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ROME 2 ROME

3 Months & 6 Countries

 Lap of the Med through Italy, the French           Riviera the Spanish Costas - the Pillars of                 Hercules - along the Barbary Coast,       Sicily and the Amalfi Coast 

Photo by Sander Crombach on Unsplash

Disclosure: Affiliate Links - click here â­•

eSIM - Italy📱

eSIM - France📱

eSIM - Spain📱

eSIM - Gibraltar📱

eSIM - Morocco📱

eSIM - Algeria📱

eSIM - Tunisia📱

Trip Details

TRIP DETAILS

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  • Although the border between Algeria and Tunisia is open government advisories recommend not going there. The alternative is flying via Europe and a lot of back tracking. So until the situation improves this itinerary will fly direct from Casablanca in Morocco to Tunis in Tunisia and skip Algeria altogether. It is possible to travel here but you should be aware of the situation on the ground. Do your own due diligence. If you are keen to have a look you could fly return from Marseilles which has cheap flights which only take an hour and a half. Just head off for a few days or more and resume the trip when you get back to France. You can use the information for Algiers from the guide. For the moment it's probably best just to stay in the capital. You will need to apply for a visa in your home country beforehand and it is not a quick or simple process.

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WHEN - 

  • Anytime of the year would do but if you don't want to brave winter (which means carrying bulky winter clothes) the peak and shoulder months for Rome are mid March to early September.

  • As the trip is over 3 months it would be best to start by mid July so that it's not too cold in Italy the second time around. You should avoid Ramadam this way too.

  • Check the security situation in Algeria and Tunisia before you go. Remembering that government advisories err on the side of caution. If you want to shorten the trip or avoid these countries you could fly from Casablanca to Palermo - Naples or Rome. 

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START & FINISH - 

  • Rome & Rome

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COUNTRIES - 

  • Italy, France, Monaco, Spain, Gibraltar, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia

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BORDER CROSSINGS - 

  • 9 - All countries are good except Algeria which needs a visa. (They are looking at changing it)

  • Tunisia requires a hotel booking.

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BOOKINGS -

  • If you book your European train tickets online you will save money the earlier you do it. Things like the Vatican you can "skip the queue" by booking online and save wasting a lot of time lining up for tickets.

 

VISAS - make sure you have 6 months left in your passport and probably the only place you                        will need a visa for is Algeria which you're not going to anyway 😃

 

HOTELS -

  • Most hotels are available on Booking.com unless otherwise stated. This means you can book them a long way out and have free cancellation and no payment until you arrive at the property. Just read the conditions on each one. Hopefully there will be two or three of you splitting the bill. 

  •  Hotels chosen are usually 3*** or 4 or 5 if they are good value. They are chosen firstly for their location, value for money, positive testimonials regarding cleanliness and service and features like rooftop terraces and great views. 

  • Since the end of Covid a lot of prices have gone through the roof. So if the selected hotel is out of your price range click on the location map and choose something cheaper nearby. Or you might prefer something else but try to stay in the same area.

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TIPS -

  • As with all trips you should take US$ cash or €uros for back up and emergencies. You will need some extra on this trip for small places that don't have ATM's. Also there is a Black Market in Algeria which takes US dollars and Euros.

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  • Travel as light as you can. It's a big trip and you'll be getting on and off a lot of transport. Washing some of your clothes in the shower will save time and money. Take a bit of line with you to hang them up.

 

HISTORY -

  • Roman, Ottoman, Celtic, Hannibal, Greek, Genoan, Arabic, Phoenician, Celtiberian, British, Berber, Maghreb, French, Carthaginian, Etruscan, Goths, Byzantines, Longobards, Normans, Cosa Nostra.

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COSTS - 

  • Dearer in Europe and during peak season. Some real bargains especially for hotels in parts of Africa. It's a long trip so pace yourself and your budget. Most transport is reasonable and there aren't many flights involved. 

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B4 IT'S 2 LATE - 

  • Tunisia before the tourists start flocking back in numbers. Algeria before they discover it.

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MAJOR CITIES -

  • Rome, Florence, Turin, Nice, Monaco, Marseille, Barcelona, Valencia, Granada, Malaga, Tangier, Fez, Marrakesh, Algiers, Tunis, Palermo, Naples.

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UNIQUE - 

  • Vulcano Island

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FAMOUS - 

  • The Holy Grail, The Shroud of Turin

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ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS - 

  • Moroccan Riad - Traditional house for the wealthy centered around a fountain and Andalusian courtyard

  • Saharan Desert Camps - under the stars

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EATING - 

  • Northern Italy - Balsamic Vinegar - Parma Ham - Parmesan Cheese - Zucca Tortelli - Carbonara - Porchetta - Abistecca alla Fiorentina - Gelato - Ditta Artigianale (Florence) - Caffe Al Bicerin (Turin) - Tortellini Bolognesi -      Tagliatelle alla Bolognese - Lasagna Verdi Alla Bolognese - Mortadella - Bagna Cauda - Suppli - Ferrero Rocher - Nutella - Panna Cotta - Cacio e Pepe - Roman-style pizza - Bucatini all’Amatriciana - Gianduiotto Chocalate Turin  

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  • France - Aioli - Socca - Salade Nicoise - Ratatouille - Bouillabaisse & Rouille - Bourride  - Soupe au Pistou - Daube Provencale - Pan Bagnat - Tarte Tropezienne - Tapenade -    Pissaladiere - Les Deux Garçons - Papilles by Laurane - Fenocchio’s - Nougat -              Beignets de Fleurs de Courgettes -​​​​ Madeleines - Moules Marinière - Clapassade -        North African Food (Marseille) - Marseille Pizza, Cassoulet - Calisson -                        Pork Charcuterie - Terrines - Steak Tartare - Confit Duck - Apricot Sorbet - Marzipan               â€‹

  • Monaco - Barbajuan - Bouillabaisse - Gerhard's Café

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  • Spain - Paella - Tapas -  Pa Amb Tomaquet - Botifarra And White Beans - Foie Gras - Bacalla - Prawn Carpaccio - Catalan Rice Dish - Fideua - Suquet And Cim i Tomba -        Suquet de Peix, Cim i Tomba - Canelons - Xuixo In Girona - Crema Catalana - Gazpacho - Pescaito frito - Ajoblanco - Gambas al Pil-Pil - Albondigas - Croquetas - Escabeche - Gambas al Ajillo - Jamon Iberico - Patatas bravas -                                Plato de los Montes de Malaga - Solomillo al Whisky - Tortilla, Arros de Cabra de Mar - Sipia amb Pesols - Calamars Farcits Suquet de Peix - Arros Negre - Joell -              Sweet 'botifarra' sausage with apple - Xuixo - Chicken with Crayfish -                        Beef with Wild Mushrooms - Palamos Prawns - Rocambolesc - Can Xapa Chocolate - Esqueixada de Bacalla - Bacalla amb Samfaina - Mandonguilles amb Sipia - Fricando - Anec amb Peres - Calcots - All i Pebre - Arros a Banda - Esgarraet - Bunyols - Gazpachuelo Malagueno - Tarta Malaguena - Ensalada Malaguena -                        Fried aubergine with honey - La Choclaterie - Hotel Don Miguel 

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  • Gibraltar - Fish and Chips - Calentita - Rosto - Rolitos - Sunday Roast - Fideos al Horno - Gatsby's - Torta de Acelga - Japonesa - Timeout Cafe - Jumpers Wheel -              Lord Nelson - Cork & Fork 

