https://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/11/13/roadtripping-sicily/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_4189.jpgIMG_4189The pedestrianized main street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Its pretty empty from 1-4 when the city basically closes down.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_4227.jpgIMG_4227Trapani sits along the sea. Erice overlooks it from atop of the mountain.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_39961.jpgIMG_3996https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_39231.jpgIMG_3923and pretty beaches.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/screen-shot-2015-11-06-at-3-45-41-pm.jpgScreen Shot 2015-11-06 at 3.45.41 PMOur route.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_7068.jpgIMG_7068The stone walls around Mount Etna were volcanic black.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_7056.jpgIMG_7056https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_7053.jpgIMG_7053Black Randazzo is the nearest town to Mount Etna's summit but, amazingly, it has never been destroyed by an eruption or earthquake.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_7051.jpgIMG_7051Buildings in the area were constructed of the volcanic rock.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_7047.jpgIMG_7047Randazzo2024-02-08T17:38:23+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2018/01/15/2645/2021-07-13T00:05:22+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/07/31/i-havent-been-everywhere-but-its-on-my-list-susan-sontag/2021-06-13T23:35:21+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/23/the-challenges-of-travel/2018-08-28T19:11:28+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/09/23/the-royal-melbourne-show-the-state-fair-of-melbourne/2018-06-12T04:13:18+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/09/23/gday-from-melbourne/2018-06-12T03:30:35+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/09/23/fiji-continued/2018-06-12T03:28:39+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/09/11/couchsurfing/2018-06-12T03:24:57+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/09/16/la-la-land/2018-06-12T03:22:49+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/09/29/tiptoe-through-the-tulips/2018-06-12T03:14:59+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/09/29/todays-big-adventure-driving/2018-06-12T03:12:56+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/09/16/not-pretty-but-it-works/2018-06-11T21:43:16+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/09/16/fiji-election-day-and-the-concept-of-resorts/2018-06-11T21:41:18+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/09/07/how-do-i-decide-which-shoes/2018-06-11T21:25:16+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/09/03/stuff-is-overrated/2018-06-11T21:05:21+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/09/sydney/2018-06-05T00:07:32+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/04/our-life-in-st-kilda/2018-06-04T23:46:05+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/04/life-is-a-blank-canvas/2018-06-04T22:25:20+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/02/of-fillies-and-fascinators/2018-06-04T22:19:16+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/10/28/adelaide/2018-06-04T22:07:15+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/10/22/slip-slop-slap/2018-06-04T21:50:25+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/10/19/bucket-list-snorkel-the-great-barrier-reef-check/2018-06-04T21:35:12+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/10/18/vacation-from-the-vacation-melbourne-to-cairns/2018-06-04T21:32:16+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/10/09/back-to-school-music-to-our-ears/2018-06-04T21:25:53+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/09/27/footy-fever-in-melbourne-my-perspective/2018-06-04T21:20:23+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/07/31/whats-with-the-name/2017-04-21T01:20:55+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/10/19/a-journey-back-in-time-the-australian-tropics/2017-04-02T23:22:31+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/09/time-lapse-a-post-from-frank/2017-04-02T23:16:45+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/10/buy-yourself-a-bathing-beauty/2017-04-02T23:16:03+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/10/lets-talk-about-food/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_4402.jpgIMG_4402and our favorite, the vanilla slice.2017-04-02T23:15:08+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/17/lets-roll/2017-04-02T22:44:18+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/19/final-thoughts-on-oz/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_3883.jpgIMG_3883The Formula One race runs through Albert Park, https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_3824.jpgIMG_3824do the drivers have to stop for the swans?https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/p1030198.jpgP1030198Cookies are biscuits.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/p1030194.jpgP1030194Need a bathroom?https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6893.jpgIMG_6893https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6346.jpgIMG_6346They're very "convenient" and you don't need to track down a McDonald's...https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6222.jpgIMG_6222or should I say "Macca's?"https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_5252.jpgIMG_5252There seemed to be a LOT of dads caring for their kids without mom around.