Welcome to my blog !
A place where I will share my personal anecdotes from my travel adventures and my vegetarian culinary experiences. A space where I will catalogue all things Splendid.
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January Book Review
- Heart the Lover – Lily King
- 5 Stars
…‘Love is crushing. Love is something you let yourself feel at your own peril, despite your better sense’…
I read this book on a Saturday, and I couldn’t put it down, it was that good. A deeply moving story with an intricate throuple.
The story follows a young woman nicknamed Daisy, later known as Jordan – a name given to her by Sam and Yash, her classmates in a literature course. The novel follows Jordan’s life from her senior year of college to adulthood, where she is married with children.
During her college years, Jordan spends most of her time with Sam and Yash, sharing long discussions about literature and bonding over card games. Friendships evolve into romance, introducing emotional complexity and difficult choices. These decisions, deeply influenced by questions of faith and life’s complexities, shape the course of their futures.
As the story shifts to a married Jordan, the impact of those formative years becomes clear. The choices made in college echo forward, altering their lives in ways that cannot be undone. When long-buried secrets resurface amid a terminal illness, Jordan, Yash and Sam are forced to confront the lasting consequences of their past.
Heart the Lover ripped my heart in half and left me shattered. This was my first Lily King book, and I loved her writing style; this story is told from a narrator’s perspective. The characters were memorable and the story telling gripped me from the first chapter. I fully understand the hype around this book and why it became a favourite for so many readers in 2025.
2. Before We Were Strangers – Renee Carlino
- 5 Stars
‘We were victims of bad timing. But here we are again.’
As I read Matthias and Graceland’s story, my heart ached for them in the best possible way, and I found myself cheering for them. Their bond felt like a once‑in‑a‑million kind of love, destined to endure every challenge and hardship that was thrown their way.
Matt and Grace meet in college on their first day at Senior College and become ‘Fast Friends’ – they become inseparable. Matt is an aspiring photographer, while Grace is a music major. Their bond is magnetic; they inspire and nurture each other’s creative gifts, and over time their friendship deepens into love, both believing it will last forever.
But when they’re each offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Matt accepts his without any hesitation, while Grace has her reservations. As they navigate the next phase of their lives, things fall apart – everything begins to unravel, there’s communication breakdown – time passes and life goes on.
3. Twice – Mitch Albom
- 4 Stars
‘You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.’
Twice is packed with so many meaningful moments, I could not put it down.
The book begins with Alfie (Alfred) Logan in Nassau, being interrogated by a detective for allegedly cheating and winning millions at a casino roulette wheel. During the interrogation, he reads from a notebook and relays the intriguing story of his life – spanning his time in Africa and America. We also discover that Alfie has a unique ability to go back and do things a second time, altering the outcome for better or worse. His love story pulls you in; it’s earnest, compelling, and filled with valuable lessons along the way.
When I was reading this book, I had a few moments of reflection and wondered; if I had the ability to go back, what moments would I choose to do twice? For me, there are two pivotal moments, and both involve using the time I had with people who were once dear to the fullest.
This is the third Mitch Albom book I’ve read. The first was Tuesdays with Morrie, which I discovered while navigating life with a terminally ill sibling. That book became the therapy I needed. Twice was just as profound for me, and it served as a powerful reminder to cherish the time we have with the people we love- real life has no do-overs.
4. The First Time I Saw Him – Laura Dave
- 3.5 Stars
The First Time I Saw Him is the sequel to The Last Thing He Told Me, it was selected as one of Reese’s Book Club picks for January and the novel generated significant interest, following the release of the Apple TV series trailer which will air on the 20th February 2026.
The book is a continuation of the story from Last Thing He Told Me. Although I haven’t read the original, I watched the TV series and found it gripping. Naturally, I was intrigued by The First Time I Saw Him and wanted to read it before the start of the TV series.
The story starts five years after Owen’s disappearance and focuses on Hannah and her stepdaughter Bailey, now living in Southern California. When Owen is spotted, Hannah quickly understands that their safety is at risk, and life begins to unravel for them. Hannah mission is to keep Bailey safe. The story delves into the past, I enjoyed getting to know all the other characters and the intricacies of their connections. The one theme that stood out for me in this book, is family and the lengths people go to protect their loved ones.