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  • Morocco - Moroccan Chicken Bastilla - Tagine - Couscous - Kefta Meatball Tagine - Rfissa - Tangia - Chicken with Preserved Lemon and Olives - Lamb or Beef with Prunes - Harira - Mechoui - Fish Chermoula - Makouda - Bissara - Brochettes -                Orange cake at Nomad - Moroccan Eggplant Fritters - Tangia - Briwat - Casa Aladdin -Tfaya, Zaalouk - Msemen - Chebakia - Sardines - Sfenj 

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  • Algeria - Maqouda- Garantita - Tajine Zitoune - Chakhchoukha - Chorba Frik - Rechta Mahjouba - Couscous - Makroudh - Mechoui - Bourek - French patisseries -          French boulangeries - Moloukhiya - Shakshouka - Korsa - Mkartfa - Tlitli - Karentika - Berkoukes 

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  • Tunisia - Shakshuka - Brik a l'oeuf - Couscous - Lablabi - Slata Mechouia - Makroudh - Merguez - Chorba - Poulet Meshi - Delget Nour Dates - Lablabi - Tunisian Pastries -Harissa - Tunisian Tagine - Koucha - Mloukhia - Asida - Fricassee -                        Orange cake at Nomad - Lamb a la Gargoulette 

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  • Sicily - Arancini - Caponata - Raw red prawns - Busiate al pesto Trapanese -             Pane Cunzatu - Pasta alla Norma - Pasta con le Sarde - Sarde a Beccafico -       Involtini di Pesce Spade - Cannoli - Granita con brioche - Pane con Panelle -         Pasta cu Maccu - Involtini Sicilian - Pasta Chi Vruoccoli Arriminata - Cassata -   Calamari ripieni -  Sicilian pasta - Orange Salad - Frutta Martorana -                     Ricotta with honey - Crispelle di riso - Pane Cunzato Malvasia - Scaccia - Timballo        

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  • Southern Italy - Margherita Pizza - Spaghetti alla Vongole - Arancini - Cannoli - Granita - Caffe Mexico (Naples) - Spaghetti alla Puttanesca - Parmigiana di Melanzane -               Soppressata di Ricigliano - Melanzana al Cioccolato - Torta Ricotta e Pere -                  Risotto alla Pescatora - Neapolitan Pizza - Caprese Salad - Totani e Patate - Polpette -   Pesce all’Acqua Pazza - Fritto Misto di Mare - Broccoli and Salsiccia -                              Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare - Spaghetti alla Nerano - Provolone del Monaco -                Goat Cheese from Monti Lattari - Ndunderi from Minori - Delizia al Limone -                  Torta Caprese - Gnocchi alla Sorrentina - Treccia, Cuoppo d’ Amalfi -                            Mozzarella di Bufala Campana - Spaghetti alla Positano with Tomatoes - Fried pizza - Sfogliatella - Baba - Amalfi lemons 

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DRINKING - 

  • Northern Italy - Aperitivo - Negroni - Campari - Prosecco - Americano - Aperol Spritz - Bellini - Limoncello - Amari - Grappa - Sambuca - Barolo wine - Lambrusco

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  • France - Pastis - Rose Wine - Cognac - Absinthe - Monaco - Mana Espresso -          Noilly Prat - Dry Vermouth - Picon - Ricar

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  • Monaco - Pastis - Beer with coriander - La Cervoise - La Segurane

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  • Spain - Sangria - Sherry - Cerveza - Agua De Valencia - Rebujito - Cava - Kalimotxo - Queimada - Orxata - Vermut - Carajillo - Clara - Horchata - Tarongino - Vichy Catalan - Melody - Licor 43 - Aromes de Montserrat​ - Anís del Mono - Rom Cremat -  Ratafia

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  • Gibraltar - Rockocoa - Lord Nelson - Top of the Rock Café - Jury's Café & Wine Bar 

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  • Morocco - Mint Tea - Citrus Juice - Almond milkshake - Alcohol is available but expensive. It may pay to bring some duty free with you. Tourists can drink outside but locals have to drink inside. Without windows!

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  • Algeria - Mint Tea - Coffee - Wine - Fresh OJ, - Heineken - Casablanca -                  Stork and Flag beers -  drinking in public and near a mosque are not done. Women should be wary about drinking with Moroccan men, Cafe Tontonville

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  • Tunisia - Maghrebi Mint Tea with pine nuts or almonds -  Boukha - Coffee -                Fruit juices - freshly squeezed lemon drinks - Thibarine - Pastis - Condor Hammamet -  Local wine making industry is 2000 years old, Celtia is local beer. You can buy alcohol from supermarkets and Liqour Shops

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  • Sicily - Malvasia Wine - Digestivo - Freshly squeezed orange juice - Marsala -        Amaro Averna 

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  • Southern Italy - Doc Tramont - Doc Ravello - Doc Furore - the True Limoncello -      Aperol Sprit - Coffee - Nocciola - Gambrinus - Lemon Granita - Lemonade Cocktail - Prosecco - Negroni - Bellini

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NIGHTLIFE - 

  • Northern Italy - ROME (Piazza Navona, Testaccio), Florence

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  • France - NICE (Old Town, Pub Crawl)

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  • Spain - BARCELONA (Gothic Quarter, El Born, Los Ramblas, El Raval, Gracia, Eixample, Port Olimpic)                                                                                           VALENCIA (Barrio El Carmen, Port and beach area, Av d'Arago Juan Llorens, Plaza Canovas, Barrio de Ruzafa, Benimaclet, Plaza del Cedro,    City of Arts and Sciences complex)                                                                                                    GRANADA (Free tapas, lots of students, Plaza Nueva & Plaza Bib-Rambla, Calle Elvira, Calle Pedro Antonio, Flamenco shows)                                                                              MALAGA (a maze of tapas bars and cellars, Plaza Mitjana, Plaza Uncibay,                    La Malagueta El Palo y Pedregalejo)                                                                     

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  • Gibraltar - British Pubs with a touch of the Spanish, lots of pubs in Main Street - good place for a pub crawl, Casemates Square is lively on weekends 

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  • Morocco - TANGIER (Unfortunately the night life has calmed down a bit since it's heyday but you can still find a bit of action in the cafes, bars and hotel bars, have a drink at the bar that inspired Rick's Cafe in the movie Casablanca) Cafe Hafa MARRAKECH (Paradise at the Hotel Pullman Mansour Edhabi)

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  • Algeria - Look for discos in hotels with live music. 

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  • Tunisia - In TUNIS head down to Marsa and Gammarth on the coast. Plenty about in the resort towns

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  • Sicily - Beach bars - PALERMO is the place for nightlife but it is scattered around. TAORMINA a number of bars in the town centre.

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  • Southern Italy - POSITANO has the main nightlife on the Amalfi Coast - there are some bars with stunning views and the most famous nightclub on the coast is down the road at PRAIANO. Africana is set in a cave down by the sea has been there since 1962 and has had many famous guests.                                                                                NAPLES  (Centro Storico, Vomero hill, Baretti di Chiaia, Pozzuoli, Lungomare Caracciolo, Mergellina)

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BEACHES - 

  • Nice, Cannes, St Tropez, Montpellier, Barcelona, Sitges, Valencia, Malaga, Tangier, Annaba, Tunis, Sousse, Monastir, Mondello, Cefalu, Taormina, Vulcano, Amalfi Coast, Positano, Furore, Naples

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MOUNTAINS - 

  • ​Monte Musine, Atlas, Etna, Gran Cratere Volcano,                                               Vesuvius

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WALKS - 

  • Mount Etna

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FITNESS LEVEL - 

  • Low

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HARD STUFF - 

  • Heat, pushy touts, European prices

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SAFETY - 

  • Check situation in Algeria and Tunisia.