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_5244.jpgIMG_5244https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_5205.jpgIMG_5205Cotton candy is fairy floss.2017-04-02T22:23:44+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/18/marvelous-melbourne/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_57611.jpgIMG_5761https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_5688.jpgIMG_5688https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_5322.jpgIMG_5322https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_5306.jpgIMG_5306I had so much fun playing here!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/p1030205.jpgP1030205Trams conveniently transport people in and out of the CBDhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/p1030196.jpgP1030196https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/p10301921.jpgP1030192https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6899.jpgIMG_6899Fed Square is the city's meeting place, one of the busiest areas of the city.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6897.jpgIMG_6897Across the street is Federation Square.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6894.jpgIMG_68942017-04-02T22:22:14+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/23/kia-ora-new-zealand/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_70451.jpgIMG_7045Our area, Wharewaka, is on the small peninsula shown here, just south of the city.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_70441.jpgIMG_7044Taupohttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_70461.jpgIMG_7046From the lake you see New Zealand's most active volcanos.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_69471.jpgIMG_6947Ever since we arrived in Taupo, Frank has been obsessed with this mountain.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/turangi_mapa.jpgturangi_mapaWe will spend a month in Wharewaka, 5 minutes south of Taupo.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6939.jpgIMG_6939I noticed this in Australia, too. The webs are kind of weird - random and relaxed, kind of like I expect this leg of the trip to be!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6929.jpgIMG_6929We are chasing the end of spring as we travel south...https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6927.jpgIMG_6927https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6926.jpgIMG_6926The view from our porch...https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6924.jpgIMG_6924and again, just beautiful!2017-04-02T22:15:28+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/24/the-perfect-birthday-at-orakei-korako/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7029.jpgIMG_7029You take the ferry across Lake Ohakuri. The water is very warm.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_4492.jpgIMG_4492Desserts were fantastic. No birthday cake for me though -- I'm on this pannacotta kick!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_4491.jpgIMG_4491I usually don't post pics of food unless it's a food post but it was soooo good.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_4489.jpgIMG_4489We had dinner at a lovely Lake Taupo cafe called Victoria's.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6986.jpgIMG_6986https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7044.jpgIMG_7044Taupohttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7038.jpgIMG_7038We had noticed large pipes along the highways and discovered that New Zealanders use the steam to create electricity!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7035.jpgIMG_7035https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7033.jpgIMG_7033https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7032.jpgIMG_70322017-04-02T22:13:33+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/25/the-search-for-mount-frank/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7043.jpgIMG_7043"If the mountain will not come to Muhammad, then Muhammad must go to the mountain."https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6949.jpgIMG_6949and when we take the 3-minute walk to the lake.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_6944.jpgIMG_6944We can see it from our porch just over the neighbor's house...https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7084.jpgIMG_7084Current volcano status is restless. The lake inside the crater is about 30 degrees celcius with mild tremors. But no worries, the eruptions are generally mild. https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7083.jpgIMG_7083At the base of the mountain is the elegant Chateau Tongariro, built during the roaring 20's. We had a nice lunch here.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7081.jpgIMG_7081The drive through Tongariro National Park was beautiful.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7079.jpgIMG_7079https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7078.jpgIMG_7078One of the two ski resorts, Whakapapa Village, allowed Frank the best chance to get up close and personal -- a man and his mountain finally united.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7076.jpgIMG_7076The large summit crater contains a lake but tours to see it can't begin until the snow melts. The mountain is getting closer...https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7075.jpgIMG_7075Near Frank's mountain is Mt Ngauruhoe. It's an active perfect cone volcano, famous for appearing as Mt Doom in Lord of the Rings movies. At 2,287 meters high, it last erupted in 1977. 2017-04-02T22:11:29+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/12/01/auckland-christmas-parade/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7262.jpgIMG_7262https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7281.jpgIMG_7281https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7279.jpgIMG_7279Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7278.jpgIMG_7278Here comes Santa!!!!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7275.jpgIMG_7275There was one marching band.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7269.jpgIMG_7269The true meaning of Christmas was represented.