The book is fast paced and easy to get into. I’m still on the fence on whether reading the book before the TV series will have an impact. I guess I’ll have the answer once I’ve watched the TV series.
5. An Almost Perfect Summer – Jill Mansel
- 3.5 Stars
I’m a sucker for books set in small towns, I enjoy the escape and picturing the setting and getting lost in it. This book was fun to read from that perspective but felt the multiple characters that get introduced make it hard to stay engaged.
The story opens with Nella and Nick bickering over the last bunch of roses at a farm shop. Nick is a charming and attractive man who manages luxury holiday homes in a Cotswolds village, while Nella is a highly organized local whose life is abruptly disrupted when she loses her job due to circumstances beyond her control. From there, the novel unfolds through a series of events that gradually draw the two characters together.
Following her redundancy, Nick offers Nella a position at the retreat. Although there is an undeniable spark between them, Nella is determined to resist her growing feelings. As she begins working at the retreat, the reader is introduced to a range of intriguing characters, each with their own storyline. These narratives are thoughtfully interwoven, adding depth and variety to Nick and Nella’s developing relationship.
My only criticism is that I would have liked to see more development in Nick and Nella’s romance. That said, the novel remains thoroughly enjoyable, light-hearted, and entertaining.
6. The Beginning of Everything – Jackie Frase
- 3 Stars
Even though I found the premise of the story in the beginning slightly unrealistic, I enjoyed the unfolding story of Jess and Gethin’s relationship. Jess has escaped a bad relationship and is homeless. She finds shelter and becomes a squatter. Gethin, the owner of the house, a kindhearted man, finds Jess in his home and lets her stay. Jess and Gethin get to know each other, and they become friends who develop feelings for each other.
I was proud of Jess for her bravery for leaving her abusive relationship. Gethin’s patience and kindness towards Jess was commendable.
This is a character-driven story, easy to read and get into. The pacing was good. If the premise wasn’t so unrealistic, I would have given the book 4 stars.
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Exploring Joburg’s Culinary Delights at Mila Restaurant
Food tells a story that imprints memories.
One thing about Joburgers — myself included — is that we truly appreciate the good life, and this was clear the day we headed out for a late lunch at Mila Restaurant at LXX in Sandton. From the moment we arrived, we stepped into an unhurried yet vibrant atmosphere, with patrons enjoying business lunches and others catching up with friends. My friend and I had recently revived our Ladies Who Lunch catch-up, and this outing felt like the perfect way to settle back into it.
The restaurant’s aesthetic exudes understated luxury—warm, elegant, refined, and welcoming.
Image Cred @Mila Restaurant 
Image Cred @Mila Restaurant As a non‑drinking vegetarian foodie, I’ve learnt to manage my expectations when it comes to mocktails. All too often, they’re served in plain glass tumblers that feel more like an afterthought than a crafted drink. So when my mocktail arrived beautifully presented and photo ready, I was pleasantly surprised. In that moment, I knew we were off to a very good start.
The food…shew…where does one even begin? It was that good. I ordered a selection of vegetarian dishes, and honestly, I savoured every single one. The Zucchini Keftedes was without a doubt my favourite meal.
The dessert was just as delicious and beautifully presented.
Left Image – Dakos Burrata; Top Image – Halloumi Ricotta Ravioli; Right Image – Zucchini Keftedes 
Dessert
Top Image – Hazelnut Tart; Bottom Image – Kafethaki Vanilla BruleOut of 10, I would rate our overall experience 9.
- Food gets a 9.
- Restaurant aesthetics and ambience gets a 9.
- Price gets a 7, the food is on the pricey side but on all fairness, eating out has become a tad pricey.
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2025 Reading!
“Something magical can happen when we read a good book.”
Books have a unique power to take us to places we may never physically go – they offer an escape. The stories allow our imagination to travel freely, introducing us to new ideas, perspectives and igniting our imagination.