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SOUVENIRS - 

  • Quality Balsamic from Modena, From the Supercar factory / museums, Exquisite Chocolate in Turin, Soccer Memorabilia, Etna lava stone products, Coppa Style Hats, Molds for Frutta Martorana, Modica Chocolate, Martorana Fruit, Mafia souvenirs - not recommended, Christmas Ornaments make a good souvenir, get them from from Via San Gregorio Armeno - Naples - Pulcinella Products, Masquerade Masks

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  • Olive Oil from Nice, Monaco Grand Prix t-shirts, Marseille de Savon -  soap, Lavender products, Papalines d'Avignon liqueur chocolates, Jams 

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  • Gaudi related at La Sagrada Familia, Gaudi Lizard, FC Barcelona Jersey, Hand painted fans - Valencia, Flamenco fans, Toy Bulls, Alhambra items, Granada means Pomegranate and there are all types of momentos, Bota - Wineskin, Picasso items at the museum gift shop

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  • Gibraltar Rock, Cuddly Barbary Macaques, T-shirts

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  • Morocco - Market Bags, Fez Hats, Tagines, Fossils, Turbans, Mint Tea, Moroccan Tea set, Rose Oil, Hand of Fatima. Marrakech has the best leather on the planet

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  •  Algeria - Keftah tajine sweets, carpets

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  • Tunisia - Saharan fridge magnets, Harissa, Rose of the Desert, souvenirs crafted from Jasmine

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FLIGHTS -

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Once you have bought your airline tickets get some travel insurance to cover yourself

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Avenir Light is a clean and stylish font favored by designers. It's easy on the eyes and a great go-to font for titles, paragraphs & more.

 

SHOPPING - 

  • Where the Pope shops, Limoncello, Lemon soap and other Lemon products from the Amalfi Coast, Italian leather, Sandals from Positano, Palermo - Marionettes, Coffa Bags, silk scarves and ties, marmalades, Liqueurs, La Vucciria - market Palermo, Capo and Ballaro - markets Palermo, Sapori di Positano on Via dei Mulini, Carthusia perfume, Naples - Via Toledo

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  • La Condamine Market in Monaco, Montpellier peasant market 

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  • Espardenyes - comfy Spanish footwear, Plaza Redonda - Valencia, Artesania Yuste - Valencia, Lace, embroidery - Valencia, Calle Calderia Nueva - Granada, Granada - Jarapas (rugs), Abanicos, 

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  • Gibraltar is Duty Free, Main Street

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  • Chouara Tannery of Fez, Morocco -  Argan oil, Rugs, Carpets, Bread, Souks, Ras El Hanout - spice mix, Baskets, Djellabas - very comfortable dress that men can wear too, Fondouk Chejra - Tangier, Chefchaouen blankets, Artisanal soaps, Medinas, Damascene in Meknes, Qissariat - Marrakech

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  • Algeria - dates, leather boxes, Marche Medina Jedida, Bab Ezzouar trading center

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  • Tunisia - Sandals, Olive Oil, Perfume, Evil Eye, Hammam towels, Olive soap, 

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LASH OUT -

  • Drive a Ferrari, or Lamborghini, or Maserati, or Pagani

  • Martini shaken not stirred at the Monte Carlo Casino Monaco

  • Positano Hotel with an awesome view

Eating
Drinking
Nightlife
Shopping
Visas
Rome 2 Rome

           ROME 2 ROME - 98N               

Map of your trip around the Mediterranean Sea from Rome to Rome inclusing Italy Monaco France Spain Gibraltar Morocco Algeria Tunisia Sicily

 

​           HIGHLIGHTs - UNesco Sites at every Turn

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Rome 3N to Rome ?N via

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(ITALY) -- Florence 2N - Modena 3N - Turin - 2N = 10N

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(FRANCE) -- Nice 4N - Marseille 3N - Avignon 3N - Montpellier 3N =13N

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(SPAIN) -- Barcelona 3N - Valencia 3N - Granada 3N - Malaga 3N = 12N

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(GIBRALTAR) =1N

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(MOROCCO) -- Tangier 3N - Chefchaouen 3N - Fes 3N - Sahara Desert Camp 1N -                                       Dades Valley 1N - Marrakech 3N - Casablanca 2N = 16N

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(ALGERIA) --  Oran 3N - Tlemcen 1N - Algiers 3N - Constantine 3N - Anaba 3N = 13N

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(TUNISIA) -- Tunis 4N - El Jem 2N - Port El Kantaoui 3N - Bizerte 2N = 11N

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(ITALY) -- Ferry 1N - Palermo 3N - Cefalu 2N - Gangi 1N - Catania 1N - Taormina 3N -                          Vulcano 2N - Tropea 3N - Positano 3N & Naples 3N = 22N

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  • ​​The Vatican

  • Trevi Fountain

  • 4 major Coliseums

  • Florence Cathedral

  • Vecchio Bridge

  • ​Ferrari factory

  • Shroud of Turin

  • The Holy Grail

  • French Riviera

  • Monaco

  • Flamenco

  • The Alhambra

  • La Sagrada Familia

  • Home of Paella

  • Michelangelo’s David

  • Blue City

  • Oases

  • UNESCO listed Carthage

  • Hangout with Tangerines

  • Hammams - bath-houses

  • 100's of great Beaches

  • The Bardo Museum

  • Tunis Medina

  • The Santorini of Tunisia

  • Medicinal Hot Springs

  • ​The land of the Cyclops

  • Sicilian Granita

  • Mount Etna

  • Volcanic Mud Bath

  • Amalfi Coast

  • Marrakech Souk

  • The Kasbahs

  • The Sahara 

  • Birthplace of Pizza

  • Drink Pastis in Marseille

  • Have a Salad Nicoise in Nice

  • Eat bouillabaisse in Marseille

  • 100's of great Golf Courses

  • Pompei and Mount Vesuvius

  • Birthplace of the Chocolate Bar

  • The most beautiful town in Italy

  • The Great Siege & WW II Tunnels

  • Walk the Monaco Grand Prix track

  • Gibraltar Skywalk & Bridge

  • Motor Valley -  Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani

  • ​​Food Valley - Parmigiano Reggiano, Parma Ham, Balsamic Vinegar, Mortadella, Truffles, Lambrusco, Artisanal Gelato, Tagliatelle al Ragu in Bologna

  • Dozens of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a lot more surprises along the way​

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Trevo Fountain Rome famous tourist attraction

Image by user32212 from Pixabay 

Camel trek throught he Sahara desert sand sky dry

Photo by Yeo Khee on Unsplash

Palau de les Arts - Valencia City of arts and Sciences Spain

Image by Luca from Pixabay 

Trevi Fountain - Rome

The Sahara - Morocco

Palau de les Arts - Valencia

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Map of your trip through Italy Frome Rome to Florence Bologna Modena Turin Monaco and Nice
Green Marker

Marker Map

Rome - 3N - TOURS

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  1. Stay at or near the Hotel Trastevere *** - excellent location near the tram stop and all the action in Trastevere, 20 minute walk to the Vatican, free breakfast, bar


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Florence - 2N - Tours

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  1. Stay at or near the Hotel Bigallo *** - in the Old Town near Giotto's Bell Tower.​

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Modena - 3N - Tours

  • Off to the Emilio Romagna region (famous for its food) to add a few kilos to the waistline. So you might as well stop off on the way in Bologna for lunch and get the process underway. See how "Spaghetti Bolognese" is supposed to be. Take the fast train from Florence to Bologna and spend a few hours looking around   and having lunch. You can leave your luggage at the train station.

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  • Continue your journey and catch the train to Modena. Taste some of the world's best ham (Parma), cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano - the King of cheeses) and  vinegar (Balsamic). See how it is made and take a few samples away with you. Balsamic Vinegar from Modena is so delicious you can serve it straight as a topping on ice cream. You should be able to get a nice 100 ml bottle for around US$230. One other local specialty you might like to try is Gelato.

