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Henry Miller’s 11 Commandments of Writing & Daily Creative Routine 
Photograph of Henry Miller taken by Brassai in Paris in 1931
In 1932-1933, while working on what would become his first published novel, Tropic of Cancer, Miller devised and adhered to a stringent daily routine to propel his writing. Among it was this list of eleven commandments, found in Henry Miller on Writing
THE 11 COMMANDMENTS
1.Work on one thing at a time until finished.
2.Start no more new books, add no more new material to ‘Black Spring.’
3.Don’t be nervous. Work calmly, joyously, recklessly on whatever is in hand.
4.Work according to Program and not according to mood. Stop at the appointed time!
5.When you can’t create you can work.
6.Cement a little every day, rather than add new fertilizers.
7.Keep human! See people, go places, drink if you feel like it.
8.Don’t be a draught-horse! Work with pleasure only.
9.Discard the Program when you feel like it—but go back to it next day. Concentrate. Narrow down. Exclude.
10.Forget the books you want to write. Think only of the book you are writing.
11.Write first and always. Painting, music, friends, cinema, all these come afterwards.
Photograph of Henry Miller taken by Brassai in Paris in 1931
In 1932-1933, while working on what would become his first published novel, Tropic of Cancer, Miller devised and adhered to a stringent daily routine to propel his writing. Among it was this list of eleven commandments, found in Henry Miller on Writing
THE 11 COMMANDMENTS
1.Work on one thing at a time until finished.
2.Start no more new books, add no more new material to ‘Black Spring.’
3.Don’t be nervous. Work calmly, joyously, recklessly on whatever is in hand.
4.Work according to Program and not according to mood. Stop at the appointed time!
5.When you can’t create you can work.
6.Cement a little every day, rather than add new fertilizers.
7.Keep human! See people, go places, drink if you feel like it.
8.Don’t be a draught-horse! Work with pleasure only.
9.Discard the Program when you feel like it—but go back to it next day. Concentrate. Narrow down. Exclude.
10.Forget the books you want to write. Think only of the book you are writing.
11.Write first and always. Painting, music, friends, cinema, all these come afterwards.
Wash away 
If the pure waters of this earth could wash away all the sadness, loss, pain, misery that is sometimes inflicted upon us or that we very oft inflict upon us, if only they could wash away all ill health from those who are suffering, if they could wash away the cruelty from all those with the intention of hurting others, if they could wash away wars, terrorism, vandalism, hatred replacing it with love, friendship of the true kind, peace and beauty .. oh what a different world this could be, how different our lives would be.
stef 27.01.2013
Pencil drawing by Olga Melamory Larionova
If the pure waters of this earth could wash away all the sadness, loss, pain, misery that is sometimes inflicted upon us or that we very oft inflict upon us, if only they could wash away all ill health from those who are suffering, if they could wash away the cruelty from all those with the intention of hurting others, if they could wash away wars, terrorism, vandalism, hatred replacing it with love, friendship of the true kind, peace and beauty .. oh what a different world this could be, how different our lives would be.
stef 27.01.2013
Pencil drawing by Olga Melamory Larionova
Destination - San Gimignano 
Medieval, picturesque, fascinating, charming, quaint, skyline… these words come to mind when describing the little Tuscan town of San Gimignano... Rising up on a hill in central Tuscany, some forty kilometres north-west of Siena, San Gimignano, also known as ‘the town of the fair towers’, is a stunning medieval town rich in historical events offering fascinating architecture together with a maze of beautifully entwined cobbled streets that lead to quaint squares hosting several charming cafés.
Among the main attractions of San Gimignano are the high house-towers built around the 12th century, during the wealthiest and most powerful period of its historical timeline. In this period the city boasted over seventy towers, some as high as fifty meters, built by the patrician families that controlled the city as symbols and testimonies of their wealth and power as well as serving as private fortresses. Fourteen of these windowless towers have withstood wars and catastrophies and still stand today, giving the city its unique ‘Manhattan’ skyline feature. It is, in fact, known as the ‘Manhattan of Italy’.
San Gimignano, originally founded as a small village by the Etruscans in the 3rd century BC, became a town in 998 AD adopting its name from the Holy Bishop of Modena, San Geminianus, who was said to have saved the village from Attila’s Huns in the 4th century. The city thrived in wealth in the Middles ages in view of the fact that it was located along the ‘Via Francigena’, an important trading and pilgrim’s route which connected Rome to Canterbury. It became a reference point for many merchants, travellers and those who set out on a pilgrimage to Rome. The town became a free Tuscan municipality in 1199 AD while fighting against the Bishops of Volterra and the surrounding municipalities. However, around 1239 AD the town eventually divided into two factions, one headed by the Guelphs, the other by the Ghibellines. The reason was mainly due to its central position between the two great rivals at the time, Florence and Siena. Florence had taken the Guelph’s side and Siena that of the Ghibelline’s. Despite these turmoils, San Gimignano continued in its economic development. In fact the 12th and 13th centuries turned out to be its period of greatest wealth being notably richer, commissioning several public works. The Ghibellines governed until 1252 AD, the year in which the Guelphs took over, tearing down the city walls, but shortly after the Ghibellines returned to power, rebuilding and enlarging the city walls namely the Montestaffoli, with its two main gates on the ‘Via Francigena’, the San Giovanni and San Matteo. The latter two still stand until today.
An important date in the history of San Gimignano is that of the 8th May 1300, when Dante Alighieri visited the town in his role as Ambassador for Tuscan’s Guelph league. Sadly the town was hit by the Plague, known as the ‘Black Death’ and its population was drastically reduced throwing the city into a political and economic crisis leading to its submission to Florence. However it continued to flourish both artistically and culturally in the centuries that followed. A recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990, San Gimignano has, over the centuries, managed to preserve its medieval architecture and is no doubt Tuscany’s greatest small treasure.
Walking around the tiny village is a must. One can indulge in a feast of medievality. San Gimignano is also known for its tiny shops lining its narrow streets, namely Via San Matteo, which, in contrast with the more commercial Via San Giovanni, sell food and wine, clothes, leatherwear and other typical Tuscan products. Via San Matteo leads to the Piazza del Duomo, where the three most important medieval buildings of the city are located : the Collegiata Cathedral, the old Palace of the Podestà, whose tower is probably the oldest in the city, and the Palace of the Commune.
The Collegiata, built in the 12th century and consecrated in 1148, was once the ‘Duomo’ , but since San Gimignano no longer has a bishop it has reverted to the status of a collegiate church. Its bare façade belies its remarkable interior, which is famous for the extraordinarily magnificent frescos which cover almost all of the inner walls of the church. Romanesque in character, the centre of the church is dominated by a large fresco of St Sebastian by Benozzo Gozzoli, which was commissioned after the plague hit the town in 1464 while frescos on the aisle walls depict stories from the Old Testament including The Creation of Adam and Eve, Noah and his Ark and those of the New Testament including the Annunciation, the nativity, the last Supper.. Two chapels, the Chapel of San Gimignano, and that of St. Fina are located within this church. The latter is dedicated to St. Fina, who was born in San Gimignano in 1238. When only ten years of age she contracted an incurable disease and spent the five years until her death lying on a board to increase her suffering before God. The chapel is adorned with naïve and touching frescoes by Domenico Ghirlandaio depicting events in the life of the young saint, and a superb alabaster marble altar.
The old Palace of the Podestà, located in front of the Collegiata, was once the seat of the Council. It used to be the residence of the Podestà family. It is one of the oldest buildings in town and has a 51 meter high tower, known as the Torre Rognosa. In 1255 a law was passed that no other tower should be higher than the Rognosa, the only exception being the Torre Grossa, that of the Palace of the Commune, also known as the Palazzo del Popolo (town hall), situated on the left side of the Collegiata. The Palace of the Commune houses the Museo Civico. The Pinacoteca, features a number of paintings from the Florentine and Sienese schools of the twelfth to the fifteenth centuries as well as several other works of art by Niccolò Tegliacci, Taddeo di Bartolo, and Pinturicchio. Several worn but interesting frescoes can be viewed on the walls in various parts of palace including the courtyard. This is open to the public and once there, one can climb up a staircase that leads to the top of the Torre Grossa, certainly worth visiting in order to take in the stunning sweeping views of the town and its surroundings.
Just a few metres away from the Piazza del Duomo is a small hilltop park which houses the remains of the Rocca, or fortress. From here one can get a spectacular view (and photograph) of the town's many towers and surrounding countryside. The Rocca was built in 1353 when the Florentines took complete control of the city, but demolished in 1555 on the orders of Cosimo I. In fact only a tower and fragments of the walls survive.
One cannot miss out on an ice-cream from one of the two gelaterias located in the Piazza della Cisterna, most famously the Gelateria di Piazza. Various newspaper clippings in German, English and Italian, pictures of visiting celebrities posing proudly with their ice-cream as well as letters from all over Europe adorn the walls of the little shop serving over thirty five different flavours and is testimony to his popularity. Its ice-cream has repeatedly won the title of the world's "best ice-cream of the year".
We dined at the Osteria di Sant’ Agostino located within the Piazza that bears the same name. The food was excellent, and certainly good value for money. We had bruschetta and plate of pasta served with a mouth-watering tomato sauce, all washed down with a fresh house wine, of course.
The drive to San Gimignano involves a lot of winding roads but the scenery on the way is that of pure Tuscan beauty. Just make sure that you type in San Gimignano and not San Gemignano if you are using a Navigator. The reason being that there is a location called San Gemignano further up north and if you take the wrong direction you are in for a long trip away from the actual San Gimignano. Cars are not allowed in the town centre, but there are a number of parking spaces just outside the walls of the town. Furthermore there are buses to/from Florence and Siena. Some of these are direct, but some may require a change at Poggibonsi. There are several services everyday, and arrive/depart just in front of Porta San Giovanni in San Gimignano. Being one of the most popular Tuscan towns, it is advisable to visit San Gimignano during the evening hours or off-season in order to avoid parking problems and masses of tour buses arriving from Florence and Siena.
San Gimignano : as good as Tuscany gets !!!
Medieval, picturesque, fascinating, charming, quaint, skyline… these words come to mind when describing the little Tuscan town of San Gimignano... Rising up on a hill in central Tuscany, some forty kilometres north-west of Siena, San Gimignano, also known as ‘the town of the fair towers’, is a stunning medieval town rich in historical events offering fascinating architecture together with a maze of beautifully entwined cobbled streets that lead to quaint squares hosting several charming cafés.
Among the main attractions of San Gimignano are the high house-towers built around the 12th century, during the wealthiest and most powerful period of its historical timeline. In this period the city boasted over seventy towers, some as high as fifty meters, built by the patrician families that controlled the city as symbols and testimonies of their wealth and power as well as serving as private fortresses. Fourteen of these windowless towers have withstood wars and catastrophies and still stand today, giving the city its unique ‘Manhattan’ skyline feature. It is, in fact, known as the ‘Manhattan of Italy’.