Two years ago, I started being intentional with limiting my screen time. I then set a target to read at least 1 book a month. Fast forward to 2025 and I have managed to read 60 books. Fiction being the books I read most.
2025 books I read! What makes a book great in my view is when the story and the characters stay embedded in my heart and mind long after I have read the book. I will share brief review of the books that gave me that feeling. These books I couldn’t put down. In some instances, I found myself reading through the night.
I have picked 12 books for the number of months, this was a real daunting task but I managed.
The book review will focus on 3 things;
o Is the story enjoyable?
o Are the characters memorable?
o Is it a book that I can re-read?
Each book will be graded out of 5.
2025 Top 12 Reads! - The Wish – Nicholas Spark
• 5 stars- The story opens in 2019, where we meet Maggie, a renowned New York–based photographer who owns a gallery. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Mark, who soon begins working at the gallery. As Maggie and Mark grow closer, Maggie reflects on her past, taking us on an emotional journey of her past. The story shifts to 1996, when a young Maggie is sent away to live with her aunt. There, she meets Bryce, a warm-hearted boy wise beyond his years. A deep friendship forms between them, and it’s Bryce who introduces Maggie to photography. He becomes a vital source of support during a formative time in her life.
- The Wish is a complex story that addresses important societal issues and life challenges.
- Maggie as a character stayed with me for days, weeks and months after reading. I loved the setting and the story. This book, I couldn’t put down.
- Cant Get Enough – Kennedy Ryan
• 5 stars- After reading This Could Be Us and Before I Let Go, this book was one of my most anticipated reads for the year and it didn’t disappoint.
- Hendrix is a successful businesswoman and has phenomenal friends. She’s facing a few life challenges, her toughest being caring for her aging mother. She meets Maverick Bell, a tech billionaire whose chasing the next big thing in his life. Sparks fly. There’s instant attraction but Maverick is in an entanglement, which complicates their instant connection.
- As destiny would have it, his relationship comes to an amicable ending. This gives Maverick an opportunity to pursue Hendrix. The romance between them is shown beautifully – its smart, its uplifting, its loving wholeheartedly and supportive.
- What brings them together is a shared experience of having a family member who had or has Alzheimer’s.
- I love how Kennedy Ryan always builds awareness for a variety of topics in her books. I also enjoyed reading about black love shown in a positive light.
- Atmosphere – Taylor Jenkins Reid
• 5 stars- The story follows Joan Goodwood who gets selected for the NASA’s space shuttle programme in the 80ties. In the book, you get to relive Joan’s past and present while in the programme. You also meet the other canditates/ characters who are part of the programme and have an impact in her life in some shape or form.
- This is a voyage of discovery for Joan, not just in space but also her self-discovery. The story is fast-paced, gripping and heartbreaking.
- A beautiful tribute to the women who broke boundaries in the 80ties when women were only just being accepted into space programs.
- The story and the characters stayed with me for a long time after reading this book.
- We all want impossible things – Catherine Newman
• 5 stars- A book about two imperfect best friends since childhood, Ashley and Edith, who have been through everything together. As adults they are navigating a difficult time in their lives – Edith has terminal cancer.
- While the book is heavy and sad in places, it also celebrates friendship, relationships and love.
- We All Want Impossible Things reminded me of a quote that says ‘The only certainty in life is death.’ As much as the story is about the inevitable, the story is just as much about living. It is a story of full of life and laughter.
- Seven days in June – Tia Williams
• 4.5 stars- This story is not a simple love story; its romantic, it’s compelling and layered in past traumas and survival.
- It follows two writes, Eva, a single mom and Shane, a successful bad boy of the literary world. They have a romantic past. When they reconnect after fifteen years, they have chemistry; it’s steamy, its messy, its complicated as they have to confront their past.
- I loved this book. I’m a sucker for second-chance romance and Tia Williams delivered with the portrayal of the characters and their flaws in this book.
- Love Marry Kill – Zukiswa Wanner
• 4 stars- Two couples, one steamy love affair and a hitman. ‘Till death do us part’ means different things to people. This book is an emotionally layered love story with twist and turns. This book is a page-turner, which dives into the messiness of infidelity and the length people will go to keep what’s theirs.
