Jodhpur – the Blue City of the Maharajahs

“Where from? Where from?” It is the 4217^th “Where from?” I have heard since I got to India. It is the standard question which a vendor or a would-be guide uses to try to start a conversation with His Royal Highness, the Foreign Tourist, who would be me. “I am from Bhutan”, I answer bluntly. “It’s impossible” retorts the seller, amazed. “Yes, I am the adopted son of Bhutan’s King, the best friend of the Crown Prince and the fifth in line to inherit the crown.” The seller is left bewildered. Although I will often hear the word Bhutan around me, no seller will ask me where I come from again… Welcome to India ! Welcome to Jodhpur !

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Winter in the Golden Triangle of Andalusia

For many, Spain is one of the most appealing holiday destinations. When you think of summer, think about the Mediterranean waves that beat Costa del Sol, Costa Brava and all other Costa’s. In addition, the beautiful cities of Spain are also a true magnet. But in winter, what can you do in Spain in wintertime? Well, if you want an exotic holiday for New Year’s Eve and you do not want to travel too far away from Europe, Andalusia is the right place – you will enjoy sun, it will be warm, and you will see oranges in the trees… but you’ll be mostly amazed by the fusion of European culture with the Arab one in the beautiful golden Triangle of Andalusia –  Granada, Seville, Cordoba. Few years ago, I spent my Christmas holiday in Andalusia and it was a real pleasure.

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Cancun – the Spring Break capital on the Costa Maya

In the ’60s, here was only an island full of mangroves where fishermen used to venture in search of crawfish and other goodies… It was an idyllic and deserted place, a green strip of land between the sea and the lagoon… That until the moment a brilliant mind in the Mexican government had a brilliant idea … this is where a glamorous resort that would attract millions of tourists from overseas must be born… and, in 1974, Cancun came to life. read more…

Malta – an island so small, so many things to see

If you take a look at the world’s map, you’re sure to miss it. If you take a look at Europe’s map, with a little bit of luck, you may spot it…but even if it’s only “2 by 2”, Malta hides countless architectural treasures that are really worth visiting. First you must know that Malta is a blend of cultures – it is the only European nation to speak an Arab dialect (Maltese language is an Arab dialect), but they are also the only catholic Arabs, and religion is very important in their day to day life. Malta was conquered by Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Sicilians, multi national knights, British, each of the leaving something behind –  on such a small island.

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