San Gimignano, originally founded as a small village by the Etruscans in the 3rd century BC, became a town in 998 AD adopting its name from the Holy Bishop of Modena, San Geminianus, who was said to have saved the village from Attila’s Huns in the 4th century. The city thrived in wealth in the Middles ages in view of the fact that it was located along the ‘Via Francigena’, an important trading and pilgrim’s route which connected Rome to Canterbury. It became a reference point for many merchants, travellers and those who set out on a pilgrimage to Rome. The town became a free Tuscan municipality in 1199 AD while fighting against the Bishops of Volterra and the surrounding municipalities. However, around 1239 AD the town eventually divided into two factions, one headed by the Guelphs, the other by the Ghibellines. The reason was mainly due to its central position between the two great rivals at the time, Florence and Siena. Florence had taken the Guelph’s side and Siena that of the Ghibelline’s. Despite these turmoils, San Gimignano continued in its economic development. In fact the 12th and 13th centuries turned out to be its period of greatest wealth being notably richer, commissioning several public works. The Ghibellines governed until 1252 AD, the year in which the Guelphs took over, tearing down the city walls, but shortly after the Ghibellines returned to power, rebuilding and enlarging the city walls namely the Montestaffoli, with its two main gates on the ‘Via Francigena’, the San Giovanni and San Matteo. The latter two still stand until today.
An important date in the history of San Gimignano is that of the 8th May 1300, when Dante Alighieri visited the town in his role as Ambassador for Tuscan’s Guelph league. Sadly the town was hit by the Plague, known as the ‘Black Death’ and its population was drastically reduced throwing the city into a political and economic crisis leading to its submission to Florence. However it continued to flourish both artistically and culturally in the centuries that followed. A recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990, San Gimignano has, over the centuries, managed to preserve its medieval architecture and is no doubt Tuscany’s greatest small treasure.
Walking around the tiny village is a must. One can indulge in a feast of medievality. San Gimignano is also known for its tiny shops lining its narrow streets, namely Via San Matteo, which, in contrast with the more commercial Via San Giovanni, sell food and wine, clothes, leatherwear and other typical Tuscan products. Via San Matteo leads to the Piazza del Duomo, where the three most important medieval buildings of the city are located : the Collegiata Cathedral, the old Palace of the Podestà, whose tower is probably the oldest in the city, and the Palace of the Commune.
The Collegiata, built in the 12th century and consecrated in 1148, was once the ‘Duomo’ , but since San Gimignano no longer has a bishop it has reverted to the status of a collegiate church. Its bare façade belies its remarkable interior, which is famous for the extraordinarily magnificent frescos which cover almost all of the inner walls of the church. Romanesque in character, the centre of the church is dominated by a large fresco of St Sebastian by Benozzo Gozzoli, which was commissioned after the plague hit the town in 1464 while frescos on the aisle walls depict stories from the Old Testament including The Creation of Adam and Eve, Noah and his Ark and those of the New Testament including the Annunciation, the nativity, the last Supper.. Two chapels, the Chapel of San Gimignano, and that of St. Fina are located within this church. The latter is dedicated to St. Fina, who was born in San Gimignano in 1238. When only ten years of age she contracted an incurable disease and spent the five years until her death lying on a board to increase her suffering before God. The chapel is adorned with naïve and touching frescoes by Domenico Ghirlandaio depicting events in the life of the young saint, and a superb alabaster marble altar.
The old Palace of the Podestà, located in front of the Collegiata, was once the seat of the Council. It used to be the residence of the Podestà family. It is one of the oldest buildings in town and has a 51 meter high tower, known as the Torre Rognosa. In 1255 a law was passed that no other tower should be higher than the Rognosa, the only exception being the Torre Grossa, that of the Palace of the Commune, also known as the Palazzo del Popolo (town hall), situated on the left side of the Collegiata. The Palace of the Commune houses the Museo Civico. The Pinacoteca, features a number of paintings from the Florentine and Sienese schools of the twelfth to the fifteenth centuries as well as several other works of art by Niccolò Tegliacci, Taddeo di Bartolo, and Pinturicchio. Several worn but interesting frescoes can be viewed on the walls in various parts of palace including the courtyard. This is open to the public and once there, one can climb up a staircase that leads to the top of the Torre Grossa, certainly worth visiting in order to take in the stunning sweeping views of the town and its surroundings.
Just a few metres away from the Piazza del Duomo is a small hilltop park which houses the remains of the Rocca, or fortress. From here one can get a spectacular view (and photograph) of the town's many towers and surrounding countryside. The Rocca was built in 1353 when the Florentines took complete control of the city, but demolished in 1555 on the orders of Cosimo I. In fact only a tower and fragments of the walls survive.
One cannot miss out on an ice-cream from one of the two gelaterias located in the Piazza della Cisterna, most famously the Gelateria di Piazza. Various newspaper clippings in German, English and Italian, pictures of visiting celebrities posing proudly with their ice-cream as well as letters from all over Europe adorn the walls of the little shop serving over thirty five different flavours and is testimony to his popularity. Its ice-cream has repeatedly won the title of the world's "best ice-cream of the year".
We dined at the Osteria di Sant’ Agostino located within the Piazza that bears the same name. The food was excellent, and certainly good value for money. We had bruschetta and plate of pasta served with a mouth-watering tomato sauce, all washed down with a fresh house wine, of course.
The drive to San Gimignano involves a lot of winding roads but the scenery on the way is that of pure Tuscan beauty. Just make sure that you type in San Gimignano and not San Gemignano if you are using a Navigator. The reason being that there is a location called San Gemignano further up north and if you take the wrong direction you are in for a long trip away from the actual San Gimignano. Cars are not allowed in the town centre, but there are a number of parking spaces just outside the walls of the town. Furthermore there are buses to/from Florence and Siena. Some of these are direct, but some may require a change at Poggibonsi. There are several services everyday, and arrive/depart just in front of Porta San Giovanni in San Gimignano. Being one of the most popular Tuscan towns, it is advisable to visit San Gimignano during the evening hours or off-season in order to avoid parking problems and masses of tour buses arriving from Florence and Siena.
San Gimignano : as good as Tuscany gets !!!
Life through my eyes
It's all cold and jam-packed with snow outside but, well, I got to see the sun today, which greeted me in the most welcoming of ways. Its frail warmth worked its way down to this side of this world and I could feel it on my face. Sunlight. It is still awfully cold, but it is Winter after all isn't it ?
Being a Mediterranean girl living in the Northern part of Europem I miss the sea, the real blue Mediterranean sea, the warm Mediterranean sun, my home, my family. I am Maltese born and bred, and proud of it. I would never want anyone to take my childhood away from me. From my early school days till my years at college, my friends, classmates, I wouldnt change anything. It is all part of my life, part of my growing up, a metamorphosis of my life so far.
Life is one big great adventure .. good or bad moments we must appreciate it .. this world has so much to offer, colourful, a beautiful world enhanced with all forms of life, from birds, creatures, plants, flowers, to human beings hailing from all parts of the world. We travel through time, sometimes we have the fortune of being able to experience different cultures and it is a truly necessary experience if one can afford to do so.
Nature is a gift. Being one who possesses a passion for photography I look at photos and images of nature, true nature, safaris in Africa, forests in the Americas, the Australias.. If each one of us could help in any way to preserve the beauty these continents have gifted us with then the world would be a much better place.
But sadly civil wars, fighting, terrorism, vandalism, crime that the world is condemned with is happening all the time. The unfairness of this world. Why, we have such a beautiful world, some people have nothing but war on their minds. What a pity, I say to myself, perhaps I am naive, perhaps I like to look at the beauty of this world. This is the only world we have. Why do some people choose to give it to the dogs ? Well, yes those people exist, perhaps because they do not know any better.
If only this violence could be stopped, if only these people could be taught to see the world from a different perspective, perhaps, only, perhaps the world could be a better plplace. This is one of my dreams, but one that is very difficult to come through.
All we can do is simply to do our best and give our all, making up for the evil in this world, that which is made up of crime, wars and terrorism. And, oh yes I have no doubt, the number of people who feel same way I feel certainly outnumber those embroiled in bitterness, vandalism and violence.
Let us all make the world a better place and appreciate the beauty our world aches to give us, from the seas, oceans, forests, to deserts and mountainous landscapes.
Being a Mediterranean girl living in the Northern part of Europem I miss the sea, the real blue Mediterranean sea, the warm Mediterranean sun, my home, my family. I am Maltese born and bred, and proud of it. I would never want anyone to take my childhood away from me. From my early school days till my years at college, my friends, classmates, I wouldnt change anything. It is all part of my life, part of my growing up, a metamorphosis of my life so far.
Life is one big great adventure .. good or bad moments we must appreciate it .. this world has so much to offer, colourful, a beautiful world enhanced with all forms of life, from birds, creatures, plants, flowers, to human beings hailing from all parts of the world. We travel through time, sometimes we have the fortune of being able to experience different cultures and it is a truly necessary experience if one can afford to do so.
Nature is a gift. Being one who possesses a passion for photography I look at photos and images of nature, true nature, safaris in Africa, forests in the Americas, the Australias.. If each one of us could help in any way to preserve the beauty these continents have gifted us with then the world would be a much better place.
But sadly civil wars, fighting, terrorism, vandalism, crime that the world is condemned with is happening all the time. The unfairness of this world. Why, we have such a beautiful world, some people have nothing but war on their minds. What a pity, I say to myself, perhaps I am naive, perhaps I like to look at the beauty of this world. This is the only world we have. Why do some people choose to give it to the dogs ? Well, yes those people exist, perhaps because they do not know any better.
If only this violence could be stopped, if only these people could be taught to see the world from a different perspective, perhaps, only, perhaps the world could be a better plplace. This is one of my dreams, but one that is very difficult to come through.
All we can do is simply to do our best and give our all, making up for the evil in this world, that which is made up of crime, wars and terrorism. And, oh yes I have no doubt, the number of people who feel same way I feel certainly outnumber those embroiled in bitterness, vandalism and violence.
Let us all make the world a better place and appreciate the beauty our world aches to give us, from the seas, oceans, forests, to deserts and mountainous landscapes.
Destination - Ronda, Spain 
Savouring the beautiful Costa del Sol is one of life’s goals to be accomplished. The sun, sea, white-lime washed buildings of the Pueblos Blancos are as spectacular in real life as illustrated on tourist brochures. And the southern Spanish region of Andalucía offers that and so much more.
Located some 640km away from Madrid it takes some five hours by car to reach Ronda. Leaving the city landscape of the Spanish capital, dawn breaks to reveal some breathtaking scenery, changing from endless plains sheathed in olive trees to the mountainous Valdepeñas, an idyllic location for a well-deserved coffee break. As one heads south, the day gets hotter, and hotter.
Ronda is nestled in the hillside just 110km from Malaga. It’s a quaint town steeped in history and split in two sections by the Guadalevín gorge. This 100m gorge is bridged by the spectacular Puente Nuevo, which was built in 1751 and took 42 years to build. Local hearsay has it that the bridge was the site on which many accidents have taken place. During the Spanish Civil War Republican sympathizers were thrown in the gorge by General Franco’s troops. Even the architect himself had his fate sealed by a sudden gust of wind while reaching for his hat while on the bridge!
On one side of the bridge is the old Moorish town, or Ciudad, rich in historic buildings including the House of the Moorish King, which dates back to the 18th century, and on the other side is the Mercadillo, a more recent urban development.