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7265.jpgIMG_7265or marching wizards!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7263.jpgIMG_7263This oompah loompah was so excited to be part of the parade . . .https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7259.jpgIMG_7259https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/img_7258.jpgIMG_72582017-04-02T22:09:20+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/12/01/auckland-the-city-of-sails/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7141.jpgIMG_7141Auckland is much more than pretty buildings and lots of people.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7139.jpgIMG_7139The Steinlager boat which won the America's Cup.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7137.jpgIMG_7137https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7136.jpgIMG_7136Frank was impressed with the waterfront.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7134.jpgIMG_7134There are also a lot of fun areas to just hang out and enjoy the scenery.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7132.jpgIMG_7132The waterfront has many restaurants and event venues.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7128.jpgIMG_7128Much of the area was developed on land that has been reclaimed within the past 100 years.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7127.jpgIMG_7127The CBD is adjacent to the harbor area.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7124.jpgIMG_7124Extinct volcanic cones are all over the area and some provide great views of the city and harbor . . .https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7118.jpgIMG_7118. . . as well as the many interesting neighborhoods. This is the view from Mt Eden.2017-04-02T22:07:29+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/12/03/snow-mountain/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7301.jpgIMG_7301https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7046.jpgIMG_70462017-04-02T22:06:28+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/12/04/napier-and-hawkes-bay/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7353.jpgIMG_7353Late afternoon lunch...https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7352.jpgIMG_7352Mission Estate Wineryhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7344.jpgIMG_7344...overlooking the vineyard.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7342.jpgIMG_7342https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7341.jpgIMG_7341https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7340.jpgIMG_7340Moana Park Wineryhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7339.jpgIMG_7339Skins Dryinghttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7337.jpgIMG_7337Classic Sheepskin Factory. Bleached skins.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7336.jpgIMG_7336Drying and stretching rackshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7334.jpgIMG_73342017-04-02T22:05:37+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/12/08/soaring-at-15000-feet/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7441.jpgIMG_7441So many parachutes at once!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7532.jpgIMG_7532https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7530.jpgIMG_7530https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7519.jpgIMG_7519Smooth, safe landing!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7518.jpgIMG_7518https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7478.jpgIMG_7478ushered onto a plane...https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7475.jpgIMG_7475introduced to my "Tandem Master" Ryan,https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7474.jpgIMG_7474Before I had time to think about it, I was suited up, https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7471.jpgIMG_7471https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7467.jpgIMG_74672017-04-02T22:04:49+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/12/09/worms-wonderful-worms/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/screen-shot-2014-10-05-at-6-1-04-04-am2.pngScreen-Shot-2014-10-05-at-6-1.04.04-am2https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/images.jpegimages2017-04-02T22:02:29+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/12/15/it-stinks-but-is-oh-soooo-pretty/2017-04-02T21:57:02+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/12/18/tongarir-o-no/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/hiking-trail-stairs.jpghiking-trail-stairsCountless stairs, https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_78291.jpgIMG_7829https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7830.jpgIMG_7830The whole area is a hotbed of geothermal activity and there were many signs warning hikers to be on the lookout for volcanic activity.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_78281.jpgIMG_7828https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/warning-sign.jpgwarning signPoint of no return before beginning the Devil's Staircase.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/tongariro-alpine-crossing-ketetahi-car-park.jpgtongariro-alpine-crossing-ketetahi-car-parkThe Ketetahi Car Park, aka Nirvana.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/tongariro_alpine_crossing_nz_hike_7547.jpgTongariro Alpine Crossing in Tongariro National ParkCountless stairs, https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7831.jpgIMG_7831https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7829.jpgIMG_7829https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7828.jpgIMG_7828The zig zagging descent seemed to go on forever.2017-04-02T21:56:22+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/12/21/oh-deer-and-much-more/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8013.jpgIMG_8013Barbara and Murray's backyard.