Travel VIP - Helen Szczuczko

THE PELOPENNESE - unspoilt, authentic and uncongested Greece.

Far from the Greek crowds of Athens, Santorini or Mykonos you will find the PELOPONNESE - a large peninsula in the southernmost part of Greece. It covers a vast area of 21,500 sq kms (or 8,300 sq miles). The Peloponnese is connected to the Greek mainland by 2 points - the Corinth Canal to the East and Rion-Antirion Bridge to the north. The southern region of the Peloponnese has 3 distinct “fingers” that extend southward into the Mediterranean Sea. It covers a vast area of 21,500 sq kms (or 8,300 sq miles) with a diverse landscape that incorporates rugged mountains, deep gorges, vineyards, extensive forests and some of the very best beaches in Greece. Just a 1.5 hour drive from Athens, the Peloponnese is easily accessible by car and the perfect location for a self directed driving vacation.

Here you will find the heart of Greek history with numerous ruins, castles and fortified towns are a living testament to the many civilizations and invasions that are part of Greece’s history. Evidence of The Myceneans, the ancient Greeks, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Ottomans, the Venetians, the Franks are at the travelers’ fingertips in the Peloponnese. There are a total of 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Olympia, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Tyrins and Mystras - all well preserved. The 16th Greek Orthodox monastery of Timios Prodromus built into the vertical cliffside on the left bank of the Lousios Gorge in Arcadia is an unbelievable sight.

Beyond the ancient ruins, the Peloponnese offers some charming towns and villages to visit. These include the beautiful town of Nafplion lying in the eastern region. Once the capital of original Greek State, Nafplion old town has cobblestone alleys, Venetian architecture, neoclassical well preserved mansions with the Bougainvillea trees adorning their yards, Ottoman fountains and Palamadi Castle Fortress which can only be reached by climbing 999 steps. The town of Monemvasia is not to be missed. Founded in the 6th century it is situated on a massive, steep limestone rock that was separated from the mainland by an earthquake in 375 AD. This mystical stone settlement is accessed only by one bridge and is known alternatively as the “Gibraltar of the East”. On the Mani Peninsula at the southernmost tip of the Peloponnese is the ghost town of Vathia. Founded by a Venetian Diplomat in 1571 the town became a favoured place for Italian clans and its population grew steadily. This continued until WWII when the village mysteriously emptied and was left abandoned.

The Peloponnese also offers a stunning range of natural diversity. Surrounded by 3 seas - the Mediterranean, the Ionian and the Aegean - The Peloponnese has beaches that will rival any Greek Island. Some of the dazzling beaches such as the Voidokilia and Simos are well known, while others are hidden away deserted gems waiting to be discovered. For the adventurous traveller there is a proliferation of sailing and snorkelling options, hiking opportunities abound on the many rugged mountain trails and cycling can be as easy (through the vineyard trails) or as hard (ascending mountain gorges) as you like.

You can also “eat like a God” in the Peloponnese - the region is a culinary powerhouse - focusing on rustic local fare - including extra virgin olive oils from Messina and Laconia, Kalamata Olives, locally produced Sefla cheese, an abundance of fresh seafood, citrus fruits, Portokalopita cake and premium wines from the Namea area.

In short - the Peloponnese has a little bit of everything that authentic Greece has to offer- beaches, ancient ruins, scenic coastal beauty, delicious food, and picturesque towns - and most importantly - all within a reasonable budget and without the huge crowds.

