My 10 Most Memorable Travel Moments of 2016

I can firmly say this year has been a memorable one.

I watched sunrise and sunset in all below countries. I explored some of the cities without a map, got lost but discovered new places I wouldn't have otherwise and met some incredible people along the way.

Here are my 10 favourite moments of 2016 some with links to blog posts covering each experience.

10. SAILING MALLORCAN DEEP BLUE SEAS

I started off exploring the east coast staying in Porto Cristo area. The blue shades of the sea was almost unreal, shifting from turquoise, sapphire, aquamarine to deep blue. Cala Varques, one of the most unspoilt and virgin beaches was simply breath-taking. You do get a real sense of wildness here surrounded by cliffs and rocky caves.

9. WANDERING THE STREETS OF PALMA

After 3 days by the sea, I headed south to be joined by my sister from another mister. We laughed a lot, drank plenty of bubbly saluting to endless adventures and beautiful friendships. After Palma, we headed inland to unwind in Castell Son Claret, luxury hideaway far away from touristy resorts and crowded beaches. In my opinion, one exceptional place to stay if you are planning a trip to this stunning Balearic island. 

8. WATCHING THE VERY FIRST AIDA OF THE SEASON IN VERONA

I am a HUGE fan of Giuseppe Verdi so watching Aida, one of his masterpieces, live in Verona's open-air theatre was really an unforgettable experience for me. And as the sun set, the sky transformed into yet another masterpiece of colour and light.

7. SEEING DA VINCI'S LAST SUPPER IN MILAN

The unmissable attraction while in Milan was a visit to Santa Maria delle Grazie church to see Leonardo da Vinci's 15th century mural painting of the Last Supper. Simply incredible.

I lunched at the stunning Bulgari Hotel Milano, one of the most sought after luxury hotels in the world, and a great place for spotting the best suited and booted and well-heeled in the city. So incredibly elegant and opulent with private terrace offering amazing views of the Botanical gardens.

6. PARAGLIDING OVER LAKE GARDA

Without a doubt the most incredible experience of 2016! I contacted Garda Paragliding to take me on the most thrilling flight of my life. Helmets on, quick run down the hill and off we went to take a walk in the sky. The views were simply breathtaking, read more here.

And I utterly fell head over heels in love with Italy and Lake Garda. Such a charming place with beautiful waterfronts surrounded by towering mountains. Will certainly return.

If you fancy visiting this corner of the world, I recommend staying in Grand Hotel Fasano located right on the shore of the lake in Gardone Riviera.

5. LEARNING ABOUT KENT'S FINEST BEACHES 

I am not going to lie, I was surprised how beautiful this part of Britain really is. Famous for the longest stretch of chalk cliffs in Britain, golden sand, white cliffs and rocks dominating beaches and bays. With blue skies, golden sand and endless sunshine, it felt like thousands of miles away from London. 

More about Botany Bay, Joss Bay Beach, Kingsgate Bay and stumbling across the Bleak House where Charles Dickens wrote David Copperfield, here.

4. DISCOVERING BUDAPEST

Despite growing up only 3 hours away, I never visited the capital of Hungary. There was so much to see - Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion, the magnificent Hungarian Parliament, Szechenyi Baths to name a few.

If you are thinking of visiting the Pearl of Danube, settle in Kempinski as it is very central and the perfect base for exploring the city. And promise me you'll visit New York Café to try some Hungarian classics like Dobos or Sacher cake.

3. SPENDING TIME WITH FRIENDS IN SPAIN

The purpose of this trip to Costa del Sol was to attend my dear friend's wedding. It was such a beautiful beach ceremony, I cried my eyes out seeing them both so happy and in love.

As I lived there for a while, it was great hanging out with old friends and reminiscing about the good time we have had together. 'Oh, remember when'... which only erupted in fits of laughter.

Marbella would always have a special place in my heart.

2. GETTING UTTERLY PAMPERED IN MARBELLA

I found myself in paradise when I entered the incredible Healthouse Las Dunas. Sprawling greenery, towering palm trees, immaculately kept gardens, an oasis of calm that prepares you to lead a healthier and more positive life. Kind of place, that teaches you to look after yourself better from evaluating your eating habits, providing full medical examination, helping you to lose weight, destress or recover from an illness. 

Beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea, North Africa and Gibraltar from the end of their garden will take your breath away, read about my whole experience here.

1. SLOWING DOWN IN HIGH TATRAS

Nothing beats being home. With family. Switching off. Resting and being surrounded by nothing but nature. I have never found time spent outdoors to be a waste of time. Nature is my medicine. 

Special thanks to everyone who helped and contributed to making these trips so memorable and also you, my lovely readers.

One way to get the most out of life is to look upon it as an adventure.

Therefore, here's to new lands to explore, amazing people to meet and new experiences to savour. Cheers!