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8012.jpgIMG_8012Grey deer being quarantined before going to South Africa.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8010.jpgIMG_8010Murray also had bees on his land but he said he was afraid of them and had someone else tend them.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8007.jpgIMG_8007One even came down for a visit!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8001.jpgIMG_8001but they were still curious!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7995.jpgIMG_7995they got spooked when they saw us,https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7990.jpgIMG_7990The red deer we had been searching for...https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7987.jpgIMG_7987https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7986.jpgIMG_7986https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7985.jpgIMG_7985One of two American bison. At first, I thought there was a little bison baby too!2017-04-02T21:55:31+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/12/22/craters-cascades-and-carvings/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_7953.jpgIMG_7953Bungy jump area of the canyonhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7731.jpgIMG_7731Aratiatia Rapidshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7730.jpgIMG_7730A hydroelectric dam controls the Aratiatia Rapidshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7726.jpgIMG_7726Aratiatia Rapidshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7706.jpgIMG_7706Although the terraces have been recreated, the geothermal activity is amazing to see.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7699.jpgIMG_7699The recreated Wairakei Pink and White Terraces, which were destroyed by the Tarawera eruption in 1886https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7448.jpgIMG_7448This is Point Wharewaka near our house where we often watch the sunset...https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7438.jpgIMG_7438Traveling to the carvings gave us a chance to see Taupo from another angle.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7432.jpgIMG_7432https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_7431.jpgIMG_74312017-04-02T21:54:34+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/12/30/christmas-in-christchurch/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8211.jpgIMG_8211Christchurch Market at the Riccarton Racetrack - largest flea market on South Island + great food!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8143.jpgIMG_8143The Daleyshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8200.jpgIMG_8200https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8193.jpgIMG_8193https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8180.jpgIMG_8180Silver fern (the NZ national symbol) in the Botanical Gardenshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8173.jpgIMG_8173https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8171.jpgIMG_8171https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8168.jpgIMG_8168The Cardboard Cathedral -- temporary location for Anglican serviceshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8156.jpgIMG_8156Shipping containers were also used to create a temporary mall!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8151.jpgIMG_81512017-04-02T21:53:17+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/12/30/turquoise-tekapo/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_4631.jpgIMG_4631Chillaxing at our place in Lake Tekapohttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_4633.jpgIMG_4633and they even came up on our lawn to pose in the lupines!!!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8254.jpgIMG_8254the shepherding dog statue,https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8250.jpgIMG_8250the Church of the Good Shepherd,https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8241.jpgIMG_8241https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8233.jpgIMG_8233Lupines were in full bloom!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8216.jpgIMG_8216Busloads of tourists stopped right in front of our house to see the lake,https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_8212.jpgIMG_8212Our viewhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/img_3343.jpgIMG_33432017-04-02T21:52:36+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/01/08/the-wonder-of-milford-sound/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8394.jpgIMG_8394https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8390.jpgIMG_8390Raging "Chasm"https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8386.jpgIMG_8386The umbrella people.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8380.jpgIMG_8380https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8361.jpgIMG_8361https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8358.jpgIMG_8358Fur sealshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8348.jpgIMG_8348https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8345.jpgIMG_8345https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8321.jpgIMG_8321https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8314.jpgIMG_83142017-04-02T21:51:32+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/01/09/forgotten-but-unforgettable/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8609.jpgIMG_8609We stayed at a hotel whose next door neighbor had a menagerie including this goat who "baaaa'd " back and forth with Nick.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8607.jpgIMG_8607The deserted city of Invercargill. January 2nd was a holiday so everything was closed up.