Many of the important sights in Ronda can be seen in a few hours as most are located around the old part of the town. The traditional tourist route takes in most of them and is worth leaving the car at bay, although the Andalucian sun would recommend otherwise. The lavish Paseo de Blas Infante behind the bullring offers the best panoramic views over the mountains. The Calle Virgen de la Paz leads the way towards the bridge.
The most famous landmark in Ronda, with its long and celebrated history, is the Plaza de Toros, widely acclaimed to be one of the most important and famous rings in the bullfighting world. This is no coincidence as Ronda is considered to be the seat of bullfighting and equestrian sports. The majority of this praise is assigned to a man called Pedro Romero, undoubtedly the father of modern day bullfighting. He created a graceful style that involved fighting bulls on foot rather than on horseback as it had previously always been done. Incidentally this bullring was chosen by Madonna for the shooting of her video Take a Bow.
The Ronda bullring was built in 1785 making it one the oldest in Spain. It is entered through an elegant gateway and surrounded by fine arcades inside. The bullring is open to the public, with a small admission charge. It also houses an interesting museum dedicated to the sport, containing sumptuous costumes and various mementoes such as bullfighting accessories and photographs of generations of Ronda matadors including the Romero family and the famous Antonio Ordoñez. Writers have also found Ronda to be a source of inspiration, the most internationally famous of which has been Ernest Hemingway, pictures of whom adorn the museum. He worked as a newspaper correspondent during the Spanish Civil War and lived in a suburb of Málaga and befriended the famous bullfighter Antonio Ordoñez. His passion for bullfighting inspired him to write his novel Death in the Afternoon, a magnificent account of the sport’s inherent drama.
The Andalucian bullfighting season stretches from April to October, but the most important ones take place in Spring and Summer. It is best to enquire through the local tourist office when one arrives or directly from the ticket office or taquilla specifically dedicated to the sale of tickets for the bullfight.
Located just outside the bullring is the Pedro Romero restaurant, where various bull parts are on offer, although the more traditional fayre is also on offer, including the speciality Andalucian gazpacho and rabbit in garlic, ideally washed down with a carafe of Sangria.
One cannot but fall in love with this beautiful town and its inhabitants, invariably helpful and friendly, and one tends to promise oneself to visit again.
Savouring the beautiful Costa del Sol is one of life’s goals to be accomplished. The sun, sea, white-lime washed buildings of the Pueblos Blancos are as spectacular in real life as illustrated on tourist brochures. And the southern Spanish region of Andalucía offers that and so much more.
Located some 640km away from Madrid it takes some five hours by car to reach Ronda. Leaving the city landscape of the Spanish capital, dawn breaks to reveal some breathtaking scenery, changing from endless plains sheathed in olive trees to the mountainous Valdepeñas, an idyllic location for a well-deserved coffee break. As one heads south, the day gets hotter, and hotter.
Ronda is nestled in the hillside just 110km from Malaga. It’s a quaint town steeped in history and split in two sections by the Guadalevín gorge. This 100m gorge is bridged by the spectacular Puente Nuevo, which was built in 1751 and took 42 years to build. Local hearsay has it that the bridge was the site on which many accidents have taken place. During the Spanish Civil War Republican sympathizers were thrown in the gorge by General Franco’s troops. Even the architect himself had his fate sealed by a sudden gust of wind while reaching for his hat while on the bridge!
On one side of the bridge is the old Moorish town, or Ciudad, rich in historic buildings including the House of the Moorish King, which dates back to the 18th century, and on the other side is the Mercadillo, a more recent urban development.
Many of the important sights in Ronda can be seen in a few hours as most are located around the old part of the town. The traditional tourist route takes in most of them and is worth leaving the car at bay, although the Andalucian sun would recommend otherwise. The lavish Paseo de Blas Infante behind the bullring offers the best panoramic views over the mountains. The Calle Virgen de la Paz leads the way towards the bridge.
The most famous landmark in Ronda, with its long and celebrated history, is the Plaza de Toros, widely acclaimed to be one of the most important and famous rings in the bullfighting world. This is no coincidence as Ronda is considered to be the seat of bullfighting and equestrian sports. The majority of this praise is assigned to a man called Pedro Romero, undoubtedly the father of modern day bullfighting. He created a graceful style that involved fighting bulls on foot rather than on horseback as it had previously always been done. Incidentally this bullring was chosen by Madonna for the shooting of her video Take a Bow.
The Ronda bullring was built in 1785 making it one the oldest in Spain. It is entered through an elegant gateway and surrounded by fine arcades inside. The bullring is open to the public, with a small admission charge. It also houses an interesting museum dedicated to the sport, containing sumptuous costumes and various mementoes such as bullfighting accessories and photographs of generations of Ronda matadors including the Romero family and the famous Antonio Ordoñez. Writers have also found Ronda to be a source of inspiration, the most internationally famous of which has been Ernest Hemingway, pictures of whom adorn the museum. He worked as a newspaper correspondent during the Spanish Civil War and lived in a suburb of Málaga and befriended the famous bullfighter Antonio Ordoñez. His passion for bullfighting inspired him to write his novel Death in the Afternoon, a magnificent account of the sport’s inherent drama.
The Andalucian bullfighting season stretches from April to October, but the most important ones take place in Spring and Summer. It is best to enquire through the local tourist office when one arrives or directly from the ticket office or taquilla specifically dedicated to the sale of tickets for the bullfight.
Located just outside the bullring is the Pedro Romero restaurant, where various bull parts are on offer, although the more traditional fayre is also on offer, including the speciality Andalucian gazpacho and rabbit in garlic, ideally washed down with a carafe of Sangria.
One cannot but fall in love with this beautiful town and its inhabitants, invariably helpful and friendly, and one tends to promise oneself to visit again.
Destination - Scilla, Reggio Calabria
The Pearl of the Costa Viola
Mythical.. charming.. picturesque.. quaint yet vibrant.. these words came to mind when I first visited Scilla one evening back in 1988 (and reiterated more recently during a visit a few months ago), it was love at first sight. One could immediately guess that it had many stories to tell.
Stunningly located on the Costa Viola in the Calabria region of Italy in the Province of Reggio Calabria, this pretty little fishing village is straight out of myths and bears a history that stretches back thousands of years. Its mysterious origins have, in fact, made Scilla an irresistible subject for writers throughout its existence. One writer eloquently wrote “Once charming and regal, Scilla casts a powerful spell, a kind of enchantment which gradually creeps into the depths of the onlooker inducing him to dream.”
Scilla is a village full of evocative fascination whose origins are lost in the mists of time, a true blend of mythology, history, legends and poetic illustrations that merge into a distant past rich in character and charm. This picturesque village has been described by the likes of Homer in the Odyssey, Ovid and Virgil and owes its name to the legendary sea monster Scylla, entwined around countless myths.
In Homer’s Odyssey, when Ulysses began his perilous journey home, he had to cross a stormy strait. On one side was Charybdis, a sea monster which bore a single gaping mouth that swallowed huge quantities of water, and belched them out three times a day, creating whirlpools. On the other side, Scylla, the seven headed beast slumbering at the foot of the steep cliff. Any vessel coming near the whirlpool was inevitably engulfed. They were said to be located close enough to each other so as to pose an inescapable threat to passing sailors; avoiding Charybdis meant passing too closely to Scylla and vice versa. Ulyssis is located in the Straits of Messina, Charybdis in Sicily and Scylla in Scilla.
The earthquake in 1783 destroyed most of Scilla and Calabria. Entire families were wiped out, buildings, bridges and the fortifications of the castle also destroyed. Whatever was left standing was then damaged and cancelled by the 1908 earthquake. The French took over Scilla in 1806, but were soon driven out by the British, but this was to be short-lived as in 1808 the French forced the British to evacuate the castle.
The 43 sq. km village can easily be explored on foot. It is made up of three districts: the beach resort of the Marina Grande, the castle and administrative centre, also the main residential area, boasting beautiful views known as San Giorgio and the picturesque fisherman’s district known as Chianalea.
The beach front, known as the Marina Grande, is the main attraction of this small village. This part is fairly modern, with a cheerful seaside atmosphere lined with bars and restaurants. It is generally bustled with seaside holidaymakers and locals during the summer months. One other attraction worth a visit is the fifteenth century Chiesa di Santo Spirito, located just beneath the Castello Ruffo, built in 1752 by devout sailors who came to Scilla during the eighteenth century. Here one can appreciate, various colourful marble works as well as the masterpiece of Francesco Celebrano, the descent of the Holy Spirit.
Spread out on the plateau above sea level is the central part of the village known as San Giorgio. San Giorgio is home to the famous Castello Ruffo, the Church of San Rocco, the patron saint of the city, overlooking the Piazza San Rocco which offers breathtaking views of the Marina Grande and other parts of the village. Perched on a promontory jutting out over the Straits of Messina and overlooking the azure waters of the sea is the imposing Ruffo castle, an old fortification built for military purposes then converted into a residential property in 1532 by Count Paolo Ruffo who resided in the castle for a number of years. This castle plays an important role in the history of Scilla and is considered by many to be the most beautiful castle in Scilla, not for its structure but for its historical and mythological significance. It has long been the emblem of the town and although myth states that its origins date back to Ulysses who built the oldest part of the fortification as a temple in honour of Minerva, its first foundations date back to the fifth century BC during Anasilla’s tyranny but it was built between the ninth and eleventh century AD. The earthquake in 1783 did not spare the castle but was restored in 1810. However another strong earthquake in 1908 destroyed most of the old structure. At various times this location has been a fortress, a home, a lighthouse, a monastery and, most recently, a youth hostel. It is currently a Cultural centre and holds a number of photography and painting exhibitions and sculpture symposiums. There is also a permanent exhibition of the luntre, only remaining ancient ship, once used for hunting swordfish.
The Church of San Rocco was built in 1424 to celebrate the end of the Plague but its first construction was destroyed by the 1783 earthquake. It was rebuilt only to be destroyed once more by the 1908 earthquake. San Rocco is the patron saint of the town. He came to Scilla during an epidemic of plague, tended to the sick and is said to have affected many miraculous cures by prayer and the sign of the cross and the touch of his hand. This church overlooks the piazza from where one can enjoy scenic views of the town, castle and the Marina Grande.
Squeezed between the waves and the main road below the cliffs with only one principal lane running along its length, Chianalea is a charming little fishermen’s settlement with cobblestone streets and an atmosphere all of its own. Nestled into a narrow strip of land, this little historical district is lined with tiny cramped houses built right against the sea, separated from each other by small alleys with waves washing up to their walls and with little fishing boats drawn up on tiny slipways. Here one can while away time on a cafe terrace over the water or stroll out to see the boats in the harbour below the castle. This enchanting little village is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. At any time of day, fishermen can be seen sitting outside mending their nets or chatting with each other. Fishing for swordfish was in fact the base for the main economy of the suburb until a few years ago.
Getting there is easy as it is very conveniently on the railway line which travels through Italy’s Tyrrhenian coast and is only some 20km north of Reggio Calabria. It can also be reached fairly easily by car. Flights from Malta to Reggio Calabria are to resume once again shortly.