For more information on the Peloponnese or a custom planned self driving vacation contact me at [email protected]

MADRID or BARCELONA? WHICH SPANISH CITY WOULD YOU CHOOSE TO VISIT? CUAL ES LA MEJOR CUIDAD? 🇪🇦

MADRID has been Spain's capital since 1561 when King Philip II moved his court there from Toledo in order to centralise power.
It is a high altitude landlocked city set in the middle of the Iberian Peninsula. This altitude contributes to the hot, dry summers, the cool, relatively dry winters and an abundance of sunshine year round.
Madrid is sprawling and cosmopolitan, offering a regal abundance of rich history, culture and world renowned art. The central areas of the city are pedestrian friendly with many of the main attractions being within easy walking distance from one another.
Grand plazas, Palaces, elegant boulevards, Museums, world class art collections, expansive parks, fountain filled monuments, flamenco and a vibrant nightlife scene all contribute to the "cultural explosion" that awaits the visitor.
Additionally Madrid is a gastronomic adventure - with traditional tapas bars, historic eateries, a vibrant street food scene, Michelin star restaurants and global fusion spots - the city offers a mix of traditional Spanish Cuisine and modern culinary trends.

BARCELONA is Spain's second largest city and is the capital of the Catalonia region. It has origins dating back to Roman times, Medieval influences and a current, prominent evidence of the Modernism era with the architectural influence of Antoni Gaudi. Barcelona has a unique geography, flanked on one side by mountains (Serra de Collserola)and the other by the Mediterranean Sea, making the city visually dramatic. It is one of the rare places in Europe where a large city is bordered by beaches.
Barcelona is a coastal hub where iconic Gaudi architecture, Gothic cathedrals, coastal charm, bustling markets, vibrant distinct neighborhoods - such as the Gothic Quarter, El Born and L'Eixample and a Catalan culture harmoniously co-exist.
It also boasts an awesome food scene, offering a delicious mix of Catalan dishes, Spanish classes and International flavors.
With its unique architecture, over 3 miles of sandy beaches and its irresistible relaxed Mediterranean vibe, Barcelona is heavily driven by tourism - resulting in serious crowds and high prices.

My recommendation would be to visit both cities! For more information contact me on [email protected] or https://www.travelleaders.com/agent/48973

THE ISLANDS OF BRITAIN
Britain is home to an astonishing range of more than 40 islands dotting her coastline. These range from the sheltered, sunkissed islands of the south coast, to the beautiful, hardy outposts off the north and west coasts of Scotland and Wales. Each has its own individual character and charm and are a well worth addition to any trip to Britain.
Here are 3 of the best - and all can be reached by road or ferry from the British mainland and do not require a flight.

THE ISLE OF WIGHT
Located just off the south coast of England, the island is only 2 hours door to door from London via ferry or hovercraft. Featuring a mild temperate climate the Isle of Wight is a good destination year round. Some of the main attractions include royal residences (Queen Victoria's summer residence Osbourne House), ancient churches, sand and shingle beaches, the iconic Needles stack ( 3 huge, white chalk rocks, guarded by a 19th-century lighthouse), the Shanklin Gorge and a huge selection of watersports. Hiking and cycling the diverse landscapes and well maintained trails are also a popular choice. The Isle of Wight has something for everyone.

ISLE OF SKYE
The Isle of Skye is located on the west coast of Scotland and is the most accessible of Scotland's islands being easily connected to the mainland by the Skye Bridge. It is a large island stretching 50 miles long and 25 miles wide and has some of the most unique scenery in Britain. Revered by history and nature lovers alike, Skye's ruins range in age from ancient brochs dating back over 2,000 years to ruined townships from the 17th and 18th centuries. The island is renowned for its striking scenery, vibrant fishing villages, medieval castles, towering mountains, stunning beaches, breweries and distilleries and world class bird watching and walking opportunities.

ANGLESEY
Wales's biggest island is situated off the northwest coast of Wales and linked to the British mainland by 2 bridges and to Dublin Ireland by multiple daily ferry crossings. It boasts 125 miles of shoreline, (dotted with a variety of beaches from long sandy to rocky rugged bays) - and a spectacular 135 mile coastal walking path. It includes, beautiful villages, Holyhead Mountain, 20 listed historic sites and the remarkable 13th century Beaumaris Castle. A full itinerary of festivals celebrating local food, music, culture and the unique heritage of this historic island is available to visitors.

For custom planned trip to the United Kingdom and any of her islands contact me at [email protected]