished the epic adventure in Ushuaia in November 2022 to relax, reconnect with the outside world, and become grounded. So, when we returned with Oceania Cruises on our 110-day voyage around South America, we were elated; we could visit our favourite coffee shop, Ana & Juana , and restaurants and fully appreciate the stunning scenery again. We had a few stops in Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica, where you often begin and end the Antarctic explorations; we even enjoyed an overnight stay out on the water, which was magical. It is also the entry and exit point of the Drake Passage, so one is only too excited to see it on the horizon after the crossing from Antarctica. Another bonus is the Beagle Channel, so you are guaranteed some beautiful cruising. Sixty days into our 110 days at sea, we arrived back in majestic Ushuaia. If you had asked us a few months ago if we would have been so lucky to experience this gem four times this Summer, we wouldn't have believed you! Let's summarise the Summer of 2022/3 in South America: Three trips of the Chilean Fjords , a total of four this Summer Two sailings through Antarctica , a total of three this Summer Four sailings of the Drake Passage, a total of six this Summer; some would say we are a glutton for punishment; surprisingly, three of the four were a Drake Lake, and one was 6-7m waves. One trip to the Falklands after three attempts Four visits to Uruguay The abundance of wildlife has been thrilling: whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions, penguins (four species), birds and jellyfish. Each time we arrive, Ushuaia steals a little piece of our hearts; it is a city from a painting. We were beyond excited to sail in and see the fresh dust of snow decorating the tremendous Andes surrounding this picturesque pocket of the world. The ship was anchored on our first visit in January, as Ushuaia was at the top of every cruise ship's list. We were accompanied by ten cruise and expedition ships for the day, so there was a battle to sneak the tenders through and transport passengers into town. We opted to enjoy the day on the ship and let everyone else explore this gem today, and we appreciated the rapidly changing weather over the scenery throughout the day. Upon returning to Ushuaia from Antarctica, the weather was on our side, albeit windy and icy cold. Still, as you can imagine, we were equipped. After exploring the familiar town, we went to our coffee shop and lunch at Casimiro Biguá Parrilla & Restaurant to devour more of our favourite Patagonian lamb, accompanied by a delicious Argentinian red!! As we strolled back in the direction of the ship wandering through a park, we heard a voice announcing 'Sally', and we turned around to see a dear friend from our previous cruise who was on a neighbouring ship, so we were all over the moon to catch up after six months, and knew fate had a part to play. Nenad, it was a precious moment to reconnect in beautiful Ushuaia. The southernmost tip of the world, also known as the end of the world, Ushuaia, is one of the most beautiful places on earth; you can't get enough of the magnificent scenery. We loved seeing it change over the Summer and each month, finishing with a soft sprinkle of snow as we departed for the last time.

Çiğdem'inn Sığacık No.6 - One week What a breath of fresh air! This refreshing accommodation is located in the heart of Sığacık, Seferihisar, an idyllic seaside neighbourhood on the west coast of Turkey. You will be blown away by the quality of these luxurious apartments! The complex is new, and the quality of furnishings is exceptional—no IKEA in sight! When searching for the perfect place to stay during our visit to Sığacık, I was looking for something modern, spacious, comfortable, and cozy enough to feel homey. This was just that and so much more! Upon booking via Airbnb , you are warmly welcomed by the lovely hosts. On arrival, Mr Hamdi, the most delightful and kind man, along with his wife, is onsite to greet you and present the apartment. The team is always floating around in the background but never intrusive about your privacy. Cigdem and Ozgur are divine hosts, full of local sightseeing tips and their favourite restaurants and always available to help make your stay seamless. On our last night, we were also delightfully surprised and overwhelmed by a gift of beautiful fresh flowers, which genuinely melted our hearts—a special thank you to the Çiğdem'inn team for their generosity and kindness. Each morning, you are greeted by the sun shining through the whole apartment. It was decked out in welcoming pastel tones, with a touch of modern art throughout. This awesome nook in the lounge was like a bay window set up to enjoy your morning coffee and bask in the sunlight. We couldn't get enough of this area. It truly felt like home. You were also very spoilt with space. Each evening, you sleep soundly and warmly in the large double bed, which has an excellent firm mattress and an abundance of pillows and blankets. You will love the peacefulness of the quiet village, too. The bathroom features a large shower, ample storage, and excellent water pressure and temperature. The kitchen was a pleasure to cook in. It was fully equipped with the highest-quality equipment. We took advantage of this and made sure we cooked a few meals at home during the week. In terms of location, we couldn't have been more fortunate. Everything you needed, from everyday essentials to restaurants and bars, was on your doorstep, along with the beautiful port and harbour. You also have a 16th-century Sığacık Castle full of fantastic dining establishments inside the castle walls, all within a few minutes' walk. We left a piece of us in Sığacık. The people are beautiful, genuine, kind, and full of a unique and lovable energy. We cannot recommend this destination and accommodation highly enough. Be sure to add Sherlock Steakhouse & Pub to your list for a drink and more beautiful people.