One cannot but fall in love with Scilla, with its beautiful beaches, historical charm, vibrant colours and Mediterranean flavours and fragrances. Along with its invariably helpful and friendly inhabitants, it offers a good mix of culture, history and good food.
Mythical.. charming.. picturesque.. quaint yet vibrant.. these words came to mind when I first visited Scilla one evening back in 1988 (and reiterated more recently during a visit a few months ago), it was love at first sight. One could immediately guess that it had many stories to tell.
Stunningly located on the Costa Viola in the Calabria region of Italy in the Province of Reggio Calabria, this pretty little fishing village is straight out of myths and bears a history that stretches back thousands of years. Its mysterious origins have, in fact, made Scilla an irresistible subject for writers throughout its existence. One writer eloquently wrote “Once charming and regal, Scilla casts a powerful spell, a kind of enchantment which gradually creeps into the depths of the onlooker inducing him to dream.”
Scilla is a village full of evocative fascination whose origins are lost in the mists of time, a true blend of mythology, history, legends and poetic illustrations that merge into a distant past rich in character and charm. This picturesque village has been described by the likes of Homer in the Odyssey, Ovid and Virgil and owes its name to the legendary sea monster Scylla, entwined around countless myths.
In Homer’s Odyssey, when Ulysses began his perilous journey home, he had to cross a stormy strait. On one side was Charybdis, a sea monster which bore a single gaping mouth that swallowed huge quantities of water, and belched them out three times a day, creating whirlpools. On the other side, Scylla, the seven headed beast slumbering at the foot of the steep cliff. Any vessel coming near the whirlpool was inevitably engulfed. They were said to be located close enough to each other so as to pose an inescapable threat to passing sailors; avoiding Charybdis meant passing too closely to Scylla and vice versa. Ulyssis is located in the Straits of Messina, Charybdis in Sicily and Scylla in Scilla.
The earthquake in 1783 destroyed most of Scilla and Calabria. Entire families were wiped out, buildings, bridges and the fortifications of the castle also destroyed. Whatever was left standing was then damaged and cancelled by the 1908 earthquake. The French took over Scilla in 1806, but were soon driven out by the British, but this was to be short-lived as in 1808 the French forced the British to evacuate the castle.
The 43 sq. km village can easily be explored on foot. It is made up of three districts: the beach resort of the Marina Grande, the castle and administrative centre, also the main residential area, boasting beautiful views known as San Giorgio and the picturesque fisherman’s district known as Chianalea.
The beach front, known as the Marina Grande, is the main attraction of this small village. This part is fairly modern, with a cheerful seaside atmosphere lined with bars and restaurants. It is generally bustled with seaside holidaymakers and locals during the summer months. One other attraction worth a visit is the fifteenth century Chiesa di Santo Spirito, located just beneath the Castello Ruffo, built in 1752 by devout sailors who came to Scilla during the eighteenth century. Here one can appreciate, various colourful marble works as well as the masterpiece of Francesco Celebrano, the descent of the Holy Spirit.
Spread out on the plateau above sea level is the central part of the village known as San Giorgio. San Giorgio is home to the famous Castello Ruffo, the Church of San Rocco, the patron saint of the city, overlooking the Piazza San Rocco which offers breathtaking views of the Marina Grande and other parts of the village. Perched on a promontory jutting out over the Straits of Messina and overlooking the azure waters of the sea is the imposing Ruffo castle, an old fortification built for military purposes then converted into a residential property in 1532 by Count Paolo Ruffo who resided in the castle for a number of years. This castle plays an important role in the history of Scilla and is considered by many to be the most beautiful castle in Scilla, not for its structure but for its historical and mythological significance. It has long been the emblem of the town and although myth states that its origins date back to Ulysses who built the oldest part of the fortification as a temple in honour of Minerva, its first foundations date back to the fifth century BC during Anasilla’s tyranny but it was built between the ninth and eleventh century AD. The earthquake in 1783 did not spare the castle but was restored in 1810. However another strong earthquake in 1908 destroyed most of the old structure. At various times this location has been a fortress, a home, a lighthouse, a monastery and, most recently, a youth hostel. It is currently a Cultural centre and holds a number of photography and painting exhibitions and sculpture symposiums. There is also a permanent exhibition of the luntre, only remaining ancient ship, once used for hunting swordfish.
The Church of San Rocco was built in 1424 to celebrate the end of the Plague but its first construction was destroyed by the 1783 earthquake. It was rebuilt only to be destroyed once more by the 1908 earthquake. San Rocco is the patron saint of the town. He came to Scilla during an epidemic of plague, tended to the sick and is said to have affected many miraculous cures by prayer and the sign of the cross and the touch of his hand. This church overlooks the piazza from where one can enjoy scenic views of the town, castle and the Marina Grande.
Squeezed between the waves and the main road below the cliffs with only one principal lane running along its length, Chianalea is a charming little fishermen’s settlement with cobblestone streets and an atmosphere all of its own. Nestled into a narrow strip of land, this little historical district is lined with tiny cramped houses built right against the sea, separated from each other by small alleys with waves washing up to their walls and with little fishing boats drawn up on tiny slipways. Here one can while away time on a cafe terrace over the water or stroll out to see the boats in the harbour below the castle. This enchanting little village is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. At any time of day, fishermen can be seen sitting outside mending their nets or chatting with each other. Fishing for swordfish was in fact the base for the main economy of the suburb until a few years ago.
Getting there is easy as it is very conveniently on the railway line which travels through Italy’s Tyrrhenian coast and is only some 20km north of Reggio Calabria. It can also be reached fairly easily by car. Flights from Malta to Reggio Calabria are to resume once again shortly.
One cannot but fall in love with Scilla, with its beautiful beaches, historical charm, vibrant colours and Mediterranean flavours and fragrances. Along with its invariably helpful and friendly inhabitants, it offers a good mix of culture, history and good food.
Destination - Brussels 
When planning a weekend break places that normally come to mind include Gozo, Taormina, Rome, London or Paris. An interesting city worth visiting, which would not be an automatic first choice, is Brussels.
Of course when one thinks of Brussels, one thinks of the capital city of the European Union, with the various EU institutions, but there is much more … this city promises more than one can imagine.
The so-called ‘Lower Town’ is the historical and commercial heart of the city, and home to the famous Grand Place. Most of the city's best historic sites, restaurants and shops are located in this bustling quarter. Its layout remains essentially medieval - a labyrinth of narrow, cobbled lanes and alleys whose names mostly reveal their original purpose as markets, as for example, the Rue du Marché aux Fromages.
The Grand Place is an outstanding example of the eclectic and highly successful building of architectural and artistic styles that characterizes the culture and society of this region. It is usually the first port of call for most visitors to Brussels and is known to be one of the most beautiful town squares in Europe. This charming market square is enclosed by a beautiful set of Guild houses and dominated by the Town Hall and the Maison du Roi. This bustling cobblestone square remains the civic centre, many centuries after its creation, offering the finest example of Belgium’s ornate 17th century architecture. The origins of the Grand-Place, however, are humble. Open-air markets took place on this site as early as the 11th century. During the early Middle Ages small wooden houses were scattered around the market. Brussels’ town hall, the Hôtel de Ville, was completed in 1459, emerging as the finest architectural masterpiece in the country, a stature it still enjoys. In the following centuries most wooden houses were replaced with beautifully decorated guild houses in a whole array of styles. Gradually the market turned into the main commercial and administrative centre of the city.
The main buildings forming the perimeter of the Grand Place include the Hôtel de Ville, with its imposing belfry, topped by a statue of St. Michael, the city’s patron saint; the group of six guild houses now housing the Cocoa and Chocolate Museum; the Maison du Roi, once the residence of the ruling Spanish monarchs, now home to the Musée de La Ville; Le Pigeon, home to Victor Hugo, the exiled French novelist; la Maison des Boulangers, a showpiece built by a wealthy and powerful group of bakers, now housing the Grand Place’s finest bar with a view of the bustling square.
Just off the Grand Place is the ‘Manneken Pis’. This very famous bronze statuette, just 60 cm high, represents a little boy tirelessly filling the basin of his fountain with his stream of water. Several attempts to steal the statue were made during the 18th century and in fact was stolen and smashed in 1817. A replica was cast the following year and returned to its original place. This is the copy we see today. It is a tradition for the statue to be dressed in a costume on special occasions, a wide array of which can be viewed at the Maison du Roi.
Another statue wrought in tradition and superstition is that of Everard t'Serclaes, a 14th-century popular Brussels hero. In 1388, when riding alone on the road from Brussels to Lennik, he was ambushed, mutilated before being transported to the Maison de l'Étoile, where he was to die. It is this episode which is commemorated by the reclining statue underneath the Étoile house. Local superstition says that caressing the statue, especially Serclaes' arm and the dog's nose, brings luck. Be that as it may, it certainly keeps the statue shiny!
The Upper Town, to the southeast, has a vastly different atmosphere. The traditional base of Brussels' French-speaking elite, it is home to wide boulevards, major museums, chic shopping areas around Sablon and Avenue Louise, and monumental buildings including the Belgian parliament. The Place du Grand Sablon, one of the most prestigious areas in Brussels, has recently become the centre of antiques shops and art galleries. The name ‘sablon’ is derived from the French ‘sable’ meaning ‘sand’ and is so-called because it was originally a sandy road along which people had access to the main city gates. The triangular shaped square is home to up-market antique dealers, fashionable restaurants, trendy bars as well as pleasant cafes. A visit to Wittamer, a well-known chocolate shop, is a must.
Dominating the square is the Notre Dame du Sablon church, one of the most beautiful gothic churches in Brussels. Its interior is simple with inter-connecting chapels but the eleven magnificent stained-glass windows, each 14m high, dominate the church. As the church is lit from the inside, they shine out at night across the street. The Place du Petit Sablon, opposite the Grand Sablon, is surrounded by a magnificent wrought-iron fence, topped by 48 small bronze statues representing the city's guilds.
The Cathedrale Sts Michel et Gudule, situated between the upper and lower town, is the national church of Belgium, and is the finest surviving example of Gothic architecture. In 1047 the Duke of Brabant, Lambert II, had the relics of St. Gudule transferred to this church. This 7th century saint is very dear to the Bruxellois and is known as the woman whose candle the devil tries to blow out and is miraculously re-ignited. The interior of the cathedral is very bare but the magnificent richly decorated glass-stained windows contribute to the gothic style and allow light to fall into the church.
A favourite during the warmer months of the year with joggers, families and civil servants from the nearby EU headquarters is the Cinquantenaire Park, with its huge lawns and several museums. The Triumphal Arch is the most eye catching monument found in the park. It was built to serve as a new entrance to the people entering from the eastern side of Brussels.
To the north of Brussels, Heysel offers attractions whose modernity contrasts with the historical city centre. The Atomium, built in 1958 for the World Fair, stands next to the Bruparck theme park. It is probably the most identifiable symbol of Brussels, as recognisable as the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It is a symbol of the atom concept, because it represents a crystal molecule of metal, magnified 165 billion times. Now a small museum, each of the nine spheres that make up the ‘atom’ are 18m in diameter and linked by escalators.