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  • And see what else Modena has to offer besides the best food and cars.

  1. Stay in or near​ the Hotel Europa *** - close to the historic centre, train station   and bus connections.

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Turin - 2N - TOURS

  • Many people are surprised to learn that Italy didn't become a country until 1861. It's first capital was Turin until it moved to Florence four years later. The train will take 2 ½ hours or longer depending which one you take.

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  • If you like chocolate good news, Turin is also the Chocolate Capital of Italy. Turin has given the world solid chocolate (Ferrero Rocher was invented here), Fiat  motor cars (now closed) and of course the Shroud of Turin. It is also famous for  the amount of historical cafes here. The Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile aka MAUTO is one of the world's largest and a must see for car enthusiasts. Turin is also known as the forgotten food capital and Europe's largest open air market. In Autumn Turin and Piedmont are the centre for that most prized of ingredients - White Truffles. You can participate in some Truffle Hunting if you like. When   you're looking for some Gelato don't go past this place on Via Po. Plus some nightlife for your evenings entertainment.

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  • Juventus is one of several famous soccer stadiums on this trip and a tour of at least one of them should be on your itinerary. This one is home to Italy's most decorated club and if there is a game on go and have a look at this important   part of Italian culture. Turin is a very elegant and beautiful city with the Alps in  the background completing the picture postcard look.

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  1. Stay in or near the Best Western Hotel Piemontese *** or  Tomato  Backpackers   ** - very close to each other in a great part of town and close to the train station.

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Turin Italy Bridge river night

Image by Francesco Riosa  from Pixabay

Turin

Avenir Light is a clean and stylish font favored by designers. It's easy on the eyes and a great go-to font for titles, paragraphs & more.

Map of France your trip from Turin Nice Marseille Avignon Montpellier and Barcelona
Blue Marker

Marker Map

Nice - 4N - Tours

  • Off to France and the French Riviera staying in the sunny city of Nice. The train  will take around 5½ to 7 hours with one change along the way at Ventimiglia. Or you could take the bus which is 4 hours.

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  • Nice will be home base on the Riviera to explore Menton, Eze, Monaco (walk the F1 Grand Prix Track), Antibes (Musée Picasso), Cannes and St. Tropez (the Tarte Tropézienne the best cake on earth). Head for the hills to see the view from Eze and sniff your way around UNESCO recognised Grasse, the perfume capital of the world and create your own fragrance. Hire a scooter or hop on the trains to get around. See why it's called the Côte d'Azur (Blue Coast). ​

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  • Hit the beaches, eat the local specialties (Salad Niçoise) and see what the  nightlife has to offer. While you're out and about you might get a hankering for a crème glacée. You could even catch the Pine Cone Train up to Digne-les-Baines or Entrevaux and spend the night up there.

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  1. Stay at or near Albert 1er *** - in the Old Town (Le Vieux-Nice) and close to the beach

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Marseille - 3N - TOURS

  • A train trip around the coast will bring you to Marseille, a city with a reputation  but like all big cities use a little common sense and you won't have any problems. There are fast trains and regular trains to pick from. Stay in the picturesque old port area and do a spot of boat watching while enjoying a few sundowners. Try  the famous seafood soup, bouillabaisse. Grab a boat out to the island prison which featured in the Count of Monte Cristo. There's lots too see and do in France's second city.

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  • Take a day trip up to Aix. 12 minutes on the TGV train will see you in Aix-en-Provence (the City of Water). Known as the City of a Thousand Fountains and the City of Counts. Come and see how the art de vivre (art of living) is a way of life here. Artists have been attracted to this area or hundreds of years and it boasts one of France's finest art museums, the Granet. Aix is heaven for foodies with wonderful cafes and markets with local food and drink specialties. Visit a few of the many local markets. Take a walking tour through the old town with the impressive fountains as your guide. 

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  1. Stay in or near the Europe Hotel Vieux Port ** - in the old port close to   restaurants and the Vieux Port Metro Station to connect with the main Train Station which is only a kilometer away. There are plenty of cafes, restaurants and bars at your  doorstep. (La Caravelle is a good one). Try some of the local  specialties. ​

 

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Avignon - 3N - TOURS

  • 30 minutes on the train will see you in Avignon the city famous as the Capital of the Christian world where the Popes fled to after leaving the corruption of Rome  in the 14th century. A visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Palace of the Popes will give you an idea of the importance of the church in those times. It is one of the largest buildings in the world. You can even check out their private apartments. There are other UNESCO Sites in Avignon including the famous bridge, Le Pont Saint Benezet. Thankfully there is a little train to help you get around to all the sites. Or you could use the bike sharing system, or the e-bikes,  or a segway or any of the other forms of public transport if you like. There are some great day trips from here as well so you're going to be busy. Aviation enthusiasts should not miss the Aerospace Museum of Orange 30 km north of the city. It has a wide range of fighter jets. Van Gogh spent time nearby at            Saint-Rémy-de-Provence in a mental hospital which you can visit. If you go there don't forget to pick up some of the local treats from Le Petit Duc and Joel  Durand. Nostradamus was born in this town. You can see a plaque at his birthplace on Rue Nostradamus. While you're down this way a little further along the road is Les Baux de Provence (another most beautiful village) where you can visit the Cheateaux des Baux de Provence (where they have the largest trebuchet in Europe flinging missiles all day) and the Carrieres des Lumieres. Might as well hire a car and make it a day trip. If you want to go somewhere very special for dinner make a booking at L'Oustau de Baumaniere. Bring your credit card.

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  1. Stay at or near the Régina Boutique Hotel *** - inside the city walls and close to the Palace of the Popes. Public parking for Euros 15 per day.

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Palace of the Popes - Avignon France once the capital of the Christian World

Image by  claude alleva  from Pixabay

Palace of the Popes - Avignon

Montpellier - 3N - TOURS

  • It is an hour and a half on the train to Montpellier. Have a bit of a rest here as you've been on the go for a while and you're about to take on a new country.   Take a day off at the beach. Montpellier is in the largest wine region in the world so there are many options for tasting. This city has a different feel to the other ones you have been to. It has mix of old and modern and has a large student population which gives it a young vibe. The area is famous for wine and food. You will love the medieval streets and the Place de La Comédie the large square (rectangle) that is at the heart of the city with its illuminated fountain. It is like an open air museum and a lot of the action happens around here. There are modern trams which make it easy to get around and they link with buses to take you to   the beach. Or try a Segway tour of the city.​​​

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  1. Stay in or near the Hotel de La Comédie ** - 1 minute from the Place de La Comédie and 7 minutes walk from the train station.

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Map of your trip through Spain from Barcelona to Valencia Granada and Malaga
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Barcelona - 3N - TOURS

  • The train  to Barcelona takes nearly 3 hours. It is a bucket list destination   featuring the number one attraction, the UNESCO World Heritage Listed   Sagrada Familia. There are some interesting facts about the building. Construction started on March 19th 1882 and still ongoing. It's taking longer to build than the pyramids did! Designed by Antoni Gaudi most of his work is in or near Barcelona for you to see. You can do your own Gaudi tour. He was born in Reus which has a museum about him. It makes a great daytrip when combined  with Tarragona with it's Roman ruins and great food scene.

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  • If you didn't make the Juventus Stadium tour in Turin definitely checkout a Camp Nou tour, the home of Barcelona F.C. Go to a game if there's one on. Time at the beach in nearby Sitges can be combined with the trip to Reus and Tarragona above. Hire a scooter or car to get around or you could catch the train.