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8595.jpgIMG_8595Yep, that's a sealion! (Waipapa Point)https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8579.jpgIMG_8579https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8557.jpgIMG_8557https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8554.jpgIMG_8554Southern most point of the South Islandhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8527.jpgIMG_8527Curio Bayhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8525.jpgIMG_8525More penguins!!!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8521.jpgIMG_8521https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8515.jpgIMG_8515Florence Hill Lookout over Tautuka Beach2017-04-02T21:50:46+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/01/12/adventures-in-queenstown/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8747.jpgIMG_8747Queenstown hosts 2 million visitors a year! With schools out, we were here at a very busy time.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8737.jpgIMG_8737https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8736.jpgIMG_8736. . . and our next visitor arrived!!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8710.jpgIMG_8710Queenstown's population is around 12,500 but in the summer and winter, tourists can outnumber residents 3:1. https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8690.jpgIMG_8690Beach at Glenorchyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8646.jpgIMG_8646. . . in the shadow of mountains called the Remarkables.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/traffic.jpgtrafficand LOTS of traffic. Great place to visit but not where we chose to stay.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8755.jpgIMG_8755Instead we based ourselves 15 minutes away in historic Arrowtownhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8753.jpgIMG_8753This ravine is home to the Shotover jet boat. One of their boats crashed while we were in town.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8751.jpgIMG_8751The city reminds me of a Colorado resort town. There is a lot of good shopping, 2017-04-02T21:50:11+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/01/23/hello-wanaka/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8991.jpgIMG_8991Couldn't drive past this charming vineyard on our drive.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8943.jpgIMG_8943We were excited to share some of our favorites with Jenny like the Lake Tekapo area.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8899.jpgIMG_8899The picture all tourists shoot at Lake Wanakahttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8863.jpgIMG_8863We also couldn't let her visit New Zealand without a trip to Milford Sound.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8938.jpgIMG_8938https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8927.jpgIMG_8927Clay Cliffshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8807.jpgIMG_8807This time, it was less cloudy and I could see Miter Peak.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8784.jpgIMG_8784Lake Wanakahttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8779.jpgIMG_8779Wasn't warm!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8766.jpgIMG_8766Looked warm, there are swimmers.2017-04-02T21:49:09+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/01/24/glacial-encounters/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_0147_2.jpgIMG_0147_2Small world! Mike Duckett called out to Frank in the grocery store of the small town (pop. 300)!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8947.jpgIMG_8947We must go THEREhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8965.jpgIMG_8965https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_0937.jpgIMG_0937The hike to Fox Glacierhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8975.jpgIMG_8975Tasman Glacier, the southern hemisphere's largesthttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_8981.jpgIMG_8981Mount Cookhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9049.jpgIMG_9049https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9043.jpgIMG_9043Fox Glacierhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9046.jpgIMG_9046Made it!2017-04-02T21:47:56+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/01/26/up-the-west-coast-and-across-to-kaikoura/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9147.jpgIMG_9147Kaikourahttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9141.jpgIMG_9141Seaside haven of Kaikourahttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9195.jpgIMG_9195https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9159.jpgIMG_9159Seal hot tubhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9140.jpgIMG_9140Soo tiredhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9132.jpgIMG_9132Nature's arthttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9113.jpgIMG_9113Biggest mussels we've ever seenhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9109.jpgIMG_9109The beach, Jenny's happy placehttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9104.jpgIMG_9104https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9094.jpgIMG_9094Punakaiki pancake rocks2017-04-02T21:46:29+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/02/nelson-golden-bay-and-abe-tasman/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9256.jpgIMG_9256Te Waikoropupū Springs (known as Pupū Springs)https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9255.jpgIMG_9255Te Waikoropupū Springs (known as Pupū Springs), discharging 14,000 litres of water per second, are the largest freshwater springs in New Zealand, the largest cold water springs in the Southern Hemisphere, and contain some of the clearest water ever measured.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9263.jpgIMG_9263Abel Tasmanhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9258.jpgIMG_9258Abel Tasmanhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9287.jpgIMG_9287Abel Tasmanhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9222.jpgIMG_9222In addition to growing grapes,https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9217.jpgIMG_9217the Nelson area is the country's only grower of hops.