Bleach2Beach

Bonjour from our first stop in France! It’s the 2nd largest city and filled with wonderful sights. The city can be a bit of a challenge as all the streets go from the port up to the highest points of the city. It’s definitely been a great calf and leg workout. Our wonderful host gave us some great tips on what to see and do as we decided to tour this one on our own. Our cute apartment was just steps away from Norte Dame de la Garde (the highest point of the city), the views were amazing and you got to see the 360 degrees of Marseille. We have been walking so much that my Apple Watch died both days before the end of the day. We have easily done 30,000 steps each day here. Everyone always asks about the food, and how can you go wrong in the South of France with €0.39 croissants, savoury cheese and fresh fish. Rob and I shared a French cheese charcuterie board served with a fresh baguette that was out of this world. There was one soft cheese that we absolutely loved, I asked our

Saħħa (Cheers in Maltese!)! I truly don't know how more people haven't made it to this unique island. The Maltese people are so friendly and kind. We felt right at home from the minute we were picked up at the airport. Our first stop was the beautiful island of Gozo where we stayed right by the sea in a small town called Zebbug. We were literally steps away from a lovely port with local restaurants, bars and beaches. The best part was being able to spend time with my cousins from Portugal (Sandra and Carlos), who met up with us for this leg of our trip. Matteo and his friend Kolton also made a weekend getaway to Malta to be part of the group since the flights are so short and inexpensive from Rome. The weather was absolutely perfect for our boat tour around Gozo with several stops including the famous Blue Lagoon and some magical caves. The colour of the water was unreal and making these memories with some of my favourite people was priceless. The adventure continued as w

Travelling through the Sicilian countryside was a wonderful balance of sea and mountain landscapes. Our driver very proudly showed us some of the highlights as well as a charming little fishing village. I finally had my first Sicilian Granita, lemon of course since the island is filled with lemon trees. It was a refreshing way to quench your thirst on a hot day before heading to Nota, Syracuse and Ortigia! Our next adventure took us to Mount Etna, where our fabulous guide Saro gave Rob more facts about lava and volcanic activity and took us into crators and lava tunnels. Unfortunately the weather did not want to cooperate with us and we were not able to see much through the thick fog as we climbed. We instead got to experience driving in complete blindness due to the fog as our guide tried to safely get us down the mountain. It's all part of the story! Catania was filled with amazing Churches on practically every block, picturesque streets filled with cafes and restaurants!

After a 2 hour flight delay on Friday and a taxi mix up we finally arrived to the beautiful town of Taormina at 2:30am. Our apartment here is just steps away from the fortress walls where a beautiful mediaeval hill town explodes. We have visited a Teatro Greco, lovely garden, stunning alleys inviting us to wander and explore, and breathtaking views of the sea and Mount Etna. We have also stayed fit by taking in some challenging hikes to a near by town called Castelmora (The hike was 529 meters) and the beach Isola Bella. Once again the people we have met have only made this adventure even more amazing. Rob made friends with a British history professor Paul, who took the time to explain all the monuments in the Taormina Garden. I don't know how it happens but we always seem to find the best people. Rob is very excited to share his new FACTS with you so be prepared! We also had an amazing evening with some lovely young Aussies, who made the night memorable! As you know my love fo