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  • A walk down Las Ramblas is almost a rite of passage for tourists in Barcelona. Another good walk is along the beachfront on the boardwalk to Diagonal Mar. Don't miss the Mercado de la Boqueria the iconic local market that has been going for 200 years. Have a day at the local beaches.

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  1. Stay at or near Cuatro Naciones ** - on La Rambla in the Gothic Quarter.

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Valencia - 3N - TOURS

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  1. Stay at or near Cosmo Hotel Boutique *** - in the old town near the market,  cafes,  restaurants and bars. A 10 minute walk from the nightlife area of Barrio El Carmen and a mile from the train station.

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Granada - 3N - TOURS

  • You have three options to get to Granada. Sit on a bus for around 10 hours or    half that time on a train with a lunch time stopover in Madrid. The first train takes 95 minutes. Leave your gear at left luggage at Madrid train station. Spend a few hours looking around the city and have lunch. Maybe at Casa Botin the world's oldest restaurant (don't forget to book). When you're ready head back to the station and the train to Granada will take three and a half hours. Or you could fly which takes 3 hours plus airport time and stops in Majorca.

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  • It is said that Granada is a city that should be visited at least once in a lifetime. Perhaps because some of the experiences you will have here can only be had in Granada. Most people come here to see one of Spain's most important and popular tourist sites, the UNESCO World Heritage listed Alhambra. There is nothing else like it and it is huge. Granada also has two other UNESCO World Heritage Listed sites, Generalife (the Summer Palace of the Nasrids) and    Albayzin the old Arabic Quarter.

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Map of your trip from Barcelona to Sitges Tarragona and Reus

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andalusia UNESCO World Heritage Listed Alhambra - in Granada mountains trees building

Image by  Joaquin Aranoa  from Pixabay

UNESCO World Heritage Listed Alhambra - in Granada

  • You have left Catalonia and are now in  Andalusia. So it's time to experience a  new culture and what better way than in an authentic and intimate Flamenco Club (Zambra). The best ones are in caves in the Gypsy Quarter, Sacromonte. You'll also want to see El Realejo the old Jewish Quarter which is covered in street art.

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  1. Stay at or near La Casa de la Trinidad **** - next to the Plaza de la Trinidad in El Centro and a mile from the train station. You can get around by using the hop on hop off Tourist Train which has a day and night time route.

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Malaga - 3N - TOURS

  • You can take the train or the bus to Malaga. Time wise they are both are around the 2 hour mark and the bus is cheaper. If you take the train you'll need to   change trains in Antequera-Santa Ana.

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  • Historic Malaga is back on the coast and is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Of course you'll want to see the house where he was born visit and the museum. There are beaches, gardens and the King's Walk. Once known as the most dangerous walk in the world but it has been fixed up. You will have amazing    views as you walk down the path clinging to the side of a cliff above a river. Visit  La Alcazaba an old Moorish Palace with beautiful views over the city.

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  • The local specialty here is grilled sardines on the beach. Best washed down with   a little cerveza or a nice cold glass of dry white. Which one of these places have the best ice cream in town.

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  1. Stay at or near Hotel Don Curro ***  - in the heart of the city, good for both the Historic Centre, the New Town and only a 5 minute walk to the Picasso Museum.

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Gibraltar - 1N - TOURS

  • Get an early start and catch the  bus down to Gibraltar. Have one last night in Europe eating fish and chips, drinking pints and playing darts in English Pubs before you head over to Africa. Gibraltar is one of the two Pillars of Hercules, the gateway to the Mediterranean. Captured by the British over 300 years ago this unique anomaly of history makes for an interesting visit. Arrive for lunch. Visit the Rock and see the sights. Spend the night. Load up with a Full English for   breakfast and then on your way to Morocco, for dinner.

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  1. Stay at or near the Bristol Hotel *** - hotels aren't cheap here and there aren't many options. Stay on the west side near the pubs. For a cheaper option there is Emile Hostel where you might have to sleep in a bunk in a dorm. Or you could try airbnb.​

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Map of your trip through Morocco fron Gibraltar to Tarrifa Tangier Chefchaouen Fes Sahara Desert Camp Dades Gorges Marrakech Casablanca Rabat and Oran
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Marker Map

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Tangier - 3N - TOURS

  • Off to a new Country and a new Continent today. Take the bus near the airport to Tarifa in Spain, this takes 1 hour. Then take the ferry from Tarifa to Tangier which takes 35 minutes and runs on the hour. Touts can be a problem in Morocco as well as in many parts of the world where tourists frequent. The harassment levels will depend on how you handle them. You don't have to be polite and stop and talk   to them as this is exactly what they want. No need to be rude either. Here is   some good advice to make your life easier and your travels more pleasant. If you're wondering about alcohol this should have all of the answers. Here are   some more do's and don'ts. Mainly don'ts. 😂

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  • Welcome to Tangier the "Gateway to Africa". Stay in a famous historical hotel in the old Medina where Churchill once stayed. It comes with great views and an onsite hammam (bath-house). Many famous writers and artists were drawn to live here last century with the promise of wild times. At one time this city rivaled Monte Carlo and Nice. One of their favourite hangouts was the Gran Cafe de   Paris along with Cafe Baba, Cafe Hafa and Cafe Tingis.

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  • In 1924 Tangier officially became an International Zone ruled by the English, French and Spanish. During WWII it became a hot bed of spies, businessmen, artists and all sorts of interesting characters. Even the Rolling Stones spent some time here. Visit some of the Tangerines (ex-pats) old haunts as well as exploring the interesting parts of the city. Lots of cafes - the Souk - the beach - a Hammam   -museums - the Kasbah and sundowners should get your step count up to quota.

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  1. Stay in or near the Hotel Continental *** - in the Old Medina with sea views, a 4 minute walk to the Petit Socco and an 8 minute walk to the Grand Socco.

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Chefchaouen - 3N - TOURS

  • Take the bus from Tangier to Chefchaouen aka Chaouen. Feeling Blue? You will   be after a few days in "the Blue Pearl". In a good way though. You'll fall in love with this laid back and friendly little place. Stay in a Riad by the Medina in this bright Blue City surrounded by the Rif Mountains. Get lost in the blue maze (it's worth paying for a guide to hear all of the stories). Relax at a café by the town's natural mountain spring. View the sunset from the Kasbah or the Spanish Mosque.  Have enough time here to relax, hike in the mountains, visit waterfalls with crystal blue pools for swimming and visit the Hamman (bath-house). All towns have a central square which are great places for eating, drinking and watching the world go by. There's plenty of street-food to try and the atmosphere and scenery are hard to beat. Don't miss La Lampe Magique and get a table on their wonderful terrace.

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Chefchaouen - The Blue Pearl

  • Walking is the easiest way to get around this compact city. Download the  Maps.me app and relevant maps on your phone. If a local helps you with directions you will be paying for it. You will get a lot of offers for hashish and hashish tours. Even though it is widely used it is still illegal here.

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  1. Stay at or near Dar Yakout - a riad with a rooftop terrace and a restaurant.

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Fes - 3N - TOURS

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  • Stay inside the Medina because the gates close at 7 PM and you may have trouble getting to a hotel outside. There's a lot to see in the world's oldest living  medieval city including the architectural masterpiece Medersa Bou Inania and the iconic (and stinky) world's oldest tannery. There are some Natural Springs and Thermal Spas nearby with possible health benefits for day trips. There are lots of rooftop terraces and restaurants to enjoy sunsets and the views.