With its sites and range of theme restaurants, Bruparck is a very popular family destination. Located at the foot of the Atomium, Mini-Europe is the only park where you can have a tour around Europe in a few short hours. Reduced-scale reconstructions take you around the landscapes of the European Union, displaying buildings of social or cultural importance from the Tower of Pisa to the Maestranza bullring of Seville, accompanied by the incomparable chimes of the Big Ben which welcome you to the heart of London.
Brussels is definitely a compelling ‘get-away-from-it-all’ destination, offering a good mix of culture, history and entertainment. A weekend-break there is very definitely worth considering.
When planning a weekend break places that normally come to mind include Gozo, Taormina, Rome, London or Paris. An interesting city worth visiting, which would not be an automatic first choice, is Brussels.
Of course when one thinks of Brussels, one thinks of the capital city of the European Union, with the various EU institutions, but there is much more … this city promises more than one can imagine.
The so-called ‘Lower Town’ is the historical and commercial heart of the city, and home to the famous Grand Place. Most of the city's best historic sites, restaurants and shops are located in this bustling quarter. Its layout remains essentially medieval - a labyrinth of narrow, cobbled lanes and alleys whose names mostly reveal their original purpose as markets, as for example, the Rue du Marché aux Fromages.
The Grand Place is an outstanding example of the eclectic and highly successful building of architectural and artistic styles that characterizes the culture and society of this region. It is usually the first port of call for most visitors to Brussels and is known to be one of the most beautiful town squares in Europe. This charming market square is enclosed by a beautiful set of Guild houses and dominated by the Town Hall and the Maison du Roi. This bustling cobblestone square remains the civic centre, many centuries after its creation, offering the finest example of Belgium’s ornate 17th century architecture. The origins of the Grand-Place, however, are humble. Open-air markets took place on this site as early as the 11th century. During the early Middle Ages small wooden houses were scattered around the market. Brussels’ town hall, the Hôtel de Ville, was completed in 1459, emerging as the finest architectural masterpiece in the country, a stature it still enjoys. In the following centuries most wooden houses were replaced with beautifully decorated guild houses in a whole array of styles. Gradually the market turned into the main commercial and administrative centre of the city.
The main buildings forming the perimeter of the Grand Place include the Hôtel de Ville, with its imposing belfry, topped by a statue of St. Michael, the city’s patron saint; the group of six guild houses now housing the Cocoa and Chocolate Museum; the Maison du Roi, once the residence of the ruling Spanish monarchs, now home to the Musée de La Ville; Le Pigeon, home to Victor Hugo, the exiled French novelist; la Maison des Boulangers, a showpiece built by a wealthy and powerful group of bakers, now housing the Grand Place’s finest bar with a view of the bustling square.
Just off the Grand Place is the ‘Manneken Pis’. This very famous bronze statuette, just 60 cm high, represents a little boy tirelessly filling the basin of his fountain with his stream of water. Several attempts to steal the statue were made during the 18th century and in fact was stolen and smashed in 1817. A replica was cast the following year and returned to its original place. This is the copy we see today. It is a tradition for the statue to be dressed in a costume on special occasions, a wide array of which can be viewed at the Maison du Roi.
Another statue wrought in tradition and superstition is that of Everard t'Serclaes, a 14th-century popular Brussels hero. In 1388, when riding alone on the road from Brussels to Lennik, he was ambushed, mutilated before being transported to the Maison de l'Étoile, where he was to die. It is this episode which is commemorated by the reclining statue underneath the Étoile house. Local superstition says that caressing the statue, especially Serclaes' arm and the dog's nose, brings luck. Be that as it may, it certainly keeps the statue shiny!
The Upper Town, to the southeast, has a vastly different atmosphere. The traditional base of Brussels' French-speaking elite, it is home to wide boulevards, major museums, chic shopping areas around Sablon and Avenue Louise, and monumental buildings including the Belgian parliament. The Place du Grand Sablon, one of the most prestigious areas in Brussels, has recently become the centre of antiques shops and art galleries. The name ‘sablon’ is derived from the French ‘sable’ meaning ‘sand’ and is so-called because it was originally a sandy road along which people had access to the main city gates. The triangular shaped square is home to up-market antique dealers, fashionable restaurants, trendy bars as well as pleasant cafes. A visit to Wittamer, a well-known chocolate shop, is a must.
Dominating the square is the Notre Dame du Sablon church, one of the most beautiful gothic churches in Brussels. Its interior is simple with inter-connecting chapels but the eleven magnificent stained-glass windows, each 14m high, dominate the church. As the church is lit from the inside, they shine out at night across the street. The Place du Petit Sablon, opposite the Grand Sablon, is surrounded by a magnificent wrought-iron fence, topped by 48 small bronze statues representing the city's guilds.
The Cathedrale Sts Michel et Gudule, situated between the upper and lower town, is the national church of Belgium, and is the finest surviving example of Gothic architecture. In 1047 the Duke of Brabant, Lambert II, had the relics of St. Gudule transferred to this church. This 7th century saint is very dear to the Bruxellois and is known as the woman whose candle the devil tries to blow out and is miraculously re-ignited. The interior of the cathedral is very bare but the magnificent richly decorated glass-stained windows contribute to the gothic style and allow light to fall into the church.
A favourite during the warmer months of the year with joggers, families and civil servants from the nearby EU headquarters is the Cinquantenaire Park, with its huge lawns and several museums. The Triumphal Arch is the most eye catching monument found in the park. It was built to serve as a new entrance to the people entering from the eastern side of Brussels.
To the north of Brussels, Heysel offers attractions whose modernity contrasts with the historical city centre. The Atomium, built in 1958 for the World Fair, stands next to the Bruparck theme park. It is probably the most identifiable symbol of Brussels, as recognisable as the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It is a symbol of the atom concept, because it represents a crystal molecule of metal, magnified 165 billion times. Now a small museum, each of the nine spheres that make up the ‘atom’ are 18m in diameter and linked by escalators.
With its sites and range of theme restaurants, Bruparck is a very popular family destination. Located at the foot of the Atomium, Mini-Europe is the only park where you can have a tour around Europe in a few short hours. Reduced-scale reconstructions take you around the landscapes of the European Union, displaying buildings of social or cultural importance from the Tower of Pisa to the Maestranza bullring of Seville, accompanied by the incomparable chimes of the Big Ben which welcome you to the heart of London.
Brussels is definitely a compelling ‘get-away-from-it-all’ destination, offering a good mix of culture, history and entertainment. A weekend-break there is very definitely worth considering.
Destination: Seville 
Flamenco … bull-fighting … religious fiestas … Christopher Columbus … these all-so-Spanish synonyms find their ultimate expression and concentration in none other than Seville.
As so masterly evoked by John Woo in the opening scenes of Mission Impossible 2, flamenco is to Seville what samba is to Brazil. The thundering beat of the dancers’ heels on the wooden stage, mixed with their sensuous body movements and evocative clothing, symbolise in no better way the pulse of life in the Andalucian capital.
Seville, or Sevilla, as it is known by the locals, is the capital of Andalusia and one of Spain’s largest cities following Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia. It is located in the south-east of Spain on the plain of the Rio Guadalquivir (literally, big river, in Arabic), which crosses the city from north to south. It is undoubtedly one of the largest historical cities in Europe.
Indisputably the best time to visit Seville would be in springtime when within the space of only two weeks take place the two most important festivities of this city: Semana Santa, or, Holy Week, with its world-famous processions, and Feria de Abril, the Flamenco-event of the year. During Holy Week, which starts on Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday, thousands of people pour onto the winding streets of this ancient city to remember the events of The Passion. Seville is renowned for staging perhaps the most overwhelming pageant of The Passion to be found anywhere in the world.
The commemoration dates back to the 16th century, when the Catholic Church decided to educate congregations about the events surrounding Christ's crucifixion. Today, the celebrations are as popular as they have ever been. The spectacle of the solemn processions is marked by mesmerizing drumbeats and punctuated by flamenco saetas, or songs. Every day for an entire week devout believers from 57 hermandades, or brotherhoods, wind their way through the streets of Seville in slow procession from their own church to the cathedral in the centre of the city. The festival commemorates the events of the Passion. The climax of the whole week is la madruga, or Good Friday, when the procession continues until the early hours of the morning. The penitents, dressed in long dark robes and tall pointed hoods, strike an eerie image as they proceed through the town. Each brotherhood carries two pasos or floats: on one is a statue of Christ, on the other of the Virgin Mary. These floats are incredibly heavy and they symbolize Christ's own suffering when he carried the cross to Calvary. La Virgen Macarena, patron saint of bullfighters, is transported through the town and across the river on a float surrounded by thousands of candles and the people throw rose petals at her as she goes.
Holy Week is followed by the Feria de Abril, or the April Fair, when the city becomes a fairground with horse and carriage parades, and men and women clad head-to-toe in flamenco costume. The fair runs for around a week and hosts an enticing programme of typically Andalusian cultural events. Over 1000 brightly-coloured marquees are covered in decorations and paper lanterns and are packed day and night with flamenco dancers.
Furthermore during this fair horses and beautifully-decorated carriages parade in shining colours throughout the city, with their occupants in fantastic flamenco dress. Some of the best bullfights of the year take place around this time at the local Plaza de Toros de Maestranza.
Flamenco and bullfighting represent strong cultural traditions in Andalusia and the April Feria offers a unique insight into the character and atmosphere of this individual region.
Seville is a lively city with a wide variety of entertainment and culture, including theatres, cinemas, music concerts but what distinguishes it most are its traditional tapa bars where Sevillians meet for drinks with tapas and sherry. Most of the tapa bars are concentrated in the Santa Cruz, El Arenal and the Triana districts.
One of the great pleasures of Seville is the wonderful variety of places to walk, the peaceful alleyways in Santa Cruz, Maria Luisa Park and the banks of the Guadalquivir. Taking a stroll around the city is one of the best ways to see the picturesque monuments and landmarks found within the old quarter of the city. Another would be on board a horse-drawn open carriage.
The Giralda is the probably the most emblematic monument of Seville. This 76-metre Minaret was constructed by the Moors during the late 12th century. In 1568 a Cordoban architect crowned it with a belfry. A gently sloping ramp, interrupted at intervals by platforms, leads to the topmost part of the monument where one can witness breathtaking views of the city. Currently the Giralda complements the majestic cathedral of Seville. It is the world’s biggest gothic temple and the third largest Christian cathedral after St. Peter’s in Rome and St. Paul’s in London. Built on the site of Seville’s main mosque, this cathedral was consecrated in 1248.
The only remnant of the old mosque is the Patio de los Naranjos, an internal courtyard sporting lush orange trees, hence the name. The cathedral’s striking interior comprises a Gothic nave and four aisles with its massive columns supporting huge arches that appear slender because they are so tall. In 1899 the remains of the great discoverer, Christopher Columbus, were brought to Seville and now lie in the south transept of the Cathedral. This impressive monument shows the discoverer’s coffin being carried by four heralds symbolizing the four nations of Leon, Navarre, Castille and Aragon that united to become modern Spain. The cathedral also houses countless artistic treasures including sculptures, paintings and stained-glass windows.