- A great read.
- Fabrics of love – Lebo Mazibuko
• 4 stars- Fabrics of Love needs to made into a Limited Series – goodness this was such a pleasant read. Growing up in Soweto, the character, the setting was so relatable.
- The story follows the lives of the Ntoi family, with a particular focus on its women. At the heart of it is Buang, the formidable matriarch who works tirelessly to keep the family together – she’s a fierce protector, she is resilient and sadly has been hardened by her past. Then there’s Prettygirl, the vibrant life of a party – a familiar township character full of charm and energy. Her sister Rosemary is book-smart, focused, and disciplined; she is driven by ambition and purpose. Then there’s their cousin Moipone, a quiet and timid young woman who carries unseen scars from her childhood.
- Through the eyes of these women, the story explores their journeys as they chase their dreams while confronting culture, family secrets, love, relationships and the weight of past trauma.
- A multi layered captivating book. I loved how Lebo Mazibuko brought to light the vibrancy of Meadowlands (Soweto).
- One Golden Summer – Carley Fortune
• 4 stars- I stumbled upon this on Instagram, there was a lot of hype around it, and my curiosity was immediately sparked. I then had to read the 1st book, Every Summer After.
- Carley Fortune has a gift for painting the picture of a magical summer. As much as I loved Percy and Sam’s story in Every Summer After, I connected even more deeply with Charlie and Alice’s journey. This is a story steeped in nostalgia – One picture. Three teens. A yellow boat. Its where past summers collide with present-day choices, and a beautiful friendship slowly unfolds into a deeply emotional summer romance.
- Charlie is charming and self-assured. Alice gives more than she receives, she puts everyone before herself. Charlie helps Alice step out of her shell and Alice helps Charlie deal with his deep regret. They complement each other in so many ways and have the most hilarious banter. Their chemistry felt natural and warm.
- Overall, this was a fun, emotionally rich read, one that truly captures the magic of the lake. As the story reminds us, ‘Good things happen at the lake.’
- Things we left behind – Lucy Score
• 4 stars- This is the third and final book in the Knockemout series. Sloan and Lucian were my most anticipated couple in the series and Lucy Score didn’t disappoint.
- I absolutely loved Sloan and Lucian’s relationship, especially their sharp, entertaining banter. As adults, they may claim to loathe each other, but neither can deny the sparks between them. Their history adds so much depth to the story – from childhood friends, to sworn enemies after an incident that shattered their bond, and finally to lovers.
- Sloan is feisty, witty, and warm-hearted, with dreams of a traditional happy ending – a loving husband and children. Lucian, on the other hand, has become powerful and wealthy, capable of making anything happen, except committing to the idea of family, which he firmly resists.
- I love how Lucian would do anything for Sloane even when he insistent that he didn’t like her. It warmed my heart that they got their happy ending.
- While I didn’t particularly enjoy the crime subplot, it was expected, as it featured heavily in Things We Never Got Over and Things We Hide from the Light. Still, it was a joy to return to Knockemout. I have a soft spot for small-town settings – even fictional ones, as they stretch the imagination and transport you to places you may never otherwise experience.
- Tell me everything – Elizabeth Strout
• 4 stars- It follows a friendship between 90 year old Olive Kitteridge, Bob Burgess whose the central character, a lawyer and acclaimed writer Lucy Barton.
- Through quiet, intimate conversations, Lucy and Bob reflect on their lives and what might have been, while Olive and Lucy share stories about people they have known.
- The true allure of this book lies in its richly drawn characters and their complex inner lives—because human beings themselves are deeply complex. Woven through the narrative is a mystery that gradually unfolds, drawing in characters who carry their own layers of history and emotional depth.
- This book is beautifully written. Although I haven’t read the previous novels in the series, I found it easy to follow and completely captivating from start to finish.
- What a way to go – Bella Mackie
• 3.5 stars- A murder mystery with a humour all in one.
Anthony Wistern is a wealthy, charming, philander with a dysfunctional family set to inherit his fortune. Upon his untimely death, each of them becomes potential suspects. - The characters are self absorbed and not really likeable but they make a good story.