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  • Catch the train to UNESCO World Heritage Listed Meknes and nearby Volubilis  for a daytrip. Or you could do a tour from Fes which is probably easier. Smaller and less touristy than it's famous neighbour it's more relaxed and less hectic.    This was once home to the Sultans which means a Royal Palace, the Mausoleum   of Moulay, Prison de Kara and all sorts of impressive structures as well as some very interesting stories. 30 kms away are Morocco's most impressive Roman ruins (another UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site) and 5 minutes away - a pilgrimage to a holy city which has only allowed non-Muslims to enter since 1916. Known as Moulay Idriss it was named after Mohammed's great grandson.

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  • Fes is the culinary capital of Morocco so it's probably a good place to do a cooking class. There are some hotels and restaurants around where you can get    a drink.

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  1. Stay at or near Riad Farah - in the Medina near the Blue Gate with a rooftop terrace, restaurant and bar.

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Sahara / Dades Valley - 2N

  • Time to head off on your three day Sahara tour to Marrakech (There are a range   of prices & inclusions). There are longer trips available too.

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Some of the highlights will include  "little Switzerland",  the Apple Capital of Morocco, Camel trek and a night in a Desert Camp, the  Todra Gorges, Ouarzazate the  "Hollywood of Morocco" where a quite a few well known movies have been made and the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Ait Ben Haddou an ancient mud walled city that has also been the site of many Hollywood movies. You will be dropped off at your riad in Marrakech at the end  of it.

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The Sahara desert sand

Photo by Peter Hammer on Unsplash

The Sahara

Marrakech - 3N - TOURS

  • Get your senses ready because they are about to be assaulted, by Marrakech.   Stay in a Riad near the World famous  Djemaa El Fna (main square) the Night Market to end all Night Markets. Get lost in the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Medina (turn your phone off or better yet leave it back in the hotel safe), see the spice souk, check out a palace or two and just soak it all in. For a change of pace have a look at the very popular Jardin Majorelle and for the first time in history Le Jardin Secret. Yves Saint Laurent used to enjoy his holidays here in Marrakech and get inspiration for his designs. A new museum about him  opened up here in 2017 next to his homes and the fabulous garden he bought in 1980. Soon you will be in the city of his birth, Oran in Algeria.

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  • Fes is the Culinary Capital of Morocco and a great place to have a cooking lesson. You will be taken shopping in the souk and then head back to a Riad and taught the art of Moroccan cuisine. Golfers can play on one of the best courses in Africa and Hot Air Balloon rides are available and reasonably priced compaered to many places. Spend your evenings amongst the madness of Djemma El Fin with it's street food, snake charmers, henna artists, dancers, musicians, comedians, acrobats, magicians and all of the other dodgy characters. Head up to a rooftop bar to watch the sunset and escape the madness for a while. Later on try some of these places.

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  1. Stay in or near Riad Wink - close to the attractions with a rooftop terrace with city views, a garden and a bar.

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casablanca - 2N - TOURS

  • Take the scenic fast train from Fes to Casablanca (was the Hollywood movie the real story?) which takes less than 4 hours. Taxis are cheap way to get to your hotel and get around town.

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  1. Time to have a break from the old towns and maze like streets. Stay in or near the Unico Hotel & Spa Casablanca **** - in the centre near the attractions and nightlife area of Racine. It has airport transfers (charged), rooftop dining, Spa & Wellness Centre, car rental

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  1. See the sights, such as the Hassan II Mosque (with the tallest minaret in the world) - a 5 minute walk away from the Royal Palace in the French Quarter is the Patisserie Bennis Habous that has been around since 1930 - stroll the Corniche - eat the food -  have a drink at Rick's Cafe - and a few more at the Irish Pub Casablanca and other places. Get ready to fly to Algeria the largest country in Africa. Women should cover their arms, legs and wear a head scarf. Here's a few more tips. Organise your airport transfer with the hotel.

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Map of your trip through Algeria from Oran Tlemcen Algiers Constantine Annaba and Tunis
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Oran - 3N

  • Take the flight from Casablanca to the Algerian city of Oran inspired by Nice on the French Riviera. It also the nightlife capital of Algeria. Make the most of it because generally drinking alcohol in Algeria is frowned upon. The good news is it's not so hard to find in the larger cities along the coast and that's where you   will be.

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  • Yves St Laurent was born here and the city has Spanish, French and Ottoman influences as does the local cuisine. When the Nazis took over France in WWII the majority of the French Navy was sent here. It is also home to the lively Rai musical movement. Don't miss the view from Fort Santa Cruz. Spend some time at the beach. 

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  • Don't miss the Octopus Sandwicherie on the promenade - or the El Djazira Restaurant which doesn't look much but has quite a history - including Che Guevara.

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  1. Stay in or near the Melissa Hotel ***** - close to the seafront promenade with a restaurant and terrace, buffet breakfast included, indoor pool and sauna, Spa and Wellness Centre, cafe, ATM, Airport Shuttle - charged

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Tlemcen - 1N - Tours

  • Tlemcen aka the "Pearl of Algeria" or "the Town of Cherries" is a stunning destination with the title of the most beautiful city in Algeria and on of the most historic. It has a rich culture with mosques, palaces, souks, city walls an important mausoleum, a magical cave and many handicrafts. You can get around with taxis  or use the Yassir App, which is like Uber.

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  1. It's only one night, have a splurge and stay at the Renaissance Tlemcen Hotel  ***** - 3 restaurants, bar and swimming pool with BBQ area and snack bar - or for something cheaper there is the ibis Tlemcen *** - with a restaurant, bar, terrace and garden.

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 Algiers - 3N - Tours

  • If you have flown in you can take the train from the airport to Gare Agha which is fast and cheap.

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  • Spend a few days exploring "Alger la Blanche" the beautiful white City of Algiers which looks out onto the stunning blue Bay of Algiers. Head up for a wander around the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Kasbah. If this city was in Europe instead of Africa it would be a popular tourist destination. Visit some of the grand buildings, learn some of the history or cool off at a beachside resort.

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  • ​The local cuisine has been influenced by the Arab, Berbers, Romans, Spanish, Turkish, and French so you are in for a treat. Most of the major hotels have bars and nightclubs.

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  1. Stay in or near ST Hotel *** - in a good area near the train station Gare Agha and it has a restaurant and bar.

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Constantine - 3N

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  1. Stay at or near the Ibis Constantine *** - close to the attractions and has a restaurant and bar. Next door is the Novotel Constantine **** - also with a bar  and restaurant for a similar price. Their ratings aren't good but you might want to pop in and see if they've cleaned up their act.​

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The bridges and gorges of Constantine Algeria City of four bridges

Image by SAMIRBOUAYAD from Pixabay

The bridges and gorges of Constantine

Annaba - 3N

  • Take the 3 hour direct train to Annaba another beautiful city on the coast. It was a part of the Ottoman Empire until the French came along. It is a colonial city with great beaches and you'll have it pretty much to yourself. Lot's of cafes' and restaurants especially on the Corniche along the coast. Spend some time on the beach cooling off. See the Basilica of St. Augustine whose travel quote feature on the homepage of this website. Try out Le Pecheur Restaurant for a seafood meal.

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  1. Stay at or near the Hotel D'orient *** (not on Booking.com) - on the Revolution Square and near the train station. Or the Sheraton Annaba Hotel ***** - which is well located and well priced. It has a swimming  pool, restaurant and bar. 

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Map of your trip through Tunisia From Annaba to Tunis Sousse El Jem Bizerte and Palermo
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Tunis - 4N - Tours

  • Time to cross the border into Tunisia. You'll get the chance to take things a bit easier with some beach breaks and not too much travelling. That's the plan  anyway but they don't always work out. Catch a train to the capital Tunis.

  • Tunis is a city with a split personality, one side is French and the other is Arabic. You'll like both, as Tunis is secular, open minded and one of the most laid back cities in North Africa.