A few metres away from the Cathedral is the Alcázar, a great Arabian style palace whose first fortifications go back to 884 was built to defend the town from its enemies. The major part of today's palace was constructed after the Christian reconquest of the town in 1362, by King Pedro "The Cruel". This palace houses several important rooms including the Ambassadors’ Hall, which oozes splendor, and the Bedroom of the Moorish Kings, which possesses the most magnificent doors.
A short walk away from the Alcázar is the Barrio Santa Cruz, a former Jewish quarter favoured by Seville nobility in the 17th century. It can be accessed via the Alcázar itself and stands in the middle of the historic centre of the city, protected by the walls of the Alcázar. Its narrow lanes, richly decorated facades, flower-filled patios, wrought-iron grilles and squares shaded in orange trees are all delightful features of a typical Andalucian neighbourhood and is certainly worth a visit especially in the evenings when cafés and restaurants overflow into its squares.
One cannot miss out on the majestic Maestranza bullring situated in the El Arenal quarter, close to the barrio Santa Cruz alongside the banks of the Guadalquivir. La Real Maestranza, dating back to the 18th century, is one of the most significant, oldest and most beautiful bullrings in the history of bullfighting. It took more than a century to build and is surrounded by 116 asymmetrical balconies. It also houses an interesting museum dedicated to the sport, containing sumptuous costumes and various mementoes such as bullfighting trophies, photographs and other objects in the world of bullfighting.
A few metres away from the La Real Maestranza along the Paseo de Colon is the Torre Del Oro. Built in the 13th century this twelve-sided Moorish “Gold-Tower" was originally part of the town-walls along Guadalquivir river and was built to serve as a defence tower for the city. Its name comes from the golden ceramic tiles which originally covered its front. In the Christian epoch the tower served as seat of the marine's administration. It reached its greatest importance with the discovery of America, for this was the point of arrival for ships returning from the Indies. Today it houses the Museum of Navigation.
One other place definitely not to be missed is what is perhaps the gem of Seville, the Plaza de España. It is located in the centre of the Parque de Maria Luisa, a short distance away from the Torre Del Oro past a number of other historic buildings including the Universidad and Palacio de San Telmo. The Parque de Maria Luisa houses many terraces, many of them in the old pavilions of the Exposition of 1929, close to the Theatre Lope de Vega. The Plaza De España is an impressive work of Seville's best-known modernist style architect, Hannibal Gonzalez. It was made for the Ibero-American Exposition held in 1929 and consists of a vast semicircular complex with fountains, monumental staircases and an artificial lake with two highly individual towers at its both extremes. Each of the fifty-eight benches placed in recesses around the square are decorated with typical Spanish painted tiles and represent historic episodes from each province of Spain.
Who says Spain says tapas, and one cannot miss out on the local varieties such as Pinchos Morunos, very spicy bits of meat, Pavías de Pescado, marinated fish fried in olive-oil, Jamon, cured ham, and of course the fantastic olives of the region. These are served in more than a thousand bars where the choice of food is virtually unlimited. One can actually make a meal out of them, moving from bar to bar and trying a couple of dishes at a time.
And to make your visit to Seville complete, you may wish to pay a visit to the local Benito Villamarin stadium where Malta’s national football team suffered that infamous record-breaking 12-1 bashing back in 1983 …
Flamenco … bull-fighting … religious fiestas … Christopher Columbus … these all-so-Spanish synonyms find their ultimate expression and concentration in none other than Seville.
As so masterly evoked by John Woo in the opening scenes of Mission Impossible 2, flamenco is to Seville what samba is to Brazil. The thundering beat of the dancers’ heels on the wooden stage, mixed with their sensuous body movements and evocative clothing, symbolise in no better way the pulse of life in the Andalucian capital.
Seville, or Sevilla, as it is known by the locals, is the capital of Andalusia and one of Spain’s largest cities following Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia. It is located in the south-east of Spain on the plain of the Rio Guadalquivir (literally, big river, in Arabic), which crosses the city from north to south. It is undoubtedly one of the largest historical cities in Europe.
Indisputably the best time to visit Seville would be in springtime when within the space of only two weeks take place the two most important festivities of this city: Semana Santa, or, Holy Week, with its world-famous processions, and Feria de Abril, the Flamenco-event of the year. During Holy Week, which starts on Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday, thousands of people pour onto the winding streets of this ancient city to remember the events of The Passion. Seville is renowned for staging perhaps the most overwhelming pageant of The Passion to be found anywhere in the world.
The commemoration dates back to the 16th century, when the Catholic Church decided to educate congregations about the events surrounding Christ's crucifixion. Today, the celebrations are as popular as they have ever been. The spectacle of the solemn processions is marked by mesmerizing drumbeats and punctuated by flamenco saetas, or songs. Every day for an entire week devout believers from 57 hermandades, or brotherhoods, wind their way through the streets of Seville in slow procession from their own church to the cathedral in the centre of the city. The festival commemorates the events of the Passion. The climax of the whole week is la madruga, or Good Friday, when the procession continues until the early hours of the morning. The penitents, dressed in long dark robes and tall pointed hoods, strike an eerie image as they proceed through the town. Each brotherhood carries two pasos or floats: on one is a statue of Christ, on the other of the Virgin Mary. These floats are incredibly heavy and they symbolize Christ's own suffering when he carried the cross to Calvary. La Virgen Macarena, patron saint of bullfighters, is transported through the town and across the river on a float surrounded by thousands of candles and the people throw rose petals at her as she goes.
Holy Week is followed by the Feria de Abril, or the April Fair, when the city becomes a fairground with horse and carriage parades, and men and women clad head-to-toe in flamenco costume. The fair runs for around a week and hosts an enticing programme of typically Andalusian cultural events. Over 1000 brightly-coloured marquees are covered in decorations and paper lanterns and are packed day and night with flamenco dancers.
Furthermore during this fair horses and beautifully-decorated carriages parade in shining colours throughout the city, with their occupants in fantastic flamenco dress. Some of the best bullfights of the year take place around this time at the local Plaza de Toros de Maestranza.
Flamenco and bullfighting represent strong cultural traditions in Andalusia and the April Feria offers a unique insight into the character and atmosphere of this individual region.
Seville is a lively city with a wide variety of entertainment and culture, including theatres, cinemas, music concerts but what distinguishes it most are its traditional tapa bars where Sevillians meet for drinks with tapas and sherry. Most of the tapa bars are concentrated in the Santa Cruz, El Arenal and the Triana districts.
One of the great pleasures of Seville is the wonderful variety of places to walk, the peaceful alleyways in Santa Cruz, Maria Luisa Park and the banks of the Guadalquivir. Taking a stroll around the city is one of the best ways to see the picturesque monuments and landmarks found within the old quarter of the city. Another would be on board a horse-drawn open carriage.
The Giralda is the probably the most emblematic monument of Seville. This 76-metre Minaret was constructed by the Moors during the late 12th century. In 1568 a Cordoban architect crowned it with a belfry. A gently sloping ramp, interrupted at intervals by platforms, leads to the topmost part of the monument where one can witness breathtaking views of the city. Currently the Giralda complements the majestic cathedral of Seville. It is the world’s biggest gothic temple and the third largest Christian cathedral after St. Peter’s in Rome and St. Paul’s in London. Built on the site of Seville’s main mosque, this cathedral was consecrated in 1248.
The only remnant of the old mosque is the Patio de los Naranjos, an internal courtyard sporting lush orange trees, hence the name. The cathedral’s striking interior comprises a Gothic nave and four aisles with its massive columns supporting huge arches that appear slender because they are so tall. In 1899 the remains of the great discoverer, Christopher Columbus, were brought to Seville and now lie in the south transept of the Cathedral. This impressive monument shows the discoverer’s coffin being carried by four heralds symbolizing the four nations of Leon, Navarre, Castille and Aragon that united to become modern Spain. The cathedral also houses countless artistic treasures including sculptures, paintings and stained-glass windows.
A few metres away from the Cathedral is the Alcázar, a great Arabian style palace whose first fortifications go back to 884 was built to defend the town from its enemies. The major part of today's palace was constructed after the Christian reconquest of the town in 1362, by King Pedro "The Cruel". This palace houses several important rooms including the Ambassadors’ Hall, which oozes splendor, and the Bedroom of the Moorish Kings, which possesses the most magnificent doors.
A short walk away from the Alcázar is the Barrio Santa Cruz, a former Jewish quarter favoured by Seville nobility in the 17th century. It can be accessed via the Alcázar itself and stands in the middle of the historic centre of the city, protected by the walls of the Alcázar. Its narrow lanes, richly decorated facades, flower-filled patios, wrought-iron grilles and squares shaded in orange trees are all delightful features of a typical Andalucian neighbourhood and is certainly worth a visit especially in the evenings when cafés and restaurants overflow into its squares.
One cannot miss out on the majestic Maestranza bullring situated in the El Arenal quarter, close to the barrio Santa Cruz alongside the banks of the Guadalquivir. La Real Maestranza, dating back to the 18th century, is one of the most significant, oldest and most beautiful bullrings in the history of bullfighting. It took more than a century to build and is surrounded by 116 asymmetrical balconies. It also houses an interesting museum dedicated to the sport, containing sumptuous costumes and various mementoes such as bullfighting trophies, photographs and other objects in the world of bullfighting.
A few metres away from the La Real Maestranza along the Paseo de Colon is the Torre Del Oro. Built in the 13th century this twelve-sided Moorish “Gold-Tower" was originally part of the town-walls along Guadalquivir river and was built to serve as a defence tower for the city. Its name comes from the golden ceramic tiles which originally covered its front. In the Christian epoch the tower served as seat of the marine's administration. It reached its greatest importance with the discovery of America, for this was the point of arrival for ships returning from the Indies. Today it houses the Museum of Navigation.
One other place definitely not to be missed is what is perhaps the gem of Seville, the Plaza de España. It is located in the centre of the Parque de Maria Luisa, a short distance away from the Torre Del Oro past a number of other historic buildings including the Universidad and Palacio de San Telmo. The Parque de Maria Luisa houses many terraces, many of them in the old pavilions of the Exposition of 1929, close to the Theatre Lope de Vega. The Plaza De España is an impressive work of Seville's best-known modernist style architect, Hannibal Gonzalez. It was made for the Ibero-American Exposition held in 1929 and consists of a vast semicircular complex with fountains, monumental staircases and an artificial lake with two highly individual towers at its both extremes. Each of the fifty-eight benches placed in recesses around the square are decorated with typical Spanish painted tiles and represent historic episodes from each province of Spain.
Who says Spain says tapas, and one cannot miss out on the local varieties such as Pinchos Morunos, very spicy bits of meat, Pavías de Pescado, marinated fish fried in olive-oil, Jamon, cured ham, and of course the fantastic olives of the region. These are served in more than a thousand bars where the choice of food is virtually unlimited. One can actually make a meal out of them, moving from bar to bar and trying a couple of dishes at a time.
And to make your visit to Seville complete, you may wish to pay a visit to the local Benito Villamarin stadium where Malta’s national football team suffered that infamous record-breaking 12-1 bashing back in 1983 …
Election fever - Malta 2013 
So, well, yesterday the election campaign was officially inaugurated. I do not want to delve into politics for it is far from a favourite topic for me. In any case I have long decided who to cast my vote for but that is very personal, as with many things in my life as of late.