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9248.jpgIMG_9248Golden Bayhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9294.jpgIMG_9294https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9293.jpgIMG_9293Our deck2017-04-02T21:44:23+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/04/dedicated-with-love-to-vanessa/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_93121.jpgIMG_9312Our time together went much too fast.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9310.jpgIMG_9310The home to where all my early letters were sent. Vanessa said the yard was full of flowers while she was growing up.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9308.jpgIMG_9308It was great to meet Dad!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9303.jpgIMG_93032017-04-02T21:42:14+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/05/perth-australia/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_4739.jpgIMG_4739There are also may restaurants along the Fremantle waterfront.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9342.jpgIMG_9342Because it's so hot, people are out and about exercising at dawn.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9383.jpgIMG_9383Much further from shore than it looks, the University of Western Australia students dress this statue in all different outfits!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/img_9379.jpgIMG_9379Kings Park is a 1,000 acre park visited by over 6 million visitors a year.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9376.jpgIMG_9376Trees line the streets of the park and each has a placard honoring a local serviceman.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9363.jpgIMG_9363Although isolated, Perth is a beautiful city with many amenities.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9360.jpgIMG_9360https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9356.jpgIMG_9356A bustling CBDhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9353.jpgIMG_9353We came to Perth so Frank could meet with officials at Curtin University.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9348.jpgIMG_9348The area is very upscale with few hotels. This is their historic "bath house."2017-04-02T21:39:08+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/06/cape-town-south-africa/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9607.jpgIMG_9607https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9832.jpgIMG_9832Signal Mountain. We had an amazing view of the city and the mountains from our apartment.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9878.jpgIMG_9878There are even a couple things that reminded us of Milwaukee...https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9399.jpgIMG_9399even seals to watch.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9406.jpgIMG_9406musicians, andhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0116.jpgIMG_0116Tarzan and Janehttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0115.jpgIMG_0115https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0099.jpgIMG_0099https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0091.jpgIMG_0091https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9392.jpgIMG_9392Artwork in the mall.2017-04-02T21:37:47+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/06/cape-town-colors-and-flavors/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0473.jpgIMG_0473https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0467.jpgIMG_0467https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9640.jpgIMG_9640https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9645.jpgIMG_9645https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9637.jpgIMG_9637Table Mountain illustrated some of the many plants that make up their own floral kingdom known as the Cape Floral Kingdom.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9587.jpgIMG_9587https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9599.jpgIMG_9599Even some of the clothing is colorful!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9738.jpgIMG_9738On Saturdays, they have a special food area that is wall-to-wall people, with drinking starting at 10am!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_98541.jpgIMG_9854https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9854.jpgIMG_9854Bo-Kaap2017-04-02T21:37:22+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/06/great-white-sharks/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9557.jpgIMG_9557https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9555.jpgIMG_9555https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_9554.jpgIMG_9554Bait is thrown. Here fishy, fishy.2017-04-02T21:36:42+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/09/cape-point-and-west-cape-pictorial/2017-04-02T21:36:12+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/17/walking-with-the-lions/2017-04-02T21:34:39+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/18/garden-route-pictorial/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0116.jpgIMG_0116https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_48101.jpgIMG_4810Cango Caves2017-04-02T21:34:10+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/22/48-hours-in-zululand/2017-04-02T21:33:35+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/23/kwazulu-natal/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_05991.jpgIMG_0599https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0463.jpgIMG_0463Beauty of the Drackensberg Mountainshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0440.jpgIMG_0440https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0423.jpgIMG_0423Durban new . . .https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0450.jpgIMG_0450Beautiful villages in Kwazulu-Natalhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_4849.jpgIMG_4849https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0696.jpgIMG_0696along the warm Indian Ocean.