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  • The ferry crossing to Palermo at the time of writing had 2 companies doing it  once a week each. This could change and they often fill up so book it as early as possible online and sort it out when you reach Tunis. You may have to shuffle your days a bit to match up with the sailing date.

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  • You'll want to spend time exploring the historic UNESCO World Heritage Listed Medina and other sights in Tunis. There are cafes and bars in here too. Visit the National Bardo Museum to learn about the history of the country. Go here before you go to Carthage.

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  • Take the train over to Carthage for a day trip to see the UNESCO listed ruins and the picturesque seaside town of Sidi Bou Said - the Santorini of Tunisia. It's a  great place to explore by bicycle. Enjoy some relaxing time down the beach.  There are a lot of restaurants, bars, beach bars and dance clubs around so why  not make a night of it as well. They are north of Carthage and about half an hour out of the centre. Head for the Tiki Bar and you will find the area.

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tunis Harbour at Sidi Bou Said marina Carthage water

Image by aliciacharlotte from Pixabay 

  • A trip out to the medicinal hot springs at Korbous will recharge your batteries   and perhaps heal a few ailments as well. Parts of the drive out there are very scenic.

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  • Taxis are very cheap and there is a tram system which has 6 lines, but watch out  for pick pockets. Golfers who are having withdrawals should head out to the local Robert Trent Jones II designed golf course. With a new country there's a new cuisine to sample. Here are some of the better and more interesting restaurants. Here are some cafes and bars to fill in your evenings, and a few more.

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  1. Stay in or near the Hotel Carlton *** - in a great location in the centre of town close to the Old Medina, bus and train stations and with 2 restaurants.

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El Jem - 2N - Tours

  • El Jem is where they filmed Gladiator and when you see the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Colosseum you'll know why. (It is very well preserved and was the second largest after the one in Rome). Best seen at sunrise and sunset. Take the 3½ hour train down, there are 4 trains per day. Back in the Roman days this was an important town.  

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  • Day 2 - take a day off. Relax, have a swim, enjoy the town and rest your brain.

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  1. Stay in the Hotel Julius **** - there are only 2 hotels in town and the other one is  3 km out and very expensive. So book this one way ahead - get the suite with Jacuzzi and Colosseum view from the terrace. They also have an outdoor swimming pool, BBQ, ATM and restaurant for a very reasonable price. It is only a short walk from the train station, restaurants and cafes.

  2. The other hotel is the DAR AMMAR **** - they have a restaurant, bar, garden and BBQ.

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Port El Kantaoui - 3N

  • You can take the train up to Sousse “the Pearl of the Sahel” and then a bus or taxi 10 km north to Port El Kantaoui - but the easiest and quickest way is to take a taxi all the way. It only takes an hour and you should be able to negotiate a cheap price.

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  • Port El Kantaoui is a purpose built tourist centre that was modelled on the "Santorini of Tunisia" near Tunis. It's a bit of an escape from all of the authenticity you've been seeing. Hang by the pool - play golf - prop up the beach bar and  have a few days off. There are some nice restaurants around the marina.

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  • If you're not UNESCO World Heritage Listed Medina'd out yet there is another  one in Sousse that should finish you off. You could also take the electric train to the beach resort of Monastir. The Flamingo Golf Course is down that way too.​

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  1. Stay in a fancy hotel (which are very cheap here) with lots of swimming pools near beach clubs, golf courses, restaurants, bars and the marina. Stay at or near the Barceló Concorde Green Park Palace ***** - great location with 3 swimming pools, private beach area, full English / Irish breakfast, Spa and Wellness centre, 4 restaurants and a bar.

  2. Or you might like the Hôtel Marhaba Palace ***** which is in a great location and a little cheaper - 5 swimming pools - spa & wellness - beachfront - very good breakfast included - all meals inclusive deals

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Bizerte - 3N - TOURS

  • You have 3 options to get to Bizerte. Once again for the all the mucking around and time wasted it's probably best to get a taxi all the way for a good price. It's a 200 km trip.   Option 2 is getting a taxi to Enfidha-Hammamet International Airport which has 2 direct buses to Bizerte daily. Option 3 is taxi to Sousse - train to Tunis and train to Bizerte of   which there is only 1 per day.

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  • Make sure you get out to the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Ichkeul National Park. It contains the last major fresh water lake in North Africa and is an important stopping place for hundreds of thousands of migrating birds.  The the best time to visit which is in winter between November and February. Even without the birds there are some beautiful walking trails.

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  • Bizerte is one of the more beautiful cities in Tunisia. It has a selection of beaches including Remel Plage the local favourite which comes complete with its own shipwreck. The Old Port is fantastic area to wander around with lots of cafes and restaurants. The new marina has plenty of restaurants too. Other attractions are the Spanish Fort, Kasbah and Medina. It doesn't have a lot of nightlife but you can get a drink at some restaurants. All of these restaurants bar one are in walking distance.

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  • The ferry to Palermo doesn't leave until night time so you won't have to rush off and can spend a good part of the day here before you leave.

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  1. Stay in the Medina in either one of these Dars. Dar Warda or Dar El Kasba Bizerte -  both have rooftop terraces and are in a great location near the beach, old port and   all of the cafes and restaurants south of Rue Bourguiba.​

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Map of your trip through Southern Italy Palermo Cefalu Gangi Catania Taormina Vulcano Tropea salerno Positano Naples
Red Marker

Marker Map

Palermo - 3N + Ferry 1N - TOURS

  • Now your ready to hit the last leg of your epic journey. Climb aboard the Tunis to Palermo Ferry and head to Sicily the birthplace of the Mafia and the largest island in the Mediterranean. There are some great walking tours to get to know Palermo including the street food / history and the anti-mafia tours. You could also do a half or full day tour to Corleone to see the Mafia museum. Or you could hire a scooter or car and drive yourself.

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  1. Stay at or near the Hotel del Centro *** - centrally located in the old town near  the train station, best restaurants, taverns, bars and historical sites. Here's a few suggestions for drinks and nightlife. Plus they have a free beach shuttle.

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Cefalu - 2N - TOURS

  • Take the roughly one hour train trip along the coast to the beachside town of Cefalu. You've been to some pretty attractive towns on this journey and this   could be the best one yet. You still have Positano to come though. And Gangi. And Tropea. Cobblestone streets and public squares plus an amazing view from the beach mean you will see a post card worthy picture everywhere you look.

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  • Spend a day exploring the beachfront and a day exploring the old town. It's such  a beautiful place you're not going to ever want to leave.

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  1. If you can afford it stay in Hotel Riva Del Sole **** - on the beachfront, with a restaurant featuring a panoramic terrace overlooking the sea.

  2. Otherwise stay at Rael just 70m up the side street - it has a fully equipped   kitchen, washing machine and a bidet.

  3. Or half way between the beach and the old town with a beautiful rooftop terrace with town and sea views and surrounded by cafes and restaurants at the Scirocco.

  • All are in a great location and it is only a 10 minute walk from the beach to the main square in the centre of the old town - Piazza del Duomo. And all are surrounded by al fresco places to sit, eat and drink.

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Cefalu stunning seaside town in southern Italy water town cliffs blue skies beach town

Image by DUOTONE from Pixabay

Stunning Cefalu

Gangi - 1N

  • Gangi is the most beautiful town in Italy so it would be remiss not to spend a  night here. It is a very scenic medieval hill town facing Mt Etna. Catch the bus which takes under 2 hours. Work out your bus ticket for tomorrow to Catania while you're at the bus station. Take a taxi from the bus station to your lodgings. Walk around this amazing town and see a few of the sights including the Castle and   San Niccolo Church with its mummified priests! Head to Centro in the evening   for restaurants and bars.

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  1. Stay at or near B & B Del Corso or Casa e Putia - both located a couple of   minutes walk from Centro and the restaurants and bars.