- A murder mystery with a humour all in one.
- The love we found – Jill Santos
• 3.5 stars- A sequel to The Light We Lost, which I would highly recommend reading before starting this book. Ten years have passed, and a great deal of life has unfolded since the end of the first story.
- This sequel is rich with blended family dynamics, hidden truths, and the challenge of confronting the past while learning how to move forward. It explores the reality that people are imperfect and that life is often complicated and messy. The story continues with Lucy a single mother juggling the needs of her children, her life after Gabe and finding love again.
- The story is emotional, it’s moving and it’s well written.
I’m chuffed with what I have been able to accomplish with my reading.
I’m chuffed with what I was able to achieve this year. The goal has been set and I plan to continue in 2026.
- The Wish – Nicholas Spark
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Eat. Shop. Relax. at Yard 41
Nestled in the heart of the Midlands, in a town called Howick, the location of the Howick Falls and the Mandela Capture Site made famous by the impressive sculpture of Nelson Mandela, you will find Yard 41.
Yard 41 is a unique retail and lifestyle experience with splendid views across the Umgeni Valley offering a one a place to Eat. Shop. Relax.
The industrial architectural design with a modern touch, creates a perfect blend of old and new offering a distinctively curated retail space.
EAT
- Treatery, specialises in artisan baked goods, cakes, good coffee, healthy smoothies and freshly squeezed juices. Breakfast and Light lunches are also available.
2. Village
- Village is a family style restaurant with a very dynamic space. Upfront it has a cafe feel to it, the veranda has more relaxed, slow paced vibe and upstairs has a boutique bar.
SHOP
- A décor, homeware, furniture and gift store.
- Specialises in vintage, industrial, retro furniture and décor.
- A nursery that belongs to the Blackwood’s group of retail garden outlets in KwaZulu Natal Region.
RELAX
The beautiful views of the Umgeni Valley, create a peaceful environment and there’s a lovely play area and garden for the little people to run around.
It truly is a great space not just for locals but tourist visiting Howick and looking for a place to unwind.
Stay Splendid!
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Brunching at the Greenhouse Restaurant – Babylonstoren
“Wonder at everything, even the most everyday things”
Entrance at Babylonstoren I was in Cape Town (CT) for work and had a day to spare so decided to take a drive to Babylonstoren for brunch, the drive from CT is 45m.
‘Babylonstoren is a working farm with a hotel, spa, farm-to-table restaurants, winery and magnificent garden.’ The farm is set set at the foot of Simonsberg in the Franschhoek wine valley.
Main Entrance 
Roosters having a family meeting! I had brunch at the Greenhouse Restaurant which is located at the far end of the garden next to the greenhouse conservatory.
What I like about the location of the Greenhouse Restaurant is you get to walk through the farm. You get to see how well thought out the property is.
Farm Setting 
Scenes from the walk to the Greenhouse Restaurant 
Scenes from the walk to the Greenhouse Restaurant 
The Greenhouse Restaurant
Greenhouse Outdoor Setting 
Every table at the restaurant has a chair where food and drinks get dropped off. Great safety measure as we continue to co-exist with Covid-19.The meal wrapped on the left was a Layered vegan seitan mayo and garden slaw sandwich.
Almond milk cappuccino to wrap it all up! The farm has so many spaces to visit, another key highlight for me was the healing garden which is located close to the greenhouse.
The Farm house shop stocks fresh produce and freshly baked bread.
I thoroughly enjoyed being at Babylonstoren, love how the land has been utilised with craftily unique spaces.
I must add, my visit was bitter-sweet…I visited the farm a day after Freedom Day in South Africa (27th April), a day where we celebrate our ‘freedom’ and commemorate the first post-apartheid elections that were held on the day in 1994.
As I walked on the property snapping away and enjoying my ‘freedom’ there was a moment when I did feel sad. Land ownership has become a bone of contention. When we have debates about land, the one question that comes up is, ‘if the brown people in the country are given back the land, what are they going to do with the land? We have no experience in managing land’
Land ownership matters. It just gives one options – be it to farm, to live or to sell and live of the sale. Owning acres of land gives one Freedom to also create their version of a Babylonstoren.