So far I have seen and noted the following though, useless and senseless slogans, posters which to me are a complete waste of money, when the money could be invested elsewhere and this I am talking about both sides (and possibly a third if the Greens are contesting the upcoming election) etc ..
Yes, fine, for some it is fun, meeting up, having a good time, hailing and cheering their leader, some in the cold, others in warmer surroundings. Red, blue (and possibly green) are the trend colours in Malta at the moment .. but seriously .. what are we expecting from this campaign ??
That the floaters will take their decision ? That those undecided will make their decisions, that those who have been disgruntled and vowed not to cast their vote to anyone to have them change their minds ? What really is this campaign all about ? From what I figure, this campaign is a last minute reach out to those people who are unsure as what to do more than what the party is promising for the next term.
In any case, let us remember that we are all Maltese, that we should not fall into the trap of attacking each other, calling each other names, making enemies of each other simply because of differences in political opinions. Some are passionate about their politics but we must remember that everybody has a right to their own opinion, whether we are in agreement with it or not. Yes, sure, we can argue certain issues but it does not mean either side is right or wrong. Let us not let politics come in our way, affecting friendships, acquaintances and the like.
This is as far as I will delve into politics. I have had my fair share of being an activist back in the 80's but my life has had a turning and I am otherwise taken up with many other things and have many more important priorities in my life other than participating in any political campaign. Aside from the fact that the word politics does not entice me at all.
One final thing I wish to say is let us not make this campaign a war of the worlds in Malta..as they say..ghax dak laburist, mhux maghna or ghax dak nazzjonalist kontra taghna. There are more serious issues in life, imagine those with illnesses for which there is no treatment but have to live with their disabilities for the rest of their lives. Politics belongs to politicians and I will leave it at that. Always do remember one thing .. We are all Maltese under the same sky. Let nothing divide us.
I wish all Maltese a safe campaign.
stef
So, well, yesterday the election campaign was officially inaugurated. I do not want to delve into politics for it is far from a favourite topic for me. In any case I have long decided who to cast my vote for but that is very personal, as with many things in my life as of late.
So far I have seen and noted the following though, useless and senseless slogans, posters which to me are a complete waste of money, when the money could be invested elsewhere and this I am talking about both sides (and possibly a third if the Greens are contesting the upcoming election) etc ..
Yes, fine, for some it is fun, meeting up, having a good time, hailing and cheering their leader, some in the cold, others in warmer surroundings. Red, blue (and possibly green) are the trend colours in Malta at the moment .. but seriously .. what are we expecting from this campaign ??
That the floaters will take their decision ? That those undecided will make their decisions, that those who have been disgruntled and vowed not to cast their vote to anyone to have them change their minds ? What really is this campaign all about ? From what I figure, this campaign is a last minute reach out to those people who are unsure as what to do more than what the party is promising for the next term.
In any case, let us remember that we are all Maltese, that we should not fall into the trap of attacking each other, calling each other names, making enemies of each other simply because of differences in political opinions. Some are passionate about their politics but we must remember that everybody has a right to their own opinion, whether we are in agreement with it or not. Yes, sure, we can argue certain issues but it does not mean either side is right or wrong. Let us not let politics come in our way, affecting friendships, acquaintances and the like.
This is as far as I will delve into politics. I have had my fair share of being an activist back in the 80's but my life has had a turning and I am otherwise taken up with many other things and have many more important priorities in my life other than participating in any political campaign. Aside from the fact that the word politics does not entice me at all.
One final thing I wish to say is let us not make this campaign a war of the worlds in Malta..as they say..ghax dak laburist, mhux maghna or ghax dak nazzjonalist kontra taghna. There are more serious issues in life, imagine those with illnesses for which there is no treatment but have to live with their disabilities for the rest of their lives. Politics belongs to politicians and I will leave it at that. Always do remember one thing .. We are all Maltese under the same sky. Let nothing divide us.
I wish all Maltese a safe campaign.
stef
2013 .. resolutions, new adventures, new successes, new discoveries
I finally found some time to relax on my favourite blue couch in my home in St. Julians and drop a few lines. It has been a hectic three weeks catching up with my family, mum, dad, my darling sis Fiona and her family, my gorgeous nephews Sebastian and Timi and my god daughter and niece Sophie with her already pretty expressive eyes (I think she takes after her auntie there since I have been told that my eyes speak), my dear friends, Germaine, Marilyn, Liz, Manuela, Antonella, Carmen, Peter, Marilou, Ximena, Maria, Mandy, Anne, Marcel, Paul, Joanna, Stefan, Claudine, Adrian, Sean, Andre, Joanne.. the list goes on .. all in all it has been a lovely stay ..
Now it is time to go back to Brussels .. back to the cold .. but back to my aggressive fitness routine and running, my studies and my work. However I know i will be back for a few days in exactly 2 months time so it is not that bad leaving the rock.
As for me, I want to say that I want to continue from where I started in 2012, further my studies, photography, looking forward to a new F1 season, more rugby, more Man Utd victories and most important of all more travels, this time I plan a trip to South Africa. I cannot wait to take my camera and introduce her to beautiful sceneries and landscapes the country has to offer. I wish to combine that with voluntary work but will plan that out as I go along.
2012 has been a particular year from me, a year where I learnt from grevious mistakes, a year where I feel I grew up (finally), changed, and see things from a different perspective. Those dear to me will always remain in my heart whether I am in touch with them or not and will remain protective of them always. And everyone should do the same.
Sadly it also was a year where I came to know many acquaintances who are ill, some still in the 30s/40s and even terminal. To this respect I would like to say that everyone must try to keep positive in life, appreciate what we have, we only live one life so make the most of it while you can. That is exactly what I plan to do. Focus on your passions, challenges you wish to work on, do what you feel is passionate to you, otherwise you will be filled with regret later on in life, when perhaps it would be too late. Start now, never leave anything for later and most importantly, never take anyone for granted or hurt anyone.
This is my message to you. A happy 2013 to all xx
Now it is time to go back to Brussels .. back to the cold .. but back to my aggressive fitness routine and running, my studies and my work. However I know i will be back for a few days in exactly 2 months time so it is not that bad leaving the rock.
As for me, I want to say that I want to continue from where I started in 2012, further my studies, photography, looking forward to a new F1 season, more rugby, more Man Utd victories and most important of all more travels, this time I plan a trip to South Africa. I cannot wait to take my camera and introduce her to beautiful sceneries and landscapes the country has to offer. I wish to combine that with voluntary work but will plan that out as I go along.
2012 has been a particular year from me, a year where I learnt from grevious mistakes, a year where I feel I grew up (finally), changed, and see things from a different perspective. Those dear to me will always remain in my heart whether I am in touch with them or not and will remain protective of them always. And everyone should do the same.
Sadly it also was a year where I came to know many acquaintances who are ill, some still in the 30s/40s and even terminal. To this respect I would like to say that everyone must try to keep positive in life, appreciate what we have, we only live one life so make the most of it while you can. That is exactly what I plan to do. Focus on your passions, challenges you wish to work on, do what you feel is passionate to you, otherwise you will be filled with regret later on in life, when perhaps it would be too late. Start now, never leave anything for later and most importantly, never take anyone for granted or hurt anyone.
This is my message to you. A happy 2013 to all xx
Best wishes for the New year 
I do not plan resolutions for the New Year. I want to continue where I started, this year was not an easy one for me but it has taught me alot, changed me and I am happy with the way I am now, the way I think and see things. Plans are, to further my studies and continue from where I started this year, continue to be strong and no matter how challenging every aspect of my life will be, I will do my best. As Anais Nin said, 'I made no resolutions for the NY. The habit of making plans, of criticizing, sanctioning, moulding my life, is too much of a daily event for me.'
Dear all, it does not have to be the New Year to start over, pursue your dreams. The NY is a day as all the rest. Start with immediate effect, do not wait for NY's day. Nevertheless, I wish you all a happy, healthy, prosperous 2013 full of all you desire. Be careful with your actions, do not hurt anyone or let anyone hurt you. The NY is a continuation of our life, to achieve and learn more, to continue working on our challenges and make them happen.
Happy New Year !
I do not plan resolutions for the New Year. I want to continue where I started, this year was not an easy one for me but it has taught me alot, changed me and I am happy with the way I am now, the way I think and see things. Plans are, to further my studies and continue from where I started this year, continue to be strong and no matter how challenging every aspect of my life will be, I will do my best. As Anais Nin said, 'I made no resolutions for the NY. The habit of making plans, of criticizing, sanctioning, moulding my life, is too much of a daily event for me.'
Dear all, it does not have to be the New Year to start over, pursue your dreams. The NY is a day as all the rest. Start with immediate effect, do not wait for NY's day. Nevertheless, I wish you all a happy, healthy, prosperous 2013 full of all you desire. Be careful with your actions, do not hurt anyone or let anyone hurt you. The NY is a continuation of our life, to achieve and learn more, to continue working on our challenges and make them happen.
Happy New Year !
My Facebook page
Dear all,
I invite you to view my Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stephanie-Life-through-a-lens/144444622337456?ref=hl
I post photos on a day-to-day basis and I am more than happy to hear your feedback and if you like the page you will be able to view more of my work as I go along.
Regards
stef
I invite you to view my Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stephanie-Life-through-a-lens/144444622337456?ref=hl
I post photos on a day-to-day basis and I am more than happy to hear your feedback and if you like the page you will be able to view more of my work as I go along.
Regards
stef
A small thought from everyone during Christmas is worth a million for those less fortunate than us 
Let us not forget those less fortunate than us, the hungry, the homeless, the sick, the poor and so many others. My dream is for everyone to be able to live a normal life. Sadly this can never happen, we look at countries around us, poverty, wars, innocent people killed, wars of religions, they are all around us.
We need to think and if we can in any way or form, even something small to any form of charities all over the world, this is the time. A little something from all those who can afford to give can go a long way. It pains me to see people suffering, poverty, pain, illness. Yes, true, this is the world we live in but we must try to contribute in our own little way.
Christmas is a time to unite, make peace with our foes, put behind us terrible things that have happened to us, smile, even though sometimes it can be hard. Let us appreciate what we have because in this world there are people who wish a fraction of what we have, be happy with that little bit but cannot have and we are lucky to have it and much more than that. Let us think of them too .. for they, too, are humans on this earth and no one should forget about them.
photo: compliments of Paul Zammit Cutajar
Let us not forget those less fortunate than us, the hungry, the homeless, the sick, the poor and so many others. My dream is for everyone to be able to live a normal life. Sadly this can never happen, we look at countries around us, poverty, wars, innocent people killed, wars of religions, they are all around us.
We need to think and if we can in any way or form, even something small to any form of charities all over the world, this is the time. A little something from all those who can afford to give can go a long way. It pains me to see people suffering, poverty, pain, illness. Yes, true, this is the world we live in but we must try to contribute in our own little way.