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Catania - 1N - TOURS

  • Take the bus to Catania, you'll have to change at Nicosia. Check into your hotel then organise your Mount Etna tour for tomorrow. Don't worry if you don't like climbing, there's a cable car and ground transport to get you up to the top.  Spend the rest of the day exploring the town and seeing the sights.

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  1. ​Stay at or near the Hotel Centrale Europa ** - right on the main square (Piazza del Duomo) surrounded by cafes, restaurants and bars. Try some of these local treats. The Piazza is the starting point for city tours to see the major sites including the Tourist Train which takes 40 minutes to go around.

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  • When you get back from your tour, grab your bags and catch the train to Taormina which run all day and take an hour or less.

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Taormina - 3N - TOURS

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  • Head to Corso Umberto to sample the local delights in the cafes and restaurants. Don't miss the legendary Wunderbar Caffe which has served the likes of Liz Taylor and Richard Burton who first appeared here as a couple after Cleopatra as well as Greta Garbo and Tenesee Williams. They have entertainment at night time and do a full English or Sicilian breakfast in the mornings. When the sun starts to set head to the Sky Bar rooftop terrace on top of the Hotel Continental. Then head into the centre of the old town for the best nightlife.

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  • Hire a scooter or car and have a day trip out to Savoca, another one of Italy's  most beautiful villages. Have lunch in the iconic Bar Vitelli from The Godfather movie. The town has a few more places of interest including a talking donkey. On your way out there have morning tea at the Penis Cafe aka Bar Turrisi in Castelmola. Pick up a (penis shaped) bottle of the local tipple - Almond Wine.​

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  1. Stay in or nearby B&B Casa al Vicolo 2 - with a rooftop terrace, close to the beach funicular and the bars and restaurants of the old town. Also very close to the Ancient Greco Roman Theatre - it would be good to see a performance if there is one on.

  2. If you'd like to spend a bit more for something special and unique have a look at the UNAHOTELS Capotaormina.

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Vulcano Island - 2N

  • You have a three part journey today but they are all quick and simple. A train ride to either Messina or Milazzo then make your way to the port and a ferry to Vulcano. Check the times and best route with a local travel agent. Vulcano is one of the Aeolian Islands which are UNESCO World Heritage Listed.

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  • Isola Vulcano is the volcano that all other volcanos are named after. So that makes it kind of special. So do the two hot therapeutic volcanic mud baths Acqua del Bagno and Acqua Bollente. Climb the crater, hit the mud baths, swim in the warm waters and relax on the beach. Watch the dolphins swimming while you wait for one of the best sea food lunches around at Trattoria da Pina in the little fishing village of Gelso. You can rent scooters, e-bikes and cars to get around or use the various taxi drivers.

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  • Try these local specialties while you're in the island. There are plenty of  restaurants and bars a short walk from the hotel and some other nightlife to be had.

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  1. Stay in or near the Hotel Faraglione ** - only 50m from the ferry with restaurant and rooftop terrace with harbour and volcano views.

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Tropea - 3N - TOURS

  • It's just one stunning location after another. The next one is is Tropea with its sheer cliff, white sand beach, seaside castle, cobblestone streets and memorable sunsets. It was founded by Hercules after he had finished mucking around with his Pillars. Take the ferry to Tropea's port Vibo Valentia by way of Stromboli. It takes 3 3 hours 45 minutes. The ferries run from June to September and there are usually  1 or 2 per week. If this doesn't work out just take the ferry back the way you came and take the train to Tropea which is about 5 hours.

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  • Just in - Tropea "the Pearl of Calabria" has just been voted the most beautiful village in Italy. It has a lot of good eating and watering places and is famous for it's sunsets and red onions. So sweet they make gelato out of them. You can try it at Gelateria Mimmo or Gelati Tonino Tropea. Try some of these other local specialties as well (some also featuring the sweet red onion). Another special treat was invented just up the road in Pizzo and you'll find plenty of it in Tropea. Tartufo di Pizzo - the world's best ice cream.

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  • Explore the beach during the day and hang out in the old town at night time.  What could be better.

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  1. Stay at or near Le Due Sicilie *** - with a rooftop terrace and a one minute walk from the central square - Piazza Ercole.

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Positano - 3N - TOURS

  • Take the 7.40 AM train to Salerno which should have you there at 12.20 PM. From the railway station in Salerno it's a 500m walk across to the ferry terminal for Positano. Get your tickets, grab yourself a bit of lunch and take the next ferry for Positano which takes 70 minutes. It's basically a boat tour of the Amalfi Coast and quite spectacular. Check the times as they may have changed. Positano is the "Jewel in the Crown" of the Amalfi Coast which of course is a UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site.

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  • Have a look at these places which are in descending order of price. Look around for any specials as many of the prices have gone through the roof since Covid. Depending on the season they can get really crazy. You might have to stay further inland or out along the coast and commute by scooter.

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  1. Hotel Villa Gabrisa **** - the Junior Suite has a hot tub on the balcony.​

  2. Villa Yiara - breakfast on the terrace

  3. YourHome - Relais Il Sogno di Positano - terrace, fantastic view, 10 minute walk to shops and beach

  4. Locanda Degli Dei - in Praiano a 20 minute drive from Positano, sea view terrace with panoramic views over the Med

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Positano on the Amalfi Coast southern Italy spectacular coastline and beaches steep cliffs villas colourful amzing views beaches

Image by Herbert Bieser from Pixabay

Positano on the Amalfi Coast

Naples - 3N - TOURS

  • "See Naples and Die" - so said Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. It is a well known quote which could have been the original bucket list. He wasn't wishing you an early departure, what he meant was that Naples was so beautiful, once you had seen it you could happily die as you would  never see anything better. It's a little worn in parts but these days it's quite safe. It should still be on the bucket list for the food alone. You won't believe this but the Old Town (Centro Storico) is a UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site.

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  • Take the ferry which takes an hour and a half and stops in at Sorrento. Another scenic boat cruise as you first view Naples with Mount Vesuvius looming in the background as a scenic backdrop.

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  • This is the place where pizza was invented, no small claim to fame. The oldest pizzeria in the world is here. Naples also  has many pasta specialities including   the delicious Spaghetti alle Vongole (with clams). Pastries here are revered by Italians from all regions which says a lot. The gelato here comes in playful  flavours. Your taste buds are in for a treat in this city. Naples also has Palaces, Castles, Museums, a six acre Piazza, the best pizza in the world, great coffee and granitas, so start eating!

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  • It has a lively nightlife for you to head out and celebrate completing your lap of the Med. Here are a few bars for starters.

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  1. Stay in or near the Hotel Piazza Bellini & Apartments *** - in a great spot in the Old Town next to Piazza Bellini and the night time action.

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Rome - ?N

  • Catch the train to Rome and complete the circle in just over an hour. Hopefully  the credit card is still working and your dog still remembers you when you get home. Spend a few days in Rome to finish off if you like. Head straight to the airport and leave. Or spend the night in one of the many hotels near the airport depending on what time your flight is. Arrivederci e buon volo.

Nth Italy
Rome
Florence
Modena
Turin
France
Nice
Marseille
Avignon
Montpellier
Spain
Barcelona
Valencia
Granada
Malaga
Gibraltar
Morocco
Tangier
Chefchaouen
Fes
Sahara / Dades Valley
Marrakech
Casablanca
Algeria
Oran
Tlemcen
Algiers
Constantine
Annaba
Tunisia
Tunis
El Jem
Port El Kantaoui
Bizerte
Sth Italy
Palermo + Ferry
Cefalu
Gangi
Catania
Taormina
Vulcano Island
Tropea
Positano
Naples
Rome 2
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