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Proud Mary Modern Eatery and Wine Bar
Proud Mary Modern Eatery and Wine Bar is a lovely addition to the Jozi food scene.
The menu has a variety of options from small plates, to café plates and salads…there’s something for everyone. Had the Beluga Lentil and added avo. The dish was scrumptious, the almond herb yogurt just added a lovely texture to the overall meal.
Beluga Lentil (**added avo) 
The interior of Proud Mary is ultra-chic and comfortable, found myself snapping away in the bathroom.
Overall, lovely dinning experience. Think we have found our new weekly after work place to dine or have coffee.
Stay Splendid
TS!
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Destination Florence and Pisa – (The Finale, The Italian Trilogy)
Destination Florence (The Finale) the last blog post from my Italy escapade. I kicked off the trilogy with a trip in Venice, then Milan and now Florence (Firenze). There were some breath-taking in-between transit stops and it all fell into place so well.
Had 3 days to spare in Florence, decided to add PISA to the mix. Besides the fact that Florence is the capital of the Tuscan region of Italy, home to many masterpieces of Renaissance art, it’s rich in history and Architectural marvel. Below are some fun facts:-
- Italian Gelato was invented in Florence! It was the Florentine architect who in 1565 made the first frozen dessert considered as Italian Gelato.
- Florence was the first city with paved streets in Europe.
- Opera was created in Florence.
- Florence is the Birthplace of the Piano, Invented by Bartolomeo Cristofori in the 18th Century.
- Home to Pinocchio.
Site Seeing in Florence
Day 1
Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio
Legend has it that during WWII Hitler prevented the destruction of Ponte Vecchio. The bridge is the oldest and has become the most iconic landmark in Florence and crosses over the Arno River. This medieval stone bridge still preserves its original characteristic with shops built along with it. The bridge was initially occupied by Butchers but today you will find art dealers, jewellers and souvenirs.
Piazza della Signoria
The Piazza della Signoria is the heart of the city for Florentines. It has been the political center of Florence since the 14th century, a site for political rallies, festivals, and ceremonial events. You’ll find several iconic Florence tourist attractions: Palazzo Vecchio (Florence townhall), the Neptune Fountain, the Uffizi Gallery (a prominent art museum), the Loggia dei Lanzi (corner building with wide arches), and copies of statues by Michelangelo and Donatello.
The Palazzo Vecchio 
The Loggia dei Lanzi 
Replica of David ‘s Statue by Michelangelo 
Because I’m a secret Liker of Things, I had to visit Gucci Garden – a museum dedicated to the iconic Italian fashion house. The museum is the brainchild of creative director Alessandro Michele, its a place where fashion, art and haute-cuisine meet. The space is home to an exclusive boutique offering unique pieces, the Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura restaurant, and the Gucci Garden Galleria exhibition area.
The Gucci Garden museum is a great concept, some great collectors items and some very questionable one. My next stop was the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
This cathedral is what Saint Mark’s Basilica is to Venice and the Duomo di Milano is to Milan. Standing tall over the city with its magnificent Renaissance dome design, the Cathedral referred to as the Duomo by locals is the prominent landmark. The cathedral complex includes the Baptistery and Giotto’s Campanile and located in Piazza del Duomo, the heart of the historic center of Florence.
The tour of the cathedral which includes climbing the Dome which is known to be the largest in the world was the highlight. At the base of the dome, you walk along an interior walkway for a close-up view of “The Last Judgement.” a beautiful work of art which was started by Giorgio Vasari and completed by Federico Zuccari. From there, you continue and then step outside for incredible views of Florence.
Last Judgement 
Last Judgement 
Day 2
‘Life is getting up an hour early to live an hour more‘
I have this ritual when I travel of getting up before sunrise, I usually go for a run or a long walk. I use the time to discover the city while its peaceful. On my 2nd day in Florence, I decided to go for a run from Ponte Vecchio to the Piazzale Michelangelo (1,6km’s one way depending on the route).
