In January 2014, Mandy and Rob embarked on a magical winter getaway, beginning their journey in the vibrant streets of New York City.

The couple arrived amidst a very cold snap of the City, with holiday lights still twinkling around Times Square. They also made time to visit the 9/11 memorial, ride the Staten Island, Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and see the sights of Rockafella Plaza.

Each moment in the city sparked joy and adventure, culminating in the exhilarating departure from Port Bayonne for a luxurious Caribbean cruise.

Sailing away from the iconic skyline of New York, they looked forward to sun-filled days on pristine beaches and the rich cultures of the islands ahead. This enchanting trip perfectly blended the magic of a winter wonderland with the promise of tropical paradise, leaving them with unforgettable experiences to cherish forever.

In 2014, Mandy and I set out on an unforgettable trip to Istanbul, a city that bridges East and West and is rich in history and culture. As we arrived, the vibrant energy of the city enveloped us, with the bustling streets, fragrant spices in the markets, and the stunning architecture that tells tales of empires past.

One of the highlights of our visit was a cruise down the Bosphorus, the strait that separates the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.

We continued with a visit to Taksim Square,his bustling hub was alive with people, street performers, and vendors selling everything from snacks to souvenirs. We wandered through the square, soaking in the atmosphere, and took a moment to appreciate the iconic Republic Monument that stands at its center, symbolizing the city’s rich history.

After exploring Taksim, we made our way to the Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque. As we approached, its magnificent domes and towering minarets came into view, and I was in awe. The interior was just as breathtaking, adorned with intricate tiles and stunning stained glass. We took our time walking around, absorbing the serenity of the space, and I felt a deep sense of history enveloping us. Mandy was especially moved by the beautiful calligraphy and the soft light filtering through the windows, creating a serene atmosphere that contrasted with the lively energy of Taksim Square.

Next, we headed to the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. As we stepped inside, we were immediately immersed in a world of color and sound. The vibrant textiles, intricate jewelry, and fragrant spices lined the stalls, tempting us at every turn.

After the Grand Bazaar, we visited the Spice Market, which was another sensory delight. The aroma of spices filled the air, and the vivid colors of saffron, sumac, and dried fruits were a feast for the eyes

In 2014, Mandy and Rob spent three delightful days exploring Thessaloniki, Greece. They took the local bus from Perea into the heart of the city, starting their adventure at the beautiful waterfront overlooking the Thermaic Gulf. Lined with a mix of classical and modern statues, the promenade offered stunning views and a peaceful place to stroll.

Their first major stop was the vibrant Aristotelous Square, bustling with life. Surrounded by impressive buildings, they watched as locals fed the pigeons and street vendors sold their goods, giving them a real taste of the city’s lively atmosphere.

In 2012, Mandy and I decided to take a trip from Cyprus to Crete, choosing to stay at the Marie Kelley Apartments in Kolymbari. It was a small village by the water, just as we’d imagined—a lovely collection of whitewashed buildings, a cozy little harbor, and fishing boats swaying gently on the waves. Seagulls called overhead, completing the coastal charm we’d both been craving.

On our first full day, we took a drive to the port of Kissamos, where we boarded a boat to explore Crete’s northwest coastline. The day was beautiful, and as we cruised along, we could see rugged cliffs and clear waters. It was a stunning experience, feeling the breeze off the sea and taking in the coastline’s natural beauty from the deck of the boat.

Our next destination was Chania, a place we’d both been excited to see, especially the old Venetian port. I had heard stories about its beauty, and Mandy was eager to explore the town’s layers of history. When we finally arrived, it did not disappoint. The port was picturesque, with colorful boats bobbing by the shore and the iconic lighthouse standing proudly, its stone walls catching the sunlight.

Later, we traveled further along the coast to Maleme, where we visited the German war cemetery. This solemn place on the hillside, with rows of headstones stretching out in neat lines, was a powerful reminder of the Battle of Crete and the fierce resistance the island mounted during World War II. Each headstone seemed to tell its own story of courage and sacrifice, and Mandy and I felt deeply moved as we walked among them.

Join Rob and Mandy as they recount their unforgettable journey from the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to the vibrant city of Bangkok in 2005. In this episode, they share their excitement as they board their flight, taking in the stunning views of the Malaysian skyline from above.

Once in Bangkok, they dive into the heart of the city, exploring its rich culture and lively atmosphere. From the ornate temples and bustling markets to the delicious street food that tantalized their taste buds, Rob and Mandy describe the sights, sounds, and flavors that made their trip so memorable.

