Me in Santorini

Me in Santorini

This photo was taken through an opening in a display of frescoes in Santorini, Greece. I realized right away that the display was not an original and asked our guide to tell me where the original was located. She told me in Athens, so the next year I took a trip to Athens to see the originals. The above photo was taken by my niece on a Holland America cruise aboard the Noordam. A gentleman chastised me for taking this photo. He thought I was being disrespectful, but I really wasn't. I was just having a little fun! :)

More information on the Santorini wall paintings or frescoes can be found here. 

Akrotiri painting - handmade reproduction

Pulling in to Monaco

Arriving at Monaco with our first glimpse of the Casino

First off, I want to say how sorry I am to not be posting lately. I have had some family issues in the states that prevented me from being in the state of mind to work on my blog. As much as I enjoy it, since it is a creative effort, I have to get in the mood. Normally that is no problem, but I have been struggling with a family member's addiction problems. She is now seeking treatment and I am praying a lot for her. So I can go back to doing what I love  ... post about my travels.

So here I am back in Monaco. There is nothing so thrilling as pulling in to such a wonderful locale. I have read about, seen movies and generally pined for my first glimpse of Monaco. Thankfully, it does not disappoint. Many of us were poised holding on to the edge of the balcony as we pulled in on a sunny, spring morning.

The photo above was my first view of the Casino. Wow, and it was even more amazing in person. Unfortunately cameras are not allowed, so I couldn't snap any photos. But Monte Carlo and Monaco are amazing.

No graffiti, by the way. Gargoyles would feel quite welcome though.

Monaco Harbor

Fellow traveler on the Eurodam

On the Holland America Eurodam, we arrived right before the world-famous Gran Prix. I was told it was kind of hard to walk around town due to all the bleachers set up to view the race. I opted for a tour of Eze, Nice and a walking tour of Monaco that stuck close to the Cathedral and the Casino. All it did was make me want to go back. I loved it!

Me at Monaco

I took a photo of me doing my best Grace Kelly. I also got a snapshot of a beautiful woman in a big hat. I love the way she has her bag slung over her shoulder.

Beautiful woman at Monaco