Christmas is a time to unite, make peace with our foes, put behind us terrible things that have happened to us, smile, even though sometimes it can be hard. Let us appreciate what we have because in this world there are people who wish a fraction of what we have, be happy with that little bit but cannot have and we are lucky to have it and much more than that. Let us think of them too .. for they, too, are humans on this earth and no one should forget about them.
photo: compliments of Paul Zammit Cutajar
Christmas without our loved ones
Christmas is here and we are all very busy focussing on Christmas presents, Father Christmas, parties, Christmas lunch, food and drink. Of course this takes place in all shapes and forms all over the world. However unfortunately many of us have to celebrate without our loved ones, those closest to us, present amongst us. Mothers, fathers, siblings, children, partners on the other side of the world perhaps and this is a time when we tend to miss them more than other days. Although today's advanced technology enables us to see them and talk to them via webcams, skype, google and the lot it is never the same as being together. We miss them terribly. Our childhood memories of Christmases past come flooding back to us, recalling wonderful times we spent all together and put a smile on our faces. Many of us are fortunate enough to have lived memorable times with our parents and siblings, memories that will never leave us, a stamp in our life. In all of this I want to say that these wonderful people who are in our life and others who have, in the process, become a part of our life but are living apart even in this time of year - that they are and will always be in our heart through happy and sad times. Although living in different cities, countries, continents we must celebrate the good times shared in the company of those we cherish in our hearts - parents, siblings, children, dear friends - whether it was Christmas or any other day of the year.
We must not forget those departed from us, from this world. We miss them dearly, just last night I dreamt of my nana, she seemed so close yet she left this world some 12 years ago. We miss them, feel that life will never be the same without them, and festive seasons are the hardest of all but we must remember that this is part of the process of our lives and we must make the most and appreciate life, and those around us. The departed are rested but I am sure that they would want us to be happy and nonetheless want us to celebrate this festive season. They were among us and a gift to us until they left this life. They will continue to live in us and we should always remember them in our own special ways.
Christmas is also a celebration of what we have achieved so far, of what we have learnt throughout the year, through our good moves and bad ones for only in these can we learn, grow and become stronger.
To all my family and friends overseas, you are in my heart during this time of year. To my nanas and nanus, I miss you dearly everyday. But I cherish and appreciate every moment shared with them throughout my childhood and adult years.
stef
stef
We must not forget those departed from us, from this world. We miss them dearly, just last night I dreamt of my nana, she seemed so close yet she left this world some 12 years ago. We miss them, feel that life will never be the same without them, and festive seasons are the hardest of all but we must remember that this is part of the process of our lives and we must make the most and appreciate life, and those around us. The departed are rested but I am sure that they would want us to be happy and nonetheless want us to celebrate this festive season. They were among us and a gift to us until they left this life. They will continue to live in us and we should always remember them in our own special ways.
Christmas is also a celebration of what we have achieved so far, of what we have learnt throughout the year, through our good moves and bad ones for only in these can we learn, grow and become stronger.
To all my family and friends overseas, you are in my heart during this time of year. To my nanas and nanus, I miss you dearly everyday. But I cherish and appreciate every moment shared with them throughout my childhood and adult years.
stef
stef
My Christmas wish for everyone 
Dear all,
It is close to Christmas and I want to write my wishes at this time of year, and everyday of the year for that matter.
I wish food and drink for the hungry, a roof for the homeless, good health, prosperity to everyone. Most importantly to all who bear anger of any form, hurt, pain in their heart, may this Christmas wash it all away. I want all this to be replaced by peace, love, forgiveness and happiness.
I would like to say that I have long forgiven those who hurt me this year. Alexander Pope said, to err is human to forgive divine. I quoted this to someone back in June this year. When you forgive you let go of the past, one cannot change the past but it can change the future. Moreover to forgive is the highest, most beautiful form of love. In return, one receives untold peace and happiness (Robert Muller). We are all human we all err, we all fall especially in our most vulnerable of moments, weak moments. But we learn from those mistakes, learn from the suffering that followed our errs, the pain, anguish and guilt in causing suffering to those involved. It has been a difficult year for me but I have grown and learnt and I can say I love those people I doubted more than ever before. I have learnt to cherish every moment I spend with my dearest ones, family, friends. Everyone is special to me in his or her own way. I have grown stronger, moved on, matured. To those who think I hate them, I do not hate anyone no matter how much pain and hurt they have caused others. But they must move on, start afresh. I bear no hatred nor grudges towards anyone. What happened happened and it is all in the past now never to be repeated again. I have moved away from a horrible time in my life which occurred earlier this year and have no intention to go anywhere back there. Nobody, no one will take me back. Furthermore my word of advice is to be careful who to trust. Trust can take years to build but only seconds to destroy and a long time to rebuild if you are fortunate enough to be granted a second chance. In all of this I want to say, think before you speak, before you confide in anybody, think before you act for actions made on impulse may be regretted for the rest of our lives. I have also learnt not to take anyone, nor anything for that matter, for granted. For only when we lose those precious to us we realise that we cannot live without them, that they played an important and vital role in our lives, that they were always there and now they are gone from us, perhaps even forever.
I have achieved some too this year, I have qualified as Fitness Instructor thanks to the great help and teaching by Celine Fenech Adami and Gillian Grech, made new friends in the process, Leanne, hope you are reading this, Kerstin too, Michael (Hughes), passed two EU exams, and started reading an ACCA degree and successfully passed my first ACCA exam which I have started reading. I feel I have learnt some more on photography, and next year my wishes are to go to South Africa, qualify as personal trainer, work on underwater photography and complete and write more ACCA exams.
All I want for Christmas is peace, love, success, good health and happiness for everyone.
Merry Christmas from my heart.
stef
Dear all,
It is close to Christmas and I want to write my wishes at this time of year, and everyday of the year for that matter.
I wish food and drink for the hungry, a roof for the homeless, good health, prosperity to everyone. Most importantly to all who bear anger of any form, hurt, pain in their heart, may this Christmas wash it all away. I want all this to be replaced by peace, love, forgiveness and happiness.
I would like to say that I have long forgiven those who hurt me this year. Alexander Pope said, to err is human to forgive divine. I quoted this to someone back in June this year. When you forgive you let go of the past, one cannot change the past but it can change the future. Moreover to forgive is the highest, most beautiful form of love. In return, one receives untold peace and happiness (Robert Muller). We are all human we all err, we all fall especially in our most vulnerable of moments, weak moments. But we learn from those mistakes, learn from the suffering that followed our errs, the pain, anguish and guilt in causing suffering to those involved. It has been a difficult year for me but I have grown and learnt and I can say I love those people I doubted more than ever before. I have learnt to cherish every moment I spend with my dearest ones, family, friends. Everyone is special to me in his or her own way. I have grown stronger, moved on, matured. To those who think I hate them, I do not hate anyone no matter how much pain and hurt they have caused others. But they must move on, start afresh. I bear no hatred nor grudges towards anyone. What happened happened and it is all in the past now never to be repeated again. I have moved away from a horrible time in my life which occurred earlier this year and have no intention to go anywhere back there. Nobody, no one will take me back. Furthermore my word of advice is to be careful who to trust. Trust can take years to build but only seconds to destroy and a long time to rebuild if you are fortunate enough to be granted a second chance. In all of this I want to say, think before you speak, before you confide in anybody, think before you act for actions made on impulse may be regretted for the rest of our lives. I have also learnt not to take anyone, nor anything for that matter, for granted. For only when we lose those precious to us we realise that we cannot live without them, that they played an important and vital role in our lives, that they were always there and now they are gone from us, perhaps even forever.
I have achieved some too this year, I have qualified as Fitness Instructor thanks to the great help and teaching by Celine Fenech Adami and Gillian Grech, made new friends in the process, Leanne, hope you are reading this, Kerstin too, Michael (Hughes), passed two EU exams, and started reading an ACCA degree and successfully passed my first ACCA exam which I have started reading. I feel I have learnt some more on photography, and next year my wishes are to go to South Africa, qualify as personal trainer, work on underwater photography and complete and write more ACCA exams.
All I want for Christmas is peace, love, success, good health and happiness for everyone.
Merry Christmas from my heart.
stef
Saturday 24 Nov 2012
This is my first time posting on a blog. So far I have worked mostly on travel journals so writing about myself is something new. I currently live in Brussels, admittedly not the most adventurous city in the world but for the time being I have to live with it. I crave adventure, wildlife and infinite landscapes, seas.. I dream of travelling full time to countries untouched by pollution, and all the mayhem a city brings along with it. But for now I have to make the best of what the city has to offer. This summer I was taught to always think positive. I try to pursue my dreams, my desires, sometimes difficult to reach but I have learnt that everything happens for a reason and nothing is impossible in life. I am thankful for what I have, my health, my son, my mum and dad, sister and her family, those so very dear and special to me, as I always say without them I am nobody. I must say this year has been a tough year on a personal basis but in truth it has taught me a great deal.
A bit about my childhood. I was born in Malta, St Julians one rainy Boxing Day. Well, yes, I came well before mum's due date and I attribute this to my eagerness in meeting the world. I am not one to sit down and do nothing and as you can see. It seems this part of my personality came out at a very early stage in my life. I was a hyper little girl, I hated dolls, but loved playing with cars. I had my own little adventures too .. we had a big garden, my dad, a keen sportsman, had won a lot of medals. I do not recall any of this but my parents tell me I used to bury my dad's medals in the soil then dad used to find them when he ploughed the garden. I recall it was a big garden, apples, orange, lemon trees, tomatoes, beans, dad was and still is a born gardener. My mother also tells me I actually buried her engagement ring in the soil. Dad found it many months after it went missing but I was way too young to recall all this. Somehow I was always up to something. But in the end we all have our own little stories to relate from childhood.
I spent an enjoyable day today with friends watching sports. I followed the rugby so watched England play South Africa, a good match, great defence from the Springboks and in the end the better team won 16-15, briefly followed British soccer where dad's favourite team Man U beat QPR 3-1, and of course Formula 1 where Lewis Hamilton took his well-deserved pole. Mclaren look to be unbeatable this weekend but all eyes are on Vettel and Alonso.
Goodnight to all. Until the next blog.
A bit about my childhood. I was born in Malta, St Julians one rainy Boxing Day. Well, yes, I came well before mum's due date and I attribute this to my eagerness in meeting the world. I am not one to sit down and do nothing and as you can see. It seems this part of my personality came out at a very early stage in my life. I was a hyper little girl, I hated dolls, but loved playing with cars. I had my own little adventures too .. we had a big garden, my dad, a keen sportsman, had won a lot of medals. I do not recall any of this but my parents tell me I used to bury my dad's medals in the soil then dad used to find them when he ploughed the garden. I recall it was a big garden, apples, orange, lemon trees, tomatoes, beans, dad was and still is a born gardener. My mother also tells me I actually buried her engagement ring in the soil. Dad found it many months after it went missing but I was way too young to recall all this. Somehow I was always up to something. But in the end we all have our own little stories to relate from childhood.
I spent an enjoyable day today with friends watching sports. I followed the rugby so watched England play South Africa, a good match, great defence from the Springboks and in the end the better team won 16-15, briefly followed British soccer where dad's favourite team Man U beat QPR 3-1, and of course Formula 1 where Lewis Hamilton took his well-deserved pole. Mclaren look to be unbeatable this weekend but all eyes are on Vettel and Alonso.
Goodnight to all. Until the next blog.