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0693.jpgIMG_0693https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0599.jpgIMG_0599https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0530.jpgIMG_05302017-04-02T21:32:41+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/25/load-shedding-and-new-pics/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0553.jpgIMG_0553We began seeing piles of rocks in the road.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0552.jpgIMG_0552This bridge was stripped of the bars so the metal could be used or sold somewhere else.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0550.jpgIMG_0550Unfortunately, many areas are experiencing severe drought.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0547.jpgIMG_0547The clay on her face is natural sunscreen.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0546.jpgIMG_0546This pretty young lady was filling buckets for home. https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0543.jpgIMG_0543Barrels are stacked along the roads waiting for the municipal water trucks to fill them.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0540.jpgIMG_0540Adding a rock to the cairn for safe travels.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0524.jpgIMG_0524https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0517.jpgIMG_0517The government distributes cash to pensioners once a month, resulting in pop-up markets.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0511.jpgIMG_0511Cathedral Peak resort in the midst of the Drakensberg Mountains2017-04-02T21:31:47+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/02/27/awesome-awesome-animals/2017-04-02T21:30:59+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/03/04/joberg/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_14311.jpgIMG_1431https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_1441.jpgIMG_1441Many beautiful homes . ..https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_1403.jpgIMG_1403We stayed in Sandton, a northern suburb of Joberg. Across the street was the stock exchange.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_1287.jpgIMG_1287Nelson Mandela's house before he died.2017-04-02T21:30:03+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/03/04/visit-to-a-south-african-township-soweto/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_1388.jpgIMG_1388We had a great lunch at a Soweto restaurant.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_1376.jpgIMG_1376In Soweto, you'll find many small businesseshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_1322.jpgIMG_1322This hospital in Soweto is a huge employer of people in the area with over 8,000 beds!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_1351.jpgIMG_13512017-04-02T21:29:19+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/03/06/feeling-at-home-at-mass/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_03641.jpgIMG_0364St Patrick's in Port Elizabeth where they had a blackout during Mass.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/p1030180.jpgP1030180St Patrick's Cathedral, Melbournehttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_8142.jpgIMG_8142Mariann Daly used to work at Gesu in Milwaukee and now lives in Christchurchhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_8062.jpgIMG_8062The Catholic Cathedral in Christchurch damaged by an earthquakehttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_8060.jpgIMG_8060The Catholic Cathedral in Christchurch damaged by an earthquakehttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_7652.jpgIMG_7652St Faith's Church, Ohinemutu, NZhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_7619.jpgIMG_7619Maori-inspired St Faith's Church, Ohinemutu, NZhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_7618.jpgIMG_7618Confessional, St Faith's Church, Ohinemutu, NZhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_7616.jpgIMG_7616St Faith's Church, Ohinemutu, NZhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_7613.jpgIMG_7613St Faith's Church, Ohinemutu, NZ2017-04-02T21:27:43+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/03/06/misc-africa/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0495.jpgIMG_0495Women who carried packages this way never ceased to amaze me.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0467.jpgIMG_0467https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0200.jpgIMG_0200Colorful townshipshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_4814.jpgIMG_4814Caveshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_99121.jpgIMG_9912Many vineyardshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_9818.jpgIMG_9818Ostriches are farmed in South Africahttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_9778.jpgIMG_9778https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_9504.jpgIMG_9504https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_9448.jpgIMG_9448https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_9835.jpgIMG_9835Vivid cities2017-04-02T21:26:00+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/10/07/lets-talk-turkey/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2491.jpgIMG_2491https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2423.jpgIMG_2423Here you find many colorful and upscale neighborhoods.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2406.jpgIMG_2406with Taksim Square at its head.