They’ll also share some of their favorite experiences, including a visit to the iconic Grand Palace, a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, and discovering hidden gems in the city's vibrant neighborhoods.

Tune in for travel tips, anecdotes, and a glimpse into their adventures

In January 2006 Rob and Mandy embarked on an unforgettable trip to Sydney, Australia, filled with vibrant experiences and breathtaking scenery. Their adventure began with Australia Day, a celebration of national pride that brought the city alive with festivities.

They found themselves at Circular Quay, where a colorful flotilla of boats paraded across the sparkling waters, creating a lively backdrop for the celebrations. The atmosphere was electric as locals and tourists alike gathered to enjoy music, dance, and delicious food. Rob couldn’t resist trying a steak pie shaped like Australia’s coastline, savoring the unique blend of flavors while soaking in the joyful spirit around him.

Rob and Mandy set off from Sydney on the Princess Highway, excited for their adventure toward Melbourne. The open road called to them, and their first stop was Ulladulla, where they enjoyed fresh fish and chips by the harbor, soaking in the lively coastal atmosphere.

Next, they arrived at Lakes Entrance, a picturesque town nestled between lakes and the ocean. They took a boat tour through the serene waterways, spotting pelicans and kangaroos, and captured stunning sunset photos reflecting off the water.

Continuing to Bateman's Bay, they walked along the waterfront, indulging in coffee and later visiting the nearby Mogo Wildlife Park, where they encountered friendly kangaroos and koalas.

Narooma was their next destination, where they took a guided tour to Montague Island, marveling at the seal colony and enjoying breathtaking coastal views.

Onward to Cowes on Phillip Island, they explored local shops and relished fresh seafood before watching the iconic Penguin Parade, delighting in the sight of little penguins returning home after a day at sea.

Finally, they arrived in Rhyll, a peaceful fishing village. They biked along the coast, enjoying the tranquil scenery and ending their day with a cozy dinner, reminiscing about their unforgettable journey.

In 2006, our travels took us to the vibrant city of Melbourne, where a mix of culture, history, and music awaited. We kicked off our visit with a leisurely boat trip down the Yarra River. As the boat glided along, we soaked in the city's skyline, a blend of modern architecture and historic landmarks, with the peaceful river offering a perfect contrast to the bustling streets.

Our next stop was the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), where the rich history of Australian sport came alive. Walking through this massive stadium, we could almost hear the echoes of roaring crowds and the thud of cricket balls on bat. It was an unforgettable experience for any sports lover.

Later, we made our way to St Kilda, a lively seaside suburb with a bohemian vibe. The dramatic coastline, vibrant cafes, and pier gave us a perfect spot to relax and people-watch.

That evening, we wrapped up the day by seeing UB40 live in concert. The crowd swayed to the band’s timeless reggae beats, and under the Melbourne night sky, the music filled the air, making it a night to remember. Melbourne’s charm and energy left an indelible mark on us.

In 2006, our Australian adventure took us to the stunning region of Queensland, where we stayed in the picturesque town of Port Douglas. Nestled between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, it was the perfect base for our explorations.

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Great Barrier Reef again, where Rob had the thrilling opportunity to go scuba diving. Descending into the vibrant underwater world, he marveled at the colorful fish and intricate coral formations, immersing himself in the beauty of the reef.

We also ventured into the ancient Daintree Rainforest, a magical place where the dense green canopy seemed to stretch forever. A trip to Cape Tribulation brought us face to face with the wild beauty of the rainforest meeting the sea, a sight we’ll never forget.

Our tour of the "Tablelands" took us through rolling hills, waterfalls, and quaint villages, offering a glimpse into the diverse landscapes of Queensland. The area’s natural beauty was truly captivating.

And, as if the trip couldn’t get any more memorable, we even had an unexpected encounter with UB40’s lead singer, Ali Campbell, at the airport! It was a surreal moment, rounding off an unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful corners of Australia.

In this episode of A New Life Planned in Cyprus, we’re stepping back to 2006, when Rob and Mandy explored the stunning landscapes of Snowdonia National Park in Wales. Their journey took them to the picturesque village of Beddgelert, home to the famous legend of Gelert the faithful hound. They then visited the majestic Caernarfon Castle, where history echoed through its ancient stone walls. Crossing the Menai Bridge into Anglesey, they explored the quaint village of Llanfair PG, whose long, iconic name is always a topic of conversation! Join us as we recount their adventures from that unforgettable trip.