The Penguins of St Kilda

You have to look hard to see him. These fairy penguins return each night to nest in the rocks along the St Kilda boardwalk in Melbourne. They come in after dark, and leave again before dawn, and are best spotted with the aid of a red light which doesn’t distress them.
Indeed one penguin often performs to the crowd (there were at least a hundred people gathered on a mid-week summer night). He hops up on the platform and waddles along to his nest among the rocks, repeating the performance a few times to make sure every one sees.
Others are more shy, reaching their resting spot without being spotted.
Afterwards, a walk in the failing light to one of the many restaurants Melbourne has to offer.

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My Travels in 2018

I have always loved travel, and am fortunate enough to have done a bit this year - never enough, but there is alway 2019!
So, a few memories of 2018.

Views From Dubrovnik

Ah, Dubrovnik. Looking from the walls across the incredible of the Adriatic. (Climb the walls early, before both the heat of the day and the hordes of tourists settle in.)

Just near the main gates stands a Franciscan monastery, with one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe. An oasis of peace.

At the far end of town, a sea of boats and pleasure craft, to explore the seas. Nearby are some steps built to imitate Rome's Spanish Steps. At the top, follow the alley and signs to the Hole in the Wall, a perfect cafe just for sitting and escaping the crowds.


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A Tranquil Monastery Cloister in Dubrovnik Notebook
by EnsoCreations

I love this photo I took of Florence largely because it's not instantly recognisable.
Hercules battling the Nemean lion down by the Arno, a bit too busy to enjoy the view.
Behind, the deceptively simple façade of the Chiese di Ognisannti. This church is filled with Medieval and Renaissance treasures (including the robe wore by St. Francis when he received the stigmata).

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Otherwise, please click the link if you are inspired to travel, or simply looking for ideas or advice.

Not-So Hidden Corners in Italy

Of course I start with Florence, the city I fell in love with when I was ten. Wandering towards the Arno, I was so busy looking at all the sights it was easy to miss this spectacular fountain on the corner of a house.

Five Suggestions for Hong Kong

Hong Kong may seem a small island, but there is much to do - far too much for one visit alone. When you need a break from exploring all the shopping and food options, here are five suggestions to add to your to do list.



Travelling to The Peak

Simply reaching The Peak on Hong Kong Island is half the fun. Until 1888, the only way there was a three hour ride in a rickshaw; the opening of the Peak Tram saw the travel time reduced to 8 minutes. There is nothing quite sitting in the tram being pulled back into the seat as the tram climbs the impossible inline, which had a gradient from 4 to 27 degrees. A word of advice - arrive early, as the queues can stretch forever. Catching a bus is another option (and a good way to return) which gives quite a sightseeing tour of the exclusive houses and apartments of the Upper and Mid-Levels.

Drifting Down the Danube

For one of the busiest waterways in Europe, the Danube offers many peaceful spots.