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2165.jpgIMG_2165https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2064.jpgIMG_2064. . . with its many historical sites . . .https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2041.jpgIMG_2041https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_19801.jpgIMG_1980https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2500.jpgIMG_2500The Old City . . .https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2449.jpgIMG_2449https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2088.jpgIMG_20882017-04-02T21:25:12+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/10/08/sights-of-istanbul/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_22171.jpgIMG_2217Another experience not to be missed is a Turkish bath. I never thought I'd enjoy it as much as I did -- what a treat!https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/robinfrankturkey.jpgRobinFrankTurkeyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_24061.jpgIMG_2406It was laid out in the late 1800s near an Ottoman taksim (branching-point) in the city's water distribution system. Istiklal means distribution.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2196.jpgIMG_2196The 17th-century Blue Mosque is one of a few mosques in the world to boast six minarets.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_21142.jpgIMG_2114The original complex included several religious schools, a hospital and a library. https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_5809.jpgIMG_5809Blue Mosquehttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_5807.jpgIMG_5807Like Aya Sofya, it went from Byzantine church to Ottoman mosque and now a modern museum.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_5803.jpgIMG_5803Much of the Chora Church in the old city walls was also undergoing renovations but we were able to see some of its stunning mosaics and frescoes. https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_5799.jpgIMG_5799Chora Churchhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_5794.jpgIMG_5794. . . and a crypt where the sultan is buried.2017-04-02T21:24:46+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/10/08/bucket-list-ephesus-done/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/artemis.jpgArtemisThe Temple of Artemis was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2304.jpgIMG_2304Down the hill remains what is left of the Temple of Artemis . . .https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2254.jpgIMG_2254The ruins of Ephesushttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2256.jpgIMG_2256Ephesushttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2253.jpgIMG_2253Ephesus aquaducts = water inhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_2249.jpgIMG_2249Most of the statues were missing their heads . . .https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_5911.jpgIMG_5911Wading in the Aegean Sea.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_5892.jpgIMG_5892Even the dogs were relaxing.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_5852.jpgIMG_5852Water out = ancient toiletshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_5849.jpgIMG_5849Pilgrims write and leave their prayers and intentions.2017-04-02T21:24:13+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/11/03/bon-giorno-senor-rossi/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_2592.jpgIMG_2592Beach at Capo D'Orlando.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_2562.jpgIMG_2562L'Aquilonehttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_0025.jpgIMG_0025L'Aquilone overlooking Capo D'Orlandohttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6820.jpgIMG_6820Pinecones, like those on these pillars, are a symbol of Sicilian hospitality.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6810.jpgIMG_6810Ten minutes of hairpin turns took us to our home in the hillshttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6798.jpgIMG_6798https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6646.jpgIMG_6646Mount Etna dominates the skyline of eastern Sicily.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6643.jpgIMG_6643The 9-seater van was perfect for people hauling but difficult for navigating narrow streets (and driveways!).https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6605.jpgIMG_6605Cataniahttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6573.jpgIMG_6573Catania2017-04-02T21:23:09+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2015/11/11/mangia/https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_7012.jpgIMG_7012Trapani local dish - risotto with seafoodhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_7010.jpgIMG_7010Pasta with pistachios in Trapanihttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_7008.jpgIMG_7008For Frank eating at 7:30 was a stretch. Even then, we had the restaurant to ourselves as they didn't get hopping until 8 or 9.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_7007.jpgIMG_7007Wine from the fertile Mount Etna area.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6991.jpgIMG_6991https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6989.jpgIMG_6989Can't even describe how good these pastries with ricotta filling were from Ericehttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6900.jpgIMG_6900I wonder if this was a variation on the Busalacchi name.https://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6881.jpgIMG_6881Trinkies were a childhood favorite of Frank's - pounded out and breaded thin slices of beefhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6880.jpgIMG_6880Swordfish with pistachio crusthttps://waltzingwanderers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_6879.jpgIMG_6879One of my favorites - Nero D'Avola from Avola(!)2017-04-02T21:22:31+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.com/2014/11/17/coastal-road-trips-kangaroos-and-koalas/2014-12-02T08:42:06+00:00monthlyhttps://waltzingwanderers.comdaily1.02024-02-08T17:38:23+00:00