The Piazzale Michelangelo is square with panoramic views of Florence, a great place to catch the sunrise or sunset. Unfortunately for me, the weather was not great but still made the most of it. The square is dedicated to the Renaissance sculptor Michelangelo. The 2nd copy of the statue of David is on the square.
The Galleria dell’Accademia (Accademia Gallery)
If you a lover of sculptures and art, the Galleria dell’Accademia is a must visit. The gallery houses the most famous statue in the world – the sculpture of David by Michelangelo. Photos don’t do justice to this genius work of art. Being up, close and personal with the original was awe-inspiring.
To think that David was sculpted from a single block of white marble that had been worked on more than 50 years earlier by Donatello. At that time the marble was said to have had a flaw in it and the project was abandoned.
The gallery also houses some unfinished works of Michelangelo, some beautiful old musical instruments as well as a host of beautiful artworks.
Where I ate
Food plays a big part in everyday Italian lifestyle and they have a relaxed nature in how they appreciate food. It’s all about authenticity, tradition, unique senses, aroma and most importantly family.
Eataly
I discovered Eataly – a retail outlet dedicated to the best of Italian regional food and wine on one of my walks. You can go there for grocery shopping, coffee, lunch or dinner and it’s a one stop shop for Italian produce. Decided to treat myself to dinner at Pizza & Cucina Restaurant that forms part of the retail outlet.
Top Left: Mushroom with Cheese Bruschetta.
Bottom Left: Arrabiatta PastaGelatarium
Gelatarium …a dream ice-cream… is indeed dreamy. This place is about eating gelato, swinging and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.
Day 3: PISA
Pisa is one of the most famous regions in Italy, its known for its iconic Leaning Tower. The city has an array of beautiful historical buildings and beautiful scenery along the banks of the River Arno.
The Leaning Tower forms part of a complex known as The Field of Miracles and consists of four structures – the Cathedral of Pisa (Il Duomo di Pisa), the Baptistry, the Bell Tower of Pisa and the Monumental Cemetery. The complex is located in Piazza dei Miracoli, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy.
The Tower of Pisa referred simply as the Bell Tower, or Campanile which was made famous by its noticeable tilt is the crowning glory of the complex. A climb to the top of the bell tower is a must but its not for the faint hearted. The entire experience is weird primarily because the building is tilted.
Adding PISA to my itinerary was a good call, another day well spent. I took a train back to Florence and decided to ‘treat myself’ to some Gelato. Went to Venchi, a chocolate and ice-cream haven. The chocolate wall for me was everything.
Italy is magical, the cities I visited all rich in history and each city has its unique characteristic (Venice – the city of canals, Milan – the fashion capital, Rome – home to the Vatican and the Coliseum)
The Italian way of life is unique, the people are passionate, family is an important value and food isn’t just nourishment, it is life. There is still so much more of Italy that I want to explore, for now we reminisce on past adventures.
Stay Splendid!
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Layover – Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino #Wanderlust Wednesday
“Blessed are the curious, for they shall have adventures”
On route to Florence from Milan, I decided to add a layover in Portofino. I had stumbled upon some beautiful pictures of Portofino on Instagram, I just had to include it on my itinerary. I took a train from Como to Santa Margherita Ligure.
Santa Margherita Ligure is a great base and I found this town extremely charming with its brightly coloured house, harbour, beach and eateries.
Portofino
Arriving in Portofino was surreal, I had read about why the town is loved and frequented by ‘VIP’s around the world. I understand why that is, Portofino is the “quintessential fishing village on the Italian Riviera”
It has a small habour, colourfully painted buildings and the ‘Piazzetta’ (small square) overlooking the sea.
Exploring the Italian Riviera was another Splendid Experience!
About Me
“Fill your life with experiences, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show.
My love for travelling was ignited by my parents, they opened our eyes to the world of travel and encouraged us to explore the world.
A lover of all things Splendid. I love travelling, I love discovering new places and experiencing how other cultures live. Amazing memories are created through experiences, no matter how small or big.
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SPLENDID EXPERIENCES 