ChelleBenEurope

Venice was without a doubt one of our favourite places on the trip so far (besides Paris!). When you step out from the train station, you feel as if you are in a different world. Small speedboats pass by with supplies of food, clothing and electronics- there would be no saving a computer once its fallen in the water. A waterboat took us to the stop near the B&B we were staying at. The waterboat was incredibly proficient and evidently well-practiced. Working on a similar framework to a train station, there were different ‘lines’ and stops. Since we didn’t have the most amazing dinners in Rome (due to the fact that the owner of the B&B there was recommending restaurants owned by her friends) we were keen to find somewhere we enjoyed in Venice. The B&B ... read more

When one pictures Tuscany they may have the view in their minds of rolling hills, twining gravel roads and terracotta castles that reach for the clouds. Well you wouldn’t be wrong. Spending 5 nights in the Chianti Countryside in Tuscany was amazing; with the images of the film ‘Under the Tuscan’ sun becoming a reality (well a Winter one at least, without the sunflowers). We had hired a Lancia from Hertz car rental in the main city area of Florence. I must say the drive was quite nerve wracking, not anything to do with Ben’s driving skills, but the fact that there are many stupid drivers in Florence – if there was only 1 lane, you would have 2 other cars right next to you, and 3 motorcyclists driving up the side of the car. Even ... read more

So after an amazing 5 years 8 months, Ben finally popped the question and we are engaged! It was an amazing night in front of the sparkling Eiffel Tower. I had no inkling whatsoever that Ben was going to propose, and kept asking him to ‘stop joking’ when he got down on one knee. When I realised that it was the real thing, I couldn’t stop crying – how embarrassing. It was definitely a moment in time that I will treasure for the rest of my life. Who knew Ben could be such a romantic! The ring is amazing and Ben had it custom made (see photo). We are both so excited about getting married and all the wedding plans ahead – although it still feels very surreal! We had a great breakfast today at a ... read more

Well what a great start to our European adventure. “Upgraded to Business Class,” – 4 words which every traveller wishes to hear. We skipped the long line at the airport past the economy passengers through Customs and moseyed on through to a couple of mocha’s and an intrinsically different travel experience to our last trip to Japan (Jetstar seats that were permanently folded forward rather than back). Etihad Business Class does itself proud. We arrived on the plane to the most comfortable seats which can convert into full-length beds, steaming hot hand towels, unlimited expensive beverages and a dining menu which sounds delectable in even the most prestigious restaurant. When an ‘Al Dente tagliatelle pasta and seared duck breast salad with grilled artichokes, roasted hazelnuts, radish and mustard dressing is on offer- you know you are ... read more