Deniz Restoran - One visit Deniz Restoran is a seafood restaurant in Sigacik, Turkey, with beautiful views of the Teos marina. Being a pure seafood restaurant, hubby wasn't happy, but he survived due to great views, white tablecloths, proper cloth napkins, and the deep-fried calamari! It was the slow season in Sigacik, as it was the beginning of spring. The service was exceptional, and the team was full of smiles. Our only comment was that the service was slightly pushy when you entered; you are whisked straight to the day's catch and Turkish appetisers on display before you are seated. We are the type of diners who seek out a great table and the wine list before we even look at the food menu, which, in this case, didn't exist, so you needed to pop back to order. There is plenty of fresh fish and plenty of it, so you will indeed find something that suits your palate. I enjoyed a fillet of a lovely swordfish, and it was delicious. This large restaurant has two floors of seating, and because it is set up to cater to tourists, it could be a busy restaurant at its peak. We would have felt a little more comfortable if a menu with prices (or listed above the fish) was available; otherwise, you would have been left in the dark while ordering or missed out on some delicious new dishes. Pricing was a little steeper based on our experience travelling through Turkey, but there was nothing to worry about. The wine list included a range of local wines. It was relatively small, possibly due to the low season, but competitively priced, and you would be sure to find a suitable match for your food. The location is lovely and very peaceful. We had a nice slow lunch overlooking the yachts and sailboats in the marina.

Celebi Cafe & Bar - One visit Celebi Cafe & Bar is a small seafood cafe off the Sigacik marina. It is an excellent, cheap, cheerful place where the team tries to ensure you enjoy their cafe. The service was friendly and welcoming. Even with a language barrier, they tried to ensure our lunch was enjoyable and that we had everything we needed. Basic and straightforward food that fitted nicely with the cafe: fresh seafood. They also have meat options available, which we opted for this time. The salads were nice and fresh. It's perfect for people-watching, especially if it's off-season and a cold, windy day; it was also beautiful basking in the sunlight on a spring day. Pricing was very, very reasonable; no complaints. The wine list was minimal, but they were very accommodating and went out and bought some wine for us. How cool!

Liman Restaurant - One visit Liman restaurant is tucked away in the harbour amongst all the fishing boats with great views of the hills and turbines. Open all day and during the quiet season, a bonus for the travellers who visit during the shoulder season. The team is full of energy and provides excellent service, is understanding and attentive to your requests, and is not intrusive. Extensive range of cold and hot appetisers, local fresh fish and seafood dishes, caters for red meat eaters, just a little heavy with garlic; if this is not your thing, best ask for no garlic. We enjoyed some local starters, followed by one of the best seabasses I have ever had. Liman has an eclectic interior; think of a ceiling designed to look like a reef, providing you with the whole seafood experience and works. Pricing is reasonable, and they happily accept credit cards. This one offers a reasonable range of local Turkish wines and high-quality options compared to other dining establishments. You will be happy with your visit and dining experience at Liman Restaurant; we would have revisited it if we had more time.